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.
Social events are great and offer a world of possibilities. You can make new friends, learn new skills, see things from different perspectives and it’s fantastic for your mental health. And never before has companionship and being able to spend time with others been as important as it is today.
You probably remember being a kid and going up to another person your age and saying, “Do you want to be friends?” and that was pretty much that. Friend made. Alas, it’s not quite as simple now that we’re grown up, but it doesn’t have to be as difficult or as awkward as we think. There are thousands of people out there who would love to meet up with others, finding them just takes a bit of help and that’s what we’re here for.
On this page, we hope you’ll find some interesting events in Chicago where you can make some new friends.
Local Groups’ Events in Chicago
Effective Altruism Discussion – Simone’s Bar
◦ When: Saturday, Sep 14th
◦ Where: Simone’s Bar & Grill
Hey Everyone – We are meeting up at Simone’s Bar’s back area on September 14th starting at 1:30pm. Come meet some awesome people interested in Effective Altruism or the related ideas to it! There is no formal discussion topic, instead this will be more about meeting other people in the space and talking EA related things. Please feel free to join even if you don’t consider yourself an EA! If you h(…)
Chicago dbt Meetup (in-person)
◦ When: Thursday, Sep 12th
◦ Where: 55 E Monroe St suite 2950 c
What are dbt meetups? dbt Meetups are networking events open to all folks working with data! Talks predominantly focus on community members’ experience with dbt, however, you’ll catch presentations on broader topics such as analytics engineering, data stacks, data ops, modeling, testing, and team structures.
🤝Organizer: [Analytics8](https://www.linkedin.com/company/analytics8/)
🏠Venue: 55 E Mon(…)
No Books, Just Drinks
◦ When: Friday, Sep 13th
◦ Where: Dearly Beloved
Join us for a Friday happy hour filled with cocktails/mocktails and conversation at Dearly Beloved (900 N Franklin St).
This is a chance to hang out and get to know each other outside our monthly book clubs. It will be a great opportunity to relax, enjoy good food, and deepen our friendships. No book discussions required—just great conversations and laughter.
While there’s no requirement, it is (…)
Chicago Data Professionals September 12th Meeting
◦ When: Thursday, Sep 12th
**This will be a Hybrid Event**
**To Attend In Person Click Below:**
[Attend In Person](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chicago-data-professionals-september-12th-meeting-tickets-1004440567777?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl)
**To Attend Online Click on Link Below:**
[Attend Online](https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup(…)
Founder Night Out: In-Person Startup Networking in Chicago
◦ When: Tuesday, Sep 10th
◦ Where: Three Cities Social Clubhouse
**RSVP at [https://fi.co/e/355487](https://fi.co/e/355487/meetup)**
If you have a startup idea or a growing company and you want to expand your network in , then join us for the in-person ‘Founder Night Out’ event. At this informal networking event, you can connect with other early-stage entrepreneurs, startup mentors, and advisors from the Founder Institute network. Socialize over drinks with po(…)
Travel Lemming Chicago Meetup at Off Color Brewing Taproom ‘The Mousetrap’
◦ When: Wednesday, Sep 11th
◦ Where: Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap
**Calling all travelers! You’re officially invited to [Travel Lemming](https://travellemming.com/)’s September Chicago meetup at Off Color Brewing’s ‘The Mousetrap’ Taproom. Come on down for a night of travel conversation & new connections!**
**WHERE:** Off Color Brewing Taproom The Mousetrap at 1460 N Kingsbury St, Chicago, IL 60642 [[Google Map](https://maps.app.goo.gl/UtuxNqJFmfA5QrGLA)]
**WH(…)
How Gen AI is Disrupting Migrations & DAIS 2024 Recap
◦ When: Thursday, Sep 12th
◦ Where: 20 N Wacker Dr 12th floor
Sign Up & Event Location Details for the Event Here: [How Gen AI is Disrupting Migrations DAIS 2024 Recap (databricks.com)](https://events.databricks.com/FY250724-EV-usergroup-chicago?i=8ET1qq7BoKWke3Rh9f1itKtivPARvw1K)
**Event Description**
**Announcements: [Max Fisher](mailto:[email protected])**
* Key updates and releases from Databricks, unveiling new tools and features enhancing da(…)
Keeping It Real Estate Meetup – House Hacking Panel
◦ When: Tuesday, Sep 10th
◦ Where: Navigator Taproom
Join us for a Real Estate Investor networking event! At our September meetup–now at Navigator Taproom–we’ll be joined by our clients, Dana and Rosalynne, who will discuss their experiences House Hacking in this competitive market. They’ll cover it all, from finding their properties to renovations and filling vacancies. Bring your questions and see how these two are getting it done!
