"I think we can all agree that one of the hardest parts about being an adult is making new friends. And while it seems like everyone struggles with this, somehow it still feels impossible to meet people organically. Luckily, the answer to all your friendship struggles could be as simple as finding a new hobby that interests you. We often don’t make as much time as we should for hobbies, but trying something new can be super rewarding and a great way to meet new people. Hobbies can put you in different social circles than you might normally run in and help you bond with people over a common interest, getting you ahead of those boring, surface-level conversations. And who knows? It might be the thing that leads you to a lifelong friend.
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Whether you are trying to put down roots in a new city or just want to expand your circle a bit, these social hobbies will help you connect with people and form new friendships.
1. Start or join a book club
If you can’t stop yapping about the book you’re currently reading, it might be time to join or even start your own book club. Not only will it give you a chance to explore new books and genres, but it will also connect you to others who share a passion for reading and talking about their favorite books. Find an existing club through community flyers or social media pages, or start one yourself!
2. Volunteer in your community
Volunteering is a great way to get involved and meet people in your community directly. Whether it be working blood drives, food pantries, or community clean-ups, these activities will introduce you to other people who also care about the community and allow you to connect with them through helping out locally.
3. Take dance classes
Moving your body to music can be incredibly empowering (and a great workout, too). As someone whose favorite part of the week is my adult dance classes, I’ll vouch for the fact that they’re a great way to meet people who will uplift and support you, no matter your skill level. From intensive dance workouts to technical ballet classes, there are tons of different class styles for you to explore.
4. Try a rec sports league
If you love to get active and embrace your competitive side, try joining a rec sports league. From pickleball to tennis to volleyball, there are tons of different sports to choose from. Since sports are inherently team-based, it’s a great way to form bonds with others on your team or even your competition.
5. Join a running club
Whether you are just starting out or have been chasing that runner’s high for a while now, joining a running club is a fantastic way to get active and meet people. These groups have popped up across many cities as a way to forge communities for runners, so take advantage of one near you. Find a running group that holds you accountable and challenges you to progress in your goals, whether it be consistency or a new mile time.
6. Take foreign language classes
While I don’t miss the stress of being in school, in my adult years, I do miss the excitement of learning new things. If this sounds like you, it’s time to dust off your study habits and learn a new language! Many cities offer in-person foreign language classes, where you can meet with others and practice talking to each other. Stumbling over new vocab words is a great way to bond, and you might even be inclined to schedule meet-ups outside of classes to study with your classmates.
7. Try art workshops
If you want to tap into your artistic side, try taking art classes or workshops within your community. There are so many mediums to choose from, such as painting, drawing, or even pottery, so you’ll definitely find something that you enjoy. Getting your hands dirty and making something beautiful in a class environment will help you bond with other creative people and find inspiration in your new hobby.
8. Attend trivia nights
Attending local trivia nights is a seriously underrated hobby that can also get you involved in your community. Whether you go it alone or bring along a few others, you can form your own team or join one. This friendly competition will test your knowledge on tons of topics from pop culture to history, and you might even win some prizes to share with your teammates.
9. Join a theater group
As a retired theater kid, I can vouch for this one. If you love acting, musicals, and movies, try joining a theater group. This community is full of supportive people who will accept you for exactly who you are and give you confidence you never knew you had. Even if you’re not comfortable standing on stage, there are a ton of positions that go into a production, from stagehands to prop-makers to controlling lights and sound. Find a group near you through community pages or flyers near your local theaters.
10. Sign up for a cooking class
Maybe you’ve burned your dinner one too many times, or you just want to learn some new recipes and skills. Either way, cooking classes are a super fun and rewarding way to meet new people. Not only do you get to practice your cooking skills with other newbie chefs, but you also get to eat whatever you make, and eating together is always a great bonding experience.
11. Take yoga classes
If you prefer slower-paced exercise to rigorous workouts (or you desperately need some relaxation in your life), consider taking some yoga classes. With different levels and class types, you’ll learn to relax your breath and find your balance in a way you’re comfortable with. To turn it into a social hobby, make time to chat with some of the other regulars after class. You could even invite some classmates to get a smoothie or food afterward and bond over the struggle of those hard poses.
12. Join a writing group
If you want to get creative with your words beyond your usual journaling sesh, try joining a writing group for whatever medium you prefer, whether it be storytelling or even poetry. Not only will you learn to better express yourself, but you’ll also meet others who want to share and expand their own craft. As you get to know your fellow writers, invite some to get coffee and discuss new stories or review each other’s work.
Jenna Piotrowicz, Editorial Assistant
Jenna began working as an Editorial Assistant for The Everygirl in 2024. With her eye for detail, she assists the team with content creation, sourcing products and images, and works behind the scenes to support The Everygirl in uploading and updating content.