How much time do you spend on your phone each day? The answer might surprise — or even shock — you. Research shows that the average American spends upwards of seven hours on their mobile device per day. A new movement is encouraging internet users to reclaim their time by going analog.
TikTokers are sharing their “analog bags” filled with crossword puzzles and other creative hobbies to help reduce their screen time. Others are using a device called Brick to physically block themselves from using certain apps on their phone. For larger groups, analog parties encourage guests to disconnect from devices and reconnect with one another.
Keep reading to learn how to plan an analog party that won’t even make you think about checking your phone.
What is an Analog Party
An analog party is a social gathering with one rule: no screens. Guests are invited to come hang out and connect without phones, TVs, or other digital entertainment.
Analog (adjective): not involving or relating to the use of computer technology.
Analog parties often center around a nostalgic activity like card games or crafting. They’re a great way to reconnect with friends and remember the good old days before the internet and iPhone. While analog parties are not necessarily new, Millennials and Gen Zers are intentionally rebranding these hangouts as digital-free activities.
How to Plan an Analog Party
For the most part, planning an analog party is similar to how you’d plan any other type of party. You still need guests, entertainment, and refreshments — but it’s all much more intentional.
Keep it small. Since the goal of an analog party is to connect with each other, it’s best to limit the party to a dozen or fewer guests.
Choose a theme. Every great party starts with a great theme. We rounded up a few of our analog favorites below.
Send invitations. While digital platforms like Partiful are great, we think a physical invite makes the perfect invitation for an analog party. If you have enough time, consider making your own invitation and mailing or handing them out in person. Encourage guests to call to RSVP instead of replying by text or email for the full effect.
Make a no phone zone. Provide a box or basket and encourage guests to leave their phones at the door. “Hang up the phone and hang out with your friends!”
Say no to Spotify. Parties and music go hand-in-hand. Instead of using a digital platform to play your favorite tunes, use a screen-free alternative to stay authentic to the analog theme. You can often find old record players and CD players at the thrift store if you don’t want to invest in something new.
Capture the moment. Purchase a few disposable cameras and invite guests to use them throughout the party instead of snapping photos on their phones. Then you can get the pictures developed and include a few in your thank you notes!
Analog Party Themes
The best analog party themes center around creativity, connection, and conversation.
Craft Party
- Grab some magazines for collages, vision boards, or junk journals. Who said you have to wait for January 1st to dream big?
- Make your own punch cards for self-care activities like workouts or new recipes.
- Bedazzle your favorite toiletries, books, or household items. Sparkles are having a moment, and we’re here for it.
- Turn your home into an art studio with an at-home paint and sip night.
Game Night
- Take it back to childhood with classic board games or try something new.
- Hop on the mahjong trend and learn how to play this centuries-old game.
- Turn your game night into a murder mystery with an interactive puzzle for everyone to solve.
Dinner Party
- Choose a cookbook and ask each guest to make a different recipe from it.
- Host an international dinner party and ask each guest to bring a dish from a different country. It’s a great way to learn about other cultures (and discover your new favorite meal).
- Pick one ingredient — like pickles — and have each guest bring a dish using that ingredient.
- Invite guests to dress up and live out their royal dreams with an English tea party. Bonus points if they bring some piping hot tea (gossip) to share with the group!
Why You Should Throw an Analog Party
If you’re tired of doomscrolling, you’re not alone. Society is more connected than it’s ever been, yet we feel lonelier than ever. An analog party can help you reclaim your time and your relationships. Have fun and make memories beyond your camera roll!
Rachel Kauffman is a Detroit-based content writer, bookworm, and cat mom to two feisty felines.
