How to Make Friends in Calgary

1. Introduction
2. Join a Club or Group
3. Attend Local Events
4. Volunteer
5. Take a Class or Workshop
6. Use Social Media and Apps
7. Be Open and Approachable
8. Maintain Your New Friendships
9. Conclusion

So you want to know how to Make Friends in Calgary? Maybe you recently moved here or are simply wanting to expand your social circle. Whatever the case, this can be both an exciting and yet daunting experience. But don’t you worry, we have some great ideas and suggestions to help you on this new adventure!

In this guide, we’ll explore practical and effective strategies to help you make new friends and build meaningful connections in Calgary. Whether you’re a busy professional with limited time, a social butterfly looking to expand your circle, or an introverted explorer seeking small group settings, there’s something for everyone.

Join a Club or Group

Let’s start with one of the most effective ways to make new friends: joining a club or a group.

This is a fantastic way to meet new people because you’re pretty much guaranteed to be around others who share similar interests as you. Whether that be sports, arts, music, or even board games, there’s a club in Calgary for you. These types of clubs will often host regular events so everyone gets a chance to meet each other.

If you’re a sports enthusiast, you should really consider joining a local sports club. This could be anything from a soccer team to a hiking group. And the great part is that not only will you get to enjoy your favorite activities but you also get to bond over shared experiences and challenges.

But if you’re more into arts and culture, there are many art clubs and theater groups in Calgary that you could join. Participating in these groups will allow you to express your creativity and meet others who appreciate the arts as much as you do.

But what if you’re not particularly sporty or artistic? No problem! There are plenty of other clubs and groups that cater to a wide range of interests. For example, if you’re a foodie, you could join a cooking class or a wine tasting club. If you’re a bookworm, joining a book club would be a great way to discuss your favorite books and discover new ones.

Joining a club or group not only provides an opportunity to meet new people, but it also gives you a sense of community. You’ll be mixing with those who share your interests and can provide support and companionship. Plus, regular meetups mean you’ll have something to look forward to each week or month.

So, how do you find these clubs and groups? Here are a few clubs and groups in Calgary that you might consider:

• Calgary Outdoor Club: This is a great group for those who love the great outdoors. They organize a variety of activities, from hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding. It’s a great way to enjoy Calgary’s beautiful natural surroundings while meeting like-minded individuals. Check them out here.
• Calgary New Friends: This is a social group specifically designed for people who are new to the city. They host a variety of events, from coffee meetups to pub nights, providing plenty of opportunities to meet new people. Find more about them here.

Remember, the goal here is to meet new people and make friends, so choose a club or group that aligns with your interests and where you feel comfortable. This may take a bit of time so be patient. It’s important to find the right fit as once you do, you’ll be well on your way to forming new friendships in Calgary.

Attend Local Events

Another excellent way to make new friends in Calgary is by attending local events. Calgary is well known for its vibrant community with many events throughout the year. These events are a great way to meet new people and engage with the local community.

Whether it’s a music festival, a farmers market, a charity run, or a cultural fair, there’s always something happening in Calgary! These events attract a diverse crowd which is a great way to meet people from all walks of life.

One of the fantastic things about attending local events is that they can revolve around a specific theme or interest. This means that you’re likely to meet people who share similar interests to you. For example, if you’re a music lover, attending a local music festival could be a great way to meet other music enthusiasts.

But it’s not only about shared interests. Local events provide a shared experience which helps break the ice and spark conversations. Whether cheering your favorite band or sampling a local cuisine, these shared experiences are great opportunities for new friendships.

If large events are not your thing, Calgary also hosts many smaller, more intimate gatherings. These could be anything from local book readings, art gallery openings, or community workshops. These smaller events can often provide a more relaxed and comfortable environment for meeting new people.

But where do you find out about these events? Here are some of the upcoming local events that you might be interested in:

1. Group Art Exhibition | Memory & Dreams: This recurring event is organized by The Alberta Society of Artists. They are proud to present the group exhibition “Memory & Dreams”.
2. Circle The Wagons Festival, Opera In The Village, Funnyfest Calgary Comedy Festival, Cochrane Summerfest, Calgary Fringe Festival, Calgary Reggaefest, Globalfest, And Calgary International Film Festival: These are some of the city’s music and culture festivals that you can look forward to.
3. Calgary Rodeo: The Calgary Stampede and Indian Village are serious business here. You can also get in some modern art at the Esker Foundation, shop vinyl at Recordland, or canoe like a true Canadian.
4. Traditional European style holiday market: This event features food, beverage, artisan, craft, and local vendors. In August, you can also enjoy Taste of Calgary, the city’s best outdoor food and beverage festival with live music and entertainment.
5. Upcoming Events in Alberta: From international events to neighborhood festivals, there are plenty of things to do in Alberta for every season.

what if you’re single?

If you’re single, one great local event you might want to check out to meet other singles is a new unique concept called Secret RSVP. They host large scale events that are live-matched. It’s a hybrid of online dating meets offline matchmaking. An app is used before the event starts where everyone creates a secret guestlist of those they are curious about. Then everyone is secretly matched to meet in small groups with those they are connected with. While in your groups you’ll play games while getting to know others naturally. The twist is there is mystery in your groups as no one knows how they are connected. It’s a fun, relaxed, and modern way to meet people in real life. Join the club here or see the calgary events page.

