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Upcoming Speed Dating Events in Philadelphia

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Speed Dating Social Events In Philadelphia

Looking for love in Philadelphia? Speed Dating Social has got you covered with our exhilarating events that’ll have your heart racing faster than Rocky up those museum steps. Imagine this: you’re in the heart of Center City, where the bustling nightlife of Walnut Street sets the perfect backdrop for an evening of romantic possibilities. Hop on the Market-Frankford Line (aka the “El”) to 15th Street Station, and you’re just a stone’s throw away from our most popular venues.

As you step into the vibrant atmosphere, you’ll be swept up in the pre-event mingle, a chance to loosen those nerves before the main event kicks off at 7 pm sharp. Our signature format gives you 12 mini-dates, each a thrilling 5-minute whirlwind of getting to know someone new. Don’t worry about keeping track – our cutting-edge Matching App 4.0 has got your back. Just scan in, select ‘Match’ or ‘Friend’ for each person you meet, and let the magic happen. At 9 pm, as the night winds down, you’ll be buzzing with excitement, knowing that come 8 am the next day, your matches will be revealed.

Wondering what to wear? Philly’s all about that smart-casual vibe. Swing by Anthropologie on Rittenhouse Square for an outfit that’ll make you stand out in all the right ways. And remember, you’re not just meeting singles from Center City – expect to mingle with hotties from neighboring Rittenhouse Square and Old City too.

When it comes to conversation starters, why not chat about the iconic Liberty Bell? Suggest grabbing a coffee nearby for date number two – it’s the perfect way to keep that spark alive. And don’t stress about age – we’ve got events for everyone from sprightly 20-somethings to seasoned 70-year-old romantics. We’re inclusive too, with specialized events for our LGBTQ+, Christian, and Asian communities.

Ready to dive in? Snag your ticket on Eventbrite and get ready for a night that could change your love life forever. Trust us, it beats swiping on Tinder any day of the week.

Our Venues

The Continental Mid-town on 18th and Chestnut, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a retro-chic paradise. This Stephen Starr gem, built in 1995 on the site of a former department store, boasts a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for breaking the ice. The rooftop lounge, complete with playful swinging basket chairs, offers a relaxed setting for pre-event mingling. 

Inside, the sleek martini bar serves up liquid courage in the form of their signature Astronaut – a Tang-rimmed vodka concoction that’s sure to spark conversation. The open layout and eclectic decor provide plenty of visual cues to keep the chat flowing during your mini-dates. Pro tip: Arrive early to snag a spot by the floor-to-ceiling windows – the city views make for a great talking point.

Monk’s Café tucked away on 16th Street, is a Belgian beer lover’s dream come true. This cozy tavern, established in 1997, was once a humble corner bar before owners Tom Peters and Fergus Carey transformed it into a mecca for craft beer enthusiasts. The intimate setting, with its dark wood interiors and vintage beer signage, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for getting to know your dates. The extensive beer menu, featuring over 300 bottles and rotating taps, provides an excellent icebreaker – why not challenge your date to a Belgian beer tasting? 

The small tables encourage leaning in close, while the soft lighting adds a touch of romance to your mini-dates. Don’t miss out on their famous Monk’s Burger, a delicious shared experience that could be the start of something special. Remember, a little liquid courage can go a long way, but pace yourself – you want to remember all those charming conversations!

Parc, nestled on the corner of Rittenhouse Square, is a slice of Paris in the heart of Philadelphia. This Stephen Starr brasserie, opened in 2008, occupies a space that was once a high-end furniture store. The transformation is nothing short of magical, with its authentic Parisian decor transporting you and your dates to the City of Love. The wrap-around outdoor seating area offers a prime people-watching spot, perfect for breaking the ice with your mini-dates. 

Inside, the zinc bar and antique mirrors create a romantic ambiance that’s hard to resist. Order a classic French 75 cocktail to set the mood, and let the charming atmosphere work its magic. The bustling energy of the restaurant mirrors the excitement of speed dating, while the sophisticated setting elevates the entire experience. Pro tip: If you hit it off with someone, suggest a follow-up date here for a full French dining experience – it’s a surefire way to keep the romance alive.

