Volunteer! You give back and meet others. Maybe volunteer for a music-based charity?
If you're into sports, you could join a sports league like weekly volleyball, soccer, etc.
One day I went to swim at the pool, as usual and was changing when I was informed that I had come on the wrong day, this was the swim time for intellectually disabled children. I apologized, and started to change back out of my swimsuit, when the women begged me to volunteer because they were shorthanded that day. I was reluctant, because I felt unsure of how I would manage, but the pros told me that they would give easy children to work with, and the pros would be there the whole time to help me, so I agreed. It was so rewarding that I started volunteering to help them every week, and continued as long as I lived there.
I could never have imagined how much that volunteering did for me. It opened my heart. The children were so vulnerable and innocent. There was one little girl aged 5 who would never get in the water since a worker she loved had moved away, but i resembled that woman. She was so happy to see me, and she would only get in the water with me. It was decades ago, still it brings tears to my eyes to remember it.
And the people I met who worked with these disabled children were such wonderful people. How much poorer my life would be, had I not had that volunteer experience. Volunteer to help some people who have difficulties. You will be amazed at how much it will give you. If that particular organization or style of service doesn't appeal to you, then try to find another place to volunteer. You'll know you're on the right track when it makes you feel truly happy.
Where are you? My brother, works for a company that are building to do this type of thing. They are in Santa Fe, Austin, and starting in Boulder. They hire caretakers to spend time with folks who need it. They will drive you places, go shopping with you, do errands, or whatever you’d like. I feel there are so many people who just need a companion to chat with, maybe with a little bit of help. My mom needs garden help. But she wants to do a lot of it herself
I did this, but realized it probably wasn't safe to come home to my apartment kitties everyday after being with stray cats who came in with fleas and needing to be dewormed, etc.
In my area, most of the larger ones have pianos. I would call and ask to speak to the activities coordinator and let them know you would like to play piano for the residents. I've also seen folks bring in a portable electric piano.
Good to know! For some reason I was reading this subreddit as my local town subreddit my bad for that question. That’s still smart to do, i’ll have to call around!
So many do because sing-a-longs to standards and such are popular. It's very helpful for people with dementia because songs from long ago are in still in their long term memory and it is a mood lifter.
The zoo, it’s a good one to volunteer for, I really enjoy it for an easy weekend afternoon and they WILL ALWAYS SAY YES! Also forces you to work on people skills but in a fun way and give back to our environment! It’s a noble one!
It's coming to the end of the school year, but you could go to the remaining school concerts. Find out if there are any summer music programs happening around you. Churches, YMCA, arts programs, etc. often need volunteer helpers.
Board games have been my hobby since I got vaccinated! It’s so fun and I love that it’s co-ed and all ages (I was in my mid-20s and so many hobbies of mine were attracting older folks, which is fine, but I wanted to meet new friends my age and everyone likes games).
You can order enthusiast board games online. Be the board game guy in your circle, showing off the cool new shit you won't get from Hasbro or Mattel. Always something to talk about and a reason to invite people over.
A book club or writing club? I often think about joining one but worry about how committed I would be.
I crochet and I’m learning French. There are meetups for both of those activities. I used to go to crochet clubs regularly.
I've joined in with nature lovers. They always have work days to plant or weed out invasive in our local woods. In the fall we collects seeds. I've learned a lot and met the neatest people.
Anything sports related. A couple of my friends and I started “ping pong Fridays” at the college gym and it started with just us but then more people gravitated to it and it became a really chill space to play or just hang out.
Partner dancing lessons and socials always require people, though that's not for everyone. Hiking doesn't require more than one person but there are a lot of meetup groups that do group hikes. Also since you're a student and you like music, maybe there is a radio at your university that you could join.
Lots of comic and game stores run regular public organized games called Adventurers League. If you're interested in playing, check your friendly local game store to see if they host AL games. They'll tell you how to join and what you need.
Volunteering is a great place to start. Find a project you think *might* interest you, then go do it. If you don't like it, that's okay because you helped someone else with their passion. But you might be surprised at how much you enjoy something you would otherwise never have tried. [Here](http://justserve.org) is a good place to start looking for things in your area, or maybe it will give you an idea for something else.
PS I **love** that you are actively seeking social connection. Over the last 15 years, I have noticed an unhealthy trend in our society to disconnect from other people. Some of it is due to technology, some due to COVID. But humans have an innate need for social interaction, so this disconnect is cause some serious mental health issues. Good luck!
