Let’s explore social events in Washington, DC 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 Washington where you can make some new friends.
Local Groups’ Events in Washington
Exploring Christian Fellowship Through Nondenominational Bible Study
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: starbucks
Join the Footprints in the Sand Meetup Group for an enriching afternoon of exploring Christianity through fellowship and Bible study. This event is perfect for those looking to deepen their understanding of the Bible and connect with like-minded individuals on their spiritual journey. Bring your questions, insights, and an open heart as we delve into the scriptures together, with guided discussion(…)
Taco Tuesday @ Don Tito’s Rooftop 🍸 🌮 🥃
◦ When: Tuesday, Jan 14th
◦ Where: Don Tito’s
Join us for a fun-filled Taco Tuesday at Don Tito’s rooftop! This is the perfect chance to meet new friends and expand your network in a relaxed, lively atmosphere. Enjoy discounted tacos and drinks as you mix, mingle, and make new connections. The event kicks off at 6 PM, offering a vibrant rooftop vibe, great music, and plenty of tasty options. Whether you’re new to the area or just looking to e(…)
Bayesian Statistical Marketing Analytics in Python with PyMC-Marketing
◦ When: Tuesday, Jan 14th
◦ Where: Prefect
Data and analytics are at the heart of modern business operations. However, implementing advanced analytics can be a significant challenge. PyMC-Marketing is an open source Python package that seeks to simplify the process of implementing both marketing and customer analytics models. In this talk, we will discuss three significant challenges and how PyMC-Marketing helps to address them. First, wha(…)
DMV D&D Looking For Group 2025 Kickoff!
◦ When: Thursday, Jan 16th
◦ Where: Rocket Bar DC
We are officially kicking off the 2025 year with our first Looking For Group Happy Hour of the year! Come join us on January 16th at 6PM ET at Rocket Bar (right outside the Gallery Place metro!) for a night filled with fun, drinks, and all things nerdy! This is the perfect opportunity for folks to find your next TTRPG game or just make a few friends! Best part? It’s absolutely free! We look forwar(…)
Live! Hops Water and Yeets Board Game Night
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: 705 Edgewood St NE
**Note: If you are a member of the Patreon and have already secured early access via the form — you do NOT need to RSVP on Meetup.**
Not just an Arcade, Not your average Board Game Night, and DEFINITELY not your average Friday night in DC.
DC Gaming Group and City State Brewing Company have partnered together to bring you the perfect pop up gaming speakeasy for DC summer.
Hops Water and Yeast (…)
Meet & Greet @ Punch Bowl Social 🎉🥂
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Punch Bowl Social Arlington
Collaboration with other Meetup groups!
We are going to be mixing things up tonight! Come unwind and grab food and/or drinks while meeting people.🍻🍝
Punch Bowl Social is a 24000 square foot, multi-floor venue with bars, food, and various activities including darts, pool, arcade games, bowling and more.
We anticipate meeting up at the **second floor** where there is a full bar and it is quieter.(…)
Hill Center Galleries Opening Reception – Need to Register on Their Site
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 15th
◦ Where: The Hill Center at Old Naval Hospital
This is always a nice event for art and socializing. Metro is nearby and parking is easy. Please register at **[this link](https://www.hillcenterdc.org/event/hill-center-galleries-2025-regional-juried-show-opening-reception/?utm_source=Hill+Center+at+the+Old+Naval+Hospital&utm_campaign=313288742d-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_1_31_2020_16_25_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_78c60040ef-313288742d-8464491&mc_ci(…)
Chit Chat 2 聊聊天 at Tatte Bakery and Cafe
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Tatte
**NOTE:** This event is hosted by Zhenbo at the Tatte Bakery and Cafe.
**大家好**！Let’s get together and have a casual chat for all levels of Chinese from beginner to native speakers.
大家都欢迎参加我们的聚会！
Please join us on **Saturday, January 18, 2025** at **2 PM** at Tatte Bakery and Cafe near Metro Center, located at **1090 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20001**. Tatte is a 5-minute walk from the Metro Ce(…)
NOVA Code & Coffee [153] – January Jam
![NOVA Code & Coffee [153] - January Jam](https://i0.wp.com/secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/9/8/4/600_509983396.webp?w=640)
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Metropolitan Building
Welcome coders and coffee fans! We hope you can join us for our first event of 2025! This is a joint event between the [Alexandria Code and Coffee](https://www.meetup.com/Alexandria-Code-Coffee/) and the [NOVA Code and Coffee groups](https://www.meetup.com/nova-code-coffee)!
NOVA Code and Coffee is an inclusive, informal, co-working session. People of all skill levels are invited. The concept is (…)
Charcuterie Board – Featuring: Moonrakers (+ New Expansion) & Terraforming Mars
◦ When: Monday, Jan 13th
◦ Where: The Highbinder
**A note from the organizers:** We see that this is becoming a popular event and so there’s not a ton of space available for general non Patreon members rsvp’ing via meetup. Space is limited by how many volunteers we have to host games each month, and first access goes to the members of the Patreon who support everything DCGG does. We have the goal to train and provide additional staff for this ev(…)
Club Meeting
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
PLEASE READ EVERYTHING!
