Once seen as hobbies of the Baby Boomer generation, activities like birdwatching, mahjong, and baking sourdough are experiencing a surprising resurgence among Gen Z, who are not only embracing these old-school pastimes but also reshaping them to fit modern lifestyles and values.
- Birdwatching surges over 1,000% among young Brits
- Mahjong clubs grow 4,000%, fueled by social gatherings
- Crocheting and baking become creative outlets and community hubs
What happened
Many hobbies once popular among Baby Boomers are gaining new traction with Generation Z, changing how these activities are perceived and practiced. Birdwatching, for instance, has become wildly popular among 16-to-29-year-olds in the UK, increasing by over 1,000% since 2018. This activity's low cost and easy access to nature make it especially appealing.
Similarly, mahjong—a traditional Chinese tile game that also attracted Jewish American women and housewives in the early 20th century—has seen interest explode by over 4,000% in the past year. Gen Zers are hosting mahjong parties with DJs and food, merging social experiences with classic gameplay.
Why it feels good
These revived hobbies offer a welcome break from screen time, fostering mindfulness and real-world connection. Birdwatching provides an outdoor retreat and a playful, social element with apps that gamify spotting birds, likening it to a live-action Pokémon experience. It’s also a platform for political and social clubs focused on inclusion and community causes.
Crocheting, which now mostly attracts 18-to-34-year-olds, and baking homemade sourdough bread provide slow, creative, and tactile outlets that counterbalance fast-paced digital life. Many young crafters and bakers turn these hobbies into small businesses, blending tradition with entrepreneurial spirit.
What to enjoy or watch next
Look out for more creative mashups of classic pastimes as Gen Z continues to blend old and new. 'Granny-core' events combining crochet, knitting, and mahjong are gaining momentum as intimate social gatherings. These meetups celebrate heritage crafts alongside music and food, attracting diverse crowds seeking connection and calm.
At the same time, expect innovations in hobby-related gear and fashion, such as custom mahjong sets tied to personal style. As these hobbies grow, so too does their ability to foster inclusive communities, offer mental health benefits, and revive slower, more grounded ways to enjoy free time.