Drop-In Drawing
Jun
2

Drop-In Drawing

We’re making art a little more accessible around here. No sign-ups required. No pressure or angst . . . just a table, some pencils, and a real, working artist (and tattooist) ready to help you get started or keep working on your current project.

Join us for drop-in drawing sessions with Jared Weber, where you can come and go as you please, ask questions, learn techniques, or just quietly make something with support.

1st & 3rd Tuesdays
4–7pm
$10 per session
Ages 14+

View Event →
Manga Bookclub
Jun
5

Manga Bookclub

Manga Bookclub | First Friday of every Month @ 6pm

Manga Book Club will be MC’d by our resident volunteer and manga enthusiast, Chris. We’ll be hanging out, talking manga, appreciating great art, and probably arguing about characters and plot twists.

New readers, longtime fans, and the manga-curious are all welcome. Come grab a drink and nerd out with us.

View Event →
Get Shit Done
Jun
10

Get Shit Done

Starting May 13th, come join Kate Moody at Tardigrade's Bookshelf!

It's admin day, getting shit done with others who need to get shit done.

Getting out emails

Pay bills

Cancel subscriptions

Unsubscribe from marketing emails

Make apts.

Write cards. That shit spreads joy.

Book flights, air bnb, vacations, travel, etc.

Go through social media accounts and unfriend people who bring down your vibe

Clean your purse

You know, all the tedious stuff.

Nothing on your list. Bullshit, our in house financial advisor has some essential to-do that you have probably never done.

All the stuff that you say you’ll get to eventually . . .

View Event →
Fantasy Bookclub | The Poppy War
Jun
11

Fantasy Bookclub | The Poppy War

Fantasy Bookclub | Every Second Wednesday of the Month

Grab your cloak and your beverage of choice—we’re venturing past the Shire. In partnership with Arkana Books, the keepers of the fantasy collection right here at Tardigrade’s, this club explores worlds filled with dragons, daggers, and deliciously complicated moral choices. Expect lively discussion, minimal gatekeeping, and just enough magic to make Wednesday night feel epic.

View Event →
Book Competition
Jun
16

Book Competition

Like art? Like books? Then we have the perfect activity for you! Come participate in our new art competition. 

Prior to the event's start date you will create a hypothetical book cover for our theme Laboratory mishap.

Rewards, low stakes, Fun time

View Event →
Drop-In Drawing
Jun
16

Drop-In Drawing

We’re making art a little more accessible around here. No sign-ups required. No pressure or angst . . . just a table, some pencils, and a real, working artist (and tattooist) ready to help you get started or keep working on your current project.

Join us for drop-in drawing sessions with Jared Weber, where you can come and go as you please, ask questions, learn techniques, or just quietly make something with support.

1st & 3rd Tuesdays
4–7pm
$10 per session
Ages 14+

View Event →
Crappy Cinema Club | Dragon Lizard Lord
Jun
16

Crappy Cinema Club | Dragon Lizard Lord

Crappy Cinema Club has evolved.

We’ve moved into the event space and are fully embracing our true calling: bad movies, good snacks, and extremely comfortable seating. Sofas will be set up theater-style with tables in front—perfect for popcorn, candy, cocktails from Velvet Fox, and whatever tiny craft keeps your hands busy during the nonsense.
You know what you’re signing up for.

This public screening of Dragon Lizard Lord Super Monsters is presented with permission from Wild Eye Releasing. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication, distribution, or public performance is prohibited.


Crappy Cinema Club | Dragon Lizard Lord Super Monsters
$7.00

Crappy Cinema Club

We’ve moved into the event space and have embraced our true calling: bad movies, good snacks, and extremely comfortable seating. Sofas will be set up theater-style with tables in front—perfect for popcorn, candy, cocktails from Velvet Fox, and whatever tiny craft keeps your hands busy during the nonsense.

In this new era: Dragon Lizard Lord Super Monsters.

Tuesday June, 16th at 6pm
You know what you’re signing up for.

