hosted events.
social people.
actually fun.

shared experiences with people who actually show up

you could have stayed in. but you didn't.

this is what saying yes looks like.

real conversations. real chemistry. no profiles required.

rooms full of people who actually showed up.

it starts as "maybe." it ends like this.

arguing with strangers nyc

arguing with strangers nyc

Tue, Aug 4·7:00 PM EDT

Rodney's Comedy Club

1118 1st Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA

our sold out arguing with strangers event is coming to nyc arguing with strangers is half debate club, half open mic, and 100% getting real. we start things easy. get paired with a stranger, get handed a side, and argue something ridiculous. like is a hot dog a sandwich? defend it with everything you've got and practice disagreeing with a laugh. then the best matchups go up front. the crowd picks a winner on who's more fun to watch, not who's right. once everyone's loose, the topics get real and you argue what you actually believe. the stuff you don't usually say out loud to a stranger. what you'd never compromise on. maybe what you've even changed your mind about. things may get serious, but they stay civil. And at the end of the night, you walk away knowing you can completely disagree with someone and still walk out respecting a new friend. we forgot how to do that. this is practice.

other cities with ldft

chicago39 events

salsa before sunset

salsa before sunset

Thu, Jul 23·6:30 PM CDT

Castaways Beach Club

1603 N Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

salsa, the beach, and the best skyline view in the city. 21+ we're taking over castaways on north avenue beach for a night of salsa dancing right as the sun dips behind the city. the night opens with a beginner-friendly lesson, so whether you're a seasoned dancer or you've never moved to a beat in your life, you'll be on the floor in no time. then the dj takes over with the best of salsa, bachata, and latin hits while the sky lights up over lake michigan. come solo, bring your crew, or show up ready to meet someone new. no partner needed. no experience necessary. just bring an open mind and shoes you can spin in.

let's learn salsa (3 part series)

let's learn salsa (3 part series)

Sat, Jul 25·10:15 AM CDT

We The People Fitness Studio

1229 N North Branch St #3/F, Chicago, IL 60642, USA

Overview 3 part salsa workshop (+ a 4th event that's a dance social) for people who are serious about learning how to dance the event starts at 10:15am on the last saturday ( July 25th ) july 11th july 18th july 25th salsa Workshop Series — PLEASE READ 💃 Your ticket includes: • All 3 parts of our progressive salsa workshop • 1 social dance night at castaways ( salas before sunset) • A full month of dancing, practice, community, and real progress • One ticket covers everything — no add-ons needed This is a true progressive series — each class intentionally builds on the last so you actually grow week to week. Classes are advanced-beginner to low-intermediate friendly. (If you're brand-new, our regular socials are beginner-friendly!) WHY THIS WORKSHOP IS WORTH IT • You actually improve. Most classes teach random patterns each week. This workshop is intentionally structured so you build rhythm, timing, connection, and usable partnerwork. • You won’t feel lost. We keep the level consistent and the pacing supportive. Everyone’s here to learn — not judge. • You build a dance crew. Three classes + a social = a built-in community. People make real friends in these workshops. • You get real-world practice. The included salsa before susnet social gives you a perfect chance to try your skills in a welcoming, lively environment. • It’s an insane value. Three classes + one social + multiple instructors + structured progression… This would normally run $150–$250 elsewhere. We keep it accessible so Chicago can dance. WHO THIS IS FOR • People who want to level up their salsa • Anyone who can keep a beat and wants structure + real progress • Dancers who want confidence for salsa on a School Night WHO THIS IS NOT FOR • Someone looking for a one-time “try it once” class — this is a progressive workshop

miles and mimosas

miles and mimosas

Sun, Jul 26·10:00 AM CDT

Abraham Lincoln The Man - Monument

2045 N Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

a sunday morning that actually feels good. run if you want. walk if you want. show up for the brunch and no one will judge. we're starting with three pace groups so everyone can move at their own speed: fast pace, 2 miles easy pace, 2 miles walk + talk, 1 mile everyone meets at whispers on oakstreet beach at 10:30 for dancing, a dj, drinks, food, and the kind of exciting morning sunday is supposed to be. bring a friend, bring two, bring the one who swore they'd never run.

