What’s replacing dating apps for Gen Z? Last week, The New York Times touted that Gen Z is picking “hobbyamory” over dating—but others argue the two don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Eventbrite data shows hobby events with the labels “meet new people,” “singles,” or “mixer,” are up significantly year-over-year: trivia (402% increase), mahjong (235% increase), plant swaps (117% increase), and birdwatching (131% increase) are among the hottest. This is at the same time that dating app fatigue is driving platforms to focus on events over swiping, together showing a gen looking for “an analog kind of love.” (A.k.a. the classic meet-cute through some intentional event attendance.) Plus, the benefit of using hobby groups to mingle is that they know right off the bat there’s common interest or shared curiosity, which could lead to friends or more. And even if it doesn’t, they’re feeling personally fulfilled. (Fast Company)
👀 Read more from YPulse: Are Twentysomethings Over Dating?
