Expanding your social circle can be a bit daunting (see the dreaded and excessively discussed “Seattle Freeze“). And the more conventional way of connecting with others (e.g. bars) gets old.

We did a little digging and uncovered a host of local groups, clubs and beyond where mixing and mingling with your fellow humans is encouraged and may even lead to learning something completely new. Behold: Five ways, divided by interests, to make friends this year.

1. If you like classical music performed in intimate settings…

Consider Groupmuse, an online platform that connects up-and-coming classical musicians with local audiences via concert house parties. Host your own (it’s free to do so) in any space or sign up to attend one nearby; a quick search of the GM calendar reveals several shows around town with open slots. There is a $10 suggested donation from attendees, all of which goes to the musician, and most concerts are bring your own bev. Sign up for Groupmuse to attend a concert or enter your ZIP code to find one in your neck of the woods.

2. If you like live-action escape games with strangers…

Ninja Escape’s mision Hack Attack; photo courtesy of Ninja Escape

Then try Ninja Escape. How it works: You’re trapped in a room with four to 12 strangers. (Yes, you can do this with friends, but isn’t your objective to meet new people?) You and your fellow ninjas have entered the office of Eugene Hancock, a rogue member of your client’s arch nemesis the Kracken. He has stolen billions of dollars from your client and you have one hour to discover the funds. Your only hope of escape and finding the money is to work together to solve the puzzles meticulously placed about the room by the evil mastermind.

This live-action escape room game in Fremont enables gamers to choose one of two missions (the above mission is called Hack Attack), and armed with only the power of deduction and your wits, work with your teammates to complete the task in the one hour time limit. Can you take the pressure and escape before time runs out? Whether you succeed or not, you and your new ninja buddies will, no doubt, want to toast your puzzle-solving prowess with a couple of post-game drinks.

3. If you like drinking wine…

Members at the 12th Annual Rose’ Revival and Cool Wines; Photo courtesy of Uncorked via Facebook

Join Seattle Uncorked. This social group, launched in 2001 by sommelier David LeClaire (former wine director at the Alexis Hotel), is known as the “unpretentious wine club” and is intended for wine lovers to meet, sip and mingle with fellow vino enthusiasts in the Seattle area. Sign up for a free membership and get privy to a number of wine-focused events, including wine walks, wine classes, the sixth annual Cabernet Classic and tasting events galore, plus discounts from local stores, wine bars and wineries.

4. If you’re a young opera lover…

McCaw Hall, where the Seattle Opera performs; Photo: Dave Nakayama via Flickr

Become a Seattle Opera Bravo! club member. Founded in 1996, Bravo is the Seattle Opera’s young professionals group for arts lovers between the ages of 21 and 39. Expect membership perks such as a 50 percent discount on opera tickets, access to special intermission lounges (with free wine!) during Bravo night performances and social events aplenty, such as season kickoff parties and soirees dedicated solely to new members.

5. If you like to stay active…

Seattle Running Club members; photo courtesy of the Seattle Running Club

Get moving with the Seattle Running Club. The Seattle Running Club is a local club for running newbies and veterans alike that will help you reach your potential via training, competition and community.

Not only will you meet other avid runners, but you’ll also nab discounts at local businesses such as Flying Lion Brewing, The Balanced Athlete and Fleet Feet Sports, and on club-organized races and events, including the Cougar Mountain Trail Series and the White River 50 Mile Endurance Run.