So why not give it a try? Attend a local event, engage with your community, and who knows, you might make some new friends along the way.

Volunteer

Volunteering is another fantastic way to make new friends in Calgary. Not only does it allow you to give back to your community, but it also provides an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals.

There are many volunteering opportunities in Calgary for a wide range of interests. Animal welfare, environmental conservation, or helping those less fortunate are just a few of the many ways you can volunteer.

One of the great things about volunteering is that it brings people together for a common cause. This shared sense of purpose can help to foster strong connections and friendships. Plus, volunteering often involves working as part of a team, which can help to build camaraderie and mutual respect.

In addition to the social benefits, volunteering can also be incredibly rewarding on a personal level. It allows you to make a positive impact on your community and can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

So, how do you find volunteering opportunities in Calgary? Here are a few organizations where you might consider volunteering:

• The Calgary Food Bank: This organization is always looking for volunteers to help sort and pack food, assist with client intake, and help with special events. It’s a great way to make a tangible difference in your community while meeting others who are passionate about ending hunger. Volunteer with them here.
• The Calgary Humane Society: If you’re an animal lover, this could be the perfect volunteering opportunity for you. The Calgary Humane Society needs volunteers to help with animal care, adoption counseling, and various administrative tasks. Find out how to get involved here.
• The Calgary Public Library: The library offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, from helping with children’s programs to providing technology assistance. It’s a great way to give back while connecting with others who value education and literacy. Learn more about volunteering here.

Remember, the key to making new friends is to put yourself out there and engage with your community. So why not give volunteering a try? You’ll be doing something good for your community and making some new friends along the way.

Take a Class or Workshop

Taking a class or workshop is another excellent way to make new friends in Calgary. Looking to learn a new skill? Pursue a hobby? Want to try something new? Taking a class or workshop can provide a great opportunity to meet people.

There are many classes and workshops available in Calgary, catering to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re interested in cooking, painting, yoga, or coding, there’s a class for you.

One of the great things about taking a class or workshop is that it brings together people with similar interests. This shared interest can provide a great foundation for a budding friendship. Classes and workshops also involve group activities which help to foster a sense of teamwork and camaraderie.

In addition to the social benefits, taking a class or workshop can also be a great way to learn something new and broaden your horizons. It can provide a sense of achievement and can be a great way to challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone.

So, how do you find classes or workshops in Calgary? There are a wide range of classes and workshops for those interested in learning new skills or deepening their knowledge in a particular area. Here are some of the top-rated classes and workshops in Calgary:

1. Ascend Mountain Yoga: Ascend Mountain Yoga offers yoga classes for all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, you’ll find a class that suits your needs. More Info
2. Cozymeal: Cozymeal offers cooking classes with local chefs. It’s a great way to learn new recipes and cooking techniques. More Info
3. MNP Community & Sport Centre: This community center offers a variety of classes and workshops, from sports to arts and crafts. More Info
4. Showpass: Showpass offers a variety of events, including workshops and classes in various fields. More Info
5. Guided tour Downtown Calgary: This tour offers a mix of history, art, nature, and the wild west. It’s a great way to learn more about Calgary. More Info

You can also check out Eventbrite for more classes and workshops happening in Calgary. Whether you’re a local, new in town, or just passing through, you’ll be sure to find something that piques your interest.

Remember, the key to making new friends is to put yourself out there and engage with your community. So why not sign up for a class or workshop? You’ll be learning something new and making new friends along the way.

Use Social Media

In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. They can also be a great tool for making new friends in Calgary.

There are many social media platforms and apps available that can help you connect with people in your local area. Whether you’re looking to join a local group, take part in a local event, or meet people with similar interests, there’s an app for that.

There are many social media platforms that can help you connect with people in your local area. Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter all have features that allow you to join local groups or take part in local events.

Remember, the key to making new friends is to put yourself out there and engage with your community. So why not give social media a try? You’ll be connecting with people in your local area and making some new friends along the way.

Be Open and Approachable

No matter what method you choose, being open and approachable is key to making new friends in Calgary. This means being willing to engage with people, showing interest in what they have to say, and being open to new experiences.

One way to be open and approachable is to show genuine interest in the people you meet. This could be asking them about their interests, their experiences, or their opinions. Showing interest in others not only helps to build a connection, but it also shows that you value them and what they have to say.

Another way to be open and approachable is to be open to new experiences. This could be trying a new activity, attending a new event, or simply trying something new. Being open to new experiences shows that you’re adventurous and willing to step out of your comfort zone.

Remember, the key to making new friends is to put yourself out there and engage with your community. So why not give being open and approachable a try? You’ll be making a positive impression on the people you meet and make some new friends along the way.

Maintain Your New Friendships

Once you’ve made new friends in Calgary, it’s important to maintain these friendships. This means keeping in regular contact and spending time together. This is important for keeping your relationship strong so it never fades away.

