Let’s explore social events in Chicago, IL happening this week. Local events are a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Look through this page and consider going out and socializing during one of these social events.
Are you looking to take a break from your regular ventures, build friendships or develop emotional intelligence? Social events could just be just the thing you are missing. As they always say, one’s company, two’s a crowd, three’s a party. In these events, you will get to meet a whole new range of people, engage other cultures and understand different perspectives. You get opportunities to expand your circle through the interactions and conversations elicited. Whether you are looking to improve your social or work connections, this is it for you.
There are many events held across Chicago, Illinois. Events range from backyard outings, outdoor activity events, singles events, professional networking, meaningful discussions, and more. They are all varied and interesting covering your lifestyle and preference. If you find it hard to make connections or socialize in these events, here are a few tips to save your situation.
Local Groups’ Events in Chicago
Walnut Room
◦ When: Friday, Dec 6th
◦ Where: Macy’s
The Walnut Room has been a Chicago Tradition since 1907. It is located in the 7th floor of Macy’s on State Street.
After we can go Christmas shopping, as a group or individually.
Please bring cash in case they have difficulty giving us separate checks. It will be on the discretion of our waiter or waitress.(…)
Saturday Morning Coffee and Write
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Sawada Coffee
Welcome to West Loop Writers!
Saturday morning, we will meet up and write from 9-10:30 a.m. at Sawada coffee shop. (Sawada is the slightly hidden coffee shop that connects with Green Street Meats). Bring your laptop, or even better a pen and an old fashioned notebook, and write with us.
At 10:30 we will break from writing, introduce ourselves and what we’re working on if the spirit moves us. We (…)
Ice Skating at Maggie Daley Ice Ribbon
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon
Celebrate the Holidays by ice skating with Windy City Skaters at the Ice Ribbon!
’Tis the season. We are trading our inline skates for ice skates. Registering takes two steps, 1. RSVP to this Meetup, and 2. Register at the Maggie Daley Park website: [https://maggiedaleypark.com/things-to-do-see/skating-ribbon/](https://maggiedaleypark.com/things-to-do-see/skating-ribbon/)
Ice Ribbon Reservations a(…)
Chicago Cyber Circle December Meet Up
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 5th
◦ Where: 550 W Van Buren St 13th floor
Join us at the Chicago Cyber Circle to learn about the latest Cybersecurity Best Practices for Professionals.
This month, we are welcoming John Paul Clancy, a Chief Cyber Security Expert at Offsite IT, who will be presenting on the importance of Layers of Security.
The event will kick off at **5:30pm with food and drinks.** Our **speaker** will begin at **6pm** with **a Q+A session** at **6:30pm(…)
ChiPy Algo SIG @ Holiday Club (Advent of Code)
◦ When: Friday, Dec 6th
◦ Where: Holiday Club
IMPORTANT NOTE: IN-PERSON event at the bar Holiday Club (4000 N Sheridan Rd) in Uptown/Lakeview. Please bring your laptops! We are doing Advent of Code 2024!
Algorithm SIG (Algo SIG) is a dedicated Special Interest Group to discuss and practice all things algorithms! Having a solid understanding of algorithms and data structure is an important aspect of designing better software. That’s why many (…)
Ice Skating @ McFetridge Sports Center (Irving Park)
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: McFetridge Sports Center
meetup for chicago anime hangouts! hope to have conversations about anime, and manga and more. just show up 😀
transportation:
it is accessible via the CTA 80 bus – the facility is located under Horner Park.
McFetridge Sports Center (MSC) offers **150 free parking spaces in the lot adjacent to the facility**.
All ages public skating hours:
Saturdays 3:30PM TO 5:00PM- Main Rink
Sundays 4:30PM TO(…)
Live Band Karaoke at the Hard Rock River North
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Hard Rock Cafe Chicago
Let’s see Chicago’s original and best live band karaoke band at the Hard Rock Cafe, 63 W. Ontario. NO COVER!
If you like to sing karaoke there’s nothing like doing it with an actual live band. Even if you don’t like singing you can still cheer on your Meetup friends and rock out to the band!
