Whether you just moved to the 804 or have been here all your life, it can be tough to connect with new people. We're here to help you channel your inner social butterfly in a way that feels comfortable for you — from rambunctious dance troops to low-stakes reading parties.

Here's to new friendship, new skills, and "putting yourself out there" in the River City.

Get the ball rolling

If you're not sure where to start or what hobby you'd like to pursue, keep your options open with these resources and groups:

Meetup is a useful online tool for finding local groups, whether you're searching for a niche hobby club or a broader community of people, such as older adult clubs or women's organizations.
Trying to Adult RVA and Social Club RVA are specifically designed to meet new pals.
If you're looking to make connections through business rather than socially, we've got you. Check out these networking groups.

Find your niche

While we've barely scratched the surface, here are 50+ categorized clubs and groups to help spark inspiration and animate your social life.

Join Top Stitch's monthly sewing circle at the Institute for Contemporary Art for a laid-back craft session. | Photo by Misti Nolen, via @topstitchmending

Art/Architecture

Cinema

Community Service (Outdoors)

Keep Virginia Cozy hosts clean-up events that are open to all. | Photo via Keep Virginia Cozy

Crafting

Dance

Dogs

Dachtoberfest sold out its inaugural event in 2022. | Photo via Dachtoberfest

Fantasy/Mythos

RVA Faerie Federation

Female friendship

Game development

RVA Game Design

Hiking/Walking

Trail Kids RVA is a great outlet for parents and young explorers to meet new people. | Photo via @trailkidsrva

Languages

Reading

Opt for a quiet atmosphere at a reading party. | Photo by Melanin and Manuscripts

Running

Sports

Singles/Dating

Sobriety/Alcohol-free

RVA N/A Social Group

Tabletop + card games

Midwest transplants can find some card-game comfort with RVA Euchre. | Photo by RICtoday

Vegan/Vegetarian

Video Games

DawnStar Smash

Writing

Have a group you want us to add to our list? Let us know, and we'll check it out.

Learn something new

We didn't even begin to cover educational and creative workshops available in RVA. Don't worry — we already have a separate guide for adult classes, and here's a sneak peek to get you started:

Visual Arts Center of Richmond | Build relationships throughout multi-week classes focusing on art and writing.
Quarry | Channel your creativity with crafty classes, writing workshops, and social gatherings.
Mise En Place | Learn from the best at these kitchen classes.
Richmond Parks and Recreation | Give loom weaving, pickleball, or aerobics a go — the options are pretty endless.
Sneed’s Nursery | Put your green thumb to the test with plant pros.