I don’t know whether or not im dating this girl, or just hanging out with her. Whats the difference?

I have been out with this guy a few times and one of my friends asked me if I was dating him. I didn’t know what to say. Me and this guy have always refered to it as “hanging out”. Is “hanging out” like a getting to know you stage, and “dating” is a little more serious? What’s the difference?

I am planning a dinner buffet and singles’ mingle at an elegant restaurants where I live. I thought it would be better having someone like a host/MC person to kinda move things along instead of jsut letting people sit on their butt for the whole evening.
I will greatly appreciate your help, Thanks