Looking for social events in Zurich? Discover 10 top meetups, festivals, and gatherings to connect with expats, locals, and young professionals in Switzerland’s most vibrant city.
Zurich might be known for banking, punctual trams, and a high quality of life — but when it comes to meeting new people, the city also has a thriving social scene that’s open, dynamic, and full of surprises.
Whether you’ve just landed in Switzerland or have been here for a while and want to expand your social circle, this curated list of social events in Zurich (Veranstaltungen Zürich Leute kennenlernen) is for you.
From expat-friendly meetups to legendary street parties — here are the top 10 events and gatherings where real connections are made.
📍Various venues across Zurich
🗓️ Weekly
City Mates hosts regular social events designed specifically for newcomers, young professionals, and expats who want to meet people offline — no awkward small talk, just chill, quality gatherings.
🎯 Formats include:
💡 Perfect if you’re new in town and looking for an inclusive, low-pressure atmosphere.
📍Kennedy’s Pub or similar central venues
🗓️ Every Wednesday
This casual Meetup Zürich classic brings together locals and internationals for language swapping — but it’s really about making friends.
🗣️ No need to speak multiple languages — just come curious!
📍The Alehouse, Nelson Pub, The Lion Pub
🗓️ Weekly (check local listings)
What better way to bond than over obscure trivia, drinks, and a bit of team spirit?
🍺 Mix of locals and expats
🎁 Often small prizes (and guaranteed laughs)
💡 Great for groups or showing up solo — teams are often formed on the spot.
📍Around Lake Zurich
🗓️ August (annual)
The world’s largest techno parade isn’t just for dancing — it’s a high-energy event where spontaneous conversations and unforgettable connections happen every minute.
🎉 Tip: Join one of the pre-parade meetups via Facebook or City Mates to go with a crew.
📍City-wide
🗓️ Every 3 years (next: 2026)
Zurich’s biggest public celebration, with fireworks, food stalls, and concerts — millions attend, but you’ll find friendly faces on every corner.
🎆 Local tip: Go in the late afternoon with a blanket and snacks. People naturally mingle on the lakeside lawns.
📍Impact Hub, Kraftwerk, Trust Square
🗓️ Monthly or bi-weekly
Zurich is a growing startup hub. Whether you’re into fintech, AI, UX or blockchain — there’s a meetup for that.
👥 Who you’ll meet: entrepreneurs, digital nomads, ambitious locals
🌍 Most events are English-friendly
📍Spielkultur Café, Brasserie Lorraine, On-site at City Mates events
🗓️ Weekly
From Settlers of Catan to Codenames – board game events bring out the social side in everyone.
🎲 Perfect if you prefer structured interaction and a reason to chat.
📍Kanzlei Club, ComedyHaus, Kosmos
🗓️ Bi-weekly to monthly
These events mix creativity with community. Whether you’re performing or just watching, it’s easy to strike up conversations in these friendly atmospheres.
🎤 Especially popular with international crowds and creatives.
📍Various locations (check Internations, Facebook)
🗓️ Monthly
Organized by expat communities in Zurich, these events cater to those navigating Swiss life, from tax tips to hiking groups.
💼 Great mix of professionals, remote workers, and curious locals
💬 Often topic-focused, but casual
📍Uetliberg, Lake Zurich, Mythenquai
🗓️ All year round
Zurich’s natural surroundings make it easy to meet people outdoors.
🏃 Join:
🧘♀️ Also try rooftop yoga sessions or SUP (stand-up paddle) meetups in summer!
Zurich might seem polished and reserved on the surface — but scratch that surface and you’ll find a warm, social, and open community of locals and internationals alike.
From Meetup Zürich events to City Mates gatherings, the key to making connections is simple: show up, stay curious, and say hello.
👉 Ready to join your first social event in Zurich? Discover what’s happening this week on City Mates.
