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The Ultimate Guide to Making Friends in Brooklyn: 5 Ways to Grow Your Network

Brooklyn is best experienced with friends.
Afropunk, BK Reader
Afropunk 2016. Photo: J. Boogie for BK Reader

Brooklyn is one of the most popular boroughs in New York, admired for its fast-paced lifestyle, and diverse art and culinary scenes, among other things.

Relocating to Brooklyn as an adult can be exciting and offer countless opportunities. However, for some, making friends and establishing a social circle can be challenging. If you've just relocated and are looking to find your people, we've compiled the ultimate guide to get you out of your apartment and into the streets to make friends and grow your network.

1. Attend Events, Meetups and Outdoor Celebrations

Use platforms like Meetup, Eventbrite or local Facebook groups to find events happening around Brooklyn. Whether it’s a book club, a fitness class or a social gathering, these events are great opportunities to meet new people. Outdoor street events like the West Indian American Day Parade or celebrations in public parks are some events that we recommend attending to mingle with Brooklynites. 

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The West Indian American Day Parade 2024| Photo: Brianna Nunley for BK Reader

2. Frequent Local Cafes and Bars

Brooklyn has a vibrant coffee shop and bar scene. Regularly visiting a local spot can help you become a familiar face, making it easier to initiate conversations with other regulars. 

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. Photo: Photo by RDNE Stock project via Pexels

3. Take Classes or Workshops

Brooklyn businesses offers many classes including cooking, art, dance or fitness. Shared learning experiences can be a natural way to bond with others and expand your social circle. 

Cooking-Classes
Photo: Supplied/nyarw.com

4. Leverage Social Media

Join Brooklyn-specific social media groups or follow local influencers. Engage with their content and participate in conversations. This can lead to online friendships that may extend to in-person meetups. 

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Social media platforms can be effective platforms to build connections with those around you| Photo: Pexels

5. Volunteer for Local Causes

Brooklyn has many volunteering opportunities, from helping at a food bank to participating in community cleanups. Volunteering is a meaningful way to connect with others who share your values.

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Community members painting the “Show Brooklyn Some Love” mural| Photo: Supplied/Paul Frangipane for Brooklyn Org

There's so much to do in Brooklyn, and chances are, your people are right at your doorstep- you just have to know where to go.