Easy ways to make friends this summer

Great friendships begin with a little courage and a hello.

Let’s be honest, making new friends as a student isn’t always the easiest thing. Now try doing it in a big, busy place like Toronto, where everyone’s either rushing somewhere, plugged into their headphones or glued to their laptops like they’re writing a novel.

You’re in this massive city with millions of people, but somehow it still feels like you’re the only one eating lunch alone on a bench.

Maybe your usual college friends went home for the summer. Maybe you’re here for school or work and don’t know anyone. Or maybe you’re just bored and tired of rewatching the same three Netflix shows on your own.

Whatever the case, if you’re spending summer in Toronto and hoping to meet new people, you’re in luck because it’s totally possible.

All it really takes is a bit of courage, a dash of curiosity and maybe an iced coffee in hand. Let’s check out a few fun, low-pressure ways to make new friends in the city.

Say yes to invites

A man is saying the words, "I am in!" to a woman. — *Via* *GIPHY*

If someone from work or class casually invites you to something, even if it’s a little random, say yes. It might be a movie in the park, a food fest, a street fair or an outdoor Zumba class you’ll probably regret halfway through. Still, go for it! Showing up is half the work.

Someone might invite you to a concert at Sankofa Square or to explore the wonderful AGO. You might not know anyone else there and that’s okay.

Sometimes the best hangs come from the most unexpected invites. One minute you’re debating whether or not to go and the next you’re on a patio eating tacos and swapping stories with people you just met. It happens more often than you’d think.

Toronto summers are packed with free things—night markets, music events, outdoor movies, cultural festivals, even dog parades (yes, that’s real, and yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds).

No need to overthink it. Just show up, bring snacks, wear something comfy, hang out with people and see where the day takes you.

Connect through online communities

A man is using his phone, surrounded by images of other people also using their phones. — *Via GIPHY*

Let’s kill the awkwardness around this, using apps to make friends is totally normal now. You’re not strange, you’re efficient.

Apps like Bumble BFF exist specifically to help people find platonic friendships. Your profile can say things like “Down for bubble tea and book shopping.”

If you’re not sure where to start, plenty of people find friends through Meetup.com (yes, it still exists), Discord servers or even the r/Toronto subreddit, which is full of people looking for hangout buddies, board game nights or picnic groups.

One solid rule, if you meet someone cool online, try to meet up in real life sooner rather than later. Grab coffee, go for a walk along the waterfront or meet up at a farmer’s market.

Leave it in the DMs too long and things can start to feel off. Go with your gut, meet somewhere public and keep it casual.

Get involved with clubs and teams

A man is shaking another man's hand and saying the words, "I'M IN THE CLUB NOW!" — *Via* *GIPHY*

Many student clubs, campus groups and community teams keep running in summer.

You can join a book club, art club or a volleyball league (even if you’re not great at it). The point isn’t to be perfect. It’s to show up, have fun and meet people.

Humber Polytechnic’s ‘Goin’ app‘ helps students connect. Originally launched for international students, it now includes domestic students too. Over 4,000 students have already joined the app.

It’s a student-led platform where you can find friends, share tips about campus life and discover what’s happening in the city.

Whether it’s a club, an event or an app—just pick something that sounds interesting and show up. That’s where it starts.

Make the first move with confidence

A woman is saying the words, "Make the first move!" — *Via* *GIPHY*

Making the first move is the scariest part, but also the most magical. Every friendship starts somewhere—often with a simple conversation with someone who seems engaging.

Maybe you meet them in class, at a park, during orientation or even while waiting in line for bubble tea. If the vibe feels right, take a chance and say something.

It doesn’t have to be a big, bold move. A simple “Hey, are you from around here?” or “I’m trying to meet new people—want to grab coffee sometime?” can go a long way.

Sure, it might feel terrifying in your head, but in reality? Most people are flattered that you reached out. Everyone’s looking for connection, even if they don’t always show it.

Worst case? It’s a one-time coffee. No big deal. Best case? You might become best buddies!

Friendship takes time

A woman is saying the words, "HAPPY FRIENDIVERSARY" to another woman. — *Via GIPHY*

Not every conversation will lead to a deep connection. Not every hang will be amazing. That’s okay. Friendships take time and the key is to just keep trying.

You’re not failing if you feel a little lonely right now—you’re just in the early stages of building your big city life. Everyone starts somewhere.

The cool part? Every time you say yes to an invite, make small talk with someone new or try something different, you’re giving yourself a chance to meet your future people.

And even if all you get from this summer is discovering a few new hangout spots, finding a great playlist and having one meaningful conversation with someone new—that’s still a win.

So, put yourself out there because some interesting people are waiting to meet someone just like you.

Feature image courtesy of Elevate on Unsplash

Went out and made some new friends? Check out ways to get to know them better!