This could be through phone calls, text messages, or social media. Regular contact shows that you value the friendship and committed to maintaining it.

Another way to maintain your new friendships is to spend time together. This could be going for a coffee, attending a local event, or simply hanging out. Spending time together allows you to build your relationship and create shared experiences.

Remember, the key to maintaining new friendships is to invest time and effort into the relationship. So why not make the effort to maintain your new friendships? You’ll be strengthening your social circle and making some lifelong friends along the way.

Conclusion

Making new friends in Calgary, or any city for that matter, can be a challenge. Putting yourself out there and engaging with others is the key to making new friends and building lasting relationships.

Whether you choose to join a club or group, attend local events, volunteer, take a class or workshop, or use social media, there are plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded individuals in Calgary. Remember, the key is to find activities and environments that align with your interests and where you feel comfortable.

Once you’ve made new friends, don’t forget to maintain these relationships. Keep in regular contact, spend time together, and continue to build your friendship. After all, friendships require effort and commitment from both sides.

So why not give it a try? Put yourself out there and start making new friends in Calgary today. Good luck!

Below is a table to help you compare the different methods, pros, cons and summary:

Method	Pros	Cons	Summary
Join a Club	Similar interests, regular meetups	Membership fees, commitment	Great for meeting people with similar interests
Local Events	Diverse range of people & culture	May be crowded or infrequent	Perfect for experiencing local culture, wide variety of people
Volunteering	Give back to community	Requires time commitment	Excellent for those who want to make a difference
Classes	Learn new things	Requires fees, fixed schedule	Great for those who want to expand skills
Social Media	Connect with people from the comfort of home	Online interactions can be impersonal	Convenient for those who prefer online interactions

FAQs

After exploring various strategies to make new friends in Calgary, you might have a few questions. Here are some frequently asked questions that might help clarify things:

1. What are some good places to meet new people in Calgary? There are numerous places to meet new people in Calgary. These include clubs or groups that align with your interests, local events, volunteering opportunities, classes or workshops, and even through social media and apps. If you’re single, a great way to meet many new singles is at Secret RSVP events. They host events on a monthly basis which often sell out so book early.
   
2. How can I make friends if I’m new to the city? Being new to a city can be challenging, but it also presents a great opportunity to meet new people. Joining local clubs or groups, attending events, volunteering, taking a class or workshop, or using social media can all be effective ways to make new friends. Remember, the key is to be open and approachable, show genuine interest in others, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone.
   
3. Are there clubs or groups in Calgary that I can join to meet new people? Calgary has a vibrant community with numerous clubs and groups that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re into sports, arts, technology, or social causes, there’s likely a club or group that aligns with your interests. Websites like Meetup can be a great resource for finding local groups.
   
4. What are some tips for making a good first impression? Making a good first impression often comes down to being genuine, showing interest in the other person, and being respectful. Remember to maintain eye contact, listen attentively, and respond thoughtfully. It’s also important to be yourself – authenticity goes a long way in making a good impression.
   
5. How can I maintain new friendships once I’ve made them? Maintaining friendships requires effort and commitment. Keep in regular contact, whether through calls, texts, or social media. Make plans to spend time together, whether it’s going for coffee, attending an event, or just hanging out. Remember, the key to maintaining friendships is to invest time and effort into the relationship.
   
6.  How do adults make friends in Calgary?
   Adults in Calgary can make friends in a variety of ways. Joining clubs or groups that align with their interests, attending local events, volunteering, taking classes or workshops, or using social media and apps are all effective strategies. Companies like Secret RSVP also organize live-matched singles events, which can be a fun and relaxed way to meet new people.
   
7. What is the app to make friends in Calgary?
   There are several apps that can help you make friends in Calgary. Meetup, for example, allows you to join local groups that share your interests.
   
8. Where do people make new friends?
   People make new friends in a variety of settings. This can include at work, in clubs or groups, at local events, through volunteering, in classes or workshops, or online through social media and apps. The key is to find environments that align with your interests and where you feel comfortable.
   
9. How do I make friends in my local area?
   Making friends in your local area can be achieved by engaging with your community. Attend local events, join clubs or groups, volunteer for local causes, or take classes or workshops in your area. You can also use social media and apps to connect with people in your local area.
   
10. Where do 40 year olds make friends?
    People in their 40s can make friends in many of the same places as other adults. This can include at work, in clubs or groups, at local events, through volunteering, in classes or workshops, or online through social media and apps. It’s also common for people in their 40s to make friends through their children’s school events or sports teams.
    
11. Why do adults struggle to make friends?
    Adults often struggle to make friends due to time constraints, changes in life circumstances, or a lack of opportunities to meet new people. It can also be more challenging to make friends as an adult due to the more complex social dynamics compared to when we were children.
    
12. What age do people stop making friends?
    There’s no specific age when people stop making friends. However, research suggests that people tend to make fewer new friends as they get older, often due to life changes such as retirement, children leaving home, or health issues. Despite this, it’s never too late to make new friends.

Remember, making new friends is a journey, not a destination. It takes time and patience, but the rewards of building new, meaningful relationships are well worth it. So why not start your journey today?