Moving to a new country is not only about learning the language or finding an apartment, it also means adapting to a new social rhythm. In Argentina, social life isn’t merely a weekend activity; it’s an intrinsic way of life. From spontaneous get-togethers to late-night chats over mate, relationships here are personal, highly expressive, and deeply valued. Understanding the Argentine way to socialize will not only help you make friends faster! But also, it’ll help you truly feel at home. Whether you’re relocating to the warm heart of Buenos Aires or settling into the quieter pace of a smaller city, here’s how friendship and social life actually work in Argentina
Friends Are Like Family (And Family Is Everything)
In Argentina, friendships are characterized by their intimacy and loyalty. People are really warm and expressive with their close circle of friends, and once you become part of the group, you’re often considered part of that inner circle for life. It’s common for close friends to affectionately call each other hermano (brother) or hermana (sister), share long, heartfelt hugs, and maintain daily contact. Friendships here tend to be deep, rather than superficial. Argentines frequently maintain the same core friend group for decades, the individuals they grew up with or attended school alongside. That said, they are also remarkably open to forming new connections, particularly if you approach them with genuine friendliness and curiosity (Luppi, 2022).
How People Hang Out: Mate, Picadas, and Shared Time
One of the most effective and enjoyable ways to connect with Argentines is by simply hanging out. No strict plans or fancy dinners are typically required. Socializing here often revolves around sharing time
- Mate: Sharing this hot, herbal infusion isn’t merely about drinking; it’s a profound ritual of connection and companionship.
- Picadas: These are informal, shared platters featuring an assortment of salami, cured cheeses, olives, and crusty bread, being like Argentina’s rustic version of tapas. They are extremely common at relaxed get-togethers, especially as an appetizer before a late dinner.
Cenas at Home: Dinner parties hosted at home are extremely common and cherished social events. Guests often arrive 8 to 10 PM, sometimes even later, and typically bring something to share, such as a bottle of wine, empanadas, or a dessert (like helado or facturas). Spontaneity is an integral part of the culture; people might extend an invitation for something the very same day, or even just an hour before it’s set to begin.
Invitations: What to Expect (and What’s Expected)
Argentines are incredibly inviting and hospitable, but they also operate by certain unspoken rules when it comes to social interactions:
- Bring something: If you’re invited to someone’s house, it is expected to bring a small gift like a bottle of wine, a dessert, or even a bag of snacks.
- Don’t expect rigid schedules: If a dinner invitation says 9 PM, most people will typically arrive at 9:30 PM or even later. Being exactly on time can sometimes feel awkward or even make you appear anxious to your hosts.
Saying goodbye is an art form: The farewell ritual is as important as the greeting. You’ll usually kiss everyone on the cheek when you arrive, and then repeat this process with every individual when you leave, even if it’s a large group of ten or more people.
How to Make Friends as a Foreigner
If you’re new in town and eager to make friends, you’re in a fortunate position! Argentines are inherently curious about newcomers, especially if you demonstrate an open mind and a willingness to engage with local customs. Try these approaches:
- Say yes to every invitation: Even if it’s last-minute, seems vague, or doesn’t fit your usual plans, accepting invites is key to building connections.
- Go to intercambios (language exchanges): These events, often held in relaxed café or bar settings, are excellent for meeting both locals eager to practice English and fellow foreigners.
- Join online communities: Actively participate in Facebook or WhatsApp groups specifically for expats and locals in Argentina.
- Attend local events: Immerse yourself in the local scene by attending concerts, political debates, art shows, or neighborhood festivals
Don’t be afraid to message someone: Even if you’ve just met them, it’s common and accepted to send a message simply to suggest hanging out. That’s how friendships organically grow here. You don’t need to speak perfect Spanish to make friends, you just need a genuine smile, a sincere interest in local culture, and the patience to allow connections to develop naturally
Group Dynamics: The Social Circle Model
A person’s high school or university friend group usually remains a core social unit throughout their adult life. If you’re invited to one of these gatherings, understand that you’re entering a significant and central part of someone’s personal life. Group chats are an essential tool for coordination and connection. Most friends manage plans, share jokes, and even provide emotional support through WhatsApp. If you are added to a group chat, whether it’s dedicated to fútbol, a birthday celebration, or an asado invitation, consider it a clear sign that you are being welcomed into the inner circle. Once you’re in, expect to:
Be tagged in countless memes.
- Be regularly asked about your plans for Friday night.
- Receive reminders about everyone’s birthday.
- Get flooded with messages at seemingly random hours of the day. If you’re accustomed to more individual-based friendships
This intense group dynamic may initially feel overwhelming. However, in Argentina, you often don’t just make one friend; you frequently join an entire social circle.
Final Thoughts: Relationships Are the Real Wealth
In Argentina, friendship is not background noise; it is unequivocally the heartbeat of daily life. People genuinely make time for each other. They stay in touch consistently. They listen intently. And they laugh—a lot. If you’re moving here, internalize this fundamental truth: You’re not just relocating to a new geographical country. You’re entering a vibrant culture that profoundly values human connection above mere convenience. And if you show up with kindness, genuine curiosity, and a willingness to learn—socially, Argentina will give you more than you could have possibly imagined. Because here, the best things in life aren’t bought—they’re shared.
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