Young people in the United States are increasingly participating in social meetups, seeking in-person connections amid a reported loneliness epidemic. Activities such as chess, birdwatching, and silent reading clubs are gaining popularity, reflecting a shift towards 'soft socializing' experiences where networking is not the primary focus. According to Eventbrite data, puzzle competitions have seen a 151% increase from August 2024 to July 2025, while mahjong events rose by 94% earlier this year compared to the previous year. Additionally, there is a trend towards finding romantic connections through events designed to foster interactions away from dating apps. These meetups can include trivia, crafts, and exercise, while platonic dinner parties with strangers are also becoming more common.
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Increase in Social Meetups Among Young People in the U.S.
A rise in social meetups among young people in the U.S. reflects a desire for in-person connections amid a loneliness epidemic. Activities such as chess, birdwatching, and silent reading clubs are becoming popular, with significant increases in related events reported. Additionally, there is a growing trend of organizing events aimed at fostering romantic connections outside of dating apps.
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Cole Robinson
Stuart Schuffman
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Birding, silent book club, Mahjong and more: America's meetup explosion
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Increase in Social Meetups Among Young People in the U.S.