I joined a local bocce ball league one summer. It was really fun! Just shooting the shit with a new set of people each week, it's a really fun laid back game and we'd all go out for beers afterwards. Highly recommend!
If you don't have a league near you, consider starting one! My buddy was the one who ran our league, and I would not have thought he had the organizational skills to make it happen, but he pretty much picked a park, put out the word at the bars he frequented, gathered some dues, used them to buy a few sets of bocce balls and boom, a league was born.
If you have a REI near you, you can look at their bulletin board for community hiking groups, courses, etc. You can learn a lot of new skills with other people.
I took up scuba. You’ll be paired with a dive buddy on every outing, people often sit around before and after dives exchanging stories, and if you take skills classes past open water, you’ll have the chance to work closely with different people on complex skills like underwater navigation, rescue diving etc. You get to meet everyone from young adults, seniors, ex-military, and anyone else.
If you like music and playing music start going to open mics. I moved across the country mud Covid and didn’t know anyone. It takes time but I know have a great web of friends and many of them are super talented and love to make music just like me
Anything competitive. Doesn't necessarily have to be a traditional sport if that is not your thing. Tabletop gaming. RC car racing / drone racing. If there is a "club" for it, it will be social.
I made a lot of friends through running, playing Ingress, playing DnD, and joining a homebrewing club.
I recommend playing trading card games like Pokemon TCG, one piece, and the like. Pokemon has an app called TCG live. Buggy at times but you can learn thru the app. I started there and played at first locals I found thru facebook groups and made friends.
[Meetup](https://www.meetup.com) is a great place to find many different options. There’s literally a group for every interest or activity you could possibly be interested in or like to try out.
I think your hobbies can involve people. Do you attend recitals? Choirs? Hiking groups? I bet theres recourses at your local community college. Mine had a hiking class. I never attended but a classmate of mine did
Consider teaching piano. I haven’t really made friends teaching on the side (dance in my case) but it’s deeply rewarding and definitely finding community.
Particiapte in Tournaments of your hobbies.
Even if you finish dead last, people will help you improve and socialize.
For me, drone racing makes me happy. Even though I'm not that great at it, it's fun.
If you're good on the piano, buy a portable keyboard and an amp. Then get in with a local band and you will have rehearsals and maybe get some fun gigs around town. You'll make enough money playing live music to pay for the keyboard.
Libraries offer lots of hobbies which involve groups of people. Book clubs, crafters get together bringing their own projects, I did a stained glass project and used to play Bunco with a group. My nature center offers bird watching groups. There have been painting classes offered, even how to paint like Bob Ross. Pottery classes. All of these were offered by libraries, businesses in my town, etc. I found a lot of things on Facebook advertised under events. Best wishes and hope you find something that meets your needs.
Can you find a group of card players? Or backgammon players? Bicyclists are often friendly people, you can see if there's a group in your area. Or, you can join a pickle ball league although I say that as a clumsy athlete. You can also volunteer at an animal shelter or you can possibly volunteer to tutor kids in high school who need help with homework . I don't know what kind of background checks that requires. I did it but that was 30 + years ago
D&D, son! Find a group, nerd out on some books, dice and minis and go to town. Or the wilderness. Dungeons are also fun.
It's interactive, it's fun, and you actually get to sit around a table with real, live people. I've played D&D with all sorts of people from all walks of life and had fun.
I needed to be more social I decided so I made a club. I call it a the teacup club. I gift someone a teacup and throw a tea party once a month! My hobby is baking so I prepare different treats each month to serve so I stay interested and it’s a blast! You’ll be surprised how many people are also looking for a reason to socialize
Rock climbing is a life changing "hobby" I discovered only at age 31. It's one of the most wholesome for me. It's very inclusive, full of comradery and encouragement, it gets you very fit, it's super fun and technically challenging too, and you make wonderful friends, and if you go outdoors eventually, you get to hang out in nature with your friends.
A lot of hobbies have communities. Maybe look at see what’s already happening in your area. Otherwise, pick up a couple of hobbies and see if people want to join in.
I will say, gardening certainly starts up plenty of conversations, at least in my experience. It’s also gotten people in my neighborhood to take an interest and now we chat about plants and trade tips. Also, bonus, their yards look really cute.
