The internet is a vast and ever-evolving landscape filled with trends that can rise to fame one day and fade into obscurity the next. Some of these trends become cultural phenomena, while others leave us scratching our heads in confusion.
As we look back on the digital age, here’s a nostalgic journey through some of the wildest internet trends that you probably forgot about.
1. Planking
In the early 2010s, planking took the internet by storm, turning ordinary people into “plankers” who would lie face down in unusual places. This absurd phenomenon involved taking pictures while lying flat on your stomach in public spaces, from park benches to the tops of cars. The trend inspired countless memes and social media posts, but as quickly as it started, it faded into the background, leaving behind only a few lingering images of daring plankers.
2. Harlem Shake
The Harlem Shake was a dance craze that took off in 2013, characterized by a short video clip featuring a group of people dancing wildly. Each video began with one person dancing alone while others went about their business, only to erupt into a frenzied dance party when the beat dropped. This trend spawned thousands of user-generated videos, and while it was immensely popular for a time, it quickly fell out of favor, leaving just a few memorable clips behind.
3. Tide Pod Challenge
In what might be one of the most bizarre and alarming trends, the Tide Pod Challenge emerged in 2018. Inspired by the colorful packaging of laundry detergent pods, some individuals began posting videos of themselves attempting to eat them. Despite the serious health risks involved, the trend caught the attention of both social media users and authorities, prompting warnings from health organizations. Thankfully, this reckless trend faded as quickly as it began, serving as a cautionary tale of internet influence.
4. The Ice Bucket Challenge
Initially launched to raise awareness for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the Ice Bucket Challenge became a viral sensation in 2014. Participants would film themselves pouring a bucket of ice-cold water over their heads while challenging others to do the same, all in the name of charity. The challenge garnered millions in donations and widespread media coverage, but like many trends, it eventually lost its steam. However, it remains a noteworthy example of how social media can mobilize communities for a good cause.
5. Cinnamon Challenge
The Cinnamon Challenge was a simple yet outrageous test that involved attempting to swallow a spoonful of cinnamon without drinking water. While some took on the challenge for fun, many experienced severe coughing fits, gagging, and even respiratory issues. The trend peaked around 2012, with countless videos showcasing participants’ hilarious and often messy attempts. Despite its fleeting popularity, the cinnamon challenge serves as a reminder of the absurd lengths people will go for internet fame.
6. Nyan Cat
Nyan Cat is a meme featuring an animated cat with a Pop-Tart body flying through space, leaving a rainbow trail behind. The catchy music loop that accompanied the meme quickly turned it into a viral sensation in 2011. Nyan Cat inspired countless parodies, merchandise, and even video games. Although it may have faded from the forefront of internet culture, Nyan Cat holds a special place in the hearts of those who experienced its whimsical charm.
7. Social Media “Challenges”
From the Mannequin Challenge to the Bottle Flip Challenge, social media has seen a myriad of short-lived challenges that captivated users for brief periods. The Mannequin Challenge involved participants freezing in place while a camera moved around them, while the Bottle Flip Challenge required individuals to flip a partially filled bottle and make it land upright. Each challenge sparked creativity and humor but often faded into obscurity as new trends emerged.
8. Kony 2012
Kony 2012 was a social media campaign launched to bring attention to Joseph Kony, a Ugandan warlord accused of abducting children and forcing them into his militia. The campaign gained massive traction through a viral video that reached millions, making Kony a household name overnight. However, as quickly as it gained attention, it faced criticism for oversimplifying complex issues. The campaign’s momentum dwindled, serving as a reminder of the power and pitfalls of viral activism.
Conclusion
The internet is a constantly shifting space where trends come and go, some leaving lasting impacts while others become footnotes in digital history. While these wild trends may have faded from our daily conversations, they serve as entertaining reminders of the creativity, absurdity, and sometimes recklessness that define online culture. As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the internet, who knows what the next viral trend will be?