sunday beach brunch

sunday beach brunch

Sun, Jul 26·11:30 AM CDT

Whispers at Oak Street Beach

1001 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

chicago, sundays are for brunch and dancing this is chicago's free, feel-good morning dance party at whispers, right by oak street beach. show up at 11:30am, grab your spot, and let the good music take over. we're going to have a dj making you move with the skyline in front of you and sand and lake michigan right behind you just early enough to feel good about doing something, just late enough to shake your hang over cant wait to catch you out there beach attire encouraged

game night: liar's night

game night: liar's night

Mon, Jul 27·7:00 PM CDT

Duffy's Tavern and Grille

420 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

liar's night is back. we're switching up game night. every game on the table will focus on social deduction, deception, bluffing, and reading the room. spend the night trying to catch someone else in a lie, or convincing the group you’re totally innocent (even when you’re definitely not). coming solo? we’ve got you covered. we’ll help match you with a group and walk everyone through the rules so you can jump right in and start playing. whether you’re a master manipulator or a terrible liar, this is a game night where everyone wins.

last call lectures: underwater eavesdropping - how scientists decode whale conversation

last call lectures: underwater eavesdropping - how scientists decode whale conversation

Tue, Jul 28·7:00 PM CDT

The Scout Waterhouse + Kitchen

1419 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610, USA

last call lectures presents: underwater eavesdropping: how scientists decode whale conversation somewhere in the deep, whales are talking. clicks, whistles, and songs that travel for miles through the dark. but what are they actually saying? this month, sonny schoenhoft takes us beneath the surface into the strange and beautiful science of listening to whales, and the work of trying to crack a language that evolved a world away from our own. sonny lives in the world where marine biology meets the puzzle of communication. expect the tools scientists use to record and decode whale sound, what we've figured out so far, and the big open question hanging over all of it: how close are we really to understanding another species? expect a 45 minute talk, then small group discussion, then open q&a. come solo, leave with new people and a head full of the ocean.

let's learn bachata advanced (3 part series)

let's learn bachata advanced (3 part series)

Tue, Jul 28·7:15 PM CDT

We The People Fitness Studio

1229 N North Branch St #3/F, Chicago, IL 60642, USA

Overview Bachata Workshop Series — PLEASE READ 💃 Your ticket includes: • All 3 parts of our progressive bachata workshop •3 weeks dancing, practice, community, and real progress • One ticket covers everything — no add-ons needed This is a true progressive series — each class intentionally builds on the last so you actually grow week to week. Classes are advanced-beginner to low-intermediate friendly. (If you're brand-new, our regular socials are beginner-friendly!) SCHEDULE july 7th july 14th july 28th includes salsa before sunset social july 23rd we the people fitness studio WHY THIS WORKSHOP IS WORTH IT • You actually improve. Most classes teach random patterns each week. This workshop is intentionally structured so you build rhythm, timing, connection, and usable partnerwork. • You won’t feel lost. We keep the level consistent and the pacing supportive. Everyone’s here to learn — not judge. • You build a dance crew. Three classes + = a built-in community. People make real friends in these workshops. • It’s an insane value. Three classes + multiple instructors + structured progression… This would normally run $150–$250 elsewhere. We keep it accessible so Chicago can dance. WHO THIS IS FOR • People who want to level up their bachata • Anyone who can keep a beat and wants structure + real progress • Dancers who want confidence for Bachata on a School Night WHO THIS IS NOT FOR • Someone looking for a one-time “try it once” class — this is a progressive workshop

byob vinyl paint and sip

byob vinyl paint and sip

Wed, Jul 29·7:00 PM CDT

1945 N Elston Ave

1945 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642, USA

join us on july 29th at the she shed (1945 n elston ave) for chicago's first vinyl record painting class, a one-of-a-kind evening of creativity, connection, and good vibes. in collaboration with SDalai art, this byob workshop is designed for curious minds and social souls looking to meet new people through a brand new experience in the city. no art experience needed; just show up, bring your favorite drink, paint your own vinyl record, and let the creativity flow. this is more than a class; it's a space built around community, fun, and doing something chicago has never seen before! WE PROVIDE THE VINYL, AND YOU GET TO KEEP IT :)

singles, sun, and salsa

singles, sun, and salsa

Thu, Jul 30·6:30 PM CDT

Whispers on Oak Street Beach

Oak Street Beach, 1000 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

salsa as the sun goes down, right on the sand at whispers on oak street beach. we start with a beginner friendly lesson, then it's open dancing with music, drinks, and good company. this one is built for meeting someone new. we sell equal men's and women's tickets so the dance floor stays balanced all night. heads up: this event is geared toward straight singles looking to meet the opposite sex. 6:30 to 9pm at whispers on oak street beach. bring comfy shoes and an open mind.

