Expat Events in Cyprus You Don’t Want to Miss: Building Connections and Making New Friends

Chantal Perez

February 3, 2025

5 min. Estimated reading

Discover top expat events in Cyprus to build connections, embrace local culture, and make new friends across the island.

Living as an expat in Cyprus can be an exciting adventure, but it can also come with its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles many expats face is building a social network and making new friends. Fortunately, Cyprus offers a wide range of expat events that are perfect for meeting new people and creating meaningful connections. Whether you’re in Nicosia, Limassol, or Paphos, these expat events in Cyprus provide an excellent opportunity to bond with like-minded individuals and settle into your new home.

Why Expat Events in Cyprus Are So Valuable

For anyone relocating to Cyprus, especially those coming from different cultures, finding a community is essential for feeling at home. Expat events in Cyprus are more than just social gatherings; they are opportunities to discover local culture, explore hidden gems, and learn from fellow expats who have walked the path before you. They provide a unique setting where you can exchange experiences and gain insights into what life on this Mediterranean island really feels like. Cyprus is a welcoming place, and its expat community is diverse and thriving. By participating in expat events in Cyprus, you not only make new friends but also integrate into the local way of life faster. Here are some must-attend events and tips on building your social network.

Expat Networking Events in Cyprus

Sarah Jazz’s Club – Nicosia

If you’re a jazz lover and looking for a more intimate and musical experience, Sarah Jazz’s Club in Nicosia is the place to be. The club hosts regular live jazz performances and is a favorite spot for both locals and expats to unwind and enjoy some smooth tunes. It’s a fantastic place to meet fellow music enthusiasts, make connections in a cozy and vibrant setting, and experience Cyprus’ lively music scene.Visit Sarah Jazz’s Club: Sarah Jazz’s Club

Cultural Events at the Rialto Theatre – Limassol

If you enjoy art, performances, and community activities, the Rialto Theatre in Limassol offers various cultural events, including music, theatre, and dance performances, often featuring both local and international artists. It’s a fantastic venue for meeting other expats who share a love for culture and the arts. Check out the schedule: Rialto Theatre

Hugge Coworking Community Events – Paphos

The Hugge Community offers a series of welcoming and relaxed gatherings designed to foster deep, meaningful connections. In Paphos, Hugge hosts events like wellness retreats, creative workshops, and community meet-ups, all set in cozy, laid-back environments. Whether you’re looking for a shared meal, a casual hangout, or a unique experience, Hugge is all about creating a sense of belonging and community, making it one of the best ways to meet like-minded individuals in Cyprus. Discover more: Hugge Community Paphos

- Note: Hugge is a coworking space, and participation in some events may be limited to members. Be sure to check their membership options or contact them for details.

SOHO Coworking Cyprus Community

The SOHO Cyprus Community provides an open and collaborative space for expats to connect, share ideas, and foster both professional and personal relationships. With events that range from networking opportunities to creative workshops and social gatherings, SOHO is an ideal place for those looking to build a strong network. Located in Limassol, it is the perfect environment for people who want to embrace an entrepreneurial spirit while also integrating into the local expat scene. More info: SOHO Cyprus Community

- Note: SOHO is a coworking space, so some events may be exclusive to members. Contact them directly for membership and event participation details.

Meraki Market Cafe Coworking – Paphos

If you’re an expat looking to meet new people in a productive, yet casual setting, Meraki Market Cafe in Paphos offers a fantastic coworking space and networking event on saturdays. It’s perfect for freelancers, remote workers, or anyone looking to combine work with social interaction. The space hosts networking events, workshops, and communal gatherings, allowing you to connect with other expats and locals while staying productive. It’s an ideal place to work, collaborate, and build connections in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Learn more: Meraki Market Cafe Coworking

Paphos Expat Meet-Up Events

Paphos offers several casual gatherings throughout the year for expats to meet up and mingle. From beach days to hiking trips and picnics, these events are perfect for making new friends while exploring the natural beauty of the island. Joining a Paphos-based meet-up group ensures you’re constantly in the loop for upcoming activities and gatherings. More on this: Paphos Expat Meet-Ups

How to Build Your Expat Social Network

While attending expat events in Cyprus is a great start, building a lasting social network requires more effort. Here are some tips to help you expand your connections:

Join Local Groups and Clubs Expats in Cyprus often join clubs based on shared hobbies or interests. Whether you’re into running, hiking, or art, there’s always a group looking for new members. Websites like Meetup are an excellent way to find local groups and events that align with your passions.