Want to help keep events like this going?
Your ticket gets you in, but any extra support helps us cover licensing, setup, and staff time—and lets us keep hosting cozy, weird, community-first events. Totally optional, always appreciated.

View Event →
Chords & Coffee
Jun
23

Chords & Coffee

Chords & Coffee – A Social Hour for Musicians
4th Tuesday of every month | 5:30–7 PM (ish)

Chords & Coffee is a relaxed pop-in social hangout for local musicians to connect. Meet fellow players, talk shop, swap songs, and enjoy an easygoing music-friendly space.

No signup. No sign-in. No pressure to stay the whole time. Bring your instrument (or just come to listen). Some months include open mic moments, storytelling, or casual jamming—often it’s simply good conversation with instruments nearby.

Heads up: We say 5:30–7 PM, but we don’t necessarily shut it down at 7. If folks are having a good time and we’ve got the staff, we’ll keep it rolling. If the lights are still on, come on in.

We’re also building a small collection of string instruments to keep at the bookbar. If you have a gently loved guitar, ukulele, violin, mandolin, etc. to donate, we’d love to give it a second life in the bookbar.

View Event →
Get Shit Done
Jun
24

Get Shit Done

Starting May 13th, come join Kate Moody at Tardigrade's Bookshelf!

It's admin day, getting shit done with others who need to get shit done.

Getting out emails

Pay bills

Cancel subscriptions

Unsubscribe from marketing emails

Make apts.

Write cards. That shit spreads joy.

Book flights, air bnb, vacations, travel, etc.

Go through social media accounts and unfriend people who bring down your vibe

Clean your purse

You know, all the tedious stuff.

Nothing on your list. Bullshit, our in house financial advisor has some essential to-do that you have probably never done.

All the stuff that you say you’ll get to eventually . . .

View Event →
Singles Night
Jun
26

Singles Night

Every 4th Friday!

Part of Downtown Appleton’s 4th Friday series through ADI.

Downtown Appleton is full of cool places worth wandering into, and Tardigrade’s is leaning into that energy with a low-pressure Singles Night every 4th Friday.

No sign-ups. No speed dating. No awkward icebreakers with laminated name tags. Just a cozy space to drop in, grab a thoughtful drink, play a board game, and maybe meet someone interesting.

We’re proudly neurodivergent- and sober-friendly, with comfortable seating and a laid-back atmosphere that makes actually talking to people possible. Come solo, bring a friend, stay for ten minutes or three hours.

If you’ve been looking for a softer, less weird way to meet people than yelling over a sports bar… well. You know where we stand on that, bruh.

View Event →
Book Launch Event
Jun
27

Book Launch Event

We’re thrilled to host the launch of Estuary by Josh Rank!

Join us for discussion and book signing as we celebrate a local author and a story that deserves to be lingered over.

View Event →
Drop-In Drawing
Jul
7

Drop-In Drawing

We’re making art a little more accessible around here. No sign-ups required. No pressure or angst . . . just a table, some pencils, and a real, working artist (and tattooist) ready to help you get started or keep working on your current project.

Join us for drop-in drawing sessions with Jared Weber, where you can come and go as you please, ask questions, learn techniques, or just quietly make something with support.

1st & 3rd Tuesdays
4–7pm
$10 per session
Ages 14+

View Event →
Fantasy Bookclub | Six Of Crows
Jul
8

Fantasy Bookclub | Six Of Crows

Fantasy Bookclub | Every Second Wednesday of the Month

Grab your cloak and your beverage of choice—we’re venturing past the Shire. In partnership with Arkana Books, the keepers of the fantasy collection right here at Tardigrade’s, this club explores worlds filled with dragons, daggers, and deliciously complicated moral choices. Expect lively discussion, minimal gatekeeping, and just enough magic to make Wednesday night feel epic.

View Event →
Yap & Yoga: An Author Event with Movement, Conversation, and a Beverage Because We’re Not Monsters
Jul
11

Yap & Yoga: An Author Event with Movement, Conversation, and a Beverage Because We’re Not Monsters

Join us for a delightfully thoughtful evening with a guest author whose fiction novel is rooted in the principles of yoga: balance, presence, transformation, and the ongoing human struggle to be less of a disaster.

