How to Make Friends in Boston: Part 1 [02/15/24]

Boston is considered one of the smaller cities in the U.S. But it still has over 670,000 people! Yet, time and time again, I have heard from those around me how hard it is to make friends and find a community. I was in the same position when I first moved here two years ago. And whether you’re new to the area or looking to meet new folks in this place you call home, I hope this list helps you discover Boston and connect with others.

Come back around for How to Make Friends in Boston: Part 2 coming soon for all the game lovers, sports enthusiasts, dancers, and more!

By Yelena Nicolle Salvador

See How to Make Friends in Boston: Part 2

1) Breaking the conversational ice

Meeting new people always comes with awkward silences and pauses. But don’t worry, some of these instances can turn into funny memories and lead to friendships too. If you’re looking to avoid this step in the “get to know you” phase of meeting people, there are plenty of opportunities around our city.

Skip the Small Talk (STST) hosts events for anyone to deeply connect with others through speed-friending by using research-based questions to foster conversation between strangers.
There are specific LGBTQIA+ speed-friending events (I’ve met some great fellow queer friends here!). It’s great to be in a gender affirming space so I highly recommend this for my fellow queer babes out there.
STST also hosts BIPOC speed-friending events that have been wonderful to meet others in the Boston community as well. As a Filipino-American, it has been so validating to meet others in these spaces that are completely led by and for BIPOC folks!
There are even events for 30+ year olds to meet people, as well as monogamous and poly speed-dating which can end with new friends too.
CultureHouse has a free pop-up in Union Square that fosters intergenerational connection through community events like yoga, local music and art shows, and more. Stop by for a chat and fun activities.
The Millennial Crisis also hosts events that are usually free. Look out for future social talks by them since their mission is to create community by fostering honest dialogue and conversation between strangers.

2) Turn networking into something more – Making friends while building business connections

Looking to collaborate with people who are committed to learning from each other? Want to meet other people who are motivated to start their own business? Ready to network? Let’s turn those ideas you have into reality.

Every Thursday, Venture Cafe hosts gatherings that welcome everyone from students and academics to investors and creators. Kick start that next project or learn about what’s changing in the job market with panel discussions about the impacts of AI, healthcare, and more!
The Boston Young Professionals Association hosts networking nights where you can meet recruiters, find referrals, and exchange ideas. They also host fun outings like networking and speed dating events. You’ll get a discount to these activities with a membership to YPA too.

3) Making friends through reading and writing adventures

No need to spend time looking for your next book inspo on BookTok. Instead, meet new friends as you exchange book logs and TBR lists. Use those stories you love and try to create your own too.

Every Wednesday night is Poetry Night at the Cantab Lounge. The Boston Poetry Slam hosts an open mic for two hours and then a feature poet or event ends the show. This place has been queer-affirming, lively, and inspiring on the coldest and loneliest nights for me. Stay for a few minutes or a while.
For some (like me), it can be hard to find time to read. For others, the fun is in the search for the next can’t-put-down book. Whatever it may be, the book clubs in Boston and the greater area are the perfect place to stay consistent with a newfound passion, a reignited habit, or a continuation of loving books. Check out 9 unique book clubs in the city.
If you’re looking to break into writing, try out a class at GrubStreet. They offer scholarships for those who need payment support, and they host FREE writing workshops and panel discussions in partnership with the Boston Public Library.
Trident Booksellers & Cafe also hosts a Poetry Open Mic night every Sunday and a Silent Book Club & Write event every other Monday. Brookline Booksmith hosts poetry reading every third Thursday. And Beacon Hill Books literary round tables too. These bookstores host regular author talks where you can mingle with folks who share a common love for your favorite author as well!

4) For finding community through arts and crafts experiences

Learning something new with people is one of the best ways to connect with someone! Start that next hobby and plunge into your next craft while making new friends.

Try your hand at calligraphy with Sip & Script or learn to knit, crochet, and embroider with GatherHere and Boston Fiber Company.
Boston Landing, the Fenway Community Center, and Boston Public Market host acrylic painting and watercolor classes too. And the Museum of Fine Arts offers sketching and multimedia workshops.
Pound and mold clay with pottery classes at the Brookline Clayroom, the Clay Lounge, or with Pottery with a Purpose.
Check out our roundup for 21 Art Classes in Boston to Get Creative with new folks as well!

How to Make Friends in Boston Part 2 coming soon. And happy friend making; maybe I’ll catch one of y’all somewhere!

Photo by @photosbyj2

How to Make Friends in Boston: Part 1

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