summer saturdays: beach volleyball

summer saturdays: beach volleyball

Sat, Aug 1·9:00 AM CDT

North Avenue Beach

North Avenue Beach, Illinois 60614, USA

where to find us: https://mcusercontent.com/27ac5737ddd52bab0caaaf9cc/images/0dedf8da-6657-51ab-8131-a32bcf43bd4a.png weather permitting sun, sand, good people, and a grill going. what more do you need? we take over the north courts at north avenue beach every saturday morning for pickup volleyball, food, and a whole lot of fun. show up whenever. courts are marked by skill level so you can jump in wherever feels right. 2s and 4s. rotate in, meet someone new, grab a plate, repeat. best way to make new friends is buy bringing food, drinks, and games to share with people (no pressure though we bring a lot of stuff)

game night

game night

Mon, Aug 3·7:00 PM CDT

Duffy's Tavern and Grille

420 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

join us for game night every Monday at Duffy's! must rsvp on pie at link below for entry. we've got a curated collection of fun easy-to-learn games that allow you to make friends over friendly competition coming solo? we've got you covered! we'll set you up with games and fun players to enjoy the night with. see you there!

arguing with strangers

arguing with strangers

Tue, Aug 4·7:00 PM CDT

The Scout Waterhouse + Kitchen

1419 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610, USA

our sold out arguing with strangers event returns for a rematch, Tuesday, august 4. arguing with strangers is half debate club, half open mic, and 100% real talk. we start things easy. get paired with a stranger, get handed a side, and argue something ridiculous. like is a hot dog a sandwich? defend it with everything you've got and practice disagreeing with a laugh. then the best matchups go up front. the crowd picks a winner on who's more fun to watch, not who's right. once everyone's loose, the topics get real and you argue what you actually believe. the stuff you don't usually say out loud to a stranger. what you'd never compromise on. maybe what you've even changed your mind about. things may get serious, but they stay civil. And at the end of the night, you walk away knowing you can completely disagree with someone and still walk out respecting a new friend. we forgot how to do that. this is practice.

summer saturdays: beach volleyball

summer saturdays: beach volleyball

Sat, Aug 8·9:00 AM CDT

North Avenue Beach

North Avenue Beach, Illinois 60614, USA

where to find us: https://mcusercontent.com/27ac5737ddd52bab0caaaf9cc/images/0dedf8da-6657-51ab-8131-a32bcf43bd4a.png weather permitting sun, sand, good people, and a grill going. what more do you need? we take over the north courts at north avenue beach every saturday morning for pickup volleyball, food, and a whole lot of fun. show up whenever. courts are marked by skill level so you can jump in wherever feels right. 2s and 4s. rotate in, meet someone new, grab a plate, repeat. best way to make new friends is buy bringing food, drinks, and games to share with people (no pressure though we bring a lot of stuff)

let's learn salsa advanced

let's learn salsa advanced

Sat, Aug 8·11:45 AM CDT

We The People Fitness Studio

1229 N North Branch St #3/F, Chicago, IL 60642, USA

let's learn salsa: advanced series (+ salsa before sunset) a three-week advanced salsa series with Andrew, Director of our Latin Dance Vertical, plus entry to Salsa Before Sunset on the rooftop. dates saturday, august 8 saturday, august 15 saturday, august 22 thursday, august 27 (salsa before sunset) who it's for dancers who already have the fundamentals down and want to level up turn patterns, styling, musicality, and lead/follow at a higher tempo. this is not a beginner class. if you've never taken salsa before, start with our beginner series. what to expect three progressive saturday sessions built to compound week over week. same cohort each week, so by session three you know your partners, the material builds on itself, and you leave with real reps under your belt. Andrew will push technique, cover advanced concepts like cross-body variations, complex turn combinations, and partner connection at speed. included all three tuesday classes plus admission to salsa before sunset on thursday, august 27, the rooftop social where you can put the work in front of a live DJ, sunset, and a full floor of dancers. the bigger idea most people never take a class because walking in alone feels awkward. we solve that: your host introduces you to the room, you're paired up from minute one, and by week two you're greeting people by name. that's the whole point.

