MAH JONG
We are an enthusiastic group who enjoy the western (international) form of Mah Jong. New players are always welcome, beginner or experienced!
We meet every first and third Wednesday of the month.
Note the finish time is a bit fluid - we generally play past 12:30, but usually not past 13:00.
Join our WhatsApp group for regular updates.
Contact Karen S. to register and get more details.
Photo and Media Policy
By attending, you agree that the photographs and film recorded during the event that include your image may be used for promotional purposes by the American Women’s Club of Zurich. When attending an event, please notify the organizer in advance that you don't want your photo or a video taken.
Personal Risk
Participation in AWCZ Activities or Events or the use of AWCZ property is entirely at the participant’s and/or organizer’s own discretion and/or own risk. Neither the AWCZ nor its representatives shall be held responsible for injury, damage, or loss incurred by anyone’s participation in AWCZ Events or the use of AWCZ property.
STITCHIN' WITCHES
Open to all levels!
Stitchers unite! Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month to individually work on projects of their choice: from knitting to counted cross-stitch, from crocheting to weaving pine needle baskets. Or other projects of your choice.
Come work your creativity and enjoy each others’ company.
Do you have questions about the event? Contact Suzanne and/or Marianne at stitchinwitches.
Be sure to sign up for the WhatsApp chat to keep track of when we are meeting.
Cost: Free!
CORE & MORE
Get moving with Patti every Tuesday with a fun and energy-filled workout powered by great music!
This workout includes cardio exercise as well as strength training to sculpt and tone your entire body.
Every workout will end with a gentle stretching session. No experience is necessary.
Please dress in comfortable exercise clothing and shoes and bring a mat, a towel, and a positive attitude.
Contact Patti to register: coreandmore@awczurich.org and for more details.
The Fitness Walkers meet every Thursday morning (rain or shine!) at 9:30 a.m. at Bellevue. Every week we explore different areas around the city of Zürich: sometimes we enjoy walking along the lake or along one of the rivers that wind through our beautiful city; sometimes we explore one of the many neighborhoods.
No matter where we go, we always enjoy walking and talking with each other! After the walk, we'll often grab a coffee or lunch somewhere nearby.
Please feel free to contact Patti at fitnesswalk@awczurich.org if you want to join us! Make sure to check messages in the AWCZ Walking WhatsApp group for possible schedule changes over the summer months.
Enjoy our English language Library!
The AWCZ is privileged to maintain one of the largest English-language libraries in the Zurich area. Fully volunteer run for over 85 years, the Library at our Clubhouse features an extensive collection of fiction and nonfiction for all ages (kids, teenagers, and adults).
Our Library is open on Wednesdays and Fridays, from 10:00-16:00.
Check out our Digital Library.
Catalog: https://www.libib.com/u/awcz
Usage of the library is included in the AWCZ membership.
You can also use the library as a "Friend of the Library".
Individuals wishing to use the AWCZ Library may become Friends of the Library subscribers. A 12-month subscription is CHF 75. Stop by during regular opening hours to complete an application or for more information. Please contact the Friends of the Library Coordinator for any questions.
Questions? Ask Patti at library@awczurich.org.
By attending, you agree that the photographs and film recorded during the event that include your image may be used for promotional purposes by the AWCZ. When attending an event, please notify the organizer in advance that you don't want your photo or a video taken.
GERMAN CONVERSATION GROUP
Margareta E. and Pia M. will support you to speak German in a Coffee Conversation group.
Most of all you should enjoy to speak German - one of the four languages of Switzerland !
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any question you might have. Looking forward to speaking in German with you soon!
For more information, contact germanconversation@awczurich.org.
Evening Mah Jong!
Join us to play the western (international) form of Mah Jong.
New players are always welcome, beginner or experienced!
We meet every fourth Tuesday of the month, 18:00 - 21:00.
Join the WhatsApp group for regular updates.
Contact Liz, Susan or mahjong-evening for more details.
RUNNING CLUB
The Running Club is an activity group open to all members who are, have ever been, want to be, or are thinking about running and find themselves willing and able to participate. We run a variety of distances at a variety of paces. The idea is not to worry about times and distances, but to get out and get moving together!
