Picnic + Concert: Hommage à Buena Vista

How to find us: here is my real-time location. Remember that I won't be at the picnic location until 6:15pm. If all else fails, DM me(Geoff)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/mJtdFBuvJBvEgVUm7

Sunshine, snacks, and salsa vibes — what more could you want? 🌞🧺

Join us for a big, feel-good pot-luck summer picnic where you can lounge on the grass, meet new people, and share good food and conversation under the open sky. After the picnic, we’ll stroll over to the nearby bar La Petite Marche for a live concert, a vibrant tribute to the legendary Buena Vista Social Club. Expect infectious rhythms, irresistible energy, and maybe even a little dancing. Come for the picnic, stay for the music, and leave with new friends and great memories.

La Petite Marche
Enjoy our Italian, French, and Canadian dishes, paired with microbrewery and craft beers. Every day from 5 p.m. to midnight, come enjoy free jazz, world music, folk, funk, spoken word, and festive Latin shows. Our warm and attentive team awaits you for memorable moments.
https://www.lapetitemarche.ca/

Concert: Hommage à Buena Vista (avec Yordan & The Cuban Martinez Show)
An intimate and authentic experience! A tribute to Buena Vista Social Club and Cuban Music, led by Cuban trombonist Yordan Martinez. Along with the talented musicians of The Cuban Martinez Show orchestra, we're preparing a musical experience that blends all the greatest Cuban and Latin hits, in an energizing, spontaneous, and rhythmic wave! On stage, they are elegant, energetic, and committed to providing you with a unique Cuban evening.
Tickets: $21.95
Purchase link: https://lepointdevente.com/billets/bvsc12072025

The Program

Intro Game: Find Your People
Kick off the night with a fun, fast-paced game designed to spark real connections. The host will call out different hobbies, interests, or fun facts and if one speaks to you, you’ll join a mini-group with others who feel the same. You’ll have a few minutes to chat, laugh, and connect before the next round starts. It’s an easy, low-pressure way to break the ice and discover who shares your love of travel, true crime podcasts, rock climbing… or whatever makes you tick.

Opening
We'll take a few moments for our host to welcome everyone and introduce the event.

Picnic, Meet and Mingle
Relax, grab a bite, and enjoy the sunshine! For the next 90 minutes, it’s all about good vibes, great conversations, and soaking up the picnic atmosphere. Whether you're catching up with friends or meeting new ones, this is your time to mingle, laugh, and enjoy the summer day together.

Concert
For those who purchase tickets, we'll walk over to the nearby La Petite Marche for the Hommage à Buena Vista concert.

Friending Tips

1. Show Up — Even If It Feels a Bit Awkward
Friendship begins with presence. Say yes to the event, join the game, show up for the convo. Even if you're nervous or a little tired, just being there puts you in the right place for connection to happen.

2. Be Curious, Not Just Interesting
Ask real questions — not just “what do you do?” People light up when they talk about their passions, weird hobbies, or favorite TV villains. Listen with curiosity, and don’t forget to share a bit about yourself too. A great conversation is a two-way street, not a TED Talk.

3. Help Others Feel Welcome
Lots of people come solo or with one friend, so keep your conversation circle open and inclusive. Invite others in, introduce people to each other, and make the space feel warm. When you help others connect, good energy comes right back to you.

4. Take “No” Like a Pro
If you vibe with someone and want to keep in touch — awesome! But if they’re not feeling it or don’t want to share contact info, that’s totally okay. A gracious “no problem at all!” keeps the event safe, fun, and drama-free for everyone.

5. Have Fun, No Pressure
You might not meet your new best friend (or soulmate) tonight — and that’s fine. Enjoy the moment, have great conversations, and know that just by showing up and having fun, you’re building the kind of energy that leads to real friendships over time.

FAQs

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring food or drinks for yourself or to share. Bring a blanket, towel or folding chair to sit on. We will supply plates, napkins and cutlery.

Is this event bilingual?
This event is open to people of all languages. Facilitation will be mainly in English with French translation if needed.

Is this a singles event?
This event is open to everyone: singles, people in relationships, and those just here to meet new friends. If you're open to romantic connections, that's totally fine — just approach others with kindness and respect. Everyone’s here for good conversation and good vibes, so please be mindful of boundaries and make sure everyone feels comfortable.

What kind of people attend these events?
Our community is full of fun, friendly, and curious young adults (typically 20s and 30s) who want to meet new people and try something different from the usual scene. Everyone's welcome — solo, in pairs, or with friends.

Can I come alone?
Absolutely! Many people attend solo, and our events are designed to make it easy to connect. You won't be left standing awkwardly in the corner — we’ve got games and icebreakers to help get things going.

Is there a dress code?
No strict dress code — just aim for neat, casual, and venue-appropriate. Basically: wear something you feel confident and comfortable in.

Will there be games or structured activities?
Yes! Most events start with a light, optional game or activity designed to help you meet people in a low-pressure way. After that, it’s free-flowing social time.

What if I'm shy or introverted?
You are not alone — and you're totally welcome. We create a warm, low-pressure environment where everyone feels included. You can join the games or just chat at your own pace.

Is this LGBTQ+ friendly?
Yes — all identities are welcome. We aim to create a respectful, inclusive space where everyone feels safe and seen.

Do people actually make friends at these events?
Yes! Many attendees leave with new friends, group chats, or plans to meet up again. Of course, every experience is different, but the community is open and genuinely interested in connecting.

What if I have a bad interaction with someone?
Let the host know — we’re here to keep things safe, respectful, and fun. If someone crosses a boundary, we’ll address it discreetly and seriously.

Admission
Picnic is free, concert $21.95.

Latecomers
Latecomers are welcome but you will miss the fun games.

Inclusion
Hi Society is committed to creating a welcoming and safe space for everyone. We celebrate diversity across all ages, ethnicities, cultures, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities. If you have specific pronoun preferences or accessibility needs, please contact the event organizer—we want everyone to feel respected and supported.