Gay friends

Meetup – Activity-Based Platform to Meet New People

While not queer-exclusive, Meetup is a powerhouse for helping people forge new connections and meet new friends through shared activities, making it one of the premier friendship apps. With its emphasis on words, Lex becomes the ideal space to meet people who care about self-expression and emotional depth, leading to real life connections.

Why Lex is ideal to make friends:

- No photos, just words—prioritizing emotional new connection
- Safe space to meet new people in your local queer scene
- City-based feeds encourage friends online and offline

Perfect for: Creatives, activists, introverts, and those tired of the swipe culture.

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Don't be afraid to ask questions

It's natural to have questions, especially in the early days of a friendship when you’re just getting to know each other. Apps specifically designed for the LGBT community can help individuals find gay friends online who share their interests and values.

These platforms often feature groups, forums, and events that facilitate social interactions and help build connections.

Queer Spaces – Group Chats to Meet People and Build Community

A newer app focused entirely on LGBTQ+ users to meet like minded individuals, Queer Spaces stands out among friendship apps, offering themed group chats where you can forge new friendships, talk identity, share memes, or plan events within your neighborhood or even when adjusting to a new city.

This networking app functions partly as a community board and partly as a group text, providing affirmation and connecting you with others nearby.

Friender – Match by Interests to Make Friends

Friender flips the script by focusing on interests rather than appearance, positioning itself as one of the valuable friendship apps. Remember that everyone's journey is different, and it's not your place to judge or invalidate someone else's experience.

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Follow our tips and you'll be well on your way to building a diverse and supportive network of friends within the community. The tired old trope of The Gay Best Friend being a must-have accessory is well and truly over!

Where do I meet new LGBTQ+ Friends?

Now that you know how to make a great first impression, here are some ideas for where to go to meet your new BFF.

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The LGBT community is incredibly diverse, encompassing a wide range of identities and experiences. Connecting with LGBT friends not only helps in navigating life's ups and downs but also strengthens the broader community by fostering mutual respect and solidarity. Encouraging honest and open dialogue helps build trust and understanding between friends.

One of the hardest things to navigate in these blossoming friendships, however, is how platonic, or passionate, a friendship may become. Offering a supportive and non-judgmental space allows friends to share their struggles and feel heard.
Whether it's through active listening, offering advice, or simply being present, providing emotional support helps strengthen the bonds of friendship and fosters a deeper connection. Additionally, understanding and advocating for LGBTQ+ Student Rights can further show your commitment to supporting your friends in all aspects of their lives.

Practical Tips for Making LGBT Friends

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Explore New Social Activities

To find LGBT friends, it's important to step out of your comfort zone and engage in new social activities.

Social media platforms, dating apps, and dedicated friendship sites offer numerous opportunities to connect with others. Therapy can provide tools and strategies to manage anxiety and build confidence in social interactions. These activities provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals in a supportive environment.

How can I maintain my new LGBT friendships?

Staying in touch, planning regular hangouts, and being supportive are key to maintaining friendships.

Participating in these events helps break down social barriers and promotes a sense of community, making it easier to build lasting friendships.

Utilizing Online Communities and Friendship Apps

In today's digital age, it is easier than ever to meet gay friends online.

Avoid reducing someone to their sexual orientation or gender identity, and don't make assumptions about someone's behavior or preferences based on their identity.

Breaking the Bubble: Practical and New Approaches to Make Gay Friends and Build Lasting Gay Friendships

Why You Don’t Have (Gay) Friends

Making meaningful connections and friendships within the LGBTQ+ community often comes with unique challenges.

Here are some common reasons why gay men may struggle to make friends:

Relying too heavily on dating apps: While they can be great for hookups, they're not always conducive to forming friendships.

By being yourself and showing genuine interest in others, you create an inviting atmosphere that encourages potential friends to approach you. For instance, Lex offers a text-based approach for forging new connections, while bumble BFF can be utilized to meet friends platonically. Whether you're new to a city, fresh out of a breakup, or simply craving companionship, the right apps can help you meet new people, spark engaging conversations, and form lifelong friendships.
For instance, Lex provides a text-based social and dating app experience for queer individuals, while bumble bff, though not exclusively LGBTQ+, can be a useful tool for finding platonic connections.