Meet up time:
Mondays: 19.30 - 20.30 – meeting place: Tiefenbrunnen Saturdays: 08.30 - 10.00 – meeting place: Platzspitz, just north of HB
For more information: running-club@awczurich.org
BRIDGE
We play Bridge every Monday 13.00 - 16.30 and Thursday at 13.30 - 16.30, except for occasions when there is another Clubhouse event.
Monday is casual whereby hands can be discussed. Thursday is duplicate bridge. Come and join the fun! Please email us to participate.
Registration by email bridge@awczurich.org is kindly requested for this event. Membership is required after three visits to participate.
Join the Cocktail Club
Please join us as we enjoy cocktails at different locations around Zurich! This is a super fun group, and we hope to see you for lively conversation and tasty drinks. We meet on the 3rd Thursday of the month at a different bar or restaurant in the city. Some places we visit have bites but not always. Let us know if you’d like to be added to the WhatsApp thread; one week prior to the event, you can expect a WhatsApp message with the location we will be meeting. Cheers and welcome!
Contact Jen for more information and to register!
BABY & TODDLER PLAYGROUP - THURSDAY MORNINGS
Join our English playgroup with your 0-4 year old, led by Kristina, mom of 2 and certified Parenting Coach. The Thursday Morning Playgroup runs from 09:30 to 11:30 on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month.
At each playgroup, we will have circle time with songs and books, plus open play and a craft. Moms can swap stories and tips with each other over a hot coffee.
No advance registration required, just join the WhatsApp chat for the latest details.
For additional information, contact
baby-toddler-playgroup@awczurich.org.
BABY & TODDLER PLAYGROUP - TUESDAY AFTERNOONS
Can't make it on Thursday mornings to the Baby & Toddler Playgroup? Why not check out the Tuesday Afternoon Playgroup instead. Click here for more information.
Membership is required after three visits.
Relaxing Yoga after Core & More redirects the heat and energy from the workout to internally focus on the breath, internal locks and yoga postures to increase mobility and extend balanced, positive energy throughout the day.
French Conversation
Join Chat in French with our class leader, Mouna! She’ll be pleased to welcome you for an hour of lively French conversation, where participants can enjoy discussing a variety of topics in a relaxed, friendly setting. Whether you're looking to practice speaking or simply enjoy a chat in French, this session promises a fun, engaging experience for all levels.
Our Chat in French is scheduled every Wednesday from 09.30 - 10.30 at the AWCZ Clubhouse.
For questions please email Mouna: frenchconversation@awczurich.org.
The AWCZ English-language playgroup for 0-4 year olds, co-hosted by Tracy Woodley and Exie Huntington, is now offered on Tuesdays afternoons from 14:00 to 16:00.
At each playgroup, we will have circle time with songs and books, plus open play and a craft.
Moms can swap stories and tips with each other over a hot coffee. No advance registration required, just join the WhatsApp chat for the latest details.
baby-toddler-playgroup-tues@awczurich.org.
SPANISH CONVERSATION GROUP
Minimum requirement A2
Members will talk, play and have fun.
For more information, contact spanishconversation@awczurich.org.
Art Opening – Finding Places
Long-term club member Barbara Gazley is proud to share her recent artistic work. She is currently working in mixed media. The work is intuitive and colorful with many nuances and personal journeys. Come find your place !
Enjoy a light apéro and an evening with old and new friends.
Please email Nina: galleryattheclub@awczurich.org if you have any questions.
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The AWCZ Book Club meets on the first Friday of the month at 10:00 in the Clubhouse.
The book for May 1, 2026 is The last Bookshop in London, by Madeline Martin.
If you have any questions, contact Starr at bookclub@awczurich.org.
May 8: Framing Helvetica: Women's Film Festival (Day 1)
17:45 Doors open
18:15 Badi, a short film by Romana Lanfranconi
18:40 NETIZEN, a documentary film by Cynthia Lowen
20:15 Apéro and discussion with the filmmaker Cynthia Lowen, hosted by
Sabra Melamed
NETIZENS (2018) English. 1h 36m
Three women. Three lives upended. One digital battlefield. When the internet became a weapon, they were the targets. From non-consensual imagery to relentless cyberstalking, the law told them to "just unplug." They chose to fight back instead. Witness the powerful true story of the digital pioneers risking everything to police the "Wild West" of the web. They aren’t just survivors; they are the architects of a safer future. Netizens, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, highlights the real-world consequences of digital abuse.