From their website: “With a list of hundreds of songs, we play every genre you can think of: ROCK, POP, H(…)
Make friends & BlaBla Language Exchange Chicago
◦ When: Wednesday, Dec 4th
◦ Where: Fatpour Tap Works – Wicker Park
**⚠️⚠️⚠️ 🍹/🍔 You are asked to order a drink or something to eat BEFORE joining the group (MANDATORY) ⚠️⚠️⚠️**
Meet new people – Make international and local friends – Speak languages (mingle) – Have fun 😉
**👉 Any question or request?** **[Reach out to us on Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/blablalanguage) !**
**👉 Some guidelines for a delightful experience:**
\- 🍺🥤 You are asked to orde(…)
Chicago Social Anxiety & Introvert Group Meeting
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Near North Branch, Chicago Public Library
Description:
At this meeting you can expect to connect with other socially anxious/introverted individuals. We will be engaging in small group and 1 on 1 discussions to conquer our fears and make connections.
Directions:
This meeting will be held at the Near North Library in Old Town. Come in through the main entrance and the meeting room will be right in front of you. There will be a sign outsid(…)
🍁 Sweater Weather Social @ Web Pub Bucktown
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 5th
◦ Where: Web Pub Bucktown
Let’s link up with old and new friends alike for dranks and hangs at Web Pub Bucktown — a local neighborhood bar serving up a rotating list of vintage cocktails, craft beer, and pub grub.
🌳 🍺 🕸️ 🏡 🕸️ 🍹 🌳
Pull up for one drink, or stay for five. 🪂
Peep the bar deetz here… 🌜🍻🌛
[https://www.webpubbucktown.com](https://www.webpubbucktown.com/)
***PLEASE NOTE*** 📖‼️ • Our collective has(…)
In Person Board Game Night!
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 5th
◦ Where: Konak Pizza and Grill
Every 2 weeks starting about 7 PM we have open board game play deep into the night. Some of our favorites include Ticket To Ride, Settlers Of Catan, Carcassonne, 7 Wonders, Love Letter, Ultimate Werewolf, and Pandemic.
There is no charge for this event and people are encouraged to bring games or just join in one. We will have a good mix of new and experienced gamers, and new people are generally (…)
Make new friends at Stay and Play Cafe
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Stay And Play Game Cafe
Let’s make new friends at [Stay and Play Game cafe](https://stayandplaygamecafe.com/) where we will have the option to play from a selection of over 700 board games. You can also enjoy delicious Puerto Rican food and drinks. **Note that the venue updated their game pass to $5 per person to play with a $10 minimum food purchase. $15 to play for 2 hours otherwise.**
One of the things I’d like to do(…)
Salsa Bachata, Cumbia Dance Social Chicago
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Dennis PaSamba Dance Company Chicago
Kick off your evening with a FREE dance class from 7 PM to 7:30 PM! Dive into the excitement of our salsa, Bachata, and Cumbia dance social, happening on the first of every month. Whether you’re just starting or already a pro, you’ll find challenges and endless fun in our lively atmosphere.
With ample parking and no partner required, it’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in the joy of dance! Fo(…)
Debian Python SIG
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 5th
◦ Where: Holiday Club
Are you interested in learning more about Debian packaging? Let’s work on fixing some PEP-517 related bugs for packages maintained by the Debian Python Team. You’re also welcome to join us if you’re working on your own Debian Python project.
You’ll need:
* general knowledge of Python and Linux (but you don’t need to be an expert)
* a computer running Debian stable (a VM will work)
If this is you(…)
AYBG Holiday Party
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Elf’d Up
Let’s cheers to the holiday season at this high energy, festivally decorated pop-up bar! Wear your holiday attire (whatever that may be for you)…and get ready for a very instagram worthy evening!(…)
Shut Up & Write!®
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 3rd
◦ Where: Chicago Public Library – Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago, IL 60605
**Join us for an hour of writing!** We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers.
Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you’ve written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done.
**SCHEDUL(…)
Chicago Saturday Brunch visits The Hampton Social-River North
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: The Hampton Social
Join us for brunch as we savor delicious food, share great company, and dive into lively group conversations! We’re all about connecting over the best brunch spots in Chicago—from little hidden gems and cozy holes in the wall to Michelin-starred marvels. Bring your appetite, your stories, and a sense of adventure—don’t be shy, we love to hear what’s on your plate and on your mind
**About The Hamp(…)
INT’L CAFE at Revolution Taproom on Kedzie
◦ When: Friday, Dec 6th
◦ Where: Revolution Brewing – Brewery & Taproom
[Create profile to see language lists on event pages here: intlcafe.io](intlcafe.io)
At INT’L CAFE you can make some new friends and practice speaking a language that you are learning or already know.