This “Yap & Yoga” session is part author talk, part gentle yoga-inspired movement, and part community conversation. You’ll get to hear about the book, move a little, reflect a little, maybe feel briefly centered, and sip on a complimentary beer or nonalcoholic beverage while you do it.

No yoga experience is required. No need to be bendy. No one will be judging your downward dog or your relationship with inner peace.

After the session, the author will be available to sign and sell copies of his book.

Come for the story. Stay for the stretching, sipping, and mildly profound conversations.

View Event →
Crappy Cinema Club | Dismembering Christmas
Jul
11

Crappy Cinema Club | Dismembering Christmas

Crappy Cinema Club has evolved.

We’ve moved into the event space and are fully embracing our true calling: bad movies, good snacks, and extremely comfortable seating. Sofas will be set up theater-style with tables in front—perfect for popcorn, candy, cocktails from Velvet Fox, and whatever tiny craft keeps your hands busy during the nonsense.
You know what you’re signing up for.

This public screening of Dismembering Christmas is presented with permission from Wild Eye Releasing. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication, distribution, or public performance is prohibited.


Crappy Cinema Club | Dismembering Christmas
$7.00

Crappy Cinema Club

We’ve moved into the event space and have embraced our true calling: bad movies, good snacks, and extremely comfortable seating. Sofas will be set up theater-style with tables in front—perfect for popcorn, candy, cocktails from Velvet Fox, and whatever tiny craft keeps your hands busy during the nonsense.

In this new era: Dismembering Christmas.

Saturday July 11th, 16th at 6pm
You know what you’re signing up for.

Want to help keep events like this going?
Your ticket gets you in, but any extra support helps us cover licensing, setup, and staff time—and lets us keep hosting cozy, weird, community-first events. Totally optional, always appreciated.

View Event →
Drop-In Drawing
Jul
21

Drop-In Drawing

We’re making art a little more accessible around here. No sign-ups required. No pressure or angst . . . just a table, some pencils, and a real, working artist (and tattooist) ready to help you get started or keep working on your current project.

Join us for drop-in drawing sessions with Jared Weber, where you can come and go as you please, ask questions, learn techniques, or just quietly make something with support.

1st & 3rd Tuesdays
4–7pm
$10 per session
Ages 14+

View Event →
Singles Night
Jul
24

Singles Night

Every 4th Friday!

Part of Downtown Appleton’s 4th Friday series through ADI.

Downtown Appleton is full of cool places worth wandering into, and Tardigrade’s is leaning into that energy with a low-pressure Singles Night every 4th Friday.

No sign-ups. No speed dating. No awkward icebreakers with laminated name tags. Just a cozy space to drop in, grab a thoughtful drink, play a board game, and maybe meet someone interesting.

We’re proudly neurodivergent- and sober-friendly, with comfortable seating and a laid-back atmosphere that makes actually talking to people possible. Come solo, bring a friend, stay for ten minutes or three hours.

If you’ve been looking for a softer, less weird way to meet people than yelling over a sports bar… well. You know where we stand on that, bruh.

View Event →
Chords & Coffee
Jul
28

Chords & Coffee

Chords & Coffee – A Social Hour for Musicians
4th Tuesday of every month | 5:30–7 PM (ish)

Chords & Coffee is a relaxed pop-in social hangout for local musicians to connect. Meet fellow players, talk shop, swap songs, and enjoy an easygoing music-friendly space.

No signup. No sign-in. No pressure to stay the whole time. Bring your instrument (or just come to listen). Some months include open mic moments, storytelling, or casual jamming—often it’s simply good conversation with instruments nearby.

Heads up: We say 5:30–7 PM, but we don’t necessarily shut it down at 7. If folks are having a good time and we’ve got the staff, we’ll keep it rolling. If the lights are still on, come on in.

We’re also building a small collection of string instruments to keep at the bookbar. If you have a gently loved guitar, ukulele, violin, mandolin, etc. to donate, we’d love to give it a second life in the bookbar.

