Is this a date???

While I was very recently hanging out with a group of my co-workers and their friends I met a guy there(he’s a friend of a co-worker).

He and I got along pretty well and had quite a bit in common and spent a decent portion of the time hanging out and chatting with each other. The next day, he asked me if I’d like to go out and get some drinks(via a dm on social media) but in a very casual manner.

Question 1: If you were in my shoes would you consider this a date or could this still be in the grey area of “hanging out” ?

Question 2: Is it better to ask directly or take cues from how the evening goes to determine the answer to question 1?

Note: this person and I got along pretty well and I don’t want to make assumptions that could ruin something before it starts. Sorry for the essay lol . Have a nice day and thanks for anyone who takes the time to help me out(it’s very much appreciated)