What To Expect At Our Events

Get ready for a whirlwind evening of romance and excitement! As you arrive, you’ll receive your name card and scan the QR code to access our state-of-the-art Matching App 4.0. This digital wingman lets you see a list of all attendees, making it easier to remember those sparkling eyes or that killer smile. After some casual mingling at the bar to calm those butterflies, ladies take their seats while our hosts guide the gents through rotations every 5 minutes. It’s like musical chairs, but with potential soulmates!

As you chat, simply tap ‘Match’ or ‘Friend’ on your phone for each person you meet. The best part? You’ll wake up to your matches’ contact details at 8 am the next day – talk about breakfast of champions! With 12 five-minute mini-dates between 7 and 9 pm, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to find that special someone. Feeling tongue-tied? No worries! We’ve got ice breaker games during intermission and conversation cards to keep the banter flowing.

With 40 attendees (20 guys and 20 ladies), the odds are ever in your favor. Trust us, the equal ratio beats the skewed numbers on dating apps any day. Speaking of which, forget the endless swiping on Tinder or the lengthy questionnaires on eHarmony – our events let you gauge that all-important chemistry in person. It’s like comparing a gourmet Philly cheesesteak to a fast-food burger – there’s simply no contest!

Speed Dating Social

Founded by the matchmaking maestro Darcy Todd in 2020, Speed Dating Social has been playing Cupid for Philadelphians ever since. With over 787 events under our belt and more than 37,423 singles introduced, we’re basically the Kevin Bacon of the dating world – connecting everyone within six degrees of separation!

We always ensure an equal ratio of men to women, because let’s face it, nobody wants to be the odd one out in this game of romantic musical chairs. Snag an early bird ticket for just $29.90, or if you’re a last-minute lover, grab one for $34.90. And remember, there are no refunds within 30 days of an event – we’re not in the business of breaking hearts! Got questions? Hit us up at matches@speeddatingsocial.com. We’re like your fairy godmother, but instead of turning pumpkins into carriages, we’re turning singles into couples!

Who You'll Meet

Prepare to mingle with a diverse crowd that’ll make the United Nations jealous! You might find yourself chatting with a high-flying lawyer from Rittenhouse Square, a single parent from Fairmount juggling work and family, or a grad student from University City pulling all-nighters (and not just for studying). Our events are a melting pot of Philly’s finest – from young professionals in their roaring 20s to mature singles in their fabulous 50s and beyond.

You’ll encounter speed dating veterans who can charm the socks off anyone in 5 minutes flat, and adorable newbies whose nervous energy is more endearing than a box of kittens. The beauty of our events is the mix – you might start the night thinking you’re into craft beer-loving hipsters and end up falling for a corporate type with a hidden passion for rock climbing.

And it’s not just Center City folks – expect to meet interesting singles from neighboring areas like Old City and Northern Liberties. Who knows? Your perfect match might be just a SEPTA ride away! The best part? Everyone’s here for the same reason – to make a genuine connection. So whether you’re a divorced dad, a career-focused 30-something, or a silver fox looking for love, you’ll find your tribe here.

Pro tip: Keep an open mind and chat with everyone, even if they’re not your usual “type”. You might surprise yourself! And if you’re a single parent worried about childcare, check out Bright Horizons in Center City. They offer evening care, so you can focus on finding your own happily ever after while the kids are in good hands. For a family-friendly follow-up date, why not suggest Smith Memorial Playground in Fairmount Park? It’s the perfect spot for kids to play while you get to know each other better.

Post Event Philadelphia Date Night Ideas

Spruce Street Harbor Park: This urban beach oasis along the Delaware River is the perfect spot to continue your connection after a speed dating event. With colorful hammocks strung between trees, floating gardens, and twinkling lights, it’s like stepping into a romantic fairy tale. 

Challenge your date to a game of giant Jenga or chess, or simply stroll hand-in-hand along the waterfront. For an extra touch of magic, time your visit with the sunset – the golden hour glow on the water is guaranteed to make sparks fly. Pro tip: Grab some local craft beers and snacks from the food trucks to create your own impromptu picnic. It’s a great way to keep the conversation flowing in a relaxed setting.

Philadelphia Magic Gardens: For a truly unique follow-up date, whisk your new flame away to this enchanting mosaic art environment on South Street. Created by artist Isaiah Zagar, this labyrinthine wonderland of colorful tiles, mirrors, and found objects is like stepping into a dream. As you wander through the indoor galleries and outdoor sculpture garden, you’ll find endless conversation starters in the intricate designs and hidden messages. 

