10 Easy Ways to Find Friends in Canada

Making friends in a new city can be tough and lonely at times, especially if you don’t know where to start. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! In this blog post, we will give you some tips on how to find friends in Canada.

Your reasons for relocation may vary.  It could be because of a new job, studies, a spouse or simply seeking a lifestyle with new opportunities and adventure.

Although our reasons could be different, one thing we all have in common is a need to feel a sense of connection with others. 

What elevates a country to become a special place in our hearts is often the unique personal connections and the experiences that we share with the people there.

Whether you’re new to the country or just looking for new friends, these tips will help you out. So read on and start making some connections!

Find Social Activities in Your Area

Meet Up is an online platform that lists a wide variety of meetup groups for people who share similar interests.  A meetup that appeals to you can be found by just about anyone. 

On Meet Up you can find social activities ranging from painting, yoga, hiking, learning a foreign language, meditation meetups, movie clubs, foodie clubs and mastermind groups.

Not only will you make new friends, but you’ll also get to experience new things and learn more about your hobbies.

By getting involved in the things that interest you, you’ll find friends naturally.

To browse social activities in your area, you can also check Eventbrite. 

Join Facebook Groups for Expats

Different Facebook groups can help you source advice, information and to contact new people in your area. 

You can start, for example, by targeting different expat groups.

In most cases, you will find out that you’re not alone and that there are many others in the same boat, undergoing the same process as you.

Find Friends Through Shared Love of Food

Enjoying a delicious meal with friends, neighbours and co-workers is a great way to form deeper connections.

It’s even more fun when you’re able to discover and enjoy different cuisines from all around the world together.

Eat With is a platform similar to Airbnb but instead of accommodation, it is aimed at sharing culinary experiences.

Canada with its mix of nationalities provides a wide pallet of cuisines to share and experience.

Volunteer with Workaway

Another great way to find friends in Canada is by volunteering.

There are many organizations that could use your help, and by volunteering you can make a difference while also meeting new people.

Not only will you feel good about giving back, but you might also end up making some lifelong friends.

Workaway is a wonderful platform to find volunteering activities that you can participate in. 

These are usually with local families, organizations or small businesses that offer an exchange of your time and work for food and accommodation.

You will have a great opportunity to interact with locals and other volunteers. 

Besides making friends, it’s also a great way to also learn new skills and in some cases even get paid. 

Hang Out With Your Colleagues 

I know that after spending 8h a day at work, you might not always feel compelled to go out and engage in small talk.

But having a drink or a cup of coffee with your colleagues could also be fun.

There’s a good chance that you’ll find something that you have in common with your colleagues.

You could join networking events and attend meetups, trade shows, and conferences related to your industry.

6. Say Hi To Your Neighbours 

This might sound a little old-school but how about baking something and bringing it to your neighbours or inviting them over for dinner?

Nobody can say no to good food and good company.

You never know. You might end up having new friends right next door.

Building a relationship with neighbours can grow into a sense of community for you and them.

Find Friends Through Shared Love of Sports

If you’re into playing sports, you can join a league for just about any sport, from hockey to ultimate Frisbee.

Sport can be a wonderful way to meet new people. You don’t even have to worry about awkward silence or small talk because you’ll be fully immersed in the game.

After the match, you can simply discuss with your teammates how the game went and what you could improve next time.

Besides that, health clubs and gyms often host various sports events.

You might get lucky and find there your workout buddy.

To make it even easier for you, there’s an app called Atleto designed specifically for sports enthusiasts.

This app will match you with other people depending on your sports preferences, schedule and your skill level.

You can find there many sports events and activities in your area.

Love Dogs? Make Friends with BarkHappy 

A pet is not only a great companion but can also help you find new friends.

It’s no secret that dog walkers are more likely to strike up a conversation with their neighbours, other pet owners or dog lovers roaming the streets.

Dogs are usually very eager to meet new people and you’ll have a perfect icebreaker to start a chat about your dog with strangers.

There is also an app called BarkHappy which connects dog lovers. Setting up a dog parents’ play dates has never been easier.

Explore Canada and Hang Out with Locals

Couchsurfing is a website that connects locals with travellers. 

It’s an incredible way to experience a country with locals and find unique and lasting connections. 

With this platform, you can either arrange to be hosted at no cost or simply meet up with locals, travellers and expats alike. 

The only downside to Couchsurfing is that you’re required to pay a small monthly fee or yearly subscription in order to use the platform.

If you’re into cycling, there is an interesting free alternative for hosting cyclists worldwide on their cycling trips.

You could sign up and find some local hosts, share great stories and have a drink. For more info, click here.

Try Apps to Find Friends in Canada

Whether you’re looking to meet people your own age, find other Canadians who love hiking and skiing, or just want to chat with someone new, there’s an app for that!

We’ve rounded up the best apps for making friends in Canada. On top of that, they’re all free to join.

• Patook – an app which uses algorithms to find friends for you with similar interests and values. Patook is something like Tinder of the friendship world.
• Nextdoor – app to meet and socialize with your neighbours. This app seems to be popular mostly amongst parents and adults.
• We3 – Canadian app designed to match a small group of people together. Instead of finding you a partner, it aims to find you a tribe. The app will place you in a group of 3 people based on your similar interests and values.
• CitySocializer – a great app to spice up your social life especially if you live in a city. You can join or organize various events including house parties.
• Hey! Vina – an app designed specifically for women to find other female friends.

So there you have it! These are just a few of the many ways that you can find friends in Canada.

Making friends in a new city doesn’t have to be difficult – just remember to put yourself out there and get involved in the things that interest you.

With these tips, you’ll be making friends in no time!

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If you’re new to Canada or plan on immigrating to Canada then be sure to discover more tips here on how to make your transition easier, cheaper and more convenient.