game night

game night

Mon, Aug 10·7:00 PM CDT

Duffy's Tavern and Grille

420 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

join us for game night every Monday at Duffy's! must rsvp on pie at link below for entry. we've got a curated collection of fun easy-to-learn games that allow you to make friends over friendly competition coming solo? we've got you covered! we'll set you up with games and fun players to enjoy the night with. see you there!

last call lectures

last call lectures

Tue, Aug 11·7:00 PM CDT

Chicago

Chicago, IL, USA

last call lectures is our recurring series where we bring in someone who knows a lot about something interesting (a professor, a researcher, a practitioner, an obsessive) and let them give the talk they've always wanted to give. the kind of lecture you'd actually want to stay awake for. each night follows the same rhythm: arrive, grab a drink, settle in. one expert takes the floor for about 45 minutes on a topic worth your evening. then 4 discussion questions, each being given 15 minutes, with a final q and a with the professor at the end. it's part lecture, part bar night, part "wait, i didn't know i cared about this." you leave smarter than you came, with a few new people in your phone. speaker and location coming soon

let's learn bachata

let's learn bachata

Tue, Aug 11·7:15 PM CDT

We The People Fitness Studio

1229 N North Branch St #3/F, Chicago, IL 60642, USA

let's learn bachata: beginner series (+ salsa before sunset) a three-week beginner bachata series with Andrew, Director of our Latin Dance Vertical, plus entry to Salsa Before Sunset on the rooftop. dates tuesday, august 11 tuesday, august 18 tuesday, august 25 thursday, august 27 (salsa before sunset) who it's for total beginners. no partner needed, no experience needed, no rhythm required (we'll get you there). if you've been curious about bachata but haven't had a reason to start, this is it. what to expect three progressive tuesday sessions built to compound week over week. same cohort each week, so by session three you know your partners, the basic step feels natural, and you can actually dance a song from start to finish. Andrew will cover the fundamentals: basic step, timing, connection, side-to-side, and your first turn patterns. included all three tuesday classes plus admission to salsa before sunset on thursday, august 27, the rooftop social where you can practice what you learned with a live DJ, sunset, and a full floor of dancers. bachata gets played too. don't worry. the bigger idea most people never take a class because walking in alone feels awkward. we solve that: your host introduces you to the room, you're paired up from minute one, and by week two you're greeting people by name. that's the whole point.

happy hour salsa: free w/ rsvp

happy hour salsa: free w/ rsvp

Wed, Aug 12·5:00 PM CDT

The Old Post Office

433 W Van Buren St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA

happy hour salsa at the old post office happy hour salsa is a relaxed after-work social designed to help you unwind, move your body, and do something fun without committing your whole night. we’ll start with a beginner-friendly salsa lesson from 5–5:45pm . no experience or partner needed. after the lesson, the space opens into an open social dance for anyone and everyone. the event is free to attend and hosted at the iconic Old Post Office , featuring beautiful flooring, soaring ceilings, a riverside patio, and food and drinks available from Snorkelbox . come solo, bring coworkers, or meet friends there.

summer saturdays: beach volleyball

summer saturdays: beach volleyball

Sat, Aug 15·9:00 AM CDT

North Avenue Beach

North Avenue Beach, Illinois 60614, USA

where to find us: https://mcusercontent.com/27ac5737ddd52bab0caaaf9cc/images/0dedf8da-6657-51ab-8131-a32bcf43bd4a.png weather permitting sun, sand, good people, and a grill going. what more do you need? we take over the north courts at north avenue beach every saturday morning for pickup volleyball, food, and a whole lot of fun. show up whenever. courts are marked by skill level so you can jump in wherever feels right. 2s and 4s. rotate in, meet someone new, grab a plate, repeat. best way to make new friends is buy bringing food, drinks, and games to share with people (no pressure though we bring a lot of stuff)