When you enter the meeting you PLEASE print your first and last name clearly on the sign up sheet.
DC Anime Club Meeting.
2pm at the Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial Library 901 G
St NW Washington, DC 2000 Room 401 on the 4th floor.
In order to become a member of DC Anime Club you MUST do the following:
Attend 3 club meetings but it does not have to be in a row.
Obey the cod(…)
Happy Hour – Punchbowl Social
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 15th
◦ Where: Punch Bowl Social Arlington
Been a while since we had a Happy Hour, so let’s celebrate the first week of the new year with new friends!
Only a couple of blocks south of Bronson Bierhall, with 3 floors, including some skee-ball, bowling, arcades, and darts on the 3rd floor!
**Aim to meet on the 3rd floor darts area, but if it’s occupied, I’ll comment with an update on where we are hanging out**. Everyone can start tabs at t(…)
C&O Canal, Billy Goat C, and Starbucks
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Billy Goat Trail Section C
We are hiking the C&O Canal and Billy Goat C. The trails are made up of various surfaces including dirt, rocks, and gravel. There are some rock scrambles. We recommend hiking boots for this hike.
Distance: 3.06 miles
Elevation Gain: 121 feet
We are meeting in the parking lot. After you exit Clara Barton Parkway, go under the C&O Canal, turn right, and it is the first parking lot on the left. Use(…)
Free Screening of 2025 Winter Season of Anime.
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
DC Anime Club will be screening the newest Anime from the 2025 Winter Season.
We hope to see you there.
This event is free and open to the public.
For more information please contact: [email protected]. (202) 262-2083(…)
ADMO Howard University Loop
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: 1841 Columbia Rd NW
Brisk-paced (2.5-3 mph) –5.75 mile loop starting from Fleet Feet (1841 Columbia Rd NW) in Adam’s Morgan. We will walk up to Columbia Heights and over to Howard University taking in a few urban parks along the way. We then will walk through the beautiful Howard University campus learning a little about its history. We will the start our return to ADMO walking down U Street passing many of its hist(…)
SECOND PART of philosophy of Angels walking in the National Gallery
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: National Gallery of Art – West Building
**THIS IS THE SECOND PART OF THE VISIT**
*We will conclude the first visit and proceed to analyze new paintings of angels. However, **do not worry if you did not attend the first visit**; you are warmly welcome to join this 2nd part!*
Dive into the mystery in this monthly event! Let’s talk about philosophy while walking in the National Gallery of Art.
On **Saturday, January 18, 2025**, we will dis(…)
IGDA DC – Indie Dev Meetup Night (MLK Library 401-E)
◦ When: Tuesday, Jan 14th
◦ Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
It’s Indie Dev Night! Bring your games that you’ve made, your game idea, or just your passion for game development! This is an informal event to talk game development with like-minded folks.
We’ll be hosting this IN PERSON at the MLK Jr. Library in room 401-E
Closing Time at the library: 8:30 PM(…)
Social Hour
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
PLEASE READ EVERYTHING!
When you enter the meeting you PLEASE print your first and last name clearly on the sign up sheet.
DC Anime Club will be hosting a social hour.
Don’t be shy. This is a good way to make friends who are also into
anime. We will be discussing anime , manga, video games and all
things Jpop Culture. We hope to see you there.
Cosplay (Costume play) is encouraged as long as you do(…)
Social: DC Public Library: Walking the Camino de Compostela
◦ When: Tuesday, Jan 14th
◦ Where: undefined
Join Don Shaw for an informational talk on walking the Camino in Spain.
* How to start planning your trip?
* When to go?
* How to physically train?
* What to bring?
January 14, 2025, 6:30-8pm
Northeast Library, Meeting Rm. 1(…)
Tips to meet people at social events
One of the best ways to meet new people at social events in Washington 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 Washington on https://washington.org/find-dc-listings/dc-events, Eventsdc.com, or Thrillist.com.
RELATED: How To Meet People In Washington, DC
All American INAUGURAL BALL 2025
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill
Celebrate the Inauguration of DONALD J TRUMP … at the all-inclusive event of a lifetime!
Troy Millings and Rashad Bilal Discuss You Deserve To Be Rich
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 15th
◦ Where: THEARC: Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus
Join Mahogany Books for an amazing evening with Troy Millings and Rashad Bilal as they discuss their new book You Deserve To Be Rich!
The Red Room: January 17
◦ When: Friday, Jan 17th
◦ Where: Culture
We are pleased to announce our first event of Spring 2025. Join us Friday, January 17th. See you at the show.