View Event →
Drop-In Drawing
Aug
4

Drop-In Drawing

We’re making art a little more accessible around here. No sign-ups required. No pressure or angst . . . just a table, some pencils, and a real, working artist (and tattooist) ready to help you get started or keep working on your current project.

Join us for drop-in drawing sessions with Jared Weber, where you can come and go as you please, ask questions, learn techniques, or just quietly make something with support.

1st & 3rd Tuesdays
4–7pm
$10 per session
Ages 14+

View Event →
Free Store by the Community Livingroom
Aug
9

Free Store by the Community Livingroom

Save the date for the FREE community closet!

The Ebb & Flow Connections Cooperative (who manage the Community Living Room) will be hosting a FREE community closet in the Event Space.

There were so many donations for the last Free Closet we so amazing they outgrew their space at the Community Living Room! There will be clothes of course, cleaning products, hygiene products and more. Bonus: B

ack to school items will there too!

View Event →
Crappy Cinema Club | The Space Rodent
Aug
11

Crappy Cinema Club | The Space Rodent

Crappy Cinema Club has evolved.

We’ve moved into the event space and are fully embracing our true calling: bad movies, good snacks, and extremely comfortable seating. Sofas will be set up theater-style with tables in front—perfect for popcorn, candy, cocktails from Velvet Fox, and whatever tiny craft keeps your hands busy during the nonsense.
You know what you’re signing up for.

This public screening of The Space Rodent is presented with permission from Wild Eye Releasing. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication, distribution, or public performance is prohibited.


Crappy Cinema Club | The Space Rodent
$7.00

Crappy Cinema Club

We’ve moved into the event space and have embraced our true calling: bad movies, good snacks, and extremely comfortable seating. Sofas will be set up theater-style with tables in front—perfect for popcorn, candy, cocktails from Velvet Fox, and whatever tiny craft keeps your hands busy during the nonsense.

In this new era: The space rodent.

Tuesday August 11th, at 6pm
You know what you’re signing up for.

Want to help keep events like this going?
Your ticket gets you in, but any extra support helps us cover licensing, setup, and staff time—and lets us keep hosting cozy, weird, community-first events. Totally optional, always appreciated.

View Event →
Drop-In Drawing
Aug
18

Drop-In Drawing

We’re making art a little more accessible around here. No sign-ups required. No pressure or angst . . . just a table, some pencils, and a real, working artist (and tattooist) ready to help you get started or keep working on your current project.

Join us for drop-in drawing sessions with Jared Weber, where you can come and go as you please, ask questions, learn techniques, or just quietly make something with support.

1st & 3rd Tuesdays
4–7pm
$10 per session
Ages 14+

View Event →
Chords & Coffee
Aug
25

Chords & Coffee

Chords & Coffee – A Social Hour for Musicians
4th Tuesday of every month | 5:30–7 PM (ish)

Chords & Coffee is a relaxed pop-in social hangout for local musicians to connect. Meet fellow players, talk shop, swap songs, and enjoy an easygoing music-friendly space.

No signup. No sign-in. No pressure to stay the whole time. Bring your instrument (or just come to listen). Some months include open mic moments, storytelling, or casual jamming—often it’s simply good conversation with instruments nearby.

Heads up: We say 5:30–7 PM, but we don’t necessarily shut it down at 7. If folks are having a good time and we’ve got the staff, we’ll keep it rolling. If the lights are still on, come on in.

We’re also building a small collection of string instruments to keep at the bookbar. If you have a gently loved guitar, ukulele, violin, mandolin, etc. to donate, we’d love to give it a second life in the bookbar.

View Event →
Singles Night
Aug
28

Singles Night

Every 4th Friday!

Part of Downtown Appleton’s 4th Friday series through ADI.

Downtown Appleton is full of cool places worth wandering into, and Tardigrade’s is leaning into that energy with a low-pressure Singles Night every 4th Friday.

No sign-ups. No speed dating. No awkward icebreakers with laminated name tags. Just a cozy space to drop in, grab a thoughtful drink, play a board game, and maybe meet someone interesting.