let's learn salsa advanced

let's learn salsa advanced

Sat, Aug 15·11:45 AM CDT

We The People Fitness Studio

1229 N North Branch St #3/F, Chicago, IL 60642, USA

let's learn salsa: advanced series (+ salsa before sunset) a three-week advanced salsa series with Andrew, Director of our Latin Dance Vertical, plus entry to Salsa Before Sunset on the rooftop. dates saturday, august 8 saturday, august 15 saturday, august 22 thursday, august 27 (salsa before sunset) who it's for dancers who already have the fundamentals down and want to level up turn patterns, styling, musicality, and lead/follow at a higher tempo. this is not a beginner class. if you've never taken salsa before, start with our beginner series. what to expect three progressive saturday sessions built to compound week over week. same cohort each week, so by session three you know your partners, the material builds on itself, and you leave with real reps under your belt. Andrew will push technique, cover advanced concepts like cross-body variations, complex turn combinations, and partner connection at speed. included all three tuesday classes plus admission to salsa before sunset on thursday, august 27, the rooftop social where you can put the work in front of a live DJ, sunset, and a full floor of dancers. the bigger idea most people never take a class because walking in alone feels awkward. we solve that: your host introduces you to the room, you're paired up from minute one, and by week two you're greeting people by name. that's the whole point.

game night: speed friending

game night: speed friending

Mon, Aug 17·6:00 PM CDT

Duffy's Tavern and Grille

420 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

looking for your game night crew? this is the place to start. we're kicking the night off with a low-pressure icebreaker. from there, you’ll rotate through a selection of easy-to-learn, fun-to-play party games, playing two different games with two different groups to keep things social, active, and engaging. then open play begins, and the night transitions into our classic game night experience. mix, match, and play whatever you’d like from our curated collection of approachable games designed to spark friendly competition and conversation. whether you’re new to board games or just new to chicago, this night is built for meeting new people and making friends. check-in begins at 6:00 pm, speed friending starts at 6:30 pm. open play kicks off at 7:30. see you there 🎲

game night - 7:30 start time

game night - 7:30 start time

Mon, Aug 17·7:30 PM CDT

Duffy's Tavern and Grille

420 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

join us for game night every Monday at Duffy's! must rsvp at link below. we've got a curated collection of fun easy-to-learn games that allow you to make friends over friendly competition coming solo? we've got you covered! we'll set you up with games and fun players to enjoy the night with. see you there! this game night follows our speed friending game night! mix and match with new people before our usual open play game night begins. check out speed friending in our event feed for more details.

last call lectures: wherefore art thou hockey boyfriend: a shakespearean take on heated rivalry and off campus

last call lectures: wherefore art thou hockey boyfriend: a shakespearean take on heated rivalry and off campus

Tue, Aug 18·7:00 PM CDT

Chicago

Chicago, IL, USA

wherefore art thou hockey boyfriend: a shakespearean take on heated rivalry and off campus four hundred years after shakespeare’s time, sarah-gray lesley, phd in english language and literature, is taking us on a journey through how shakespeare's influence is still finding a place in the modern era... and especially in the hockey romance scene. despite its staggering popularity, 21st-century romance novels, movies, and television shows are often dismissed as silly, shallow, or just plain “smut.” meanwhile, shakespeare’s romantic plays–the clear source for so many enduring tropes and narrative beats–are revered as thought-provoking, serious, and unsexy. in this lecture, we’re going to dissolve these common (mis)conceptions. the gap between that play we hated reading in high school English class and our current steamy obsession might be narrower than we think! here is how the night runs: dr. lesley opens with a 45 minute lecture, followed by 15 minutes of live q&a. then we break into small groups for 45 minutes of guided discussion with fellow readers, closing with a 15 minute debrief to bring it all back together. stick around after for mingling and recruiting for your next hockey watch party. so will you come to our lecture? don't go to russia. come to our lecture. we'll have so much fun.