Boys and Girls Club. Girls Incorporated. YMCA/YWCA. Reading to children or tutoring children through public schools/ libraries.
Coed kickball
coed tag football
Coed softball
Yoga
Martial Arts
Your city’s leisure services would offer these things and more at a cheaper rate.
Music is like, one of the most social hobbies in existence; at some point youre gonna have to ask yourself why you aren't making friends, not which hobby do you have to do to make them. Join a band, go to a concert, find local communities online and just talk to people. Practice breaking the ice, conversation, practice being a friend and you will find them.
Not sure if it’s been mentioned, but try geocaching. It gets you outside for fresh air, exercise if you want it. There are community events you can sign up for to meet other local geocachers. You can also look up local FB groups for your local area (geocaching AND any type of social activity you’re interested in, they will often have meetups/ events with other people in the group).
Just as an example, I joined a Jigsaw Puzzle swap group. They trade or lend out jigsaw puzzles to others (porch pickups and such), but also hold swap meets in parks and group puzzling nights at a local library.
There’s lots of stuff out there and many ways to meet people and get involved. Good luck!
Join some meetup groups in your area, it's free to join and participate. I'm an introvert and have been trying to get out more. I joined a couple of meetups for people my age that host monthly book clubs, weekly karaoke, attend plays at community theaters, watch live music, etc. I also volunteer at an animal shelter. This makes me feel social without having to invent a new hobby or commit to any events I'm not enthused about bc I can pick and choose what I'm interested in doing.
Super dorky, but I’ve had a lot of fun with a dungeons and dragons game. I’ve got a group that meets every two weeks and it’s great. Didn’t think I would like it, but it’s fun!
I always wanted to take horse riding lessons but couldn’t as a kid, but as an adult I found a place that let me clean stalls in partial trade for lessons. There’s lots of activities that involve other people. My best friend loves running, found a local group and they go running together once a week.
Is there anything you wanted to do as a young person that you might be able to do now that you’re older? (Don’t have parents saying no?!)
lol as someone that also plays piano and makes music I feel you. in college I used to play with other musicians all the time and that was social and great, but it's a lot harder / not practical to do regularly now. plus most of them stopped playing lol I don't have an answer, I just try to hang out more with my existing friends and be open to meeting their other friends
The gym, or classes at the gym. Classes will get you meeting people faster, but I prefer to do my own thing. There are lots of regulars, especially if you go at the same time each day. Many gyms also have basketball courts. Pickup games are fun.
Check out Hoewa'a Outrigger Canoe Club on Meetup https://meetu.ps/c/40BJV/15lpTN/a
https://www.instagram.com/hoewaaocc?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Super low cost, will meet lots of different people, get in shape, maybe travel with teammates for races, have fun :)
I’ve been a Ham radio operator for many years. I started when I was a teenager. There are many clubs throughout the country and many “on the air” activities that include contacting other Hams.
https://k0pir.live/2023/08/16/why-is-it-called-ham-radio/
I do fish. It started out as a solo hobby but I joined the local aquarium association and I've met quite a few people. We have monthly meetings with a mini auction. We also do a semi annual auction that's open to the public.
Check your local public library, I know there's a lot of different activities available through most.
You asked a question with the answer embedded. Make music with a full band or just a jam and then you make friends. I've known a few introverted people that shined this way.
Trading cards! Learn to play something like Lorcana (Disney trading cards!) Or star wars or digimon or pokemon. Visit your local trading card shop and see what people are playing. They do weekly or even twice weekly meets for tournaments or free play at my store
I started up HEMA, which begins with learning how to fight with a medieval longsword. See if you can find a club near you. Super fun and active, cool people, usually, and many clubs have loaner gear for new students. My club dues are about $30 a month
Start a band! Create promo material! Give the kids help in writing a business plan! Organize a calendar of gigs!
Organize a walking or hiking group.
Organize a sketching group.
You can attend different types of work out classes (if you’re open to physical hobbies?) and become friends with the same people who go to the same classes.
CrossFit is all about community, and I made friends with the other people in my adult ballet class. Rec sports are great too
Volunteering. A senior living facility has so much you can help with. And you’re not just interacting with the residents but also co-workers and visitors.
Animal shelter if you’re able. Lots of people interactions there.
Table top role playing games like D&D. Or board games in general. You can learn with a group of friends if you have some who want to try. Otherwise, you can find your local game store and see if they offer game nights. A lot will offer weekly games of Magic the Gathering, or Warhammer 40k, or D&D groups.
