The internet is joking that 2026 will be the year people abandon technology. While this trend is ironically discussed online, there’s a growing movement toward offline experiences, from “analog crafts” to immersive events like Renaissance fairs. The surge in interest raises a key question: are we genuinely seeking disconnection, or simply documenting it for social media?
The Rise of Analog in a Digital World
Searches for “analog crafts” at Michael’s have more than doubled in the last six months, signaling a tangible desire for non-digital hobbies. This trend extends beyond crafting, with events like phone-free cafes and immersive live newspapers gaining popularity. Sunday Papers Live in London, for example, hosts real-world discussions mirroring traditional newspaper sections. The Offline Club, operating in major European cities, enforces digital detox through phone-free social events.
The appeal is clear: people crave escape from constant screen time. George Appling, founder of Sherwood Forest Faire in Texas, points out that “spending their vacation time playing dress-up and swinging swords is a great antidote to that.”
Renaissance Fairs: A Surprisingly Young Phenomenon
Renaissance fairs—or “ren fairs”—offer a full-sensory escape to a pre-digital past. These pop-up theme parks let attendees dress as historical figures, participate in activities like jousting and falconry, and experience a world without instant communication.
The first US ren fair appeared in California in the 1960s, using blacklisted actors to create an immersive experience. Today, hundreds of ren fairs operate in the US alone, surpassing those in Europe, where actual castles exist. The Ohio Renaissance Festival recently had to cap attendance due to overwhelming demand.
Beyond Fairs: A Wider Movement
The shift isn’t limited to medieval reenactments. Unplugged offers digital detox weekends in remote cabins, while Hush Harbor in Washington, D.C., forces patrons to lock away their phones upon entry. Even a new generation is embracing older media: Gen Z shows growing interest in film photography, physical books, and vinyl records.
The Irony and the Future
The declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Analog” is itself a viral trend that keeps people scrolling. However, the growing number of real-world experiences suggests something may be changing. From improv classes to jigsaw puzzles, individuals are actively seeking offline engagement.
The question remains whether this is a genuine rebellion against digital overload, or just another trend to be documented and shared online. The success of these events will depend on whether people can fully disconnect—even at a Renaissance fair—without reaching for their phones.
