We’ve all seen that classic scene in movies. Two people sit down, a bell dings, and the awkward small talk begins. Cut to the next person, and repeat. But in real life, speed dating isn’t some plot device. It’s a real thing that exists, and surprisingly, a lot of people are giving it a go.
So, the question is – are speed dating events actually worth your energy, time, and nerves? Or should you stick to swiping from your couch in pyjamas while eating leftovers?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Speed Dating?
If you’ve never been to one or are just curious, speed dating is a social event where singles rotate through short, timed mini-dates with a bunch of other people. You chat for a few minutes, try to feel a spark, and move on.
If two people mutually say “yes” afterwards, the organisers share the contact information of each. This process eliminates the swiping or ghosting part of online dating, and you also get to see the person in real life and most likely their authentic form.
Is Speed Dating Popular?
Even in the age of dating apps and DMs, the younger generation has started leaning into speed dating events as well.
This might be because:
You Meet Real Humans
There’s only so much a profile can tell you about a person. Dating apps may be convenient, but half the time, you’re making up versions of people. And sometimes, these people may be bots.
With speed dating, you skip all that and meet the “someone” in person. You hear their voice, feel their energy, and know instantly if it’s a yes or no – or a maybe.
It’s Efficient
Dating apps can take weeks of chatting just to realise that you have nothing in common. At speed dating events, you can meet multiple potential matches in under an hour or two.
You might not fall in love on the spot, but you also won’t be wasting your weekend wondering if someone’s going to text back.
Low Commitment
Each date is only a few minutes long, so if it’s awkward or dry, you’re done in minutes. And if it’s good, well, now you have something to be excited about.
Are These Events Worth It?
Speed dating can be great if you are:
- Tired of endless swiping and ghosting that happens on dating apps.
- Looking for a real, in-person connection.
- Open to something fun and outside your comfort zone.
But it may not be your thing if you:
- Hate the idea of being social under time pressure.
- Prefer connecting over long and slow conversations.
The thing is, dating can be messy and awkward, and speed dating captures all of that in one little event. So, the answer to whether it’s worth it is, honestly, yes. Even if you don’t find love, you will walk away with a new story and probably a better understanding of what you’re into.
In the worst-case scenario, you sit through 10 mini-conversations and go home with a story. And best case? You meet someone who makes you forget about apps entirely.
