As temperatures increased and days got longer, many were looking for ways to cool down, tune in or indulge. From viral sweet-treats, chart-topping albums to internet controversies, this summer had many memorable moments and trends.
Events at a Coldplay concert became the center of one of the most talked-about controversies of the summer. A video of former Astronomer Inc. CEO Andy Byron and Kristin Cabot, a top HR executive at the company, hiding their faces after being caught on the venue’s “kiss camera,” was meme-d and discussed online. It ultimately led to the CEO’s resignation and a discussion about workplace relationships on the internet.
Meanwhile, celebrities faced their own controversies over their public appearances. Singer Sabrina Carpenter’s new album cover, which showed her in a sexual pose, faced criticism from those who found it degrading and saw it to be anti-feminist.
At the same time, actress Sydney Sweeney’s ad campaign for American Eagle’s blue jeans was mocked and accused by people online of promoting eugenics based on the wordplay between “jeans” and “genes.”
While controversy dominated the headlines, the internet also brought joy through a new trend of summer favorites.
A once-limited item from FIX Dessert Chocolatier has exploded into a global sensation: The viral Dubai chocolate bar. It’s known for its filling of pistachio spread and shredded phyllo dough, known as kataifi. This combination of textures – smooth chocolate, gooey pistachio and crunchy kataifi has made it a social media phenomenon.
The desert gained international fame through platforms such as TikTok, with many people posting ASMR-style videos breaking into the bar. This trend has led to a pistachio chocolate boom, with international companies such as Costco stocking versions of the now-beloved treat from companies such as Nutty and Fruity. DeKalb’s Cast Iron Coffee, located at 901 Lucinda Ave. Suite D, even features a Dubai chocolate latte on their menu.
While the Dubai chocolate bar was a treat for everyone’s taste buds, the hottest albums of the summer are serving up a different sort of sensation. From chart-topping hits to fresh movie soundtracks, here is what was on everyone’s playlist this summer.
While on tour for his album “CHROMAKOPIA,” Tyler, the Creator dropped his new album, “DON’T TAP THE GLASS,” a surprise release that has quickly become a fan and critic favorite, debuting No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
Songs such as “Sugar on My Tongue” and “Ring Ring Ring” have been met with widespread acclaim. The album, which was released on July 21, kept fans eager as Tyler, the Creator continues his CHROMAKOPIA tour.
Making a leap from screens to the charts is the soundtrack for the animated film “KPop Demon Hunters.” Released to Netflix on June 20, the movie and soundtrack have become a viral sensation, earning praise for its high-energy production and addictive sounds.
The soundtrack – which features music from fictional bands HUNTR/X and Saja Boys as well as real bands such as TWICE – blends traditional K-pop sounds with elements of hip hop and electronica. Its most popular track, “Golden,” performed by HUNTR/X, has dominated global music charts, being nominated for best OST at the K-World Dream Awards alongside “Soda Pop,” and inspired dance challenges on social media. The album has proved to be a mainstay for K-pop fans and newcomers alike, creating a gateway for all to enjoy the genre this summer.
The sounds of the summer may be coming from your headphones, but the real fun is happening within your community. A highlight of the season was the NASCAR race, which took place in Chicago on July 6. New Zealander Shane van Gisbergen won the Grant Park 165, having also won the Xfinity race the day before. This race marked the third and final year of NASCAR’s contract to race on the Chicago street course, with the series moving to Chicagoland Speedway in 2026.
For those looking to get away from it all, popular tourist destinations saw an increase in visitors. Nashville’s popularity soared thanks to the continued rise of events within the city, with people traveling for everything from bachelor and bachelorette parties to concerts. Meanwhile, Hawaii saw a resurgence in tourism driven by a desire for both classic beach getaways and “unplugged vacations” away from the phones. The Amalfi Coast captivated visitors with its stunning cliffside scenery and its appeal as a luxury European escape.
From viral chocolate bars to chart-topping albums and local events, this summer offered something for everyone. It was a season that is defined by global trends and timeless fun.
