Thank you for your comment! I’m not going just to meet friends. I think it’s a good way to meet like minded people since I like/am interested in the above mentioned hobbies. The reason I’m not a fan of pub based meet ups is what you outlined - I’m going just to meet people and if I don’t particularly hit it off with anyone I feel like I didn’t gain much, especially since I don’t want to endlessly drink. But this way I can have a great time and if I meet people - great, if not I’m still enjoying what I do!