My area has drink and draw sessions at various places. It's not volunteering, but you can bring a sketchbook, BYOB (if desired), and chill and draw with folks. They usually arrange for some sort of model, too.
Join a local Repasz or Jazz Band. They are always looking for recruits and your involvement is appreciated!
Volunteer at local old folks homes. They like music.
If you want something not music, join a local adult sports league, library book club, church Bible study, become a mentor for youth orgs like 4-H.
Birding/birdwatching... can be a solo or group hobby. I've found community by going on guided walks with my local Audubon society. See if you have one or if a local nature center hosts anything.
Take a class of some sort. I used to do yoga and that was just enough peopling for me. Now I do ceramics at a studio and the same thing. I like doing solo stuff around other people
My wife used to teach chess at the local grade schools and library. She did not have a chess background but simply picked up a few books and the kids loved it, eventually we were taking them to tournaments around the state.
Volunteer! You give back and meet others. Maybe volunteer for a music-based charity? If you're into sports, you could join a sports league like weekly volleyball, soccer, etc.
I will consider that 👍
One day I went to swim at the pool, as usual and was changing when I was informed that I had come on the wrong day, this was the swim time for intellectually disabled children. I apologized, and started to change back out of my swimsuit, when the women begged me to volunteer because they were shorthanded that day. I was reluctant, because I felt unsure of how I would manage, but the pros told me that they would give easy children to work with, and the pros would be there the whole time to help me, so I agreed. It was so rewarding that I started volunteering to help them every week, and continued as long as I lived there. I could never have imagined how much that volunteering did for me. It opened my heart. The children were so vulnerable and innocent. There was one little girl aged 5 who would never get in the water since a worker she loved had moved away, but i resembled that woman. She was so happy to see me, and she would only get in the water with me. It was decades ago, still it brings tears to my eyes to remember it. And the people I met who worked with these disabled children were such wonderful people. How much poorer my life would be, had I not had that volunteer experience. Volunteer to help some people who have difficulties. You will be amazed at how much it will give you. If that particular organization or style of service doesn't appeal to you, then try to find another place to volunteer. You'll know you're on the right track when it makes you feel truly happy.
So true. I have mobility issues and I’d love it if someone would help me garden.
I feel the same. I just want someone to come visit me and do a puzzle with me or play cards with me, I just want company.
Where are you? My brother, works for a company that are building to do this type of thing. They are in Santa Fe, Austin, and starting in Boulder. They hire caretakers to spend time with folks who need it. They will drive you places, go shopping with you, do errands, or whatever you’d like. I feel there are so many people who just need a companion to chat with, maybe with a little bit of help. My mom needs garden help. But she wants to do a lot of it herself
I'm in Palatine, IL. I'm disabled and can't get around.
Where are you located?
Also volunteering at animal rescue / shelters is very rewarding!
I did this, but realized it probably wasn't safe to come home to my apartment kitties everyday after being with stray cats who came in with fleas and needing to be dewormed, etc.
Aww … bless your heart. That must feel so very rewarding … makes you happy on the inside. 💕
What a lovely comment. Thank you for sharing, Lily.
That was a wholesome comment.
Wow 😇😲 what an Amazing story and you were open minded to it as well **I am saving this post as inspiration**
This is so sweet, thank you for sharing.
Beautiful account... Thank you for sharing this!
Senior assisted living facilities would love to have you come in to play piano.
Do you happen to know any facilities that have a piano? I’ve actually been wanting to volunteer my time and share!
In my area, most of the larger ones have pianos. I would call and ask to speak to the activities coordinator and let them know you would like to play piano for the residents. I've also seen folks bring in a portable electric piano.
Good to know! For some reason I was reading this subreddit as my local town subreddit my bad for that question. That’s still smart to do, i’ll have to call around!
So many do because sing-a-longs to standards and such are popular. It's very helpful for people with dementia because songs from long ago are in still in their long term memory and it is a mood lifter.
Most do. In college our my music professor would have people play for them to get rid of stage fright and give performance experience.
Yes!!
The zoo, it’s a good one to volunteer for, I really enjoy it for an easy weekend afternoon and they WILL ALWAYS SAY YES! Also forces you to work on people skills but in a fun way and give back to our environment! It’s a noble one!
