Where to Find Free Local Events to Meet New People Near You
Learn how to find free local events and turn casual meetups, walks, and workshops into real social connections.
Meeting new people doesn’t have to mean expensive memberships, paid workshops, or awkward networking events. In fact, some of the best ways to meet new people happen at free local events: from community gatherings and social meetups to workshops, walks, and casual group activities.
This guide shows you where to find free local events near you, how to choose the right ones, and how to turn those events into real social connections, with examples that work across Australia and beyond.
Why Free Local Events Are Great for Meeting New People
Free events lower the pressure. People attend because they’re curious, open, and often looking to connect, not because they’ve paid and feel obligated to “perform.” This makes conversations feel more natural and inclusive.
They’re also ideal if you’re:
- New to a city
- Rebuilding your social life
- Looking to meet people casually, without commitment
If you’re navigating this stage, you may also find How to Make Friends as an Adult in Australia a helpful companion read.
Best Places to Find Free Local Events to Meet New People
What’s On Melbourne (City & Council Event Pages)
City-run websites are one of the most reliable sources for free, local events. Platforms like What’s On Melbourne list free festivals, workshops, talks, outdoor activities, and community events happening across the city.
Most major Australian cities have similar portals run by councils or state governments, making them an excellent starting point for discovering events that attract locals, not tourists.
Eventbrite
Eventbrite is widely known for ticketed events, but it’s also a powerful tool for finding free social events. By filtering for “Free” and your location, you’ll uncover:
- Social mixers
- Community workshops
- Cultural events
- Casual group activities
Many people use Eventbrite to host free events specifically to bring people together, making it a strong option for meeting new faces.
FunFF (Melbourne Social Club)
FunFF (Melbourne Social Club) focuses on social connection through casual, welcoming events. While not all events are free, they frequently host low-cost or free social gatherings designed to help people meet others in a relaxed environment.
This works well if you enjoy:
- Group dining
- Outdoor adventures
- Social activities with a friendly, inclusive vibe
CitySocialiser
CitySocialiser brings together people who want to meet others in their city through shared social experiences. Some events are free or low-commitment, especially introductory or community-style gatherings.
It’s useful if you prefer:
- Group-based socialising
- Meeting people outside of dating apps
- Attending organised but casual events
Facebook Groups
Facebook Groups remain one of the most active places to find free local events. Searching for your city plus terms like social, friends, events, or community often reveals groups that regularly post:
- Free meetups
- Walks and outdoor activities
- Community hangouts
These groups are especially helpful for hyper-local events that don’t appear on large platforms.
Community Centres, Libraries & Youth Hubs
Local libraries, community centres, and council-run youth or community hubs frequently host free workshops, discussion groups, and social activities. These spaces are designed to be accessible and welcoming, ideal if you prefer smaller, quieter settings.
If you enjoy local connection, How to Explore Your Neighbourhood and Build Local Connections expands on this approach.
Free Activities That Naturally Help You Meet People
Free events often revolve around shared activities, which makes connection easier:
- Community walks or outdoor fitness sessions
- Free classes (dance, language, art, cooking)
- Volunteering days or local clean-ups
- Cultural events and festivals
Shared activity removes the pressure of constant conversation and gives people something to bond over, a theme explored further in Fun Activities Near You That Actually Help You Connect.
How to Get the Most Out of Free Local Events
Finding events is only half the journey. To actually meet people:
- Start with activities you genuinely enjoy
- Arrive open and curious rather than guarded
- Attend regularly, familiarity builds connection
- Don’t expect instant friendships
If confidence is a barrier, Breaking Social Barriers: Build Confidence Through New Activities offers practical encouragement.
Turning Free Events Into Real Friendships
Most people attend free events hoping to connect, but few take the next step. Following up, attending similar events, or suggesting another shared activity is what turns casual chats into friendships.
This is where platforms that help you organise or discover ongoing activities can make a real difference.
If you want an easier way to find free or low-pressure activities and meet people nearby, explore Bunchups, a platform designed to turn shared interests into real-life connection, without awkward planning or endless scrolling.
Final Thoughts
Free local events are one of the most accessible and underrated ways to meet new people. With the right platforms, a little consistency, and an open mindset, they can become the foundation of a meaningful social life, whether you’re in Australia or anywhere else.
Start small, show up often, and let connection grow naturally.
