Introducing Village Interest Groups: Where Passion Meets Community

We're thrilled to unveil an exciting new chapter in bringing our Villagers together! Village Interest Groups represent a fresh, dynamic way to forge meaningful connections and lasting friendships within our community. What makes Village Interest Groups special? They're entirely driven by you—our members and volunteers who step forward as leaders to guide groups centered around shared passions and hobbies. Whether you're an art enthusiast, garden lover, book club devotee, or have any other interest you'd love to explore with like-minded neighbors, these groups create the perfect space to dive deeper into what brings you joy. Each Interest Group meets regularly, giving you consistent opportunities to connect, learn, and grow alongside fellow Villagers who share your enthusiasm. It's community-building at its most authentic celebrating the diverse interests and expertise that make our Village so vibrant. Ready to discover your tribe?

Join an existing Interest Group or take the lead in starting one that reflects your passion!

To join a group or learn more about starting one, reach out to our Social Events Manager, Lori Lievore, at 415-999-3267 or lori@villagesofsmc.org.

Knitting Group: Join fellow Villagers for a cozy knitting and crocheting circle offering a comfortable space to gather, create, and connect. This small group meets to compare notes, share tips, admire works-in-progress, and enjoy friendly conversation. Meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 1:00-3:00 PM in San Mateo. Group Leader: Elaine Wang

Music Lovers’ Group: Join fellow Village music lovers to share favorite performances, discover upcoming Bay Area concerts, and help plan future outings together. Group Leader: Nina Nelson

Card Game Group: Love card and word games? Join the card game group to play Five Crowns and Quiddler - new and experienced players welcome! Come shuffle, spell and smile with us! Meets the 3rd Monday of each month, 1:00-3:00 PM in San Carlos (4th Monday if there is a holiday on the 3rd Monday). Group Leader: Maryanne Sullivan

Share a Book Group: Bring your book to our gathering and share what you love about it. We encourage book swaps. Hopefully, you will go home with a new book to read and enjoy! Meets the 3rd Friday of each month from 3:30-5:00 PM in Redwood City. Registration is required; space is limited. Please email ML at least one week in advance if you plan to attend. Group Leader: Mary Lynn (ML) Brubaker.

Coastside Book Club: Share the joy of reading with neighbors who become friends. Villagers nominate their favorite reads, vote on what to discuss next, then gather monthly to share insights over snacks. Meets the 2nd Friday of each month. Group Leader: Bruce Hultgren.

Hiking/Walking Group: Join our hiking and walking group for moderately strenuous hikes that challenge and inspire. Enjoy fresh air, great company, and breathtaking views! Meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Group Leader: Lois Aldwin 

Coastside Hiking/Walking Group: The group meets at San Pedro Valley Park in Pacifica at 11:00 AM every Monday. Group Leader: Peter Cronin



Adventures in Global Eating Group: Looking for a fun way to experience a variety of ethnic cuisines? Join our Adventures in Global Eating Group and embark on a delicious journey each month as we visit a new restaurant featuring flavors from around the world. Whether you are a foodie or just curious, this is your ticket to flavorful adventures and new friendships. Group Leaders: Phyllis Annett and Karen Van Swearingen

Breakfast Club Group: Start your morning right with good food and even better company. Come enjoy a fresh cup of coffee, a warm croissant or other delicious bite, and friendly conversation. Meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 9:30-11:30 AM. Group Leader: Moira Jester

Gardening Group: Share gardening tips and failures. Exchange plants or seeds. Visit nurseries and gardens. Meets every other month. Group Leader: Marcia Settel