How to Meet New People in Ottawa in Your 20s & 30s
Let’s be real — meeting new people as an adult isn’t easy.
Whether you're new to Ottawa or simply looking to expand your social circle, it can feel awkward trying to make friends in your 20s and 30s. Gone are the days of classroom buddies and dorm room chats. Now it’s work, errands, maybe the gym... and not a whole lot of built-in opportunities to form meaningful connections.
But here’s the good news: Ottawa is full of people just like you, and the social scene here is more welcoming than you think — if you know where to look.
🎯 1. Join Events Designed for 20s–30s
One of the best ways to meet new people in Ottawa is to attend real-world social events specifically geared toward people in their 20s and 30s. These events take the pressure off networking or dating and focus instead on casual, fun ways to connect.
We started the National Social Networking Group for exactly this reason — to help young adults meet new people in a relaxed, friendly environment.
From social mixers and bubble tea nights, to brunches, dancing, and games, we make sure no one feels like the “odd one out.”
➡️ View Upcoming Events in Ottawa
💬 2. Try Social Icebreakers (Yes, They Actually Work)
You might be thinking, “Icebreakers? No thanks.”
But hear us out.
At our events, we use lighthearted icebreaker games — think social bingo, conversation cards, or even Jenga with fun prompts — to get everyone mingling naturally. They're designed so you can easily meet 10+ people in one night without feeling awkward.
👉 Tip: Don’t wait to be approached. Say hi to someone standing alone — chances are, they’ll be relieved you did!
🌆 3. Explore Events Beyond Work and School
If you’re in Ottawa for work or school, you’ve likely met a few people through those channels — but expanding your network outside of that is key to feeling at home.
Try events like:
-
🎨 Paint nights (like our Boba & Brush socials)
-
🥂 Cocktail mixers
-
🧋 Bubble tea meetups
-
🍳 Brunch socials in the ByWard Market or Centretown
-
🕺 Dance nights with simple group games and music
These give you shared experiences to bond over — way better than trying to chat with strangers at a noisy bar.
🙋 4. Come Solo (Seriously, It’s Normal!)
You don’t need to bring a plus one.
In fact, most people come to our events solo — and we love that! We design every experience so solo guests feel welcomed from the moment they walk in. Our event hosts greet you, introduce you around, and make sure you’re never stuck in a corner scrolling your phone.
📱 5. Join Local Groups & Stay Connected
After the event, don’t just go home and forget everyone you met!
We recommend:
-
Following up on Instagram or WhatsApp
-
Joining Ottawa-based social groups or friend-making chats
-
Saying yes to coffee invites or group hangouts after events
💬 We even have group chats for each city, so attendees can keep in touch or get updates on future events.
🎉 Final Thoughts
Making new friends in Ottawa doesn’t have to feel impossible. The key is showing up, being open, and putting yourself in the right spaces.
Whether you’re new to town, recently single, done with small talk at work, or just ready to meet people who get you — you belong here.
👉 Join us at our next social event in Ottawa
It could be the night your new friendships begin.
Comments
Post a Comment