Some good suggestions here. I made a bunch of new friends last year by cooking (as Molly suggested earlier). I started having vegan potlucks usually every other week. I can't think of a much better way for people to be relaxed than good food, and music. It just puts everyone in a good mood. I suggest getting with an acquaintance of yours and tell them you wanna hold a potluck and for them to tell some friends. You'll be meeting new people in no time.
Also as rygar suggested eye contact and a smile (showing teeth even) can really put people in a good mood. Just try it with complete strangers in a grocery store and see how people respond.
Don't wait for things to happen, make things happen! (gets pom poms out)