vancouverNew to Vancouver? Start here.
Vancouver can feel like a hard city to meet people. These groups are free (or cheap), beginner-friendly, and welcoming to newcomers. Just show up.
Get moving
- Y Adventure Kommunity (YAK)Free adventure club — hiking, paddle boarding, biking, bouldering, and camping to make friends through outdoor activities.
- Social Run ClubSocial runs for beginner to intermediate runners. Fun runs, not competitive. Just show up.
- Rueda de la VidaFree outdoor Latin dance every Friday with a beginner lesson at 7pm. No partner needed.
Make friends
- We Should Be FriendsPark hangs, pottery nights, spin classes, neighbourhood book clubs — focused on lasting friendships.
- DayOfUs — Dinner with StrangersWeekly curated dinners pairing you with 5 strangers at a surprise restaurant.
- Meatless MeetupSocial events for vegetarians and vegans. 5,400+ members and growing.
Get creative
- Draw Around VancouverDrawing circles, creative flow workshops, and still life sessions. Slow, alcohol-free, beginner-friendly.
- Shut Up & Write! VancouverQuiet writing time followed by chat at VPL Central. Accepting, supportive, judgment-free.
Learn something
- Silent Book ClubPeople gather to read silently together, then chat. Introvert-friendly, low-pressure social.
- Vancouver Philosophy SalonPhilosophical dialogue and friendly debate covering wide variety of topics from Plato to Buddha.
- Vancouver Beer & ChessChess + drinks in a social setting. "We play chess and get to know people who like chess."
Find your community
- Vancouver FrontrunnersInclusive running and walking group. No-drop policy, LGBTQ+ friendly.
- Vancouver Gaymers2SLGBTQIA+ gaming community. Board games, video games, and social events.
- The DUDES ClubMen's talking circles focused on health and wellness. Participant-led community of brotherhood.