We’re proudly neurodivergent- and sober-friendly, with comfortable seating and a laid-back atmosphere that makes actually talking to people possible. Come solo, bring a friend, stay for ten minutes or three hours.

If you’ve been looking for a softer, less weird way to meet people than yelling over a sports bar… well. You know where we stand on that, bruh.

View Event →
New Boots MUNCH
Sep
8

New Boots MUNCH

Every 2nd Tuesday of the month 6-8pm

group meets in the event space

View Event →
Singles Night
Sep
25

Singles Night

Every 4th Friday!

Part of Downtown Appleton’s 4th Friday series through ADI.

Downtown Appleton is full of cool places worth wandering into, and Tardigrade’s is leaning into that energy with a low-pressure Singles Night every 4th Friday.

No sign-ups. No speed dating. No awkward icebreakers with laminated name tags. Just a cozy space to drop in, grab a thoughtful drink, play a board game, and maybe meet someone interesting.

We’re proudly neurodivergent- and sober-friendly, with comfortable seating and a laid-back atmosphere that makes actually talking to people possible. Come solo, bring a friend, stay for ten minutes or three hours.

If you’ve been looking for a softer, less weird way to meet people than yelling over a sports bar… well. You know where we stand on that, bruh.

View Event →
New Boots MUNCH
Oct
13

New Boots MUNCH

Every 2nd Tuesday of the month 6-8pm

group meets in the event space

View Event →
Singles Night
Oct
23

Singles Night

Every 4th Friday!

Part of Downtown Appleton’s 4th Friday series through ADI.

Downtown Appleton is full of cool places worth wandering into, and Tardigrade’s is leaning into that energy with a low-pressure Singles Night every 4th Friday.

No sign-ups. No speed dating. No awkward icebreakers with laminated name tags. Just a cozy space to drop in, grab a thoughtful drink, play a board game, and maybe meet someone interesting.

We’re proudly neurodivergent- and sober-friendly, with comfortable seating and a laid-back atmosphere that makes actually talking to people possible. Come solo, bring a friend, stay for ten minutes or three hours.

If you’ve been looking for a softer, less weird way to meet people than yelling over a sports bar… well. You know where we stand on that, bruh.

View Event →
New Boots MUNCH
Nov
10

New Boots MUNCH

Every 2nd Tuesday of the month 6-8pm

group meets in the event space

View Event →
New Boots MUNCH
Dec
8

New Boots MUNCH

Every 2nd Tuesday of the month 6-8pm

group meets in the event space

View Event →

Horror Bookclub
May
28

Horror Bookclub

Join us each month as we dive into stories that don’t just haunt but downright terrify—from spine-chilling thrillers to ghastly ghost stories and everything dark in between. This isn’t for the easily disturbed or anyone looking for a light read. Expect gory discussions and grab a nightcap at the bar to keep the chills at bay.

View Event →
Sociology Bookclub
May
27

Sociology Bookclub

Our Sociology Bookclub delves into the social and historical forces that shape how we live, work, and connect—with each other and the world around us. We read a mix of fiction and nonfiction that explores themes like identity, inequality, institutions, culture, politics, and change. From contemporary novels to groundbreaking research and historical accounts, each book sparks meaningful conversation and fresh perspectives. We strive to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and constructive dialogue in a welcoming, thoughtful space.

View Event →
Get Shit Done
May
27

Get Shit Done

Starting May 13th, come join Kate Moody at Tardigrade's Bookshelf!

It's admin day, getting shit done with others who need to get shit done.

Getting out emails

Pay bills

Cancel subscriptions

Unsubscribe from marketing emails

Make apts.

Write cards. That shit spreads joy.

Book flights, air bnb, vacations, travel, etc.

Go through social media accounts and unfriend people who bring down your vibe

Clean your purse

You know, all the tedious stuff.

Nothing on your list. Bullshit, our in house financial advisor has some essential to-do that you have probably never done.

All the stuff that you say you’ll get to eventually . . .

View Event →
Singles Night
May
22

Singles Night

Every 4th Friday!

Tired of shouting over bad music and pretending that’s flirting? Same.

