Two white stylized human figures giving each other a high five against a purple background with radiating lines.

Making new friends in Chicago just got easier!

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What if building real connections could feel natural again?

Making new friends as an adult can be hard, but it doesn't have to be. Meet your people right here in Chicago, those in their 30s and 40s, looking to connect.

Speed

Friending

Flowchart with purple background and white icons illustrating steps: check in with a clock, speed matching with two people and checkmark, mixer with four people talking, exit with a person running through a door, and get contacts with an envelope, each step with a time duration underneath.

One hour. Six People. Friendship potential.
The fastest way to make friends you actually want to keep. Think speed dating, but for platonic connections: quick rounds, real conversations, zero pressure.

You'll rotate through short one-on-one conversations; a chime signals when it's time to move on, until you've met a room full of people. Afterward, there's open time to reconnect with your favorites or catch anyone you missed, with the built-in ease of a shared experience to bond over.

Two people sitting at a table with a burst of energy or sparks between them, surrounded by thought bubbles depicting books, a mountain with the sun, and a musical note.
Two people sitting at a table with a burst of energy or sparks between them, surrounded by thought bubbles depicting books, a mountain with the sun, and a musical note.

Find that platonic spark with someone in just a few minutes.

Skip the typical small talk by using provided prompts.

Connect with people in two different ways at the event.

Abstract illustration of neural networks with interconnected nodes in pink and purple on a white background.
Abstract illustration of neural networks with interconnected nodes in pink and purple on a white background.

Meet IRL, continue online for FREE

Your friend-making doesn't end when the event does. Every speed friending event unlocks free access to a private online community - with monthly virtual hangouts, direct messaging with other members, and early bird pricing on future events. And the community only gets better with time: every new event brings more people in, making the network bigger, livelier, and more valuable for everyone already inside

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FAQs

  • NewFriends Chicago is designed for adults in the Chicagoland area (city and burbs) who are in their 30’s or 40’s. Whether someone is new to the city or just wants to expand their social circle this is the place to make new friends.

    Open to everyone, no matter their relationship status, gender, sexuality, or background. Introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts are all welcome to connect.

  • Same format, different goals, intentions, and outcomes. We take the tried-and-true formula of speed dating and invite people to focus on making platonic connections that lead to new friendships. Since the intentionality of participants is different than speed dating, it takes the pressure of meeting new people.

  • Tickets are $25 for one in-person event and access to the private online group

Upcoming Events

Launching Fall 2026. Check back soon for details about our next event and online community!

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