Doors open a(…)
Make friends & BlaBla Language Exchange Chicago
◦ When: Wednesday, Sep 11th
◦ 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(…)
The Compute Collective | Alexey Milovidov, Co-Founder & CTO, ClickHouse
◦ When: Thursday, Sep 12th
◦ Where: 600 W Chicago Ave
**Pre-registration is a must for admission.**
**Register here: [https://lu.ma/43tvmrfw](https://lu.ma/43tvmrfw)**
If you work with OLAP databases, you’ve probably heard of [ClickHouse](https://clickhouse.com/?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=profile)—the super-fast, high-performing, open-source, column-oriented DBMS. This fall, the Compute Collective is thrilled to bring you a special fireside chat(…)
Founder Networking
◦ When: Tuesday, Sep 10th
◦ Where: Three Cities Social Clubhouse
If you have a startup idea or a growing company and you want to expand your network in Chicago, then join us for the in-person ‘Founder Night Out’ event sponsored by [Founder Institute](https://fi.co/apply/chicago)
At this informal networking event, you can connect with other early-stage entrepreneurs, startup mentors, and advisors from the Founder Institute network. Socialize over drinks with po(…)
BioTech Fermenter: Chicago’s Biotechnology Meetup
◦ When: Tuesday, Sep 10th
◦ Where: Pilot Project Brewing
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.
Open mic opportunities for entrepreneurs and a networking (…)
September 2024 Open Sew {BYOM}! 🪡🧵✂️
◦ When: Saturday, Sep 14th
◦ Where: Chicago Public Library – Logan Square Branch
Hi Sewing Friends!
Time for a good old fashioned, open sew, BYOM (bring your own machine) event! Bring whatever project you’re working on and let’s sew together. If you don’t want to tote your machine, feel free to bring patterns you need to cut out or tracing, or a garment to try on and get some friendly help with fitting!
As per usual, we will “sewcialize”, enjoy vittles and beverages!
Come h(…)
Hangout at REPLAY Lincoln Park!
◦ When: Saturday, Sep 14th
◦ Where: 2833 N Sheffield Ave
Hey y’all! Replay Lincoln Park has a Bikini Bottom themed pop up! Come dive into the world of Bikini Bottom at Replay’s SpongeBob pop-up bar, where the drinks are as bubbly as SpongeBob himself! Join us for a one-of-a-kind experience filled with FREE arcades and good vibes!
For those that do not drink, Replay has N/A beverages as well! Swing by and say hi!(…)
Musical Evenings Presents Osnat Netzer/Ben Zucker Duet & Adiaphora Reed Quartet
◦ When: Saturday, Sep 14th
◦ Where: Pro Musica
**Musical Evenings is happy to invite you to these two outstanding groups of great musicians!! There will be two**
**sets during the evening we hope you can join us….**
Ken Christianson, Pro Musica, Chicago
**Doors Open at 6:30pm**
**Concert begins at 7:30**
**Osnat Netzer/Ben Zucker**
A new duo exploring intricate, subtle sounds drawing upon shared experience in avant-garde composition and pe(…)
In Person Board Game Night!
◦ When: Thursday, Sep 12th
◦ Where: Konak Pizza and Grill
At long last it’s time for us to roll real dice, shuffle up cards, grab a cold beer, and see each other face to face!
In person board game nights are back. We’re returning to Konak Pizza and Grill. Naturally, we request that you follow the City of Chicago and CDC public health guidelines for indoor events. (In short, you don’t need to wear a mask if you’re fully vaccinated).
