Vice and Sammi Caramela recently published a feature on ‘Soft Clubbing’. Don’t worry, I didn’t know what it was either. Soft clubbing flips the script on nightlife. Instead of forcing yourself into a haze of exhaustion (and questionable cocktails), it’s about fueling your body while still socializing. Think coffee clubbing, morning dance parties, or even sauna raves.
According to Eventbrite, the rise in ‘soft clubbing’ reflects several cultural shifts:
- Creating safer, more accessible ways to gather.
- Moving away from alcohol and drug-centered experiences.
- Recognizing economic realities by opting for more affordable outings.
- Prioritizing authentic connections through immersive art, music, and entertainment.
The numbers back it up: Coffee Clubbing events are up 478%, sauna raves have jumped 256%, and morning dance parties have grown 20%. Clearly, people are craving nightlife that feels energizing—not depleting.
So why is soft clubbing taking off? Because more people are realizing that fun doesn’t have to mean pushing your body to its breaking point. Socializing doesn’t need to come with hangovers, regrets, or 3 a.m. fast-food binges (I still like these).
Instead, younger generations—especially Gen Z—are redefining nightlife to focus on intention, connection, and joy. As Roseli Ilano, Eventbrite’s Head of Community & Trends, puts it:
“This movement isn’t about giving something up—it’s about choosing more. More presence, more intention, more joy. Gen Z is redefining what it means to go out, and they’re turning to experiences that nourish the body and soul as much as they entertain.”
Soft clubbing feels like the perfect middle ground. You can be with your friends, dancing, and making memories—but also love waking up the next morning without feeling like you’ve been hit by a bus.