The whimsical atmosphere is perfect for bringing out your playful side and creating shared moments of wonder. To make your date extra special, try visiting during one of their evening events – the gardens take on a magical glow under the moonlight. Remember to bring a camera – the countless photo opportunities here are not just Instagram-worthy, but also great for creating lasting memories of your budding romance.

Success Stories 💑

Many have already found love

“I would like to let you know that last month,

I attended one of your speed dating nights in Hardware Lane and met the most beautiful girl. We connected and you sent our numbers to us.
We met up again the next day and have been on many dates and have spoken every day, for hours It’s been 6 weeks + and going strong.
Just wanted to let you know of one of your success stories. The future looks bright.
We recommend your speed dating nights to every single person we speak to. It was so much fun. Thank you.”

“I just wanted to let you know…

That I won’t been attending your next event. I had already purchased the ticket earlier… I attended the last event and had a wonderful time… after I worked up the courage to actually walk in…
I was so nervous and almost didn’t go in but I am really glad I did I have made a connection with a great guy and am looking forward to pursuing that and seeing how we go.

So thank you for all the effort in putting these events together… don’t worry about giving me a refund on the ticket, maybe you can give that to someone that rocks up on the night without a ticket as I know how hard They are to get. thanks so much again.”

“When I went to my first speed dating event, I had zero expectations

– less than zero actually.
But yup, when I walked into that bar, I saw him and went all nervous.
I wouldn’t say our first conversation was scintillating. I don’t even remember what small talk we made – maybe our jobs.
At the end of the event, I saw him sitting alone and asked whether I could sit next to him. He said he wanted to see me again and I said the same.
We are now happily and exclusively together. If I have any advice to give anyone, it would be to give speed dating a try. I was lucky to have found my person the first time around. But I had been online dating for a year with no success.
We are now happily and exclusively together. If I have any advice to give anyone, it would be to give speed dating a try. I was lucky to have found my person the first time around. But I had been online dating for a year with no success.

You may not find someone the first time or the 10th time, but at least these guys take the trouble to show up and put their best foot forward. They are making the effort which is more than I can say for some people on online dating sites – and that’s not even counting the sleazeballs.
– a happy attendee”

How It Works

Ever wanted to try or wondered how a speed dating event works? It’s easy, just follow these 6 steps:

Book A Ticket

Simply book a ticket through our website or Eventbrite to secure your spot

Hosts Greet You

Turn up and be greeted by friendly hosts who help scan you into our matching portal

Get Your Own Table

Be assigned your own table where you can comfortably mingle one on one

Enjoy 12 Fun Mini Dates

Be rotated every 5 minutes and enjoy 12 fast 5minute dates

Tick Yes To Anyone On Your Phone

Anonymously tick yes on anyone you like from your phone

Matches Sent The Next Day

Receive your matches and contact details of everyone who selects you the next day

Frequently Asked Questions

Dress to impress, but keep it Philly-casual! Think smart-casual attire that shows off your personality without going overboard. Guys, a nice button-down shirt and well-fitted jeans or chinos will do the trick. Ladies, a cute cocktail dress or stylish top with trendy pants works wonders. For a pre-event shopping spree, hit up Anthropologie on Rittenhouse Square. Their unique, bohemian-chic pieces will help you stand out in all the right ways. Remember, confidence is the best accessory, so wear something that makes you feel like a million bucks!

When in Rome – or in this case, Philly – do as the locals do! Start with the basics: your job, hobbies, and favorite spots in the city. Then, spice things up by chatting about the iconic Reading Terminal Market. Ask if they’ve tried the famous DiNic’s roast pork sandwich or if they have a favorite vendor. This can lead to discussions about food preferences, cooking skills, or even set up a potential second date exploring the market together. Pro tip: Mentioning your love for Philly sports teams (go Eagles!) can instantly create a bond or spark a playful debate.

ooking for love in the gayborhood? You’re in luck! Woody’s, the iconic LGBTQIA+ bar on 13th Street, hosts fabulous queer speed dating events. This legendary establishment, opened in 1980, boasts two unique features: a dance floor that’s seen more action than a Pride parade, and a rooftop bar perfect for post-event mingling. The inclusive atmosphere makes it a hit with everyone from lesbian lovebirds to trans trendsetter s and genderqueer guests. Whether you’re bi, pan, or still figuring it out, Woody’s welcomes all with open arms and strong drinks. It’s where connections happen faster than you can say “yaaas queen!”