let's learn bachata

let's learn bachata

Tue, Aug 18·7:15 PM CDT

We The People Fitness Studio

1229 N North Branch St #3/F, Chicago, IL 60642, USA

let's learn bachata: beginner series (+ salsa before sunset) a three-week beginner bachata series with Andrew, Director of our Latin Dance Vertical, plus entry to Salsa Before Sunset on the rooftop. dates tuesday, august 11 tuesday, august 18 tuesday, august 25 thursday, august 27 (salsa before sunset) who it's for total beginners. no partner needed, no experience needed, no rhythm required (we'll get you there). if you've been curious about bachata but haven't had a reason to start, this is it. what to expect three progressive tuesday sessions built to compound week over week. same cohort each week, so by session three you know your partners, the basic step feels natural, and you can actually dance a song from start to finish. Andrew will cover the fundamentals: basic step, timing, connection, side-to-side, and your first turn patterns. included all three tuesday classes plus admission to salsa before sunset on thursday, august 27, the rooftop social where you can practice what you learned with a live DJ, sunset, and a full floor of dancers. bachata gets played too. don't worry. the bigger idea most people never take a class because walking in alone feels awkward. we solve that: your host introduces you to the room, you're paired up from minute one, and by week two you're greeting people by name. that's the whole point.

summer saturdays: beach volleyball

summer saturdays: beach volleyball

Sat, Aug 22·9:00 AM CDT

North Avenue Beach

North Avenue Beach, Illinois 60614, USA

where to find us: https://mcusercontent.com/27ac5737ddd52bab0caaaf9cc/images/0dedf8da-6657-51ab-8131-a32bcf43bd4a.png weather permitting sun, sand, good people, and a grill going. what more do you need? we take over the north courts at north avenue beach every saturday morning for pickup volleyball, food, and a whole lot of fun. show up whenever. courts are marked by skill level so you can jump in wherever feels right. 2s and 4s. rotate in, meet someone new, grab a plate, repeat. best way to make new friends is buy bringing food, drinks, and games to share with people (no pressure though we bring a lot of stuff)

let's learn salsa advanced

let's learn salsa advanced

Sat, Aug 22·11:45 AM CDT

We The People Fitness Studio

1229 N North Branch St #3/F, Chicago, IL 60642, USA

let's learn salsa: advanced series (+ salsa before sunset) a three-week advanced salsa series with Andrew, Director of our Latin Dance Vertical, plus entry to Salsa Before Sunset on the rooftop. dates saturday, august 8 saturday, august 15 saturday, august 22 thursday, august 27 (salsa before sunset) who it's for dancers who already have the fundamentals down and want to level up turn patterns, styling, musicality, and lead/follow at a higher tempo. this is not a beginner class. if you've never taken salsa before, start with our beginner series. what to expect three progressive saturday sessions built to compound week over week. same cohort each week, so by session three you know your partners, the material builds on itself, and you leave with real reps under your belt. Andrew will push technique, cover advanced concepts like cross-body variations, complex turn combinations, and partner connection at speed. included all three tuesday classes plus admission to salsa before sunset on thursday, august 27, the rooftop social where you can put the work in front of a live DJ, sunset, and a full floor of dancers. the bigger idea most people never take a class because walking in alone feels awkward. we solve that: your host introduces you to the room, you're paired up from minute one, and by week two you're greeting people by name. that's the whole point.

game night

game night

Mon, Aug 24·7:00 PM CDT

Duffy's Tavern and Grille

420 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

join us for game night every Monday at Duffy's! must rsvp on pie using the link below for entry. we've got a curated collection of fun easy-to-learn games that allow you to make friends over friendly competition coming solo? we've got you covered! we'll set you up with games and fun players to enjoy the night with. see you there!

last call lectures: from dowries to algorithms: a singles lecture on the evolution of modern love

last call lectures: from dowries to algorithms: a singles lecture on the evolution of modern love

Tue, Aug 25·7:00 PM CDT

The Scout Waterhouse + Kitchen

1419 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610, USA

part lecture, part singles mixer, you’re not going to miss this one! historically, romance grew out of a small circle of family-vetted matches and dowries. now, love arrives through a curated bio, a quick swipe, and competing for attention against eleven other matches in your inbox. somewhere between arranged marriages and infinite matches, the rules of connection have fundamentally shifted. as a result, we are operating off instincts built for a world that does not exist anymore. in this lecture, we are digging into how we got here. do soul mates really exist? why does having more dating options make it harder to choose, not easier? and how much of our modern heartbreak comes down to standards nobody can actually meet? leading the night is dr. johanna strokoff, a licensed clinical psychologist who has spent over a decade leading talks on love, relationships, and the psychology behind why we want what we want. here is how the night runs: dr. strokoff opens with a 45 minute lecture, followed by 15 minutes of live q&a. then we break into small, intentionally mixed groups for 45 minutes of guided discussion with fellow singles, closing with a 15 minute debrief to bring it all back together. and stick around after for mingling with your fellow curious (and single 😉) minds!

