General:
* Chat
* Conversation
* Discussion
* Dialogue
* Banter
* Small talk
* Chit-chat
* Gabfest (informal and slightly humorous)
* Jawing (informal and often used to describe casual conversation among friends)
More casual:
* Shoot the breeze
* Hang out
* Mingle
* Pal around
More specific:
* Gossiping (talk about other people's private lives)
* Ranting (expressing strong opinions passionately)
* Grumbling (complaining in a low voice)
* Whispering (speaking very softly)
The best word for you will depend on the specific situation and the tone you want to convey.