Margot Lee | A&E Editor
March 23, 2026
A third space is a frequent informal setting in one’s life other than the two main spaces of home and work/school. It is defined as an atmosphere that stimulates human interaction, productivity, and a sense of belonging. This space allows for creativity and relaxation, free from the restrictions and stressors of work and school. Libraries, parks, cafes, and theaters are just a few standard examples of third spaces.
But as free time dwindles and online interaction becomes a part of daily life, teens no longer have regular third spaces to pass time on a regular basis. Additionally, it is rare to find a third space that is completely free of charge that encourages meeting new people while completing engaging and creative activities.
Unfortunately, many of these community hot spots have not fully gone back to normal since the pandemic. Government-run activities have especially taken the hit, and as decreasing demand and budget cuts take away a lot of free options, we are left with no choice but to pay for our third spaces.
Some may say the gym or their favorite cafe serves as their third space, but this setting is not just the place you go most frequently. It is a place you go to create community rather than keeping to yourself while you workout or study. Sadly, these essential meeting places are slowly disappearing, but there are some efforts we can make to get them back into our routines.
Keeping this concept alive is junior Karma Williamson, as she said her third space is “the pickleball court,” saying she goes “almost every weekend with [her] friends.” Similarly, senior Avalon Davis mentioned that she is “always meeting new people” when she volunteers on the weekends. Davis agrees that local volunteering such as food drives at FAM or mentoring at the Boys and Girls Club are great options for third spaces.
While these places have not completely vanished, they are increasingly hard to come by. In order to stay connected as a community, it is crucial to keep third spaces a part of our daily lives. Although we are all busy students with jobs and responsibilities, taking time out of each weekend to try new activities or even just interact with unfamiliar faces is essential to keep us away from screens and closer to our creative interests.
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