Come hang at Tardigrade's and the Velvet Fox lounge every fourth Friday for a Singles Night that’s actually designed for conversation. Cozy lighting. Comfy seating. A space where you can hear each other think.

We’ll have board games, LEGO, and low-pressure activities to keep your hands busy while you chat — because sometimes it’s easier to connect when you’re building something (or gently dominating at Scrabble).

Come solo. Leave with a number, a new friend, or at the very least a pleasant evening in a room full of interesting humans.

No sports bar energy. Just warmth, curiosity, and maybe a little chemistry.

View Event →
Sapphic Bookclub
May
22

Sapphic Bookclub

Every Fourth Friday of the Month | 6pm

You asked, we listened. This by-request Sapphic Book Club is a spin-off of our LGBTQ Book Club and Spicy Book Club—created to make space specifically for sapphic stories, voices, and joy. Expect sapphic reads, good conversation, and the same welcoming, judgment-free vibes you know and love at Tardigrade’s. All identities are welcome; sapphic stories are centered. An all-around clam jam.

additional social meet-up with your book of choice the 2nd Friday of the month | 6pm

View Event →
Science Bookclub
May
21

Science Bookclub

This bookclub for science enthusiasts celebrates all things science—combining the thrill of science fiction with the rigor and wonder of science-focused non-fiction.

Each month, we’ll explore stories that ignite curiosity, challenge perceptions, and inspire awe. From gripping narratives about scientific breakthroughs to thought-provoking novels where science shapes the future, this book club is perfect for readers who love to ponder what if? and how does that work?

Whether you're a lifelong science fan, an avid reader of speculative fiction, or simply curious about the world around you, this book club offers an engaging and welcoming space to discuss ideas, exchange insights, and spark new perspectives.

View Event →
Foxy Writers Club
May
19

Foxy Writers Club

3rd Tuesday of each month 5-7pm

Find more information on the Foxy Writer’s Club:

View Event →
Drop-In Drawing
May
19

Drop-In Drawing

We’re making art a little more accessible around here. No sign-ups required. No pressure or angst . . . just a table, some pencils, and a real, working artist (and tattooist) ready to help you get started or keep working on your current project.

Join us for drop-in drawing sessions with Jared Weber, where you can come and go as you please, ask questions, learn techniques, or just quietly make something with support.

1st & 3rd Tuesdays
4–7pm
$10 per session
Ages 14+

View Event →
Crappy Cinema Club | Amityville In Space
May
16

Crappy Cinema Club | Amityville In Space

Crappy Cinema Club has evolved.

We’ve moved into the event space and are fully embracing our true calling: bad movies, good snacks, and extremely comfortable seating. Sofas will be set up theater-style with tables in front—perfect for popcorn, candy, cocktails from Velvet Fox, and whatever tiny craft keeps your hands busy during the nonsense.
You know what you’re signing up for.

This public screening of Amityville in Space is presented with permission from Wild Eye Releasing. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication, distribution, or public performance is prohibited.


Want to help keep events like this going?
Your ticket gets you in, but any extra support helps us cover licensing, setup, and staff time—and lets us keep hosting cozy, weird, community-first events. Totally optional, always appreciated.

View Event →
Spicy Bookclub
May
14

Spicy Bookclub

If you love diving into the steamiest reads around—whether you’re out and proud or a secret connoisseur—this book club is your perfect fit. Join others who revel in the genre, and brace yourself for bold, five-chili books! From historical erotica to otherworldly, devilish romance, we’re exploring it all. Not for the faint of heart—bring your sense of adventure and prepare for an unforgettable, spicy group.

View Event →
Fantasy Bookclub | The Bone Shard Daughter
May
13

Fantasy Bookclub | The Bone Shard Daughter

Fantasy Bookclub | Every Second Wednesday of the Month

Grab your cloak and your beverage of choice—we’re venturing past the Shire. In partnership with Arkana Books, the keepers of the fantasy collection right here at Tardigrade’s, this club explores worlds filled with dragons, daggers, and deliciously complicated moral choices. Expect lively discussion, minimal gatekeeping, and just enough magic to make Wednesday night feel epic.

