In Singapore, a new kind of party is taking off – fuelled by caffeine instead of alcohol and ending before dark – in a shift observers say reflects a broader trend among Gen Z Asians seeking healthier, cheaper and more mindful ways to socialise.
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Across the region, from matcha-fuelled morning raves to curated mocktail events and sober bars in cities like Bangkok and Tokyo, a quiet shift is under way. While fully alcohol-free nightlife remains niche, wellness-oriented alternatives are gaining ground – and Singapore appears to be at the forefront.
At the heart of the city state’s movement is Beans&Beats, a daytime party collective created in 2024 by three 20-somethings who wanted to preserve the energy of clubbing without the hangover or high cost.
“When you go out to a nightlife event, you would have to spend at least about S$100 [US$78] – you’d have to go for pre-game, go into the club itself, then maybe even supper, then the killer is really the Grab [ride] back,” said Matteo Lie, 21, one of the co-founders.
To address this, Lie and fellow co-founders Ethan Lee and Aden Low decided to keep ticket prices between S$15 and S$20 and shut the music off by 7pm – early enough for attendees to get home via public transport.
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