Member Cynthia Lowen is an Emmy-nominated filmmaker and writer known for creating documentaries that explore pressing social issues with depth and empathy. Her work often focuses on topics such as bullying, online harassment, and reproductive rights, using storytelling to inspire awareness and change. Learn more about her work here: cynthialowen.com
Badi (2025) Swiss German subtitled in English. 24m
At the Swiss public swimming pool, teenagers enjoy their new-found freedom as much as their fries. Two years later, they are still the same, but their outside and inside have changed. The demolition of the orange slide and the modernization of the pool make them think back to their childhood. A new, diverse generation is growing up in the Badi.
Romana Lanfranconi is a filmmaker from Lucerne. She works as a director and producer on short films, TV documentaries, and feature films. Romana studied film and video at the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK). She founded the film collective Voltafilm in Lucerne, which evolved into the production company VOLTAFILM GmbH in 2014. At the beginning of 2023, she became self-employed to focus more on directing. Romana is the mother of two young adults and lives with her partner in Lucerne. Learn more about her work here: www.romanalanfranconi.ch.
*Check out the line up for Day Two of the Women's Film Festival.
Cost:
Members: CHF 10
Non-Members: CHF 20
Registration/Cancellation Deadline: May 7, 2026
BANK TRANSFER (preferred method of payment)
There is no processing fee if you pay by bank transfer.
Payment to: Account Name:
UBS AG American Women’s Club of Zurich Bahnhofstrasse 45 Höschgasse 38 8001 Zürich 8008 Zürich
TWINT payments (include 4% service charge)
For link to Twint, click here
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PayPal payments (include 4% service charge)
For link to PayPal, click here
Include your NAME, the Event Title, and the REGISTRATION NUMBER with your payment. This is the only way your payment can be identified.
AWCZ Cancellation and No Show Policy
The participant/s will be billed for the Event unless she/he has cancelled before the cancellation deadline.
May 9: Framing Helvetica: Women's Film Festival (Day 2)
17.30 Doors open
18.00 Forum, a short film by Simona Volpe,
In the dark, a short film by Molly Peters-Ehrenberg
18.45 Apéro and Discussion with the filmmaker Simona Volpe,
hosted by Nina Zimnik
20.00 Beyond Boobs, biographic documentary by Kristen Vermilyea
20:50 - 21.30 Discussion with the filmmaker, hosted by Anka Grzywacz
Forum (2025). German, subtitled in English. 24 min
A young filmmaker is researching the topic of sex trafficking. In a Zurich café, she meets a woman of the same age who tells her about daily life in brothels. Unfiltered realities from Swiss online sex forums echo like a shiver across the building facades and seep into the city's waterways.
Simona Volpe is a Swiss filmmaker, editor, and cinematographer whose work reflects a strong multidisciplinary approach to storytelling. Born in 1997 and raised in Schaffhausen, she initially studied psychology and film studies at the University of Zurich before moving into professional film production, working as a production assistant with Peacock Film.
She later pursued formal training at the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK), where she specialized in directing, editing, and cinematography. During her studies, Volpe developed a body of short fiction and documentary films that demonstrate her interest in both narrative and observational storytelling.
Her directorial work includes short films such as Anagnorisis (2021), Satellites (2021), Stuta La Luucia (2023), and Fiori d’Aurora (2024). She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Film in 2025 with her graduation film Forum, a drama exploring the topic of paid sex in Switzerland.
In the dark (2025). English. 15 min
When Jade returns to her hometown after a yearslong absence to restage a photo of Ryan, her first love, the past careens into the present, and she must confront unresolved transgressions. Through her recently revived film photography practice, this brief reunion, and a kaleidoscope of memories, Jade begins to process the traumatic end to a foundational relationship – and to approach the limits of forgiveness.
