Where Did the Party Go? A Deep Dive Into Gen Z Partying
Past generations may have partied like there’s no tomorrow when they were in their 20s, but when it comes to Gen Z… it’s a bit different. Instead of going out, this young generation is more interested in staying in. For many under 27, there is no point to a classic party where the next morning feels like you got hit by a bus the night before. For the purpose-driven Gen Z, when asked about their nightlife habits, many answered honestly: they just aren’t going out.
But we decided to dig into the nuances of why and what that means.
The State of Gen Z Partying
The wild Friday night parties of the past are now relics in Katy Perry’s songs. Today, only 15% of Gen Z report that they party each weekend, and while 65% party ‘infrequently,’ when asked further questions, this only means a few times each year.
As more reports come out about the state of Gen Z partying, it becomes clear that from refusing to start tabs at bars, to preferring mocktails, Gen Z isn’t just ignoring what was once seen as a youthful rite of passage, they are actively staying away from it.
Why this shift? Not only has this generation seen the impact of alcohol consumption on their parents and older siblings, but they are also more focused on health than generations in the past. Many view traditional party culture as outdated, unproductive, or even unsafe. And with rising costs of living, partying often feels like an unnecessary expense.
Is Partying Still Cool to Gen Z?
Well, that honestly depends on who you ask. When we asked this question, our respondents broke down this way:
60% said they party based on the situation, and can find it cool or fun
30% said partying just isn’t cool anymore.
10% still embrace partying and view those who go out often as cool
This shift reflects Gen Z’s broader social ethos. Gen Z partying isn’t just about dancing or drinking; it’s about connection and alignment with personal values more than anything else.
So, Where Does Gen Z Party?
When Gen Z goes out to party, the choices are similar to past generations but slightly different. Bars and clubs still hold space, but are often frequented less. Instead, those in this generation who are able to drink are choosing to go to house parties or restaurants with friends since these venues often have a more low-pressure atmosphere and allow for people to talk on a deeper level. Gen Z partying is now much more about meaningful interactions instead of loud music and posturing.
Why Gen Z Isn’t Partying as Much
Now, as you scratch your head and wonder why Gen Z isn’t partying as much, we’re here to break it down. The answer isn’t as simple as you might want it to be. There are a myriad of reasons our Youthtellers told us to choose not to go out at night. Here were the top ones repeated again and again:
Too expensive – Drinks, Ubers, cover fees…it adds up fast
Prefer rest or productive time – Gen Z is the “productive party” generation
Low energy or interest – Many simply don’t find it fun
Safety concerns – Especially for femme-presenting individuals
Outgrown it – Some partied young and now feel “over it”
Lack of invites or close-knit crew – Without a lot of friends, some don’t want to go out
All of which point to one thing: Gen Z partying is shaped by self-awareness, economic realities, and a shifting definition of fun.
Friday and Saturday Nights, Rewritten
Now, instead of going out on Friday or Saturday nights, Gen Z is staying in. 43% are either spending the evening by themselves doing self-care rituals or spending time with their friends. 15% go on dates, 13% use the time to make extra cash at their work or through a side hustle, and 8% spend the time with their families.
Even when Gen Z spends the weekend socializing, they seem to choose environments that feel safe, nourishing, or productive. When Gen Z parties, it now has to fit into those values.
What Gen Z Is Teaching Us About the New Social Scene
In the past, there was a single definition of what a fun night meant: going out. Now, for younger generations, the definition can be many things. From concerts to sunset picnics or even making dinner with a friend, there’s no single definition of what you should be doing on weekend evenings. And when they do go out, the next morning, friends aren’t asking “how wild did it get?” they’re asking, “did you have fun?” So, yes, it seems Gen Z has stopped partying for now. But if they start going out again or begin to look for new scenes, the goal is for it to be intentional. And the brands that can give them that will see their popularity soar.