On a summer evening in Sacramento, California, a group of 18 women gathered at Alma Wine Bar for a social event aimed at fostering new friendships and community connections. Organized by Carly Grider, founder of Girls Night Out Sacramento, the meetup offered wine, casual board games, and an opportunity for participants—many of whom were strangers—to build relationships. Grider launched the group in February 2025 after finding it challenging to meet new people during her initial years in the city.
Across Sacramento, a growing number of women-focused social clubs have emerged in recent years, offering varied activities such as group walks, craft classes, karaoke nights, and wellness events. These groups typically cater to women seeking to expand their social circles and find support networks, especially in adulthood when making friends can be more difficult.
Grider emphasizes the importance of connection for well-being, describing loneliness as one of life’s significant challenges. Her efforts reflect a broader trend highlighted by other local organizers. For example, Magali Peralta Hernandez started the Sacramento Walk Club in early 2026 after experiencing unemployment and isolation. The club meets twice weekly for walks, providing participants with regular social interactions, while also aiding Peralta Hernandez in regaining personal stability, including securing new employment shortly after launching the group.
Similarly, Madison Torres created Just Us Girls Sac, focusing on affordable events such as pilates in the park and seasonal outings like pumpkin carving and Christmas lights walks. Torres keeps costs low and offers financial assistance to ensure accessibility, stressing that financial barriers should not prevent women from joining. She attributes the club’s development to her desire to foster community without imposing burdensome expenses.
Other organizers have also reported success. Geneva Williams started For the Girls Sacramento after a personal loss led her to question identity beyond traditional social roles. Her group hosts wellness-focused gatherings often featuring women-owned businesses, attracting a growing membership, particularly among older women. Another group launched by Peralta Hernandez is Girlie Afters, a nightlife-focused social club for women aged 21 and over.
These various groups often share resources and express mutual respect, united by a collective mission to support and empower women in the Sacramento region. Grider noted the benefits of having numerous options available, reflecting diverse interests and needs. Events frequently draw new attendees, many of whom come alone and leave with new friendships.
Participants like Andrea Gerkus, attending her first Girls Night Out event after years of solitude, report positive experiences, while regulars such as Shelby Brendle actively engage newcomers to foster inclusivity. For many women, these gatherings provide not only social interaction but also a sense of belonging and community continuity.
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram play a crucial role in promoting these groups, helping them reach wider audiences. Organizers underscore the growing empowerment of women to shape their social lives creatively and on their own terms, illustrating an ongoing cultural shift toward intentional community-building in adulthood.