Molly Ehrenberg-Peters is a British-born filmmaker, actor, and producer based in New York City. Originally from Yorkshire, England, Ehrenberg-Peters began her career as an actor, appearing on stage and in radio and screen productions, including work for the BBC. She later expanded into producing and directing, co-founding production companies and developing projects across theatre and film. Her early producing work includes stage productions such as The Night Alive, as well as independent screen projects and web series.
As a filmmaker, she is known for short films including In the Dark (2025), her directorial debut, and Infinity Girls (2025). Her work often explores complex emotional relationships and social themes, combining intimate storytelling with character-driven narratives.
Beyond Boobs (2023). English. 52 mins
This is a hilarious and sometimes provocative film about a middle-aged American single mother living in Switzerland and her quest to find out if she will be invisible when she is no longer the woman with the biggest breasts in the room.
Kristen Vermilyea is an American filmmaker, writer, conceptual artist, and performer, currently living in Zurich, Switzerland. In 2013, she earned her MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts from Goddard College with a focus on film and feminism. Through this process, she developed her first documentary feature, Beyond Boobs, which premiered on SRF and Arte in 2018 and has been shown in over 15 countries. She produced and starred in the film Straight Forward, which won Best NH film at the SNOB Film Festival, and she also starred in and Associate Produced Celebration, which won the Teddy Award at Berlinale. Her short, Beneath the Flesh, a Stone, was an official selection at the PornyDays Festival in 2016. In addition to Death Virgin, Kristen is developing a satirical, hybrid documentary about menopause (OMG Menopause), as well as a coming-of-age feminist feature (Go With the Flow).
*Check out the line up for Day One of the Women’s Film Festival.
COST:
Registration/Cancellation Deadline: May 8, 2026
The Evening Wine & Cheese & Book Club meets (usually) on the second Tuesday of every month, except in August. We are a diverse group of people from all corners of the AWCZ who enjoy reading and discussing books of all genres; past reading lists have included memoir, Pulitzer Prize-winning literary fiction, YA fantasy, essay collections, genre/ speculative fiction, middle grade, thriller, romance, literature in translation, and more. Special events include our light-hearted "Filthy February," when we read a romance novel and fill out romance-trope-themed Bingo cards (for a prize!), and our annual "Fourth of July Beach Read Yankee Swap". We decide our reading list via discussion and survey, five books at a time. Our 2026 Spring / Summer reading list is:
March: The Names by Florence Knapp April: Perfection by Vincenzo Latronico,
translated from Italian by Sophie Hughes
May: The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
June: The Details by Ia Genberg,
translated from Swedish by Kira Josefsson
July: The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett
The best way to learn about our activity is to simply show up! We love welcoming new faces, and will be happy to answer any questions you have. Haven't read the book? As long as you don't mind spoilers, it's not a problem. We also begin every meeting with a potluck social hour, so feel free to bring something to share!
*Non-AWCZ-members: membership in our book club is contingent on membership to the AWCZ, but you are welcome to attend a book club meeting as one of your free “taster” activities. Please see the membership section of this website to learn about how to join the AWCZ.*
For any questions, please contact eveningbookclub@awczurich.org.
Understanding US Foreign Policy under Trump - A Conversation
Members only event
The Professional American Women’s Club of Zurich (PAWZ) invites you to join Kenneth A. Schultz, Professor of Political Science at Stanford University, for a discussion on the drivers of U.S. foreign policy.
Professor Schultz is an expert on international conflict and the author of Democracy and Coercive Diplomacy and World Politics: Interests, Interactions, and Institutions. His research focuses on how domestic politics influence a nation’s choices abroad. This conversation will explore the current administration’s approach to global affairs and the factors shaping American diplomacy today.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026, 6:30–9:30 PM
Apéro will be served.
Cost: Free
Registration deadline: Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
Cancellation deadline: Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
Seating is limited. Register early!
AWCZ Cancellation Policy
For cost-based Events and Activities, the participant/s will be billed for the Event/Activity unless they have cancelled before the cancellation deadline. For free Events and Activities, as we need an accurate head count for the caterers, the cancellation deadline should be honored. Thank you for your understanding.