Flex those dating muscles at our fitness-focused speed dating events! To establish a mutual interest, chat about City Fitness on Market Street. Mention their state-of-the-art equipment or fun group classes – it’s a great way to gauge if your date is as passionate about health as you are. If sparks fly, suggest a workout date or a jog along the Schuylkill River Trail. Nothing says “relationship goals” like crushing a couple’s workout together!

Absolutely! Many of our events are held at pet-friendly venues like The Sidecar Bar & Grille. To sniff out fellow animal enthusiasts, casually mention your furry friend or ask if they have pets. For a paw-some second date, suggest a trip to Rittenhouse Square Dog Park. Picture this: you, your date, and your four-legged wingmen frolicking in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect opportunity to see if your potential partner can handle puppy love!

Put your best face forward by visiting Anju Threads on Walnut Street. Ask for their “Date Night Glow” package – a combination of threading, facial, and light makeup application that’ll have you looking fresh and fabulous. Remember, the key is to enhance your natural beauty, not mask it. A little self-care goes a long way in boosting your confidence, which is the most attractive quality of all!

Philly’s bustling with activities for every interest! During speed dating, mention your involvement in the Philadelphia Sports Leagues. Whether you’re into kickball, dodgeball, or cornhole, it’s a great way to connect with active singles who share your competitive spirit. If you hit it off, invite your date to join your team or cheer you on at your next game. Nothing says “relationship goals” like a little friendly competition!

Our events typically draw around 40 attendees, with an equal split between men and women. You’ll meet singles from all over Philly, including neighboring areas like Rittenhouse Square and Old City. This diverse mix increases your chances of finding a compatible match who’s conveniently located. Who knows? Your soulmate might be just a SEPTA ride away!

Our Asian speed dating events are usually held at Dim Sum House by Jane G’s on 36th Street. This trendy spot offers a modern twist on traditional Chinese cuisine – perfect for breaking the ice over shared plates of soup dumplings. We recommend trying their signature Peking duck pancakes – they’re a delicious conversation starter! Compared to apps like EastMeetEast, our events offer the advantage of instant chemistry checks and the opportunity to bond over authentic Asian cuisine. It’s like swiping right in real life, but with better food!

Our Christian speed dating events often take place at La Colombe Coffee Roasters in Fishtown, offering a relaxed, caffeine-fueled atmosphere for meaningful connections. Unlike Christian dating apps like Christian Mingle, these events allow you to gauge spiritual compatibility face-to-face. Conversations often revolve around faith journeys, favorite Bible verses, and church involvement. If you’re looking for a faith-filled follow-up date, suggest attending a service together at the historic Christ Church in Old City. It’s a beautiful way to explore your shared values and potentially start a beautiful, God-centered relationship.

Our over-40s speed dating events are typically held at The Dandelion, a charming British-inspired pub on 18th Street. These events attract a diverse crowd of professionals, divorcées, and never-married singles who know what they want in a partner. Many are looking for genuine connections, shared life experiences, and possibly a second chance at love. Beyond our events, check out the “Philly 40+ Singles Meetup” group for additional opportunities to mingle with mature singles who appreciate a good cheesesteak as much as a meaningful conversation.

For the young at heart, our over-50s events often unfold at Parc on Rittenhouse Square. This elegant French bistro provides a sophisticated backdrop for mature singles to connect. Attendees are typically seeking companionship, shared interests, and possibly a travel partner for their next adventure. Many find these events more fulfilling than apps like OurTime, as they offer immediate chemistry checks and the chance to share a glass of wine while swapping life stories. Remember, it’s never too late to find love – or at least someone to explore Philly’s amazing restaurant scene with!

For a truly unforgettable evening, whisk your date away to Bok Bar, a rooftop wonder perched atop a former school building in South Philly. As you sip craft cocktails and nibble on local bites, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. The industrial-chic vibe and eclectic crowd create the perfect atmosphere for getting to know someone special. To make the most of your date, time your visit with sunset – the golden hour glow over the city is pure magic. Don’t forget to snap a couple selfies; they’ll make great profile pics for your “in a relationship” status update!