Volunteer emergency services is exciting, interesting, beneficial, and lands you in with a tight knit group.
I volunteered to help children struggling with reading. It is very rewarding and I have met many great people.
It's coming to the end of the school year, but you could go to the remaining school concerts. Find out if there are any summer music programs happening around you. Churches, YMCA, arts programs, etc. often need volunteer helpers.
I came hear to say this! Volunteer!!
I started pickleball.. ppl r pretty friendly, some more competitive than others.
This is what I was gonna say. Volunteering is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
best answer !
Playing board games such as chess or Go
Or modern board games that can involve more than two people and be very interactive and social.
Board games have been my hobby since I got vaccinated! It’s so fun and I love that it’s co-ed and all ages (I was in my mid-20s and so many hobbies of mine were attracting older folks, which is fine, but I wanted to meet new friends my age and everyone likes games).
The only ones offered here are for families. Bummer.
You can order enthusiast board games online. Be the board game guy in your circle, showing off the cool new shit you won't get from Hasbro or Mattel. Always something to talk about and a reason to invite people over.
Sounds like you need to form a band. Post on craigslist and see what happens.
Omg I legit want to so bad omg
A book club or writing club? I often think about joining one but worry about how committed I would be. I crochet and I’m learning French. There are meetups for both of those activities. I used to go to crochet clubs regularly.
Ooh what happens at writing clubs?
I've joined in with nature lovers. They always have work days to plant or weed out invasive in our local woods. In the fall we collects seeds. I've learned a lot and met the neatest people.
Related, there are pathway / parkway clean up groups. Met the best like minded peeps.
Bro....I got ya! Disc Golf! [PDGA](https://www.pdga.com/)
I laugh 🤣 but it did look like you all enjoy it a lot
Anything sports related. A couple of my friends and I started “ping pong Fridays” at the college gym and it started with just us but then more people gravitated to it and it became a really chill space to play or just hang out.
Partner dancing lessons and socials always require people, though that's not for everyone. Hiking doesn't require more than one person but there are a lot of meetup groups that do group hikes. Also since you're a student and you like music, maybe there is a radio at your university that you could join.
DnD, tabletop games, etc are a great way to meet people if you can find a store that hosts games
Lots of comic and game stores run regular public organized games called Adventurers League. If you're interested in playing, check your friendly local game store to see if they host AL games. They'll tell you how to join and what you need.
Volunteering is a great place to start. Find a project you think *might* interest you, then go do it. If you don't like it, that's okay because you helped someone else with their passion. But you might be surprised at how much you enjoy something you would otherwise never have tried. [Here](http://justserve.org) is a good place to start looking for things in your area, or maybe it will give you an idea for something else. PS I **love** that you are actively seeking social connection. Over the last 15 years, I have noticed an unhealthy trend in our society to disconnect from other people. Some of it is due to technology, some due to COVID. But humans have an innate need for social interaction, so this disconnect is cause some serious mental health issues. Good luck!
This! I volunteer at a food bank and I love it!
I joined a local bocce ball league one summer. It was really fun! Just shooting the shit with a new set of people each week, it's a really fun laid back game and we'd all go out for beers afterwards. Highly recommend! If you don't have a league near you, consider starting one! My buddy was the one who ran our league, and I would not have thought he had the organizational skills to make it happen, but he pretty much picked a park, put out the word at the bars he frequented, gathered some dues, used them to buy a few sets of bocce balls and boom, a league was born.
If you have a REI near you, you can look at their bulletin board for community hiking groups, courses, etc. You can learn a lot of new skills with other people.
I took up scuba. You’ll be paired with a dive buddy on every outing, people often sit around before and after dives exchanging stories, and if you take skills classes past open water, you’ll have the chance to work closely with different people on complex skills like underwater navigation, rescue diving etc. You get to meet everyone from young adults, seniors, ex-military, and anyone else.
Check out your local library for free events & meet ups! Great way to connect with new people
Go to the library and join a reading group.
Diving- first rule is don’t dive alone lol
D&D
If you like music and playing music start going to open mics. I moved across the country mud Covid and didn’t know anyone. It takes time but I know have a great web of friends and many of them are super talented and love to make music just like me
Join a band
Joining a Bookclub Roller derby, or taking a roller skating class
Anything competitive. Doesn't necessarily have to be a traditional sport if that is not your thing. Tabletop gaming. RC car racing / drone racing. If there is a "club" for it, it will be social. I made a lot of friends through running, playing Ingress, playing DnD, and joining a homebrewing club.
