Gen Z trades booze for Chicago's soft clubbing scene
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
A recent daytime coffee clubbing event in Chicago. Photo: Courtesy of harley.wav
As Gen Zers move away from alcohol-centric events, a new —quieter — type of partying is on the rise.
The big picture: The "soft clubbing" trend features quieter, less chaotic and earlier events, such as dance parties at coffee shops or wellness-based activities like meditation and yoga, giving 20-somethings a more authentic way to connect with their peers and meet new people.
Driving the news: Younger folks are on to something. The majority of Americans say drinking in moderation (one or two drinks a day) is bad for one's health, according to a recent Gallup poll.
- The percentage of adults under 35 who reported drinking fell from 59% to 50% since 2023.
Zoom out: Research and health organization guidance on safe alcohol consumption has evolved in recent years.
- The World Health Organization announced in 2023 that there is no safe amount of alcohol consumption that does not affect health, and the CDC warns that drinking in moderation may "increase your overall risks of death and chronic disease."
Between the lines: For Gen Z and younger generations who have spent their lives online, the idea of meeting people in real life, organically, is novel and exciting, according to Eventbrite, the global events marketplace.
What's next: The local group Chicago AF features alcohol-free events around Chicago, and is hosting an afternoon speed dating event Saturday at Avondale Coffee Club.