Welcome back to our series “DC Dating Off the Apps.” (Find our first installment here!) ICYMI, I’m deleting the apps and sacrificing myself as a social experiment to try D.C.’s in-person dating options so that you don’t have to. I know, heroic. This time, we’re headed to the dart boards to see if cupid’s arrow dart hits its mark.
The Set Up
After doing some aggressive self-affirmations in my bathroom mirror, I biked down to Flight Club in Mt. Vernon Triangle for a “Dates & Darts” social hosted by Peared IRL. After checking in, I went to the bar for my free drink and to look up the rules of darts on my phone. Soon we were broken into four groups of about 10 people each for some darts. We played, switching groups occasionally, then were given free reign to mingle.
What Worked
Well, apparently I’m an absolute ace at darts. So, that was a pleasant surprise. But putting the dopamine rush of beating a bunch of strangers aside, this event had a lot going for it. The game-play structure kept awkwardness at bay while still allowing plenty of time to flirt with your teammates, or better yet, your rivals 😈
It drew a more interesting and diverse crowd than the speed dating event I attended (and not nearly as many quarter-zips, thank god). The balance of ages and genders was perfect and I loved that I wasn't limited in who I could talk to. One of the best parts of the night was chatting with the other women, making friends, and embracing the cringe together.
It was also a great deal. For $20 I got a drink, two hours of dart games, and the benefit of curated groups and icebreakers.
Another darts ringer! (Photo credit @filmbyxiao)
What Didn’t Work
At first, I was having flashbacks to the first day of summer camp, where you’re trying to differentiate yourself among a large group dynamic — something I was never great at (potentially because I refused to look up from my copy of “Percy Jackson”). But with two drinks in the bag and everyone in awe of my dart throwing prowess, my shyness was quickly forgotten.
The larger issue for me was how to follow up with people I liked. Unless you download the organizer’s app, you have to do things the old fashioned way — go up and ask for someone's number. This led to a few awkward instances of people I wasn't interested in asking for my number, or having to chase someone down (an introvert’s nightmare).
‼️ The Results
Well well well, I know you doubted, but I did end up meeting someone interesting and we are planning a date for this week (fingers crossed they’re not reading this 🙏). It could be a disaster, but regardless, I would consider this experiment a success!
TLDR: It was fun! I would attend another Peared event. They have a singles night at the Phillips Collection I want to try. In general, the activity-based dating events are a win-win. Even if you don't make a romantic connection, you can still make friends, drink, and crush at darts.
The Final Scores:
- Ease/Organization: ⭐⭐⭐
- Fun ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Romantic potential ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Cost ($15 early bird or $20, includes drink and darts) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
