Dating in 2025 can feel very different and new. On one hand, you have an endless list of dating apps where swiping left or right has practically become muscle memory. And on the other hand, there’s a quiet resurgence of something more authentic and human: speed dating.
You might be wondering if it’s still a thing. In a time where convenience and instant responses have become the norm, going back to the basics and putting effort into socializing and interacting in real life might feel “outdated.”
But speed dating is, in fact, pretty active even today.
Dating App Burnout
By now, most of us have thumbs that have traveled more and farther than we have, whether by scrolling on social media or scrolling on dating apps. The novelty of these apps has started to wear off as more and more instances of catfishing, dry texting, and scams surface.
Algorithms are supposed to help us find “compatible matches,” but what they often serve is a mix of ghosting and features locked behind paywalls.
So, what happens when people get fed up with curated bios and filtered photos? They start looking for ways to connect in real life again. They go back to how people found their special ones before these apps existed. And that’s where speed dating sneaks back into the picture.
What Is Speed Dating in 2025?
This year has seen a rise in speed dating popularity, surprisingly among the Gen Z crowd as well. It’s an event where singles gather at a venue and go on a series of mini-dates, usually lasting a few minutes, with multiple people.
It might seem intimidating to people who have become used to digital communication and online friendships, but it is a more authentic and real way of building connections. And while apps also offer filtering by location, attending an event in your city with your city folks just feels different.
So, if you’re in Chicago, consider going to an event focused on speed dating in Chicago area for a fun evening.
Is It Really Better Than Dating Apps?
Nothing is perfect. Speed dating isn’t going to guarantee you find your soulmate in five minutes. But it does have a few advantages over dating apps. It’s the reason why speed dating is still very much a thing in 2025.
You get real-time chemistry checks instead of curated bios, actual social interaction instead of text-based misunderstandings, and a lower rate of ghosting. But you don’t really need to choose one over the other. Diversify your options, and use both.
What works for others might not work for you.
Should You Try Speed Dating?
If you’re wondering whether speed dating is right for you, that’s something only you can answer. But here’s a quick checklist to help you make this decision:
- You’re tired of dating apps.
- You want to meet people in real life.
- You’re open to genuine conversations.
If you checked all three boxes, maybe you should give it a try and see for yourself what the hype is all about.
