Sunday evening, the dating apps will heat up, and maybe even spark. This is how, for several years, the first Sunday in January is the one when singles “match” the most on the platforms. A key moment when good resolutions, desire for renewal and hope in love come together. And this coming Sunday will be no exception.
What exactly is Dating Sunday?
Dating Sunday corresponds to the day when singles connect most massively to dating apps. After the end-of-year holidays, often synonymous with personal assessments, moments with family or friends, many feel a real emotional reset (especially if you have not experienced a rewind romance). Result: increased motivation to meet new people and start the year with a sense of connection.
This trend is confirmed year after year. On happn, for example, Sunday January 5, 2025 was the most active day of the year with:
- +24% messages exchanged
- +14% Crushes
A craze which suggests a new peak of activity this Sunday, January 4, 2026.
Key hours to maximize your chances
First thing to know: not all hours are equal on Dating Sunday. In France, Hinge has identified the most strategic moments:
- 7:00 p.m.: Peak time for sending likes;
- 10:00 p.m.: Most popular time to send messages and voice notes.
On that day, the application observed an increase of 31.2% in likes and 24.5% in messages compared to a typical Sunday. Being active at the right time can therefore clearly make a difference.
Prepare in advance: expert advice
To turn this spike in activity into real dating opportunities, Logan Ury, director of relationship science at Hinge, recommends planning your Dating Sunday with intention.
- By opening your horizons. Your next great story may not exactly match your usual criteria. Slightly broadening the age range or geographic distance can reveal profiles with whom there is real chemistry.
- By refreshing his profile. A new romantic start requires an up-to-date profile. Taglines are designed to show who you really are. Don’t hesitate to better express what matters to you.
- By clarifying his intentions: The option
Dating Intent on Hinge is essential: 83% of Millennials and 75% of Gen Z consult it before sending a like. Being clear about what you’re looking for helps create more aligned connections from the start.
D-day: how to tell the difference
Once Dating Sunday has started, a few simple reflexes can increase your chances.
- Comment before liking : a comment doubles the chances of getting an appointment compared to a simple like. Ask a question, show that you took the time to read the profile;
- Start a conversation quickly : responses are more likely within 24 hours of login;
- Dare to use a voice note : in 2025, conversations including voice notes were 41% more likely to lead to a date. A great way to create a more human connection;
- Take advantage of peak hours : being active when others are mechanically maximizes your responses.
These dating myths to put aside to match better
Finally, Logan Ury invites us to free ourselves from certain preconceived ideas that often slow down meetings.
Myth #1: My profile has to be absolutely hilarious
The reality: humor is an asset, but not an obligation. A good profile tells a story, combines lightness, authenticity, passions and values.
Myth #2: Multiplying criteria makes searching easier
Reality: distinguish the real ones dealbreakers simple little quirks. A minor detail should not close the door to great compatibility.
Myth #3: Better to wait for someone to come to me
The reality: Sending likes helps the algorithm understand your preferences and clearly shows your interest.
Myth #4: Acting indifference is more attractive
The reality: clarity is much more attractive than ambiguity. Showing interest, confirming an appointment or notifying you of your arrival are very appreciated signs of involvement.
Ultimately, to put all chances aside this Sunday, open the application with curiosity, authenticity… and the sincere desire to create a connection.