New and Prospective Member Meet & Greet
Please join us to welcome new and prospective members to meet existing members and learn about the history of the Club, its 20+ weekly activities, special events, and philanthropy.
Complimentary light food and drinks
Don't Miss Out!
Registration deadline: May 18, 2026
Cancellation deadline: May 20, 2026
Have any questions about this event? Feel free to reach out to us at vpmemberrelations@awczurich.org
We can't wait to see you there!
LUNCH BUNCH
Please join us for lunch at Kennedy‘s Pub. It is located just a few minutes from the Hauptbahnhof at Freischützgasse 14, 8004 Zurich.
Link to the Pub: Kennedy's Pub Zurich
Registration/ Cancellation deadline: May 22, 2026
Cost: Whatever you consume.
Have questions? Contact Sue R.: lunchbunch@awczurich.org
Join us for our monthly Women’s Circle for connection and support. A women’s circle is a safe space for women to come together, to share, connect, support, and empower each other. It is a space where each woman is held, heard, and supported. Gathering in circle is an ancient tradition that helps us follow our internal wisdom to find what we need to heal and grow. It allows us to create common understanding amongst women, free of judgement. Each circle has a specific theme such as self-love, gratitude, intuition, resilience. We include elements of breathwork, meditation, movement, music and sometimes a small craft or other activity. It’s a place where you can switch off, relax and focus on yourself all while enjoying the connection and support of other women. Come as you are: Wear what you are comfortable in or what makes you feel beautiful. Cost: Free or Donation Based Registration/Cancellation Deadline: May 29, 2026
The women’s circle is offered on a free or donation-based model. If you are able, I welcome donations to help cover the basic costs of materials. Donations could be made via cash or Twint. For more information, contact Chantal.
Games Night
PhASE invites you to enjoy a relaxed evening playing your favourite card or board game at the Club. Organise your team or try something new.
Bridge, Mah Jong, Jass, scrabble, Monopoly - there’s too many options to list all the possibilities.
The entry fee will cover snacks and your first drink. A bar will be available to purchase some summer mixers as well as wine, beer and soft drinks.
All proceeds will go towards our club sponsored charity, Cancer Support Switzerland.
* Some games require a set or minimum number of people and it’s best to organise your team beforehand. If you’d rather come as an individual, bring your own games or try your luck with something available at the Club.
Cost: CHF 15
Registration/Cancellation Deadline: June 4, 2026
Contact the phase@awczurich.org team for further information.
Your Employer Has a Legal Team. You Don't. A Legal Clarity Workshop for Women Going Independent in Switzerland
with Vena Verga-Danemar, JD, LL.M
The Professional American Women's Club of Zurich (PAWZ) invites you to join Vena Verga-Danemar, licensed lawyer turned legal and business trust engineer, the TrustWright, and founder of Legally She Can, for a practical clarity workshop on building a legally sound independent business in Switzerland.
Drawing on her own experience running businesses in Switzerland across product, digital, and services, Vena works with founders and experts making the transition from corporate employment to independent work. In this workshop, she will help you diagnose where your current setup stands, identify the legal framework that applies to your situation now, and know what to fix first as you grow.
Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 6:30–9:30 PM
Members: Free
Non-members: CHF 25
Registration closes on Friday, June 19, 2026. Seating is limited.
HOW TO BAKE PERFECT SCONES!
Back by popular demand, Karen will be hosting a scone baking workshop at the Club. Learn the classic recipe and some fun alternatives to have sweet or savoury scones in a flash. All proceeds will go to Cancer Support Switzerland (CASS), our Club sponsored charity.
CHF 25 (per adult)
CHF 15 (per kid of any age)
Please make your payment before the event.
Registration/Cancellation Deadline: June 25, 2026
For further questions and registering your child(ren) or guest(s), please contact Karen directly.
The participant/s will be billed for the Workshop unless she/he has cancelled before the cancellation deadline.
The book for July 3, 2026 will be provided at a later date.
March: The Names by Florence Knapp
April: Perfection by Vincenzo Latronico,
Our mission is to foster social exchange and support within the English-speaking community of Zurich and to help our members feel at home in this beautiful city.
Höschgasse 38, 8008 Zürich
+41 44 240 4455