There will be a table for each language requested. Feel free to move around to different tables if you speak multiple languages. We generally have English, Spanish, German, French, Mandarin, Japane(…)
December Fermenter: Chicago’s Biotech Meetup
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 5th
◦ Where: ChiTownBio
Network over a drink with Chicago’s biotechnology professionals and build a community of biotechnologists, entrepreneurs, investors, and enthusiasts. We’re continuing our series of networking opportunities to discuss challenges, opportunities, and frustrations while enjoying an evening with your professional peers from around Chicagoland.
Our latest event is again going to be a collaboration betw(…)
Tips to meet people at social events
One of the best ways to meet new people at social events in Chicago is by choosing a common theme or interest. If you like movies, why not go see a screening with people who also like movies! Then you already have something to talk about. Or if you’re into coffee or beer, a Coffee and Beer Garden Meet and Greet could be perfect for you. And keep in mind that smaller group settings can be less intimidating and easier to start conversations in.
Another thing that might worry you is introductions. Some people aren’t as keen on introducing themselves and others worry or get nervous about it. Why not level the playing field and go to an event where everyone is expected to introduce themselves and talk? It could be a networking event, an acting class, a singles event, or a book club. Not only are people looking to introduce themselves at these events but they’re also there to make friends.
Our final tip is on the age of the people you are going to meet. If you have your heart set on meeting people close to your own age, then research events so that you can find your chosen demographic. At the same time, we want to encourage you not to limit yourself. An age gap doesn’t necessarily mean a disconnect and the great thing about different age groups is that they can learn from each other!
You can find even more events in Chicago on Choosechicago.com, Thrillist.com, or News.wttw.com.
RELATED: How To Meet People In Chicago, Illinois
Godfrey Holiday Cocktail Fest – Cocktail Tasting at I|O Godfrey Rooftop
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: IO Godfrey Rooftop Lounge
Tix include 4 hours of tastings, giveaways & more! There will be a variety of seasonal cocktails to try at this one of a kind venue!
Southport Holiday Stroll & Cocktail Crawl
◦ When: Friday, Dec 6th
◦ Where: Southport Ave from Belmont to Irving Park Rd
Get in the holiday spirit by tasting 10+ different holiday-themed cocktails at participating businesses along Southport Ave!
5th Pastoral Anniversary Sneaker Ball Honoring Reginald Wayne Sharpe, Jr.
◦ When: Friday, Dec 6th
◦ Where: The Geraghty
Celebrate Reginald Wayne Sharpe Jr.’s 5th Pastoral Anniversary Sneaker Ball on Dec 6 at The Geraghty. Formal attire with sneakers!
Chicago Community Chorus Season 22: Holiday & Spring Concerts Await!
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Greater Harvest Baptist Church | Chicago
Join Chicago Community Chorus for an inspiring 22nd season! Dec 7, 2024 – Holiday Concert & April 5, 2025 – Spring Concert. Get Tickets Now!
Jack Shea: Theologian and Storyteller
◦ When: Friday, Dec 6th
◦ Where: Union League Club – Presidents Hall – 2nd Floor
The Challenge of Christmas: Unwrapping our spiritual gifts
Music for the Masses: Dark 80’s New Wave Nite [Chicago]
![Music for the Masses: Dark 80's New Wave Nite [Chicago]](https://img.evbuc.com/https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.evbuc.com%2Fimages%2F558549469%2F290918113901%2F1%2Foriginal.20230719-234359?h=200&w=512&auto=format%2Ccompress&q=75&sharp=10&rect=11%2C0%2C938%2C469&s=b518027d5369df153b7304e3840fef3d)
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Beat Kitchen
December edition of Music for the Masses!
AJ McQueen: Sit Yuh Self Down Tour
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 3rd
◦ Where: The Promontory
Come join AJ McQueen on his Sit Yuh Self Down Tour!