View Event →
Get Shit Done
May
13

Get Shit Done

Starting May 13th, come join Kate Moody at Tardigrade's Bookshelf!

It's admin day, getting shit done with others who need to get shit done.

Getting out emails

Pay bills

Cancel subscriptions

Unsubscribe from marketing emails

Make apts.

Write cards. That shit spreads joy.

Book flights, air bnb, vacations, travel, etc.

Go through social media accounts and unfriend people who bring down your vibe

Clean your purse

You know, all the tedious stuff.

Nothing on your list. Bullshit, our in house financial advisor has some essential to-do that you have probably never done.

All the stuff that you say you’ll get to eventually . . .

View Event →
Bedazzled Book Covers
May
8

Bedazzled Book Covers

Bedazzled Book Covers

Nikki will be here to help you transform a beloved read into something gloriously extra. Bring a book you’re ready to give a second, shinier life. We’ll handle the rhinestones, supplies, and gentle encouragement to commit to the chaos.

We need enough sparkle for everyone and we’d like it to match your literary vibe . . . . so, registration is required.

View Event →
LGBTQIA+ Ally Bookclub
May
7

LGBTQIA+ Ally Bookclub

A welcoming space for readers and allies to explore literature that celebrates and supports the LGBTQIA+ community. Join us each month as we dive into diverse voices and stories that inspire understanding, empathy, and advocacy. Everyone is welcome! We meet at the bookbar, which is 21 and over unless with a guardian.

View Event →
Fox Valley Science Society
May
6

Fox Valley Science Society

We’re surrounded by accents, but how do they work? With lots of conversation and famous Wisconsin examples, we’ll talk about how we produce different accents, how we hear them and how they develop.

View Event →
Drop-In Drawing
May
5

Drop-In Drawing

We’re making art a little more accessible around here. No sign-ups required. No pressure or angst . . . just a table, some pencils, and a real, working artist (and tattooist) ready to help you get started or keep working on your current project.

Join us for drop-in drawing sessions with Jared Weber, where you can come and go as you please, ask questions, learn techniques, or just quietly make something with support.

1st & 3rd Tuesdays
4–7pm
$10 per session
Ages 14+

View Event →
Trivia Night | Simpson's Edition
May
2

Trivia Night | Simpson's Edition

Where the stakes are low, the vibes are immaculate, and the questions are all crafted in-house by your fellow nerds. Winner and loser prizes, because we respect commitment at every level.

Entry is free, but come early to get your drink and comfy seat!

View Event →
Manga Bookclub
May
1

Manga Bookclub

First Friday of each month!

Manga Book Club will be MC’d by our resident volunteer and manga enthusiast, Chris. We’ll be hanging out, talking manga, appreciating great art, and probably arguing about characters and plot twists.

New readers, longtime fans, and the manga-curious are all welcome. Come grab a drink and nerd out with us.

View Event →
Chords & Coffee
Apr
28

Chords & Coffee

Chords & Coffee is a relaxed pop-in social hangout for local musicians to connect. Meet fellow players, talk shop, swap songs, and enjoy an easygoing music-friendly space.

No signup. No sign-in. No pressure to stay the whole time. Bring your instrument (or just come to listen). Some months include open mic moments, storytelling, or casual jamming—often it’s simply good conversation with instruments nearby.

View Event →
Crappy Cinema Club | Noah’s Shark
Apr
24

Crappy Cinema Club | Noah’s Shark

Crappy Cinema Club has evolved.

We’ve moved into the event space and are fully embracing our true calling: bad movies, good snacks, and extremely comfortable seating. Sofas will be set up theater-style with tables in front—perfect for popcorn, candy, cocktails from Velvet Fox, and whatever tiny craft keeps your hands busy during the nonsense.
You know what you’re signing up for.

This public screening of Noah’s Shark is presented with permission from Wild Eye Releasing. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication, distribution, or public performance is prohibited.


