a group of people standing around each other

This month we'll explore Eastway Crossing

Join us at Filled Cups' first Explore Together event where you will join a group of new friends and have fun exploring some hidden gems in east Charlotte!

Explore Together Series

Do you ever want to try something out, or visit a new place, but didn't want to go alone? This series is for you.

Join us at Filled Cups' first Explore Together event where you will join a group of new friends and have fun exploring some hidden gems in east Charlotte!

Ready to break out of your routine and discover Charlotte's best-kept secrets? This isn't your typical social event—it's an adventure designed for curious souls who want to explore the unexpected while making genuine connections.

What to Expect: We'll kick off our exploration at Bart's Mart, then venture together through a curated collection of East Charlotte's most intriguing spots. Picture yourself browsing vintage treasures at the Used Book Store (with a fun literary scavenger hunt!), uncovering artistic gems at Upcycle Arts, and discovering creative magic at Visart Video. Each stop offers something delightfully different from the mainstream—perfect conversation starters and memory makers. After exploring, we'll reconvene at Bart's Mart or the cafe at Visart Video for a chill friendly chat over beverages.

Perfect for you if:

  • You're tired of the same old coffee shop meetups

  • You love stumbling upon places that feel like hidden treasures

  • You're genuinely excited to meet people who share your sense of adventure

  • You believe the best conversations happen when you're discovering something new together

What makes this special: No forced icebreakers or awkward name games. Just authentic connections forming naturally as we explore, laugh, and "ooh and ahh" over unexpected discoveries together. You'll leave with new favorite spots AND new friends who appreciate the joy of exploration.

The Details: 📅 Thursday, September 18 🕕 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (if you arrive later, look for our group at one of these businesses)📍 Meet at Bart's Mart 👥 Small group size for meaningful connections

Come curious, leave connected. Your next favorite local spot (and friend) is waiting!

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."

Mix, Mingle & Play - Friend-Matching

  • Urban District Market, Charlotte, Sunday August 10 2024

  • Urban District Market, Charlotte, Sunday June 8 2024

  • Urban District Market, Charlotte, Sunday May 10 2024

  • Urban District Market, Charlotte, Sunday Mach 16 2024

  • Urban District Market, Charlotte, Thursday February 27 2024

  • 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

Each event built upon the success of the prior one. The most recent event brought 40+ participants, including repeat guests :)

Folks showed up with an open heart and mind and joined groups based on their survey answers. Conversation flowed easily and casually. People had fun getting to know each other.

By the end of the event several tables were still going, having fun. They exchanged contact info and made plans to meet again. Success!!!

Past Friend-Match Events