TikTok can be one of the most wholesome corners of social media, and this week, the “Raise A Toast” TikTok trend is reminding me why. The trend focuses on celebrating the people and things you love the most, whether it’s your bestie, celebrity crush, SO, or coffee, which I will take any opportunity to profess my undying appreciation for. The best part is, the TikTok trend is inspired by the classic 1994 film The Little Rascals, so if you’re looking for a trend that’s nostalgic, endearing, and easy to try, this is the one.
Based on the comments on this video, some of you TikTokers didn’t grow up watching The Little Rascals, and it shows. I know, I know — it’s not your fault if it was before your time, but you can watch the movie on Netflix right now, so no more excuses. In case you’re unfamiliar, our beloved main character Alfalfa is attempting to prove his love to the adorable Darla, and thanks to Alfalfa’s mischief-making friends, chaos ensues. Alfalfa is not only hilarious as he repeatedly shoots his shot, but the image of his slick middle part and that stubborn piece of hair sticking straight up in the air is ingrained in my memory forever.
In this scene from the film, Alfalfa musters the courage to get on stage at a talent show and profess his admiration for sweet Darla, who sits in the audience looking cute as a button yet utterly embarrassed to be called out like this. You can hear how determined Alfalfa is to win her heart, as he says: “This is a song about a tragic romance. I once fell in love with a girl, and through…betrayals by my best friend, she came to think I was nothing more than a He-Man Woman-Hater” — referring to the neighborhood boys club started by Alfalfa’s friend Spanky — followed by “well, I’m a woman-lover!” (That’s more like it).
In the trending audio, Alfalfa says: “So let me raise a toast to the girl I love most…in the whooole world.” Then, there’s a dramatic pause as Darla says under her breath, “please don’t say my name…please don’t say my name…” followed by Alfalfa’s immediate “Daaarla!” which he announces through a buck-toothed grin. When creator bryairz originally posted the audio clip from the film, TikTokers instantly commented with their love for The Little Rascals, and the Raise A Toast TikTok trend was born. And if you’ve been on TikTok anytime within the past few months, you’ll definitely recognize the rest of the trending audio, which features this song from the #RomanticizeYourLife challenge.
Although Alfalfa is raising a glass (of water) to his sweetheart Darla, you can #RaiseAToast to whoever your heart desires. First, bookmark the trending audio here and think of someone or something you want to #RaiseAToast to. Then, when Alfalfa says “Darla,” reveal who — or what — has your heart. Once the music starts, you can show photos of the person or thing you’re celebrating or simply show us how happy you are that they exist.
For inspiration, check out this video from Faith who uses the trend to fangirl over Taylor Swift, or Jessica’s version, where she just wants her celeb crush to know how amazing he is. My personal favorite, however, is this brilliant Harry Potter-inspired version from TikToker notjustinreadz, which I’ve watched one too many times today. Justice for Snape, TBH.
I truly believe that the “Raise A Toast” TikTok trend is one of the most delightful trends to circulate on the app recently. Whether you’re honoring someone close to you or reminding yourself that there’s no love like self-love, shout your message from the rooftops with #RaiseAToast.