Social Media Trend Drives Users from Dating Apps to Local Bars

The Rise of In-Person Flirting: A Digital Detox Trend

In today's digital age, our daily activities—from navigating with digital maps to completing online bank transfers—have become deeply ingrained in our routines. Even the age-old practice of flirting has transitioned to screens, leading to a shift in how connections are formed. Recently, a growing trend on social media indicates a potential return to traditional methods of meeting people.

Going Viral: The Call to Ditch Dating Apps

A video titled Sit at the Bar September went viral, featuring influencer Laurie Cooper advocating for users to delete their dating apps in favor of visiting local bars. The TikTok clip amassed over 415,000 views and garnered attention from major publications like The New York Times and The Washington Post.

A Seasonal Series of Social Engagements

This trend has evolved into a series, including Off the Apps October, Never at Home November, Do Something December, and Just Keep Going January. Laurie Cooper, a New York real-estate agent and nightlife enthusiast, describes herself on Instagram as “an icon, everybody knows who I am.” In her viral video, she offers recommendations for bars to explore in New York City.

Widespread Interest and Curiosity

The positive reception of Cooper's video has prompted requests from viewers for similar recommendations in cities like Los Angeles, Florida, Philadelphia, Boston, Baltimore, London, and Durham. Users on Reddit have posed questions regarding what to wear, whether to carry a book, how to initiate conversations, and the feasibility of this approach. The trend has resonated particularly with Millennials and Gen Z, challenging participants to utilize real-life flirting skills—abilities that many have neglected or lost due to dating apps.

Expert Insights on Face-to-Face Interaction

Jessica Carbino, a sociologist and former head of research at Tinder and Bumble, sees this trend as a socially acceptable way to encourage face-to-face interactions, which can feel daunting in contemporary society. She notes that traditional dating is often filled with disappointment; when individuals set out to achieve a specific outcome—like meeting someone—failure can lead to negativity. Apps, by contrast, allow users to track their progress, enabling them to assess their dating prospects quantitatively.

Embracing the Spontaneity of Human Connection

Despite, or perhaps because of, the unpredictability that comes with in-person flirting, Cooper emphasizes that true connections are found outside the confines of digital devices. “When you're on your phones, you're always looking for something new. But you're missing the best part, which is right in front of your eyes,” she asserts in another video. Her perspective contrasts with prevailing wellness trends that promote mindfulness and self-care, suggesting that individuals should embrace their desires and engage with social situations without hesitation.