For decades, nightlife and alcohol were inseparable. Bars, clubs, and parties often revolved around the next round of shots or the coldest beer in the fridge. That culture is shifting. Today’s younger generations are redefining what it means to socialize, with many choosing wellness over whiskey and connection over cocktails.

A recent Gallup poll found that only 50 percent of adults under 35 drink alcohol at all. That is down from 59 percent just two years ago and 72 percent twenty years ago. Even among those who do drink, their habits have changed. Marathon nights of heavy drinking are less common, replaced by moderation, alcohol-free options, and “soft clubbing” events that focus on music and ambiance rather than alcohol consumption.

“I only do it on occasions, once in a while,” said Charles Friedl, a Wisconsin resident. “It gives me a lot more free time, a lot more energy.” His experience reflects a broader pattern seen across the country. From Green Bay to Los Angeles, bartenders and event organizers are noticing a steady decline in alcohol sales and a growing interest in non-alcoholic beverages.

Health and image play a large part in this change. Many young adults are more focused on fitness, mental well-being, and productivity. Others are aware of how easily a single night out can live online forever. In an era of constant documentation, staying in control is a form of self-protection.

The shift also reflects a change in what socializing means. Many prefer meeting friends for coffee, attending wellness events, or gathering at home rather than heading to bars. Those who still enjoy nightlife often seek alternatives such as alcohol-free pop-ups, kombucha bars, or “sober curious” parties that maintain the energy of a night out without the alcohol.

Even drinkers are choosing differently. Classic beer brands like Miller High Life and Pabst Blue Ribbon are being replaced by lighter, trendier options such as hard seltzers and low-calorie cocktails. The focus is less on excess and more on balance.

This shift is forcing the hospitality industry to adapt. In Green Bay and Oshkosh, cities long known for their tavern culture, bar owners are adding mocktails, non-alcoholic beers, and alternative entertainment to keep younger customers engaged.

Some see this as the decline of a once-vibrant drinking culture. Others view it as an evolution. The growing popularity of health-conscious socializing may inspire a new generation of venues and experiences that bring people together in more mindful ways.

Whether driven by wellness goals, social media caution, or shifting values, today’s young adults are proving that a good time no longer requires a hangover the next morning.

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Yvon Lux is the editor of her Apple News channel covering lifestyle news and current events. When she’s not busy writing about impactful brands and standout products, she and her husband can be found snuggling with their emotionally needy, perpetually sleepy golden retriever, or she’s chipping away at her Juris Doctor. Connect with her on Instagram and subscribe to her Apple News channel.