Every 2 weeks starti(…)
Roller Skating on the Maggie Daley Ribbon
◦ When: Thursday, Sep 12th
◦ Where: Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon
Hello Skaters!
We’ll be Roller Skating/Blading on the Maggie Daley Ribbon Thursdays at 6pm during the Summer.
***\*\*\*FYI the skate rental closes at 6:00pm (you must return skates at 6:30pm)\*\*\****
***\*\*\*Most attendees bring their own roller skates: quads or inline***
***(Rollerblades).\*\*\****
***\*\*\*Most attendees have some skating experience.\*\*\****
The ribbon is open all summer(…)
Learn and play board games on Monday nights!
◦ When: Monday, Sep 9th
◦ Where: La Malinche Coffee & Tea House
Come play all kinds of board games on Monday nights! Both beginners and experienced gamers are welcome. You’re not expected to know any of the games as we’re always happy to do learn-and-plays. While the hosts will bring games, we also encourage members to bring any games they’d like to share.
People drop in-and-out throughout the Meetup and we do more than one game a night, so you do not have to(…)
Final Reminder: End of Summer CAPG MeetUp 2024
◦ When: Saturday, Sep 14th
◦ Where: Piano Forte
Hello, Piano Friends,
We are only a few weeks away from our next CAPG meeting. I am excited to hear the fruits of your diligent practice! As a reminder, our next gathering is on **Saturday, September 14th at 2 p.m.**
As you know, we always create a program for the performance. If you have not already done so, please send me the name of your piece(s) and composer(s) *by September 7,* so that I ca(…)
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
Afro Fusion X Strictly Vibez Presents T.I.A – This is Africa
◦ When: Friday, Sep 13th
◦ Where: Runaround Sue
T.I.A – This is Africa
Blacked2School III
◦ When: Thursday, Sep 12th
◦ Where: Hubbard Inn
Join the brothers of Alpha Iota Omicron BACK2SCHOOL III.
Saturday Night Skyline Cruise on Lake Michigan | 21+ | Live DJ | Full Bar
◦ When: Saturday, Sep 14th
Enjoy breathtaking views and delicious drinks aboard a 2-story, open air party boat, featuring one of Chicago’s BEST DJs!
UNHINGED: A Chaotic 30th Birthday
◦ When: Tuesday, Sep 10th
◦ Where: The Newport Theater
Come celebrate our very own Jess Genito’s 30th birthday dressed in your most unhinged outfit, & enjoy pop-up performances of unhinged acts!
Object Management Group 2024 Q3 TC Meeting
◦ When: Monday, Sep 9th
◦ Where: Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago
$100 EARLY-BIRD DISCOUNT EXTENDED TO FRIDAY, AUGUST 9TH!
Healing Out Loud: Changing the Narrative on Suicide
◦ When: Tuesday, Sep 10th
◦ Where: Community Recreation Center
This session of our Thrive Talk series fosters open and healthy discussions that serve the lifespan.
Running Tour of The Jane Collective
◦ When: Saturday, Sep 14th
◦ Where: Jackson Park Fieldhouse
A 4-Mile Running Tour in Hyde Park followed by a panel with reproductive rights activists past and present.
Digital Twin Consortium 2024 Q3 Member Meeting
◦ When: Tuesday, Sep 10th
◦ Where: Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago
EARLY-BIRD REGISTRATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO FRIDAY, AUGUST 9TH!
Holy Trinity Cathedral Fundraiser at Tribune Tower Crown
◦ When: Tuesday, Sep 10th
◦ Where: Tribune Tower
Two landmarks come together for a special night: Holy Trinity Cathedral and The Crown at Tribune Tower. Proceeds benefit HTC Building fund.
Roll Call! Veteran Professional Networking in Chicago
◦ When: Tuesday, Sep 10th
◦ Where: Google Chicago – Fulton Market
As a program of Chicago Veterans, Roll Call is Chicagoland’s premier professional networking group for the military-connected community!
2Flo Ventures Health Equity Investing Symposium 2024
◦ When: Thursday, Sep 12th
◦ Where: 400 N Aberdeen St
Join us for compelling conversations and collaborations on how we can advance health equity through investing and innovation!
