a group of people standing around each other

Mix, Mingle & Play: A Friend-Matching Experience

Join us at Filled Cups' friend-matching event where you will join a group of curated potential friends and have fun getting to know them.

This successful monthly series has already connected more than 150 new friends since launching last November!

Friend-Matching Event Series

Adult life can become so busy that we may lose focus on our friendships. We want to help you find your tribe so you can thrive!

Mix, Mingle, and Play: A Friend-Matching Experience

Sunday, December 7 at 3:30pm (Check-in at 3:00pm)
The Urban District Market Charlotte
2315 North Davidson Street #300, Charlotte, NC 28205

Ages 21+ • 1.5 hours • Free parking • Refunds up to 1 day before

Finding your people in Charlotte shouldn't feel impossible – but when you're new to the city or working remotely, it really can.

That's why I created this friend-matching event, and honestly? I'm still amazed at how well it works. Since launching last November, I've watched complete strangers walk in nervously and leave exchanging numbers, making plans, and genuinely excited about their new connections.

Here's what makes this different: You're not randomly mingling and hoping for the best. Before the event, you'll fill out a quick pre-matching questionnaire (seriously, don't skip this!), and I'll thoughtfully place you with people who actually get you – who share your vibe, your sense of humor, your interests.

Then we bring everyone together for an afternoon of activities and icebreakers designed to make connecting feel natural and easy. No awkward small talk. No wondering if you'll click with anyone. Just genuine conversations with people who could become your go-to crew.

The results speak for themselves: Month after month, attendees leave with new friends, ongoing group chats, and actual plans on the calendar.

Spots are limited and this event consistently sells out. If you're tired of wishing you had more local friends, this is your chance.

Reserve Your Spot Now

Your future friends are already signed up – don't miss out on meeting them!

IMPORTANT: Complete the pre-matching questionnaire when you register so I can find your perfect friend group!

What past participants are saying about our events:

"We've had so much fun at these meetups. Making new friends in a new town can be challenging. These meet-ups make it easy! We encourage new residents as well as old timers to attend!"

"I was so surprised by what a great match my group was for me. Whatever process they're using to connect like-minded people with similar interests, it's working! "

"The Filled Cups event was a nice, casual, anxiety-free way to meet people and start new friendships!"

"This event was really fun and reduced the pressure of meeting new people. I will definitely attend again "

"I love the survey beforehand, and enjoyed the opportunity to mix and mingle beyond the tables/groups we were assigned to."

Mix, Mingle & Play: Event Guidelines

We're excited to have you join us. Here's what you need to know:

Social Guidelines

  • Come with an open mind - everyone here wants to make friends too!

  • Pay attention and ask follow-up questions. Respect varying comfort levels with personal disclosure

  • Exchange contact info if there's a mutual connection (and make plans to meet again!)

Event Rules

  • Arrive on time, take part in planned activities and follow staff directions

  • Treat all participants with respect

  • Moderate alcohol consumption only - no excessive drinking

  • No solicitation of any kind

Photography Notice

  • We will take photos and videos during the gathering. By participating, you allow us to use those images on our website and social media. If you have privacy concerns, please notify staff

Safety & Conduct

  • Safety is our top priority - alert staff of any concerns

  • Threatening or inappropriate conduct will be reported to authorities

  • Disruptive behavior will result in removal

Questions? Ask any staff member wearing Filled Cups T-shirts.


FAQs

1) Do I need to complete the pre-matching questionnaire in order to attend?

Yes! Otherwise you'll miss out on the special part of this process. We want you to feel the most comfortable in a group that is most likely to generate new friendships for you. The questionnaire only has 14 questions. Please fill it out when you reserve your ticket: https://forms.gle/msHpHfJeUDUVDKM

2) Is there food at the venue? Are there non-alcoholic options?

There are non-alcoholic options and there are several food stalls in the food hall as well as a bodega. NO outside food and drinks are allowed, so everyone will need to order from our food stalls. Here are the offerings: www.udmmilldistrict.com/stalls-1

3) What is the parking situation?

Urban District Market shares parking with Seoul Food - Mill District (421 E 26th St, Charlotte, NC). Closest light rail station is at 25th St. Guests can park there and walk through the courtyard to get to UDM. In case the lot is full, there is free parking on the streets and neighborhoods nearby.

4) What happens if the event is sold out?

You can choose to join the wait list. If others cancel, you'll be contacted to claim your ticket. You can also click "Stay Informed" above to be alerted about future events.

woman wearing yellow long-sleeved dress under white clouds and blue sky during daytime

"I was so nervous to attend but then was one of the last to leave 😅 this event was SO fun"

"I was so surprised by what a great match my group was for me. Whatever process they're using to connect like-minded people with similar interests, it's working!"

A few of the anonymous Testimonials submitted by prior friend-matching event participants:

"I was nervous about meeting new people—even though I love being outdoors—but the event turned out to be such a pleasant surprise! The icebreaker questions were fun and made conversations easy. I never felt bored, and it was a genuinely great experience from start to finish."

Past Friend-Match Events

Friend-Matching at the Urban District Market, Sunday October 5 at 3::30pm

We had 27 signups and 23 people attended. 4 groups. Seems some folks were staying behind after the event to continue hanging out.

Link to Facebook Album

Friend-Matching at the Urban District Market, Sunday August 10

We had 47 signups and 36 people attended. 5 groups. We held this one in the open area at UDM because it has more tables.

Link to Facebook Album

Friend-Matching at the Urban District Market, Sunday June 8

We had 51 signups and 22 people attended. 5 groups. Despite the lower than expected turnout, the folks who attended had a great time and made friends at this event.

Link to Facebook Album

Friend-Matching at the Urban District Market, Saturday May 10

We had 60 signups and 40 people attended. 6 groups and we held it at the open area in the food court.

Link to Facebook Album

Friend-Matching at the Urban District Market, Sunday March 16

We had 62 signups and 42 people attended. 6 groups and we held it at the open area in the food court.

Link to Facebook Album

The first 4 friend-matching events happened on thursday evenings over the winter of 2024 into 2025.

  • At Urban District Market, Thursday February 27 2025

  • At The Auto-Pour, Charlotte, Thursday January 16 2025

  • Resident Culture, Charlotte, Thursday December 12 2024

  • At The Auto-Pour, Charlotte, Thursday November 14 2024