let's learn bachata

let's learn bachata

Tue, Aug 25·7:15 PM CDT

We The People Fitness Studio

1229 N North Branch St #3/F, Chicago, IL 60642, USA

let's learn bachata: beginner series (+ salsa before sunset) a three-week beginner bachata series with Andrew, Director of our Latin Dance Vertical, plus entry to Salsa Before Sunset on the rooftop. dates tuesday, august 11 tuesday, august 18 tuesday, august 25 thursday, august 27 (salsa before sunset) who it's for total beginners. no partner needed, no experience needed, no rhythm required (we'll get you there). if you've been curious about bachata but haven't had a reason to start, this is it. what to expect three progressive tuesday sessions built to compound week over week. same cohort each week, so by session three you know your partners, the basic step feels natural, and you can actually dance a song from start to finish. Andrew will cover the fundamentals: basic step, timing, connection, side-to-side, and your first turn patterns. included all three tuesday classes plus admission to salsa before sunset on thursday, august 27, the rooftop social where you can practice what you learned with a live DJ, sunset, and a full floor of dancers. bachata gets played too. don't worry. the bigger idea most people never take a class because walking in alone feels awkward. we solve that: your host introduces you to the room, you're paired up from minute one, and by week two you're greeting people by name. that's the whole point.

salsa before sunset

salsa before sunset

Thu, Aug 27·6:30 PM CDT

Castaways Beach Club

1603 N Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

salsa, the beach, and the best skyline view in the city. 21+ we're taking over castaways on north avenue beach for a night of salsa dancing right as the sun dips behind the city. the night opens with a beginner-friendly lesson, so whether you're a seasoned dancer or you've never moved to a beat in your life, you'll be on the floor in no time. then the dj takes over with the best of salsa, bachata, and latin hits while the sky lights up over lake michigan. come solo, bring your crew, or show up ready to meet someone new. no partner needed. no experience necessary. just bring an open mind and shoes you can spin in.

summer saturdays: beach volleyball

summer saturdays: beach volleyball

Sat, Aug 29·9:00 AM CDT

North Avenue Beach

North Avenue Beach, Illinois 60614, USA

where to find us: https://mcusercontent.com/27ac5737ddd52bab0caaaf9cc/images/0dedf8da-6657-51ab-8131-a32bcf43bd4a.png weather permitting sun, sand, good people, and a grill going. what more do you need? we take over the north courts at north avenue beach every saturday morning for pickup volleyball, food, and a whole lot of fun. show up whenever. courts are marked by skill level so you can jump in wherever feels right. 2s and 4s. rotate in, meet someone new, grab a plate, repeat. best way to make new friends is buy bringing food, drinks, and games to share with people (no pressure though we bring a lot of stuff)

game night: liar's night

game night: liar's night

Mon, Aug 31·7:00 PM CDT

Duffy's Tavern and Grille

420 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

liar's night is back. we're switching up game night. every game on the table will focus on social deduction, deception, bluffing, and reading the room. spend the night trying to catch someone else in a lie, or convincing the group you’re totally innocent (even when you’re definitely not). coming solo? we’ve got you covered. we’ll help match you with a group and walk everyone through the rules so you can jump right in and start playing. whether you’re a master manipulator or a terrible liar, this is a game night where everyone wins.

last call lectures

last call lectures

Tue, Sep 1·7:00 PM CDT

Chicago

Chicago, IL, USA

last call lectures is our recurring series where we bring in someone who knows a lot about something interesting (a professor, a researcher, a practitioner, an obsessive) and let them give the talk they've always wanted to give. the kind of lecture you'd actually want to stay awake for. each night follows the same rhythm: arrive, grab a drink, settle in. one expert takes the floor for about 45 minutes on a topic worth your evening. then 4 discussion questions, each being given 15 minutes, with a final q and a with the professor at the end. it's part lecture, part bar night, part "wait, i didn't know i cared about this." you leave smarter than you came, with a few new people in your phone. speaker and location coming soon

