Meeting new people in this day and age is REAL hard. It's not like high school or University where you're constantly surrounded by people. I mean, you're bound to make friends when you have no choice but to socialize and have lots of time to do it.
Then all of a sudden, you're an adult. You have real responsibilities, you have your first real job. Your friends are living their own lives too, some maybe even halfway across the globe. You're desperate for some human connections. Of course, you turn to Tinder or some other app where you can meet people online or through your phone.
Sound all too familiar? Well, there's no shame in admitting that you've dabbled with Tinder once or twice. But there's actually a better way to meet new people and to make real fresh connections rather than a couple of virtual ones that almost never work out. The secret is to get out and network!
Here are a couple of my favourite spots that are full of young people where you can go, socialize and make new friends. Best part? You'll never go over your data again! ;)
Music festivals, food festivals, the list goes on:
If you've attended ANY festival in your life, you know that they all have one thing in common: people. Festivals are jam packed with humans who are there to socialize and have a good time. And there's no shortage of festivals, although most of them are in the summer like Osheaga and Veld, there are a few good ones that last through the fall like this lantern festival happening in Ohsweken, Ontario on September 30th.
Workshops in your city:
Got any secret talents? Want to develop a skill you don't have? Try a workshop! They're great places to meet new people and you might even discover a secret talent you never knew you had! One of my favourite workshops are paint nights where you get together at a bar or a restaurant and well, paint! There are loads of "Paint Nites" happening across the country. If you're interested in checking one out, visit the website here.
Meetups all over Canada:
If you've never heard of Meetup then you are in for a treat! It's basically an app that hosts Meetups in your area in order to help people network and meet new friends! They offer multiple Meetups for all kinds of interests so whether you're a fitness junky or a book worm, you can be sure that there will be something for you!
Restaurants, DUH:
Okay, I know what you're thinking... why on earth would I want to go to a restaurant all by myself? Well, let me break it down for you. There's a cool app called VizEat where you can meet people while indulging in some delicious food. The app lets you dine with people from all over the world! Sounds pretty cool right?
Intramural teams and/or clubs:
It might come as a surprise to some but did you know that there are actual recreational leagues and clubs for adults? Yup, you read that right. Joining an intramural team or sports club is a great way to make connections with those who share the same interests as you! Take the Ottawa Sport & Social Club for example which provides recreational sports leagues, tournaments and social events for people 19+. You can choose anything from flag football to even lawn bowling.
Hit up a dog park:
Ok so this one might be a little difficult if you don't have a dog but if you're one of those lucky few that has a furry friend then why not make use of your best bud and hit up a dog park!? Visiting a local dog park is probably one of the smartest ways to meet new people. It's a win-win situation for both you and your favourite companion.
Hit up all these areas in Toronto:
Ever seen a Yeti in real life? Of course not. But that's all about to change because on September 12th, real-life Yetis will be invading all of Toronto. Apparently, they're really friendly too! Best part? They'll be handing out Mentos Pure Fresh gum and making new friends! This is the one event you're not going to want to miss. It'll be packed with people who are eager to make some fresh and new connections.
So what are you waiting for? Get off that couch and go make some new friends! Give Tinder a little break and make some time for some real personal connections. Your future self will thank you later!
If you happen to be in Toronto, don't forget to catch the arrival of the Mentos Yetis who will be invading Bloor/Annex; U of T/College; Ryerson/YDS; Queen St W; and King St W on September 12th. And while you're at it, make sure to score some Mentos Pure Fresh gum. You're going to need it with all those connections you'll be making!