Want to help keep events like this going?
Your ticket gets you in, but any extra support helps us cover licensing, setup, and staff time—and lets us keep hosting cozy, weird, community-first events. Totally optional, always appreciated.

View Event →
Singles Night
Apr
24

Singles Night

Every 4th Friday!

Tired of shouting over bad music and pretending that’s flirting? Same.

Come hang at Tardigrade's and the Velvet Fox lounge every fourth Friday for a Singles Night that’s actually designed for conversation. Cozy lighting. Comfy seating. A space where you can hear each other think.

We’ll have board games, LEGO, and low-pressure activities to keep your hands busy while you chat — because sometimes it’s easier to connect when you’re building something (or gently dominating at Scrabble).

Come solo. Leave with a number, a new friend, or at the very least a pleasant evening in a room full of interesting humans.

No sports bar energy. Just warmth, curiosity, and maybe a little chemistry.

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Sapphic Bookclub
Apr
24

Sapphic Bookclub

Every Fourth Friday of the Month | 6pm

You asked, we listened. This by-request Sapphic Book Club is a spin-off of our LGBTQ Book Club and Spicy Book Club—created to make space specifically for sapphic stories, voices, and joy. Expect sapphic reads, good conversation, and the same welcoming, judgment-free vibes you know and love at Tardigrade’s. All identities are welcome; sapphic stories are centered. An all-around clam jam.

additional social meet-up with your book of choice the 2nd Friday of the month | 6pm

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Horror Bookclub
Apr
23

Horror Bookclub

Join us each month as we dive into stories that don’t just haunt but downright terrify—from spine-chilling thrillers to ghastly ghost stories and everything dark in between. This isn’t for the easily disturbed or anyone looking for a light read. Expect gory discussions and grab a nightcap at the bar to keep the chills at bay.

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Foxy Writers Club
Apr
21

Foxy Writers Club

3rd Tuesday of each month 5-7pm

Find more information on the Foxy Writer’s Club:

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Trivia Night | Twilight
Apr
18

Trivia Night | Twilight

Trivia Night | Twilight Themed

Some of you read 2,400+ pages. Some of you just remember “spider monkey.” All of you are welcome.
Five rounds of standard questions. Five speed rounds.
One prize for greatness.
One “prize” for… commitment.

Seats fill fast, arrive early or risk a folding chair situation.

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Science Bookclub
Apr
16

Science Bookclub

This bookclub for science enthusiasts celebrates all things science—combining the thrill of science fiction with the rigor and wonder of science-focused non-fiction.

Each month, we’ll explore stories that ignite curiosity, challenge perceptions, and inspire awe. From gripping narratives about scientific breakthroughs to thought-provoking novels where science shapes the future, this book club is perfect for readers who love to ponder what if? and how does that work?

Whether you're a lifelong science fan, an avid reader of speculative fiction, or simply curious about the world around you, this book club offers an engaging and welcoming space to discuss ideas, exchange insights, and spark new perspectives.

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Appleton Pickle Club
Apr
15

Appleton Pickle Club

3rd Wednesday of each Month

Looking for a place where bold ideas, weird questions, and progressive minds can actually meet each other off the algorithm?
Same. So we’re reviving something delightfully odd and historically scrappy.

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Guest Bartender | Brandon Thomas
Apr
11

Guest Bartender | Brandon Thomas

Guest Bartender | Brandon Thomas

Behind the bar in April: Brandon Thomas — poet, wordsmith, and now your temporary purveyor of well-balanced drinks.

Come talk poetry. Come talk literature.

No sports bar energy. Just good drinks, good words, and the usual Tardigrade’s atmosphere: curious, cozy, and definitely nerdy.

Brandon’s newest book, Beacon of Light will be available for purchase on the 11th!

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Pop Up D&D Game
Apr
10

Pop Up D&D Game

⚔️ Last-minute D&D game tonight at 6 PM! 🎲

We’re putting together an impromptu session tonight and have room at the table for up to 8 players.

First come, first served to play. Whoever volunteers to be the DM gets a complimentary drink!

If you want to reserve a spot or volunteer as the DM, leave a comment on the Facebook post and join the adventure!

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