On a balmy night in early July, Ashton Jacklyn joined thousands of others in a Toronto stadium, his black sequined outfit shimmering as he belted out lyrics along with Beyoncé. It was the 14th time that 33-year-old Jacklyn, a self-proclaimed superfan, had seen Beyoncé in concert, but it was his first time since before the pandemic hit. The next day, he took to TikTok to express his excitement, calling the experience a “spiritual awakening.”
This summer is not only marked by major cultural events like Taylor Swift’s Eras concert tour and the release of movies like “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer,” but also by the enthusiasm and exuberance of the audiences attending these events. There are various social, cultural, and economic factors at play, creating a season filled with hype, dress-up, fun, and a sense of freedom. For some, it’s also a way to mark a post-pandemic “first,” embrace the joy of living life to the fullest, or celebrate the ability to sing along with thousands of other fans.
While the excitement surrounding these events goes beyond the pandemic and people’s attitudes, there is a longing for social connection that has been building up during the difficult and isolating times of the past years. Naomi Torres-Mackie, a clinical psychologist, explains that people are eager to reconnect with others and express this desire in a heightened way.
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The frenzy and excitement surrounding these cultural phenomena have not only provided audiences with memorable experiences but have also boosted the economy. Hotels, airlines, and movie theaters have all seen an increase in spending, making this summer another landmark season. Even though the virus is still present, 2023 marks the first summer since the end of the official public health emergency, and many Americans have relaxed their precautions as the year has progressed.
Jessa White, a therapist, observes a shift in her clients’ behavior, with many now eager to splurge and indulge in mainstream trends they previously avoided. The desire to make up for lost time is palpable, as people reunite with friends and engage in activities they haven’t enjoyed in a long time. It’s about finding joy, celebrating life, and leaving behind the dark times that marked the pandemic.
Corinne Van Ostrand, who attended Taylor Swift’s concert in Seattle with friends she hasn’t seen much since before the pandemic, describes this summer as an opportunity to appreciate life and enjoy iconic experiences. It’s a feeling of emerging from a depressive season and rediscovering the things that bring happiness and fulfillment.
The excitement surrounding artists like Swift and Beyoncé has always been present, and while it’s too early to draw conclusions about the impact of the pandemic on people’s hype levels this summer, experts believe that these activities provide the social connections people were deprived of during the pandemic. The ability to dress up, be part of a big crowd, and feel part of something larger than themselves is a way to recover from the trauma of the past years.
Ashton Jacklyn, who had watched Beyoncé make a surprise appearance during a TV special in 2020, recalls the moment he watched her perform live after three years. It was a full-circle experience, a symbol of resilience and the triumph over adversity. The events of this summer offer an outlet to fulfill the desire to connect, engage with life, and find escapism through nostalgic experiences. Dressing up and embracing the specialness of these activities adds to a sense of belonging and social identity.
Christian Waugh, a psychology professor, explains that being present at these events provides a sense of belonging and reassurance that life is meaningful and everything will be okay. It allows people to draw strength from the presence of others. Therapist Jessa White notes the unique sense of community that people feel when attending events like “Barbie,” which goes beyond a typical movie outing. It’s a way to heal and bond with others.
While it’s too early to determine the long-term effects of the pandemic on mental health, experts believe that these summer events offer a release and an opportunity to leave the pain and stress from the past years behind. For many, attending concerts is a chance to connect with artists and songs that provided comfort and solace during the darkest times of the pandemic. It’s a way to spend time with someone who felt like a friend, even during isolation.
Corinne Van Ostrand’s optimism for the future reflects a shift in mindset after the pandemic. The pause and uncertainty of the past have led people to reevaluate their priorities and embrace new experiences. The desire not to waste a single day fuels the enthusiasm for events like Taylor Swift’s tour and motivates individuals to pursue their dreams and aspirations.
In conclusion, this summer of hype is a manifestation of people’s longing for connection, joy, and a renewed appreciation for life. It’s about leaving the pain of the pandemic behind and embracing the opportunity to indulge in activities that embody the essence of what was missing. These events provide a sense of belonging, escapism, and a chance to reconnect with what brings happiness and fulfillment.
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