This Is Where Millennials and Gen-Z Are Really Forming New Friendships

      Social media has fundamentally transformed how we engage with the world. It has affected our dating lives, career paths, entertainment preferences, learning experiences, and how we maintain relationships. As someone who grew up in the digital age, I initially resisted this shift, longing for a return to the “good old days”—the times when our lives weren’t so dominated by our phones. This pushback stemmed from a focus on the negative consequences, like the loneliness epidemic and widespread phone addiction. However, after reflecting more objectively on these changes, I recognized that social media offers numerous benefits—one prominent advantage being its capacity to connect us.

      Since Facebook first launched, we have developed online identities, tailored our interests, and formed connections with like-minded individuals. Platforms such as X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have fulfilled our inherent need for connection for over a decade. Yet, it is becoming increasingly evident that we yearn for something deeper. We desire to connect with others beyond the digital realm. Fortunately, a simple solution has emerged: Fourth spaces.

      Termed by Eventbrite, “fourth spaces” are specially designed environments where individuals can gather in real life based on shared passions and interests cultivated online. Essentially, they serve to bridge our two worlds, making their rising popularity and impact on genuine friendships unsurprising. Below, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fourth spaces, from their role in redefining relationships to guidance on how to find or create one.

      What are fourth spaces?

      As defined by Eventbrite, fourth spaces are “gathering places that transcend physical location,” primarily intended to unite individuals through shared interests while linking online communities to real-world connections. In contrast to “third places”—commonly visited public spots that aren’t home, work, or school (like your favorite coffee shop)—fourth spaces emphasize the purpose of the gathering rather than its location.

      Fourth spaces manifest as events or meetups, such as in-person workouts for an online fitness group or watch parties for a shared fandom. Rather than merely engaging in online comments, these spaces allow you to pursue your interests offline and connect with like-minded individuals in real life. Consequently, Eventbrite observes that fourth spaces are assisting Gen-Z and Millennials in fostering a sense of belonging and “bringing their whole selves into the physical world.”

      Why we need fourth spaces

      In a society where we can effortlessly scroll and connect with others via shared interests or swipe to find new relationships, we have become accustomed to establishing connections at our fingertips. However, Eventbrite notes that this method is becoming less satisfying. A recent study indicated that 95 percent of individuals aged 18 to 35 are eager to explore their online interests and communities through in-person events, primarily motivated by the desire to make new friends.

      This strong desire for real connections is hardly surprising. Amid an ongoing loneliness crisis, we currently face unprecedented levels of social isolation. The adverse effects of this isolation have been palpable, and it’s clear that we all seek a change.

      “Fourth spaces are reshaping how we connect, discover our interests and identities, and cultivate community.”

      Rather than keeping online interactions solely online, fourth spaces represent the next step in relationship development. Whether it’s through a bi-weekly club gathering to discuss the latest book or a monthly meetup at a local park for artistic endeavors, fourth spaces are redefining how we connect, delve into our interests and identities, and forge community ties.

      How to integrate a fourth space into your life

      Prioritizing fourth spaces can be highly rewarding—think of it as an adult field trip, akin to joining an extracurricular activity. Here are some suggestions on how to discover a fourth space and leverage it for meaningful connections.

      Identify your existing interests

      A key element of a fourth space is the passions and interests it centers around. Are you looking to improve fitness? Learn a new skill? Create art? Analyze and critique reality TV? A quick way to pinpoint your interests is to assess the themes that frequently appear in your social media feed. What consistently appears on your For You Page? What commonalities exist among the accounts you follow? Reflect on the online spaces where you engage most and consider which communities you’d like to explore further.

      Research to locate existing fourth spaces

      Once you have determined your interests, use this insight to look for potential fourth spaces. Explore social media, Google, and platforms like Eventbrite or Geneva for meetups and clubs in your area. Additionally, check out local shops to discover the types of events they host. For instance, your nearby bookstore might hold a book club, or your craft store may organize themed craft nights.

      If your interests are niche, such as a specific fandom, search for watch parties or gaming events. Or, if you’re part of an at-home fitness community, look for information on their upcoming in-person gatherings through their social channels. These events may not occur regularly, but they provide opportunities to meet new people, exchange contact information, and socialize beyond official gatherings.

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