13 Ridiculous Fads That Somehow Swept the Nation
This list features 13 fads that somehow took over the country, even though they were weird, pointless, or just plain silly.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
These fads came out of nowhere and suddenly everyone was doing them. Some were funny, others were confusing, but they all became huge for a time. Whether it was a plastic hoop or a viral video, these trends show just how quickly things can catch on.
1. Pet Rocks (1975)
ksblack99 on Wikimedia Commons
In 1975, Gary Dahl turned ordinary stones into a multimillion-dollar joke. Marketed as the ultimate low-maintenance pet, these rocks came in ventilated boxes with a satirical training manual. The absurdity struck a chord, selling over a million units in just months.
2. Hula Hoops (1958)
Jacob Hnri 6 on Wikimedia Commons
Inspired by Australian bamboo exercise hoops, Wham-O introduced the plastic Hula Hoop in 1958. The simple toy became a sensation, with over 25 million sold in just four months. Streets and backyards turned into spinning arenas as kids and adults alike joined the craze.
3. Mood Rings (1975)
Moodman001 on Wikimedia Commons
Claiming to reflect the wearer’s emotions through color changes, mood rings captivated the 1970s. Though based on temperature-sensitive liquid crystals, many believed in their emotional accuracy. They became a staple accessory, blending fashion with pseudo-psychology.
4. Cabbage Patch Kids (1983)
Appalachian Artworks, Inc on Wikimedia Commons
These unique, adoptable dolls sparked massive hysteria in the 1980s. Each came with a birth certificate and distinct features, leading to store riots and black-market sales. Parents camped out overnight, all to secure a doll for their child.
5. Tamagotchi (1997)
David on Wikimedia Commons
Bandai’s digital pet required constant attention — feeding, cleaning, and playing — to keep it “alive.” The pocket-sized device became a global phenomenon, teaching kids responsibility and causing classroom distractions worldwide.
6. The Atkins Diet (Early 2000s)
amontillado on Wikimedia Commons
Promoting low-carb, high-protein meals, the Atkins Diet promised rapid weight loss. People indulged in meats and cheeses while shunning bread and pasta. Despite its popularity, health experts debated its long-term effects, leading to its decline.
7. Livestrong Wristbands (2004)
KaCey97078 on Wikimedia Commons
Launched by cyclist Lance Armstrong’s foundation, these yellow bands symbolized cancer awareness and support. Selling millions, they became a fashion statement. However, Armstrong’s doping scandal later tainted their legacy.
8. Silly Bandz (2010)
Steven Depolo on Wikimedia Commons
These colorful silicone bands, shaped like animals and objects, became a playground currency. Kids wore them up their arms, traded them, and even faced school bans due to the distractions they caused. Their popularity faded as quickly as it rose.
9. Planking (2011)
https://www.flickr.com/photos/theeerin/4112368718/in/photostream/ on Wikimedia Commons
This internet fad involved lying face-down in unusual locations and sharing photos online. From office desks to public monuments, planking showcased people’s creativity and risk-taking, until safety concerns put an end to the trend.
10. Harlem Shake (2013)
greyloch from Washington, DC, area, U.S.A. on Wikimedia Commons
A single person danced alone, followed by a sudden cut to a chaotic group dance; this was the formula for the Harlem Shake videos. The meme spread rapidly, with thousands creating their own versions, including companies and military units.
11. Ice Bucket Challenge (2014)
slgckgc on Wikimedia Commons
A viral campaign to raise ALS awareness, participants dumped ice water over themselves and challenged others to do the same. Celebrities and everyday people joined in, raising over $115 million for research.
12. Kylie Jenner Lip Challenge (2015)
Josh Park on Wikimedia Commons
Teens used shot glasses to create suction and plump their lips, emulating Kylie Jenner’s look. The dangerous trend led to bruising and injuries, prompting health warnings and Jenner herself disavowing the challenge.
13. Pokémon Go (2016)
Original: Nintendo Vector: EEIM on Wikimedia Commons
This augmented reality game had players roaming the real world to catch virtual creatures. Parks and landmarks became hotspots, leading to both community bonding and safety concerns. While the frenzy has subsided, the game still maintains a dedicated player base.