Volunteer for a Cause One of the best ways to meet people while giving back to the community is by volunteering. Many local organizations look for expats to help with charity events, clean-up initiatives, and other community projects. It’s an effective way to meet like-minded people and forge deeper connections.

Attend Networking Events In larger cities like Paphos, Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca, you’ll find a plethora of networking events designed specifically for expats. These events are often business-focused, but they’re also great for expanding your social circle and making new friends in a professional setting.

Take Language Classes While English is widely spoken across Cyprus, learning some Greek or Turkish can be a great way to immerse yourself in local culture. Language classes are also an excellent opportunity to meet others who are in a similar position as you.

Tips for Making Friends in Cyprus

Be Open-Minded and Approachable: Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself at events, and be open to conversations with anyone. People will appreciate your friendly attitude.

Explore Outside Major Cities: Cyprus offers many hidden gems outside the major cities, like rural villages and smaller coastal towns, which often host their own expat events. Exploring these areas may lead to unexpected friendships.

Stay Active on Social Media: Many expat groups in Cyprus communicate through Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp. Stay connected with these platforms to stay updated on upcoming events.

Building your social network as an expat in Cyprus doesn’t have to be difficult. By participating in expat events in Cyprus, you open the door to endless opportunities for making friends, learning about local culture, and enjoying everything this beautiful island has to offer. Whether you’re attending food festivals, coffee meet-ups, or cultural events, Cyprus has plenty to offer for anyone looking to make lasting connections. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start building your community today!

FAQS

What types of expat events can I expect in Cyprus?

Cyprus offers a wide variety of expat events, including cultural festivals, live music performances, wellness retreats, coworking meetups, and social gatherings. Whether you’re into music, food, art, or professional networking, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to meet other expats and locals.

Do I need to be a member to attend events at coworking spaces like Hugge or SOHO?

Yes, both Hugge and SOHO Cyprus Community are coworking spaces, and some of their events may be exclusive to members. It’s a good idea to check their membership options or contact them directly to learn more about event access.

Are these events a good way to make new friends in Cyprus?

Absolutely! Expat events in Cyprus are designed to help newcomers integrate into the local culture and meet like-minded people. Whether you’re attending a social meetup, a creative workshop, or a networking event, it’s a great way to forge new connections.

Are expat events only for expats, or do locals attend as well?

Most expat events are open to both expats and locals. These events are a wonderful opportunity to engage with the local community, share experiences, and learn about the island’s culture while making new friends.

How do I find out about upcoming expat events in Cyprus?

You can stay updated by joining expat groups on social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, or by checking dedicated event platforms like Meetup. Many coworking spaces and cultural venues also share their upcoming events on their websites.

Are there events for specific interests, such as art or fitness?

Yes! Cyprus has a variety of specialized expat events based on interests such as art, fitness, music, food, and more. Whether you’re interested in yoga meetups or art exhibitions, there are events that cater to a range of hobbies.

Are there any online expat events or virtual meetups in Cyprus?

Yes, many expat groups in Cyprus organize online events or virtual meetups, especially for those who are working remotely or unable to attend in person. You can find virtual networking events, workshops, and social gatherings via platforms like Meetup or social media groups.

Do I need to speak Greek to attend expat events in Cyprus?

While Greek is the official language, most expat events in Cyprus are held in English, as the expat community is diverse and English is widely spoken. You can easily participate in events without knowing Greek, but learning a few phrases can help you connect more with locals!

Can I bring my family to expat events?

Many expat events in Cyprus are family-friendly, especially those focused on socializing, such as picnics or outdoor gatherings. Always check the event details, as some may be tailored for adults or professional networking.

Are there any age restrictions for expat events in Cyprus?

Most expat events in Cyprus are open to all ages, though certain events, such as those focused on professional networking or nightlife, may cater more to adults. Always check the event details to ensure it aligns with your interests and age group.