Finding love in a big city can be challenging, but the good news is that there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people. However, just because a city is full of places to go doesn’t mean you can walk into any venue and instantly find a date or a potential partner.
Rather than aimlessly searching, it’s best to visit places where people are already open to meeting and talking to new people. These are spaces designed for social interaction—where striking up a conversation with a stranger is not just accepted but encouraged.
So, where should you go? The best places are event venues—but not just any event. Some gatherings are specifically created for socializing, where the main goal is simply to meet new people. Whether you form new friendships or find romance is up to you.
There are also events exclusively for singles. Some of these allow only single participants, while others are structured as dating-focused events to help people connect in a more intentional way.
Over the years, I’ve attended and organized many such events in a fast-paced city like Paris. Now, I’ll share some insider tips on how to find these events and which ones might be the best fit for you.
How to Find Events Where You Can Meet New People?
Tip 1: Stick to the Classics
When it comes to finding social events, some of the classic event apps are still the best. One of the top platforms is Meetup—one of the largest event apps, covering almost every major city worldwide. In big cities, new events pop up daily, and most are organized by individuals rather than big companies, making them more casual and welcoming.
On Meetup, you can filter events based on your interests or use specific search terms. I recommend looking for meetups, international gatherings, picnics, or bar/café events. Unless stated otherwise, these events are not specifically designed for dating, but they offer a great opportunity to connect with new people. If the vibe feels right, a friendly conversation can naturally turn into playful flirting—or even lead to future dates. Just remember to be respectful and go with the flow.
Another great platform to check out is Eventbrite. Unlike Meetup, Eventbrite tends to feature events hosted by organizations rather than individuals. However, you can still find plenty of interesting gatherings, so it’s worth browsing through to see what’s happening near you.
Tip 2: Use Local Apps for Local Opportunities
While Meetup and Eventbrite are great universal options, many cities also have local event apps that can be even more useful. These platforms are often preferred by locals, making them a great way to meet people who live in your area rather than just tourists or expats.
To find these apps, try a quick search in Google Play or the App Store. Simply type “[Your City] + events” and see what comes up. Depending on where you live, you might find dedicated event platforms or, in some cases, none at all. If you don’t find a city-specific app, try broadening your search to include your country as a whole.
Local apps can sometimes offer hidden gems—smaller, more intimate events that aren’t widely advertised on larger platforms. So, take a little time to explore what’s available—you might just find the perfect event to meet new people!
Tip 3: Google Is Your Best Assistant
When I used to organize local meetups, I often noticed people showing up who weren’t on the official sign-up list. Curious, I’d ask them how they found out about the event, and their answer was almost always the same—Google.
Most event platforms optimize their listings to appear in Google search results, making it a great tool for discovering social gatherings. Simply searching for phrases like:
✅ “Paris events”
✅ “London meetups”
✅ “New York international gatherings”
✅ “Amsterdam expat events”
…can quickly lead you to upcoming events in your area. A quick Google search can help you find hidden opportunities to meet new people!
Tip 4: Singles-Only Events – A Fun Way to Meet Like-Minded People
There’s a reason why some events are labeled “singles-only.” While they may not always be structured as dating events, they create an environment where flirting and romantic connections feel more natural. Everyone attending knows it’s a singles event, which means they’re generally open to meeting potential partners.
I highly recommend these events for people who are specifically looking to flirt and connect romantically, rather than just make new friends. I’ve often seen people attend regular meetups with the expectation of finding a date, only to leave disappointed because others were simply there to socialize, network, or make friends.
If you prefer to meet people who share the same romantic mindset as you, singles-only events are definitely worth checking out!
Tip 5: Shy or Unsure? There’s an Event for You!
Not everyone feels confident when it comes to flirting or starting conversations with strangers. Some people aren’t sure about their flirting skills, while others prefer to skip small talk and be more direct. Plus, at the events I’ve mentioned earlier, there’s always a bit of uncertainty—you can never be 100% sure if someone is actually looking for a relationship. Just because someone is single doesn’t mean they’re open to dating.
The good news? There’s an event designed specifically for singles who want to find a partner without the guesswork—Speed Dating.
Speed dating is a structured event where you get to meet and talk to multiple people in a short amount of time. Organizers ensure that everyone gets a fair chance to connect, and at the end, you can decide if you’d like to stay in touch with someone.
The best part? There’s zero pressure about whether someone is interested in dating—you already know that everyone is there for the same reason. A well-organized speed dating event will also help create a relaxed and fun atmosphere, making it a great option for those who might feel nervous about traditional social settings.
How to Find Speed Dating Events?
You can discover speed dating events using the same methods I mentioned earlier—large event apps, local event apps, and Google. Simply search for “[Your City] + speed dating”, and you’ll likely find upcoming events near you.
Most speed dating events require a participation fee, but it’s usually worth it. The venues are carefully chosen to create the right atmosphere, and the experience itself is unique compared to regular social gatherings.
How Much Do Speed Dating Events Cost?
Pricing depends on the organizer and venue, but typically, tickets range from 15 to 30 Euros. More exclusive, private events may charge higher fees.
If you’re open to meeting someone special, why not give it a try? Your future love might be just one speed date away!
Ready to Transform Your Love Life? Let’s Talk!
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