Gen Z Ditches Dating Apps for Hobby Events

Gen Z individuals are increasingly shifting their romantic pursuits away from traditional dating applications and towards in-person, hobby-based events, according to a recent study by the events marketplace Eventbrite. This trend indicates a desire to find partners through shared interests and activities, a departure from the digital-first approach previously dominant.

Eventbrite's research, which analyzed data from January to June 2025 and the same period in 2026, focused on events explicitly signaling meeting intent, such as those with "meet new people," "singles," or "mixer" in their titles or descriptions. The findings reveal a significant year-over-year increase in participation and the number of such events. Trivia nights experienced a remarkable surge of 403%, with notable popularity in Chicago, Boston, and Raleigh. Mahjong gatherings saw a 235% increase, while plant swaps and terrarium workshops grew by 117%. Pilates socials rose by 84%, and birdwatching meetups, a specific example highlighted in the study, increased by 131% in event numbers and 82% in attendance.

Andrea Parodi, Eventbrite's general manager, stated in a press release that the traditional separation between dating and hobbies is dissolving. Individuals are now initiating connections based on pre-existing passions or by exploring new pastimes, remaining open to the romantic potential that may arise. The analysis suggests that in an era of ubiquitous digital platforms and shared media, niche hobbies serve as a way for individuals to differentiate themselves. Participating in events like trivia nights or birdwatching walks inherently filters for curiosity and a sense of humor before any verbal interaction occurs.

This shift towards analog dating and hobby-centric socialising aligns with broader trends observed among Gen Z. It is widely acknowledged that this demographic has experienced burnout from the constant use of dating apps. The study implies that the curated and often superficial nature of online dating has led many Gen Zers to seek more authentic and organic ways to form connections. By engaging in activities they genuinely enjoy, individuals can present a more genuine version of themselves and connect with others who share similar values and interests, fostering relationships that are potentially more meaningful and sustainable. The data underscores a generational pivot towards prioritizing shared experiences and authentic interactions over digital matchmaking.