For decades, when the work day wrapped up in the office, you could count on at least a few coworkers meeting up for happy hour. There were drinks and discounted appetizers at their bar of choice and people would stop by for a little socializing and indulging before heading home for the night. While happy hour is still a thing, new research suggests it looks a little different these days.
A new survey of 2-thousand U.S. adults over 21 looks at how they’re defining, modernizing and still enjoying the old school tradition of happy hour. According to 60%, it’s no longer just going out for drinks after work. Now it’s a chance to relax and unwind (63%), destress (47%), and even celebrate everyday wins (35%).
- Friday is still the favorite day to have it for 63%, and respondents agree it shouldn’t end after one hour, but should last at least three.
- It turns out, a lot of folks don’t even want to have it at a bar or restaurant, as 32% prefer at-home happy hours now.
- Baby boomers are the only age group who would rather have it at another location than home (39%).
- But those who like at-home happy hours most enjoy hanging out in their backyard (41%, on the couch (38%) or on the porch (33%).
- So, what’s everyone drinking these days? Non-alcoholic drinks are the go-to for 60%, and 59% enjoy low-alcohol beverages.
- The most popular happy hour beverage preferences are cocktails (39%), beer (35%), soda (33%), wine (29%) and water (22%).
- As for who they want to go to happy hour with, friends top the list, followed by family, partners, and coworkers.
- But 26% of all respondents say the best happy hours are actually solo happy hours, and that jumps to 39% for Gen Z.
- Nearly half (47%) say a happy hour isn’t complete without spilling the tea, while others enjoy reminiscing (37%) and of course, complaining a little about work (27%).
Source: Talker
Scott's Thoughts:
- Is an at-home happy hour with water to drink really even a happy hour at all?
- I remember going to street parties and happy hour after work. Now I just want to go home. Or maybe home then dinner occasionally.
- It costs too much now.