After years of swiping, streaming and socializing through screens, younger Americans may be rediscovering an old-fashioned pastime: leaving the house and spending time with other people.
Millennials and members of Generation Z are increasingly turning to in-person activities ranging from chess clubs and birdwatching groups to crafting sessions and book clubs, according to a report in Axios. The shift comes amid widespread concern about loneliness and social isolation, particularly among younger adults.
The trend includes what has been described as “soft socializing” — gatherings where people are together but aren’t necessarily expected to network or constantly interact. Eventbrite has reported growing interest in such experiences, which can include groups gathering simply to read silently in the same room.
Activities once viewed as solitary or sometimes dismissed as “grandma hobbies” are also finding younger audiences. Chess, birding, pottery and other crafts provide opportunities for people to get out of the house without the pressure of traditional parties or nightlife.
The desire for face-to-face interaction is also affecting dating.
After years dominated by dating apps, singles are increasingly attending events designed to create opportunities for people to meet naturally. So-called “meet-cute” gatherings can center on trivia contests, exercise, crafts and even PowerPoint presentations.
Dinner parties with groups of strangers are another growing option, giving singles a chance to meet potential romantic partners — or simply make new friends — without first matching on an app.
The attraction may be partly rooted in the low-pressure nature of the gatherings. Participants can concentrate on a shared activity rather than walking into a room with the explicit goal of making friends or finding a date.
For a generation accustomed to maintaining relationships through texts, direct messages and social media, the growing popularity of such gatherings suggests online connections may not be enough.
Source: Axios