Early raves for middle-aged partygoers growing in popularity

Many people are looking for a fun night out without the exhaustion of traditional late-night events. A new trend has emerged called "middle-aged raves," where adults can enjoy club music but still get to bed at a reasonable hour. Dublin-born DJ Annie Macmanus, known as Annie Mac, started these events. Her goal is to create a club experience for people who need to wake up early or have other responsibilities. One of her events, “Before Midnight,” was held in Galway, starting at 7 p.m. and ending just before midnight. Attendees found the atmosphere enjoyable, with friendly people and seating available for a quick rest. These early evening parties are becoming more popular, especially among women, including mothers who cannot manage late nights. A similar event, "Day Fever," takes place during the day and has also gained traction. Overall, nightlife is changing. Many nightclubs have closed, and younger generations are drinking less. The pandemic and changing lifestyles have contributed to this shift. As a result, more events are being created to accommodate those seeking a nightlife experience that allows for a good night's sleep. Despite stepping back from festivals in the past, some attendees are now rejoining the scene. One person plans to attend a camping festival this summer and is preparing for it with exercise. The desire to have fun and socialize remains strong, even as people adapt to new lifestyles.