How to Make Friends and Build Community in Downtown Fargo
We live by the idea that downtown Fargo doesn’t just offer places to be, it offers places to belong. But fostering a sense of belonging can sometimes feel hard to attain. Whether you’re new to the state or just new to the neighborhood, developing friendships and community connections is a daunting task. With that in mind, here’s a list of insider tips on ways to make that easier.
Check Out Local Events
Downtown Fargo is host to a wealth of beloved events that could be your way to connect with new friends. From bustling events like the Red River Market and the Folkways Night Bazaar to smaller, more intimate events like weekly trivia nights and board game nights. And don’t miss out on one-of-a-kind experiences at Wild Terra, regionally recognized royalty of putting together the coolest events.
Join a Club
Becoming a member of a smaller group with a shared interest is an amazing way to connect with people with whom you already have something in common. A quick search on Facebook lists a club for almost anything in the area, so you’re bound to find something that fits your own interests and hobbies. Don’t forget to keep an eye on businesses that regularly host open-to-all events like Jasper Hotel, where you can find monthly meet-ups like Emma’s Book Club and the Fargo Film Club.
Hit Up a Fitness Class
If getting to know people by sweating together is your style, then check out a fitness class! Downtown Fargo has a plethora of amazing options to get together with others and get a workout in, regardless of your skill level or ability, including Pure Barre, Fly Fitness, and yoga studios like Downtown Yoga and Ecce Yoga.
Become a Regular
Find a coffee shop, restaurant, or bar that fits your vibe, and make it your coffee shop, restaurant, or bar. There are so many to choose from in the downtown neighborhood.
Coffee shops like Youngblood Coffee Roasters are perfect for this. Getting to know your baristas can open up conversations about other goings-on in town and help you build connections with other frequent flyers at the shop. Plus, there’s no substitute for the feeling you get when your barista remembers your coffee order.
Join Facebook Groups in the Area
This might seem counterintuitive, but joining a group like Fargo / Moorhead Friends & Networking, Fargo Underground Friends and Neighbors, or Fargo Moorhead Neighborhood Connection could help you get a pulse for events and activities that you might otherwise miss (like beginner blacksmithing classes or wine and tango events). This low-commitment kind of involvement could help you find the perfect opportunity to connect with people in person.
Give Volunteering a Try
Volunteering for an organization or an event is a commitment of your time and energy, but it often comes with more opportunities to interact with people who share your enthusiasm for the topic at hand in a capacity that removes the need to break the ice. For example, if attending the Red River Market solo feels intimidating, try volunteering for a market day to get acquainted with a people who are more involved with the event.
Building a circle of friends requires time and a little bit of putting yourself out there, but when in doubt, remember that folks in downtown Fargo are a friendly bunch. With a little bit of openness and effort, you’ll have yourself a group of friends in no time, and this new neighborhood will stop feeling new and start feeling like home.
