Old-Fashioned Hobbies From the Boomer Era That Are Trending Again
People are rediscovering the joy of hobbies that once filled living rooms, garages, and front porches, long before the internet took over daily life. These activities feel grounding at a time when everything moves too fast. Younger generations are picking them up for the same reasons Boomers loved them: they’re hands-on, they slow the day down a little, and they offer a small break from the noise of constant notifications.
Yarn Crafts
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Crochet, knitting, macrame, and other yarn crafts are becoming increasingly popular because younger hobbyists enjoy creating pieces they can wear or decorate with. Yarn sales have increased as people seek calming projects that help reduce stress. Many hobbyists claim that the repetitive patterns help them focus, and the handmade sweaters, pillows, and bags are often shared online for inspiration and community support.
Vinyl Collecting
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Record shops have seen steady growth because listeners like the warm sound and physical connection that streaming can’t offer. Sales of new vinyl hit record highs in recent years, with younger buyers driving much of the demand. Flipping through crates at thrift stores and flea markets has become part of the experience.
Gardening
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Search data and plant shop sales indicate that younger adults are purchasing seeds, pots, soil, fertilizers, and other gardening supplies at rates significantly higher than a decade ago. People living in apartments are filling balconies with tomatoes and herbs, while others are building raised beds in small backyards.
Chess
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Chess exploded in popularity after “The Queen’s Gambit,” with online platforms reporting record signups and younger players joining clubs, buying boards, and attending in-person tournaments like Boomers once did. Libraries and cafes now host weekly chess nights, while social media streams gameplay tips and strategy lessons.
Fishing
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Young people are heading back to lakes and rivers, and outdoor gear brands have noticed the shift with rising rod-and-reel sales. Many say the calm of fishing is what draws them in. Time on the water slows the day down, and early mornings offer a rare chance to breathe fresh air without distractions.
Cooking From Scratch
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Young people are returning to home cooking in a more intentional way. Many bake their own bread or shape pasta dough because the process feels personal and grounding. Grocery reports show steady increases in flour, yeast, and canning supplies, which reflects how widespread the shift has become. A sourdough starter also appeals to beginners because it offers a small daily ritual and helps reduce food costs over time.
Woodworking
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More people are spending time in maker spaces where they can learn how to shape and join wood properly. Community workshops give beginners a place to work with real tools and try out simple projects. A finished cutting board or shelf feels rewarding because it comes from steady effort rather than a store purchase. The hobby also builds problem-solving skills since each step depends on precise measurement and careful planning.
Roller Skating
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Retro roller skating has exploded since 2020, driven by TikTok creators and younger skaters who revived quad-skating. Dance skating and outdoor rink culture were once hugely popular among Boomers in the 1960s and 1970s, and today’s resurgence mirrors that same carefree energy, with modern skaters sharing tutorials and choreography online.
Thrifting And Antiquing
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Resale shops and estate sales stay busy because shoppers want unique items that weren’t mass-produced. Vintage furniture, cast-iron pans, denim jackets, and Pyrex dishes are common finds in this era. Many buyers say they enjoy giving old items a second life, and the lower cost appeals to anyone trying to decorate a home without spending too much.