In fact, according to global trends, Gen Z’s are increasingly “sober curious” mostly for health reasons. This group either doesn’t drink at all or opts for mocktails, and they long for inclusive and safe spaces that cater to their lifestyle choices.
Another regular, Shantel Lim, highlighted that the good thing about Culture’s parties is that “you don’t really need a lot of alcohol to enjoy themed nights”. The 24-year-old used to club thrice a week on average pre-pandemic, but her experiences tended to be “toxic and tiring” and she usually ended the night wasted.
“Club is, like, die die must have alcohol. So Culture is great for people who don’t want to drink. I really don’t want to drink anymore,” she added.
After being “super done” with conventional clubs pre-pandemic, Shantel fell in love with Culture’s WhoHurtYou parties about two years ago. She didn’t have to worry about being touched or groped on the dance floor, nor that people would approach her with a “hidden agenda”.
She also appreciated that there were “no fights or physical altercations, because no one is touching someone else’s female friend inappropriately”, and candidly admitted that she wouldn’t want a “normal” clubber to attend Culture’s events.
“Everybody’s just there for the wholesome vibes. It’s just hardcore fans who like the music. Even though everybody’s different, it creates this bond,” she said.
Sure enough, Shahrin recalled being drawn to Nelly’s carefree abandon on the dance floor, despite not personally knowing her fellow Culture regular.
“Nelly was just dancing like she didn’t care about the people around her. That is something that you see a lot at Culture events. Everybody just dances to their heart’s desire,” she said. “Nobody cares whether you’re dancing weird. Anything, anyone is welcome.”
