The Best Ways to Meet New People in Canada

It can be challenging to find effective methods to meet new people, especially in a country like Canada,

03:42 25 April 2025

Sometimes, when we travel or relocate to another country, we may find ourselves in an awkward position of realizing that we don't know anyone around us. Isolating ourselves from others is usually not the best plan, considering how much humans crave company. Thus, a quest for new friendships begins.

However, it can be challenging to find effective methods to meet new people, especially in a country like Canada, which is huge in size and has numerous cultures. As adults, we don't always have the built-in connection opportunities to make friends that we did in school or college. So, how can adults make real connections while still respecting their personal boundaries and slowly leaving their comfort zone without giving in to too much social pressure?

In this guide, we'll go over the best ways to meet new people in Canada and provide you with some practical tips for forming meaningful connections.

Explore Social Events

Canada is well-known for its numerous social events. You can find neighborhood, local, or even larger gatherings. Simply put, Canada has an event for everyone, regardless of the province or city you reside in.

For example, if you're a dog lover, you may be intrigued by events like the Wienerfest. This is just one of the dog festivals where you can meet other dog lovers and become friends with them. Be warm, kind, and approachable, and you'll quickly begin sharing experiences about your pets, leading to more in-depth connections.

Events like the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba are another great place to meet people, and twice as enjoyable if you like learning about other places and their history. While watching music shows, Viking fights, and art displays, you can easily talk to people who share your interests.

In general, every social event you go to gives you opportunities to start conversations. To feel less stressed, get there early when there are fewer people, set a small goal like talking to one new person, or focus on asking questions about others rather than worrying about what to say about yourself. Keep in mind that many people who are there are also trying to make friends. So, a simple smile and comment about the event can lead to friendship.

Join Community Groups

Community groups in Canada let you meet individuals who have the same hobbies, backgrounds, or interests as you. Thanks to Canada's broad range of such groups, you can find one in any smaller or larger city. You can become a member of:

• ACCES Employment. This group helps newcomers and people looking for work connect by helping them build their careers and find jobs.
• Afghan Women's Organization. This community helps Afghan women and their families and gives them chances to connect with other people from the same culture.
• For Youth Initiative. It's a group that creates programs where teens and young adults can meet new people and learn new skills.
• DUKE Heights BIA. This community is a business improvement group that hosts events for networking and professional growth.

The key to forming a meaningful connection in community groups is to listen, offer help, be open, and stay true to yourself. By engaging with activities you genuinely enjoy, friendships can develop naturally without the pressure of forced social interactions.

Engage in Shared Interest Activities

You don't have to be a community member to meet new people in Canada. You can just engage in activities with people who share the same interests as you. By talking about topics that connect you or doing the same activities, you can make new friends without any issues.

For example, you can start by attending networking events at your workplace. While this may be limited only to your company members, it can also connect you with other professionals who seek career development from all over Canada.

Every city in Canada has many sports clubs, so playing sports can also be your way to meet new people. Joining such clubs is great for finding like-minded people and sharing experiences. Through teamwork and friendly competition, sports can help you form stronger bonds with others while getting in better shape.

Don't Forget About Social Media

Social media simplifies the process of connecting with new people. For example, you can join groups on Facebook or Instagram based on your interests and connect with people from your region or across Canada. You can also use social media to learn about specific events or communities and potentially find others to attend with.

If you're just visiting the country for a short period, consider using an eSIM Canada as an alternative to buying a new physical SIM card. This digital option provides internet access while traveling without switching cards. Right before your trip, research connectivity options to ensure you can stay in touch and access information during your visit.

Conclusion

Canada is a vibrant country where you can easily meet new people and make friends. You can join a community group, visit an event, or engage in different activities. With many options to choose from, you'll easily find a way to form meaningful relationships with people similar to yourself.

So, don't be shy and get yourself out there!