YOUNG JONN – Jiggy Forever Tour
◦ When: Friday, Sep 13th
◦ Where: The Promontory
Young Jonn – Jiggy Forever Tour
ActiveCampaign Study Hall | Chicago
◦ When: Tuesday, Sep 10th
◦ Where: ActiveCampaign HQ
Become a Marketing Automation Expert!
Join us for ActiveCampaign Study Hall, a two-day in-person workshop.
Leave No Veteran Behind’s Annual Fundraising Gala (Masquerade Ball)
◦ When: Saturday, Sep 14th
◦ Where: Untitled Supper Club
SPECIAL 4TH OF JULY SALE! DON’T MISS OUT!
Business Architecture Master Series: Mastering the Practice
◦ When: Tuesday, Sep 10th
◦ Where: Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago
2-Day Hands-on Workshop
Wrigleyville Country Fest – Live Bands, BBQ, Beer & More!
◦ When: Saturday, Sep 14th
◦ Where: Old Crow Smokehouse – Wrigleyville
Tix include admission, a shot of whiskey, a country brunch buffet, live music & more! This is one party you do not want to miss! Giddy up!
Earth Matters – The Science & Spirituality of Ethics in Action
◦ When: Wednesday, Sep 11th
◦ Where: Chicago Climate Action Museum
Join us this fall for an enlightening panel discussion hosted by the Climate Action Museum with John St. Augustine and Jen Weigel
Evanston Wine Walk 2024
◦ When: Thursday, Sep 12th
◦ Where: Evanston, IL
Sip & Stroll for a Good Cause! 100% of profits from the 2024 Wine Walk will go to the Hive Center for the Book Arts!
CAD Crystal Ball | 20th Anniversary Celebration & Fundraiser
◦ When: Saturday, Sep 14th
◦ Where: Chicago Art Department
Chicago Art Department is turning 20! Help us celebrate two decades of civically-minded art and artists.
Chicago Singles Bar Crawl – Includes Admission, Welcome Shots & More!
◦ When: Saturday, Sep 14th
◦ Where: Wrigleyville’s BEST Bars TBA (Check your email before the crawl for full schedule!)
Tix Include admission, 3 free welcome shots, plus our party host will help you crawl to and from the best bars in Chicago! Let’s party!
Events for Expats and Locals to meet
A Royal Rendezvous: Spotlight on Queen Elizabeth
◦ When: Thursday, Sep 12th
Join us for an exclusive night at the theater. Peek behind closed doors of Buckingham Palace with The Audience, an intimate portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and the pivotal private audiences she held with her prime ministers. The Audience is an enthralling exploration of the delicate balance of power and unspoken rules of engagement that underscore these confidential meetings. Masterfully blending t
InterNations Chicago Official Event @ Shore Club
◦ When: Friday, Sep 13th
◦ Where: Shore Club
Hey there!
What better way to enjoy the last days of summer than at the beach?!
Join us for a fun evening together at Shore Club!
Shore Club is located at North Ave Beach, just a short walk north of Castaways. This beautiful venue is mostly outdoors which makes it an ideal location for our networking group and offers a full bar and food menu.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Jonathan & Na
Mexican Festival at Ravinia
◦ When: Sunday, Sep 15th
Fiesta Ravinia is a day long celebration of Mexican culture. Mexican food is on sale. Lucha Libre and other performers will be entertaining visitors. Julieta Venegas is the featured performer. She’s won 8 latin Grammys. Get your tickets early as this event sells out quickly. Tickets go on sale in April 24. I grew up in the neighborhood where Ravinia is located. Everyone pays for their own tickets
InterNations Chicago Newcomers Event @Starbucks Reserve Roastery
◦ When: Friday, Sep 27th
◦ Where: Starbucks Reserve Roastery
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 drink, we w
Events for Professional Women Empowerment
How (And Why) Your Thoughts Can Keep You Stuck in Your Career
Unlock Your Potential: Break Free from Limiting Thoughts and Achieve Your Career Dreams with Laurie Swanson, CEO, InspiHER Tech
Courageous Communication: The Irresistible Power of Strategic Storytelling
Harness the irresistible power of strategic storytelling to capture attention, influence others, and inspire people to action.