MLK Shabbat: Visions of Freedom and Justice
◦ When: Friday, Jan 17th
◦ Where: Sixth & I
MLK Shabbat: Visions of Freedom and Justice
2025 MLK Holiday DC Annual Peace Walk & Parade
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Entertainment & Sports Arena
Celebrate Dr. King’s legacy at the 2025 MLK Holiday DC with a Peace Walk, indoor Parade, Wellness Fair, and Prayer Breakfast. Join us!
The 2025 Peace Ball: Voices of Justice and Liberation
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater
Busboys and Poets Presents The 2025 Peace Ball: Voices of Justice and Liberation
J15 – AKA’s Founders Day Friday @ The Park! | #ParkFridays
◦ When: Friday, Jan 17th
◦ Where: The Park at 14th
Bottle Service Text: 301.454.9401
Sipping on Saturdaze #MLKWknd | Sat. 1/18 @MGM Natl Harbor (FELT)
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: MGM National Harbor (FELT)
“Sippin’ on Saturdaze” :: Saturday 1/18 | 3-8p @MGM National Harbor (FELT) w/ Sounds
By: DJ Cuzzin B
Hosted by ForWard Vision & Doug Bass
COLOSSAL EVOLVE 2025 – SKO Awards Dinner & Celebration
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 15th
◦ Where: Harbor Social
Please join Colossal at our 2025 SKO for the Awards Dinner & Celebration in Harbor Social at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
Young Republican Inaugural Ball After Party
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Mission – Navy Yard
Join the Young Republicans after hours as we celebrate the return of President Donald J Trump and Vice President JD Vance!
Artful Elevation: Creative Happy Hour & Rooftop Birthday Bash at ART DC!
◦ When: Monday, Jan 13th
◦ Where: ART DC – Arlo Rooftop Bar
Join us for an unforgettable evening of art, music, and celebration under the stars at ART DC!
MLK Day of Service
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: UPO Petey Greene Community Service Center
Join us for a day of giving back and making a difference in our community in honor of MLK!
Laylit #90 – Washington DC (21+)
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Culture
Laylit is a platform and collective celebrating music and artists from the Arab/SWANA region and its diaspora. (21+)
Wylie K’s All Black Capricorn Birthday Bash
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 15th
◦ Where: 1413 K St NW
Wylie K’s Official Capricorn Birthday. Miami Vibes with DC flare! All Black Attire Requested.
U.S. Africa Policy Leadership 2025 – Advancing Strategic Partnerships
◦ When: Friday, Jan 17th
◦ Where: Downtown Washington D.C.
Gain insights from experts, network with leaders in U.S.-Africa policy, and discuss opportunities to build stronger bilateral ties.
Super Future @ Flash Main Room (Early Show)
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Flash
Super Future makes his way back to Flash, this time for a special Club Room headline featuring two unique sets. Additional support TBA
The Hip Hop R&B Bar Crawl MLK Weekend – Washington, DC 1.18.25
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: Everyday People DC
Come out and represent at the annual U Street Hip Hop R&B Bar Crawl – MLK Weekend brought to you by RegMoPromo!! 6 DJ’s and 6 Bars. 2-10PM
The Afiya Howell Show
◦ When: Saturday, Jan 18th
◦ Where: River of Life Church
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND with NEW BONUS SURPRISES! Be in the audience for a dynamic blend of pre-recorded sketches and comedic commentary!
NCMA MetroMD January Dinner Meeting
◦ When: Thursday, Jan 16th
◦ Where: The Westin Washington National Harbor
Join us for a delicious dinner and networking at the NCMA MetroMD January Dinner Meeting!
Events for Expats and Locals to meet
Strings Across Continents – Hasan Imam Hamdan
◦ When: Wednesday, Jan 15th
Tickets: https://www.strathmore.org/community-education/artist-in-residence-program/air-hasan-imam-hamdani/
From the website: Experience the magic of cross-continental collaboration with guitarist and composer Hasan Imam Hamdan as he performs original compositions that traverse the musical landscapes of South Asia and West Africa. Joined by renowned sarod player Manik Khan, Hamdani weaves togethe
InterNations DC Winter Social
◦ When: Thursday, Jan 16th
◦ Where: The Kosciuszko Foundation House
Winter social gathering in DC in the beautiful Kosciuszko Foundation building in DuPont Circle. This event is for members only since the space is limited.
$15 for Albatross.
$20 Basic members
Let’s celebrate winter with music and culture as well as beer, wine and conversation. We will have light appetizers such as cheese and crackers, fruit, etc. Who knows? Maybe there will be pierogies?
I
Heloisa Fernandes Quartet
◦ When: Thursday, Jan 30th
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From the website: “Fernandes is beyond categorization,” writes The Post and Courier. Heloísa Fernandes is a Brazilian pianist and composer whose musical talents have exported the culture and traditions of her native country to music halls around the world. Her com