Making friends in a new community can be difficult. And while Nova Scotians are notoriously friendly, that doesn’t always translate into locals inviting you to “be friends.”
Here are some tips to help you make friends in Nova Scotia (spoiler alert, it’s going to take a lot of effort!).
- When you meet new people, be open and approachable. Smile, make eye contact, and take the initiative to start conversations with people you meet.
- Friendships are built through time spent together. Exchange contact information with people you think you might want to spend more time with.
- Invite them to attend other events with you, invite them to events you’re hosting (parties, dinners, backyard fires), or make plans to meet up for a hike, a beer, etc.
- Don’t be afraid to hear no a few times before giving up, sometimes people need a few invites before they finally accept something.
Where to meet people
Attend Community Events: Nova Scotia hosts various community events, festivals, and gatherings, like fundraising suppers. Participating in these activities is a great way to meet people who share your interests.
Join Clubs or Groups: Look for local clubs, sports teams, hobby groups, or community organizations that align with your interests. These provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.
Volunteer: Volunteering is an excellent way to meet people while contributing to the community. There are many non-profit organizations in Nova Scotia that welcome volunteers.
Attend Classes or Workshops: Enroll in classes, workshops, or courses, whether for hobbies, fitness, or personal development. This is a great way to meet people with similar interests. Do you live in the Valley? Check out my other website, Move to the Annapolis Valley, for information on what’s happening in various Valley communities.
Use Social Media: Join local Nova Scotia-based social media groups or platforms to connect with people in your area. You can find events and activities to attend.
Attend Local Meetups: Look for meetup groups or online platforms like Meetup.com to find gatherings of people who share your interests.
Get Involved in Local Sports: Nova Scotia has a strong sports culture, and participating in local sports leagues or events can help you bond with others.
Building meaningful friendships takes time, so be patient. It took us two years of living in Nova Scotia and meeting new people before we built up a solid friend group. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!
