The most popular social media trends of 2023.

We will remember 2023 as a year of viral events.

The path to internet fame has become increasingly complex as social media algorithms have become more refined.

This year, social media users were exposed to a variety of viral trends, ranging from highly polished to completely off-the-wall.

Review some of the most memorable moments from 2023 that sparked conversation.

Newsworthy memes

In early 2023, the discovery of a Chinese spy balloon over the United States caused a frenzy on the internet.

The viral videos of users dramatizing the moment the U.S. Air Force shot down the object, which was superimposed onto a balloon, made light of a situation that shook the country.

The prevalence of social media users poking fun at serious news stories online is increasing as more Americans rely on online platforms for their news.

Purple shake of death

Happy Birthday, Grimace – sort of.

In June, McDonald's introduced a berry-flavored birthday shake to commemorate the purple mascot's birthday. However, the sweetness soon turned sour when TikTok users began jokingly claiming that the mysterious-flavored drink was causing them harm.

TikTokers consumed a dessert and ended up on the floor in a puddle of purple, resulting in 3.9 billion views on the hashtag #grimaceshake.

The Grimace shake trend has caught the attention of even the birthday boy himself, who posted about it on McDonald's official X account, saying "meee pretending I don't see the Grimace shake trend."

As the Romans do

Even unsuspecting viral stars have been influenced by the desire for internet fame, as videos prompt creators to quiz their loved ones and capture their genuine reactions.

Ancient civilization is frequently on the minds of Roman Empire-inspired couples, as they turn to TikTok to inquire about their partners' thoughts on the subject.

Some men frequently think about the Roman Empire, as suggested by videos.

The current trend of "Name a Woman" has women on the internet surprising men by asking them to identify any woman.

The man's personality is revealed through his answers, which spark discussions among viewers.

308 million Americans are on social media in 2023 — Statista

The popularity of unfiltered, genuine reactionary content online is evident with the hashtags #romanempire and #nameawoman earning 3.2 billion and 215.3 million views, respectively.

I'm sorry, full send

Celebrities can now directly communicate with their fans through social media, allowing them to share personal achievements, updates on their lives, and even offer apologies.

In 2023, celebrities who faced controversy often used their social media to address their fans directly.

In September, Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis released a lengthy apology video on Kutcher's Instagram account, addressing criticism from their support of Danny Masterson, who was disgraced.

Lookin' like a snack

Is it a snack or a meal? No, it's a Girl Dinner.

The smorgasbord's versatility and low-maintenance approach captured our hearts and stomachs.

Across the internet, women were flaunting their vibrant charcuterie boards, adorned with bread, cheese, and any other pantry items they could find. The more audacious, the more they showcased.

In their livestream era

Millions of fans went to battle over the hottest concert tickets of 2023.

Those who missed out were given a second chance to view the livestreams shared on social media platforms.

14% of adults admit they get their news on TikTok  — Pew Research Center

People watched live videos of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour or Beyoncé's Renaissance Tour from home, creating a global watch party and encouraging real-time reactions.