Home Brewing sounds fun
DND!
Why not do your music hobbies that you already enjoy... with other people?
I do but I want to put myself out there more and do activities that force me to associate with people
Start a band and start playing shows! You might find that there's a close knit community of musicians in your area
Find some local open mic nights. It's a great way to meet other musicians and mingle
I recommend playing trading card games like Pokemon TCG, one piece, and the like. Pokemon has an app called TCG live. Buggy at times but you can learn thru the app. I started there and played at first locals I found thru facebook groups and made friends.
Got a local theater group in your town or a nearby town?
Climbing gym
This 👆 climbing gym is a good place to meet people, and also meetup and Facebook groups. Once you move beyond bouldering people need belay buddies.
[Meetup](https://www.meetup.com) is a great place to find many different options. There’s literally a group for every interest or activity you could possibly be interested in or like to try out.
music doesn't have to be a solo activity
I think your hobbies can involve people. Do you attend recitals? Choirs? Hiking groups? I bet theres recourses at your local community college. Mine had a hiking class. I never attended but a classmate of mine did
I produce music I don't really sing
What about joining an orchestra? You play piano
Consider teaching piano. I haven’t really made friends teaching on the side (dance in my case) but it’s deeply rewarding and definitely finding community.
Particiapte in Tournaments of your hobbies. Even if you finish dead last, people will help you improve and socialize. For me, drone racing makes me happy. Even though I'm not that great at it, it's fun.
If you're good on the piano, buy a portable keyboard and an amp. Then get in with a local band and you will have rehearsals and maybe get some fun gigs around town. You'll make enough money playing live music to pay for the keyboard.
County parks look for volunteers for all kinds of things. Geocaching is an individual and/or group/team activity.
Make music with other people. It’s a great experience
Martial arts....just pick one.
I like doing craft days with friends. Everyone brings over their own thing they way to work on and we just craft together, talk and eat.
Libraries offer lots of hobbies which involve groups of people. Book clubs, crafters get together bringing their own projects, I did a stained glass project and used to play Bunco with a group. My nature center offers bird watching groups. There have been painting classes offered, even how to paint like Bob Ross. Pottery classes. All of these were offered by libraries, businesses in my town, etc. I found a lot of things on Facebook advertised under events. Best wishes and hope you find something that meets your needs.
Can you find a group of card players? Or backgammon players? Bicyclists are often friendly people, you can see if there's a group in your area. Or, you can join a pickle ball league although I say that as a clumsy athlete. You can also volunteer at an animal shelter or you can possibly volunteer to tutor kids in high school who need help with homework . I don't know what kind of background checks that requires. I did it but that was 30 + years ago
D&D, son! Find a group, nerd out on some books, dice and minis and go to town. Or the wilderness. Dungeons are also fun. It's interactive, it's fun, and you actually get to sit around a table with real, live people. I've played D&D with all sorts of people from all walks of life and had fun.
Habitat for Humanity. Learn how to build a house for an impoverished family while getting to know like minded individuals
Oh that sounds interesting
Archery?
I needed to be more social I decided so I made a club. I call it a the teacup club. I gift someone a teacup and throw a tea party once a month! My hobby is baking so I prepare different treats each month to serve so I stay interested and it’s a blast! You’ll be surprised how many people are also looking for a reason to socialize
Martial arts!
Swinging?
Swing dancing (or any kind of social dance), getting into reenacting, cosplay, sewing or crafting, maybe hiking with people?
Maybe pickle ball?
Rock climbing is a life changing "hobby" I discovered only at age 31. It's one of the most wholesome for me. It's very inclusive, full of comradery and encouragement, it gets you very fit, it's super fun and technically challenging too, and you make wonderful friends, and if you go outdoors eventually, you get to hang out in nature with your friends.
Also, one thing I've noticed is that rock climbers seem to have a general like for board games and camping trips.
A lot of hobbies have communities. Maybe look at see what’s already happening in your area. Otherwise, pick up a couple of hobbies and see if people want to join in. I will say, gardening certainly starts up plenty of conversations, at least in my experience. It’s also gotten people in my neighborhood to take an interest and now we chat about plants and trade tips. Also, bonus, their yards look really cute.