Unite! for a Cause: A Year-End Fundraiser
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Hairpin Arts Center
DESCRIPTION
NSN Chicago Annual Holiday Party: All That Glitters & Gold
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: 329 W 18th St
Join the National Sales Network Chicago for All That Glitters and Gold end-of-the-year celebration.
Afro Fusion Saturday : Afrobeats, Hiphop, Dancehall, Soca (Free Entry)
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Le Nocturne Chicago
The Most Diverse International Party In Chicago
ALPFA Chicago GALA: Q4 Membership Social
◦ When: Wednesday, Dec 4th
◦ Where: 22 W Hubbard St
Join Us for the Inaugural ALPFA Gala!
2024 Cyber Risk Conference -The Cyber Resilient Organization
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 3rd
DePaul University’s 11th Annual Cyber Risk Conference : The Cyber Resilient Organization
Afrofusion Friday : Afrobeats, Hiphop, Dancehall, Soca (Free Entry)
◦ When: Friday, Dec 6th
◦ Where: Le Nocturne Chicago
The Most Diverse International Party In Chicago.
2nd Annual Frosty Affair: Holiday Makers Market
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 5th
◦ Where: The Nineteenth Century Club
Join Oak Park’s Frosty Affair! Embrace holiday cheer with local shopping, festive vibes, and exclusive rewards. #KeepTheCheerHere
Chicago Cuatro Orchestra – Concierto Jíbaro Navideño 2024
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Northside College Prep Theater
The Chicago Cuatro Orchestra presents Concierto Jíbaro Navideño 2024
ALMA Chicago 3rd Annual Community Reception
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 5th
◦ Where: Barcocina Lakeview
Get ready for a night of fun and networking at ALMA Chicago’s 3rd Annual Community Reception!
Christina Tosi “Bake Club” Cookbook event and signing
◦ When: Monday, Dec 2nd
◦ Where: Everybody’s Coffee (Wilson Abbey)
Christina Tosi will be in conversation with Andrew Zimmern to discuss Tosi’s new cookbook Bake Club! Tickets include a copy of Bake Club.
Chicago French Bulldog Rescue’s 6th Annual Ugly Sweater Party
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 7th
◦ Where: Rizzo’s Bar & Inn
Come join Chicago French Bulldog Rescue for our 6th Annual Ugly Sweater Party at Rizzo’s Bar & Inn.
Live from Chicago: The Holiday Ads Special
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 5th
◦ Where: The Merchandise Mart
It’s time for some fun. We’re gonna share the best holiday ads from around the world and have some drinks and cookies.
Vocal Jazz Ensemble
◦ When: Monday, Dec 2nd
◦ Where: UIC Recital Hall (L285)
Unless otherwise stated all UIC Concerts are Free and Open to the Public Registration is required to attend this performance.
Events for Expats and Locals to meet
Beethoven & Faure Concert
◦ When: Monday, Dec 2nd
Join us for a free concert at St. James Church featuring the works of Beethoven and Faure as guests of the Corde Volanti family
InterNations Chicago Newcomer’s Event @ Time Out Market
◦ When: Monday, Dec 2nd
◦ Where: Time Out Market
Hello All,
New in Chicago? New to InterNations? Our Newcomers’ Events are smaller, lovely get-togethers and specially organized for members who are new in our community.
Come join us to mingle and meet other expat newbies, while learning about everything the InterNations Chicago Community has to offer.
The event will start at 6:30 pm and once everyone has had the opportunity to get something to
Outdoor Interactive Christmas Pop Up – CANCELLED
◦ When: Monday, Dec 2nd
CANCELLED DUE TO LOW TEMPERATURES TO BE OUTDOOR.
Current forecast for the day is 16 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. There is a high probability of having temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees to feel like 10 to 15 degrees with the effect of the wind at the time of the activity.
You are still invited to join us at TimeOut Market at 916 W Fulton Market to mingle with a drink and food around 7:00 pm.
Flavors of the Medina: A Marrakech Dinner Experience
◦ When: Friday, Dec 6th
Immerse yourself in the vibrant tastes, sounds, and colors of Morocco!
Indulge in a delicious spread of Moroccan cuisine, from savory tagines to sweet mint tea, all while surrounded by the warm ambiance of Marrakech-inspired décor.
Join us for a magical night of good food, great company, and unforgettable memories.
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