Gen Z is all about nostalgia, which may be why there’s a new trend of embracing some classic "grandma hobbies." Thanks to social media and a desire for slower, more creative pastimes, here are some Boomer hobbies that are making a comeback:
- Crocheting: Edin Yarn Fest saw a 75% increase in crochet supplies sales between 2020 and 2022, with a big spike from the 18 to 34 age group.
- Scrapbooking: Gen Z is getting crafty with "junk journals" featuring photos, concert wristbands, ticket stubs, dried flowers, and more.
- Birdwatching: A U.S. Fish and Wildlife survey found that 30% of Americans are birdwatching. And all it takes is a pair of binoculars.
- Baking Bread: TikTok is full of young bakers showing off their homemade loaves.
- Letter writing: This one is surprising, but according to research by stamps.com, 48% of Gen Z send letters a couple times a month.
- Jigsaw puzzles: Puzzles are helping Gen Zers unplug and enjoy some screen-free, stress-relieving fun.
- Vinyl record collecting: Gen Zers are definitely embracing vinyl. According to a Vinyl Alliance report, 80% of Gen Z owns a record player, and 76% buy a new record at least once a month.
- Gardening: Gen Z is all about mindfulness and sustainability, which are big reasons they are getting into gardening.
- Reading and book clubs: #BookTok has led to a big boost in book clubs.