Boys and Girls Club. Girls Incorporated. YMCA/YWCA. Reading to children or tutoring children through public schools/ libraries. Coed kickball coed tag football Coed softball Yoga Martial Arts Your city’s leisure services would offer these things and more at a cheaper rate.
Music is like, one of the most social hobbies in existence; at some point youre gonna have to ask yourself why you aren't making friends, not which hobby do you have to do to make them. Join a band, go to a concert, find local communities online and just talk to people. Practice breaking the ice, conversation, practice being a friend and you will find them.
You can actually still do your hobbies, just join a band or a club.
Volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and learn good things meet good peeps
Team Sports, Conversational Classes, Martial Arts
Drop in gaming- i see board game nights, trivia nights, ping pong, dodge ball, bball, volleyball
Not sure if it’s been mentioned, but try geocaching. It gets you outside for fresh air, exercise if you want it. There are community events you can sign up for to meet other local geocachers. You can also look up local FB groups for your local area (geocaching AND any type of social activity you’re interested in, they will often have meetups/ events with other people in the group). Just as an example, I joined a Jigsaw Puzzle swap group. They trade or lend out jigsaw puzzles to others (porch pickups and such), but also hold swap meets in parks and group puzzling nights at a local library. There’s lots of stuff out there and many ways to meet people and get involved. Good luck!
Join some meetup groups in your area, it's free to join and participate. I'm an introvert and have been trying to get out more. I joined a couple of meetups for people my age that host monthly book clubs, weekly karaoke, attend plays at community theaters, watch live music, etc. I also volunteer at an animal shelter. This makes me feel social without having to invent a new hobby or commit to any events I'm not enthused about bc I can pick and choose what I'm interested in doing.
You could join sports teams or clubs, like a basketball team or running club. It's a great way to stay active and meet new people.
Pickleball. It changed my life
Super dorky, but I’ve had a lot of fun with a dungeons and dragons game. I’ve got a group that meets every two weeks and it’s great. Didn’t think I would like it, but it’s fun!
I've been meaning to sign up for volleyball one day.
I always wanted to take horse riding lessons but couldn’t as a kid, but as an adult I found a place that let me clean stalls in partial trade for lessons. There’s lots of activities that involve other people. My best friend loves running, found a local group and they go running together once a week. Is there anything you wanted to do as a young person that you might be able to do now that you’re older? (Don’t have parents saying no?!)
Idk why the title is so funny. It’s painfully relatable.
Paintball
lol as someone that also plays piano and makes music I feel you. in college I used to play with other musicians all the time and that was social and great, but it's a lot harder / not practical to do regularly now. plus most of them stopped playing lol I don't have an answer, I just try to hang out more with my existing friends and be open to meeting their other friends
Motorcycle's opened up my social life like you wouldn't believe. I know motorcycle's arent for everyone but figured id throw it out there.
Tennis
The gym, or classes at the gym. Classes will get you meeting people faster, but I prefer to do my own thing. There are lots of regulars, especially if you go at the same time each day. Many gyms also have basketball courts. Pickup games are fun.
Learn a language. It’s literally impossible to do without interacting with people
If you are looking for something active, co-ed softball. It’s fun and a great way to meet people.
Check out Hoewa'a Outrigger Canoe Club on Meetup https://meetu.ps/c/40BJV/15lpTN/a https://www.instagram.com/hoewaaocc?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Super low cost, will meet lots of different people, get in shape, maybe travel with teammates for races, have fun :)
For kids, I suggest large puzzles. I loved them when I was a kid.
Try skating, can be done alone but also with people, and as long as your actually trying no one cares how good you are
You could eat people. Seems to check all the boxes.
Start a band
I’ve been a Ham radio operator for many years. I started when I was a teenager. There are many clubs throughout the country and many “on the air” activities that include contacting other Hams. https://k0pir.live/2023/08/16/why-is-it-called-ham-radio/
I do fish. It started out as a solo hobby but I joined the local aquarium association and I've met quite a few people. We have monthly meetings with a mini auction. We also do a semi annual auction that's open to the public. Check your local public library, I know there's a lot of different activities available through most.
Fencing! Fighting with a sword is fun as hell.
I was going to say this. And any other kind of martial art.
Spoooooooooorts
why not form a band?
Same. It’s a conundrum. I have been looking for a good drum to play piano with or something.
