Connecting with people from your community is a great way to help you feel more at home in a new city!
If you are new to the area or just looking to get to know people from your community, Ayre & Oxford have four great ways for you to meet people.
1. The Library
Your public library is a great place to meet people with likeminded interests. New moms can go to story time and find other moms to connect with, teens can join age appropriate activities and clubs, children can interact with other kids and make new friends, and elderly people can socialize with others in their community and form a bond.
Find a library in your city and check out the events or ask the librarian about current book clubs.
2. Local Recreation and Community Centres
Community and recreation centres are filled with people from your area. Sign up for a fitness class, swimming lessons, or join a sports team at the local recreation centre. The trick to meeting someone here is to simply to be approachable, friendly, and unafraid to make conversation. At a community centre, you can explore a new hobby or join a free class.
3. Farmers Markets
Shopping the market is not only the best place to find fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, it also happens to be the perfect place to meet members of your community. The venders at the market are your local farmers, artisans, and business owners. They can offer advice, share recipes, and suggest great restaurants to visit within the city. In Edmonton, there are several farmers markets that are open year-round.
4. Volunteering
Just moved to a new city with a pet? Volunteering at the local animal shelter will help you meet people from your community with similar interests. An animal shelter is a great place to find advice on city vets, pet foods, and other pet needs. Volunteering your time is also a great way to earn work experience if you are new to the country.
Other great places to volunteer include:
- Neighbourhood schools
- Community centres
- Hospital or retirement home
- Local food bank
- Library
- Museums
- Red Cross
Visit Volunteer Alberta to find an opportunity near you.