Finland: Popularity of Nightclubs Declining
The latest leisure survey by Statistics Finland shows popularity for nightclubs is decreasing in the country.
In the 1990s and 2000s, about half the respondents said they visited nightclubs. In 2017, this number had reduced to 1 in every 4 people. This is a 20% reduction of people younger 65 years going to nightclubs between 2002 and 2017.
On the other hand, restaurant visits have increased and music clubs are becoming more popular.
According to Mikko Lagerspetz, professor of sociology at the Turku Academy, one reason for the change is widespread use of social media. Nightclubs used to serve as places for people to meet but social media use has made it easier for people to stay in touch and also plan meetings.
Another aspect is maintaining the digital image. As Annika Tuomi, a PhD student in sociology at the Turku Academy, says consuming alcohol and going to nightclubs is not considered “cool” anymore. People and especially youth are more oriented to live healthier lifestyles. Therefore, nightclubs do not fit into the new social norms.
Other reasons are that there are more restaurants open longer for people to meet in more tranquil settings. Loud noise in nightclubs does not allow much for social connection the same way restaurants do.