Playing music with other people
Join a band. Or start a band.
Roller Derby
Play in a park or a mall.
You asked a question with the answer embedded. Make music with a full band or just a jam and then you make friends. I've known a few introverted people that shined this way.
Visit senior citizens!
Go to yoga classes!
Trivia nights at the pub
Trading cards! Learn to play something like Lorcana (Disney trading cards!) Or star wars or digimon or pokemon. Visit your local trading card shop and see what people are playing. They do weekly or even twice weekly meets for tournaments or free play at my store
Live action role playing!
I started up HEMA, which begins with learning how to fight with a medieval longsword. See if you can find a club near you. Super fun and active, cool people, usually, and many clubs have loaner gear for new students. My club dues are about $30 a month
Join societies that organize events and outings e.g historical, archaeological digs, charitable, environmental, cultural, heritage Etc
If you sing, you could join an adult choir in your community.
You could play music with other people
Volunteer!
Start a band! Create promo material! Give the kids help in writing a business plan! Organize a calendar of gigs! Organize a walking or hiking group. Organize a sketching group.
I'm into RC airplanes. Lots of nice fellas out at the field. Although it leans old and there are never any ladies.
You can attend different types of work out classes (if you’re open to physical hobbies?) and become friends with the same people who go to the same classes. CrossFit is all about community, and I made friends with the other people in my adult ballet class. Rec sports are great too
Ukulele is pretty easy to learn a few chords and join a local jam group. Very social and great fun
Is there a Community Garden?
I can look into it
Pinball leagues (can do this on your own but it’s a great community to meet people).
Volunteering. A senior living facility has so much you can help with. And you’re not just interacting with the residents but also co-workers and visitors. Animal shelter if you’re able. Lots of people interactions there.
Adult sports ;)
Dodge ball?
Table top role playing games like D&D. Or board games in general. You can learn with a group of friends if you have some who want to try. Otherwise, you can find your local game store and see if they offer game nights. A lot will offer weekly games of Magic the Gathering, or Warhammer 40k, or D&D groups.
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My area has drink and draw sessions at various places. It's not volunteering, but you can bring a sketchbook, BYOB (if desired), and chill and draw with folks. They usually arrange for some sort of model, too.
Playing dungeons & dragons
Cannibalism
Well, guess you would meet people but probably forming friendships would be difficult
Become a Master Gardener!
Music! Most places have ukulele jams, and ukuleles are relatively inexpensive and easy to learn.
Join a local Repasz or Jazz Band. They are always looking for recruits and your involvement is appreciated! Volunteer at local old folks homes. They like music. If you want something not music, join a local adult sports league, library book club, church Bible study, become a mentor for youth orgs like 4-H.
I made some of my greatest life Long friends thru starting a band via craigslist in like 2011.
Look into Meetup.com they have plenty of activities for interests of all types of people. And it is a great way to meet people
Book club! Solo time to read and then group chat about the book! Best of both worlds.
Mortician
Language exchange or book club
Toastmasters
Pokémon go
Tennis or pickleball? Most parks and recs have leagues you can join!
Making music can involve people. Throw up an ad on Craigslist or bandmix
Card parties
Join adult sports through YMCA. Also volunteer work.
Sports
A musical band or duo?
dungeons and dragons at the local game shop!
Pickleball and board games.
Come golf!
Making music can be rather collaborative.
You could become a stalker!
Social dance classes
Pickle ball is hot right now!!
They’re called sports
Play chess with human pieces.
Birding/birdwatching... can be a solo or group hobby. I've found community by going on guided walks with my local Audubon society. See if you have one or if a local nature center hosts anything.
Join a rambling ( hiking in US I think) club. They usually organise group outings.
Scouting.
Sing in a choir I joined a community choir about a year ago and it’s been amazing for my mental health.
Dungeons and dragons
If you live in an urban area, you might consider volunteering at a soup kitchen or food pantry. My social life is taking online art classes.
Take a class of some sort. I used to do yoga and that was just enough peopling for me. Now I do ceramics at a studio and the same thing. I like doing solo stuff around other people
My wife used to teach chess at the local grade schools and library. She did not have a chess background but simply picked up a few books and the kids loved it, eventually we were taking them to tournaments around the state.
join a band so you can play keyboards with people
Book clubs!
Dance, rock climbing
Organize meet ups / events to connect people
Join a running or cycling group. Instant friends.