last call lectures

last call lectures

Tue, Sep 8·7:00 PM CDT

Chicago

Chicago, IL, USA

last call lectures is our recurring series where we bring in someone who knows a lot about something interesting (a professor, a researcher, a practitioner, an obsessive) and let them give the talk they've always wanted to give. the kind of lecture you'd actually want to stay awake for. each night follows the same rhythm: arrive, grab a drink, settle in. one expert takes the floor for about 45 minutes on a topic worth your evening. then 4 discussion questions, each being given 15 minutes, with a final q and a with the professor at the end. it's part lecture, part bar night, part "wait, i didn't know i cared about this." you leave smarter than you came, with a few new people in your phone. speaker and location coming soon

last call lectures

last call lectures

Tue, Sep 15·7:00 PM CDT

Chicago

Chicago, IL, USA

last call lectures is our recurring series where we bring in someone who knows a lot about something interesting (a professor, a researcher, a practitioner, an obsessive) and let them give the talk they've always wanted to give. the kind of lecture you'd actually want to stay awake for. each night follows the same rhythm: arrive, grab a drink, settle in. one expert takes the floor for about 45 minutes on a topic worth your evening. then 4 discussion questions, each being given 15 minutes, with a final q and a with the professor at the end. it's part lecture, part bar night, part "wait, i didn't know i cared about this." you leave smarter than you came, with a few new people in your phone. speaker and location coming soon

last call lectures

last call lectures

Tue, Sep 22·7:00 PM CDT

Chicago

Chicago, IL, USA

last call lectures is our recurring series where we bring in someone who knows a lot about something interesting (a professor, a researcher, a practitioner, an obsessive) and let them give the talk they've always wanted to give. the kind of lecture you'd actually want to stay awake for. each night follows the same rhythm: arrive, grab a drink, settle in. one expert takes the floor for about 45 minutes on a topic worth your evening. then 4 discussion questions, each being given 15 minutes, with a final q and a with the professor at the end. it's part lecture, part bar night, part "wait, i didn't know i cared about this." you leave smarter than you came, with a few new people in your phone. speaker and location coming soon

salsa before sunset

salsa before sunset

Thu, Sep 24·6:30 PM CDT

Castaways Beach Club

1603 N Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

salsa, the beach, and the best skyline view in the city. 21+ we're taking over castaways on north avenue beach for a night of salsa dancing right as the sun dips behind the city. the night opens with a beginner-friendly lesson, so whether you're a seasoned dancer or you've never moved to a beat in your life, you'll be on the floor in no time. then the dj takes over with the best of salsa, bachata, and latin hits while the sky lights up over lake michigan. come solo, bring your crew, or show up ready to meet someone new. no partner needed. no experience necessary. just bring an open mind and shoes you can spin in.

last call lectures

last call lectures

Tue, Sep 29·7:00 PM CDT

Chicago

Chicago, IL, USA

last call lectures is our recurring series where we bring in someone who knows a lot about something interesting (a professor, a researcher, a practitioner, an obsessive) and let them give the talk they've always wanted to give. the kind of lecture you'd actually want to stay awake for. each night follows the same rhythm: arrive, grab a drink, settle in. one expert takes the floor for about 45 minutes on a topic worth your evening. then 4 discussion questions, each being given 15 minutes, with a final q and a with the professor at the end. it's part lecture, part bar night, part "wait, i didn't know i cared about this." you leave smarter than you came, with a few new people in your phone. speaker and location coming soon

last call lectures

last call lectures

Tue, Oct 6·7:00 PM CDT

Chicago

Chicago, IL, USA

last call lectures is our recurring series where we bring in someone who knows a lot about something interesting (a professor, a researcher, a practitioner, an obsessive) and let them give the talk they've always wanted to give. the kind of lecture you'd actually want to stay awake for. each night follows the same rhythm: arrive, grab a drink, settle in. one expert takes the floor for about 45 minutes on a topic worth your evening. then 4 discussion questions, each being given 15 minutes, with a final q and a with the professor at the end. it's part lecture, part bar night, part "wait, i didn't know i cared about this." you leave smarter than you came, with a few new people in your phone. speaker and location coming soon

yeah, you're
coming

your future self is already thanking you