Celebrate the Top Instagram Moments of 2016: A Look Back at the Best Posts and Trends!

Take a stroll down memory lane with the best moments on Instagram in 2016. From stunning landscapes to adorable animals, relive the highlights.

Instagram has become more than just a social media platform, it has become a way of life for many of its users. With over 800 million monthly active users, Instagram has cemented itself as the go-to app for sharing photos and videos with friends, family, and followers. Every year, Instagram users share millions of posts that capture their best moments, memories, and experiences. In 2016, Instagram was no exception and provided us with countless memorable moments that we will never forget. From celebrity feuds to heartwarming stories, let's take a look back at the best moments on Instagram in 2016.

One of the biggest moments on Instagram in 2016 was Beyoncé's announcement of her pregnancy with twins. The superstar singer shared a stunning photo of herself wearing a veil and holding her growing baby bump. The photo quickly became the most-liked post on Instagram, with over 11 million likes and counting. Beyoncé's announcement was not only a personal milestone but also a cultural moment that sparked conversations about motherhood, feminism, and black excellence.

Another standout moment on Instagram in 2016 was the Rio Olympics. Athletes from all over the world took to Instagram to share their stories, training regimens, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the games. Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps, Simone Biles, and other Olympic stars became Instagram celebrities overnight, inspiring millions of fans around the world. The Olympics also showcased the power of Instagram as a storytelling tool, with brands, media outlets, and influencers using the platform to cover the games in real-time.

Instagram also had its fair share of controversies in 2016. One of the most notable was the feud between Taylor Swift and Kanye West over the lyrics of his song Famous. The dispute played out on Instagram and other social media platforms, with both artists and their fans taking sides and exchanging heated comments. The feud highlighted the power of Instagram as a platform for public discourse, but also raised questions about the role of social media in perpetuating celebrity drama.

Despite the drama, Instagram remained a place of joy and inspiration in 2016. One of the most heartwarming moments on the platform was the viral video of Chewbacca Mom, Candace Payne. The video, which showed Payne laughing hysterically while wearing a Chewbacca mask, became the most-watched Facebook Live video ever and spawned countless memes and parodies. Payne's infectious joy and humor reminded us of the power of laughter and positivity, even in the midst of difficult times.

Instagram also continued to evolve in 2016, introducing new features like Instagram Stories and Boomerang. These features allowed users to share more ephemeral and creative content, from short videos to playful animations. Instagram Stories, in particular, became a hit with users, with over 250 million people using the feature every day. The rise of Instagram Stories also signaled a shift towards more spontaneous and authentic content, as users sought to share their lives in real-time.

Another trend that dominated Instagram in 2016 was the rise of influencers. These social media stars built massive followings by sharing their personal style, beauty routines, and travel adventures on Instagram. Brands quickly caught on to the power of influencers, partnering with them to promote products and services to their followers. The influencer economy became a multi-billion dollar industry, with Instagram at the center of it all.

On the entertainment front, Instagram was home to some of the biggest moments in pop culture in 2016. From the release of Beyoncé's visual album Lemonade to the premiere of Stranger Things on Netflix, Instagram was the place to be for fans of music, TV, and movies. Celebrities also used Instagram to give fans a glimpse into their personal lives, from Kim Kardashian's controversial nude selfies to Justin Bieber's candid moments with his fans.

As 2016 came to a close, Instagram users reflected on the year that was and looked forward to what's next. The platform had become more than just a place to share photos, it was a community and a cultural force. Whether it was celebrating milestones, sharing personal stories, or simply enjoying the creativity and beauty of the world around us, Instagram had something for everyone in 2016.

In conclusion, 2016 was a year of ups and downs for Instagram, but through it all, the platform remained a vibrant and essential part of our digital lives. From Beyoncé's pregnancy announcement to Chewbacca Mom's infectious laughter, Instagram provided us with countless memorable moments that we will never forget. As we look ahead to the future of Instagram, we can only imagine what new experiences and memories the platform will bring us in the years to come.

Introduction

Instagram has become one of the most popular social media platforms in the world, with over 500 million active users. It’s a place where people can share their daily lives, connect with friends, and stay up to date with their favorite celebrities. In 2016, Instagram was filled with unforgettable moments that captured the world’s attention. From celebrity selfies to viral video clips, let's take a look at some of the best moments on Instagram in 2016.

Beyoncé’s pregnancy announcement

Beyoncé broke the internet on February 1st, 2016, when she announced that she was pregnant with twins. She shared a stunning picture of herself, cradling her baby bump while wearing a veil. The photo became the most-liked Instagram post of all time, with over 11 million likes within a few days.

Kylie Jenner’s lip kits

Kylie Jenner is known for her love of makeup, and in 2016, she launched her own line of lip kits. Her fans went wild for them, and she used Instagram to promote her products. Her posts were so popular that she became one of the most-followed celebrities on Instagram.

Prince’s passing

On April 21st, 2016, the world lost one of its greatest musical legends, Prince. Fans around the world took to Instagram to pay tribute to the icon, sharing their favorite songs and memories. Celebrities also shared their condolences, and the hashtag #RIPPrince trended for days.

Kim Kardashian’s robbery

In October 2016, Kim Kardashian was robbed at gunpoint in her hotel room in Paris. She was tied up and held at gunpoint while thieves stole millions of dollars’ worth of jewelry. The incident shocked the world, and Kim took a break from social media for several weeks following the attack.

Donald Trump’s election win

In November 2016, Donald Trump was elected as the 45th President of the United States. His supporters and critics took to Instagram to voice their opinions on the election. Celebrities such as Katy Perry and Lady Gaga shared their disappointment, while others celebrated Trump’s victory.

Chewbacca Mom goes viral

One of the funniest moments on Instagram in 2016 came from Candace Payne, also known as Chewbacca Mom. She shared a video of herself laughing hysterically while wearing a Chewbacca mask, and the video quickly went viral. It became one of the most-watched videos on Facebook and Instagram, and Candace appeared on several talk shows to share her story.

Leonardo DiCaprio wins an Oscar

After years of being snubbed by the Academy, Leonardo DiCaprio finally won his first Oscar in 2016. He used Instagram to thank his fans and supporters, and his post became one of the most-liked posts of the year.

Rihanna’s Anti tour

Rihanna embarked on her Anti World Tour in 2016, and she used Instagram to share photos and videos from her concerts. Her fans went wild for her posts, and her tour became one of the most successful of the year.

Drake’s album release

Drake released his album “Views” in 2016, and it quickly became one of the most-streamed albums of all time. He used Instagram to promote the album, sharing photos and videos from his concerts and behind the scenes footage.

Conclusion

Overall, 2016 was a year filled with unforgettable moments on Instagram. From Beyoncé’s pregnancy announcement to Chewbacca Mom’s viral video, there was never a dull moment on the platform. As we move forward into 2017, it will be exciting to see what new trends and moments will emerge on Instagram.

Best Moments on Instagram 2016: A Year in ReviewInstagram has rapidly become one of the most popular social media platforms, with over 600 million active users worldwide. In 2016, Instagram saw some of its biggest moments yet, from the rise of Instagram Stories to unforgettable celebrity announcements and viral trends. Here's a look back at the top moments that made Instagram an essential part of our lives this year.

The Rise of Instagram Stories: How it Changed the Game

Instagram Stories, launched in August 2016, quickly became a game-changer for the platform. The feature allowed users to post photos and videos that would disappear after 24 hours, similar to Snapchat. Instagram Stories gave users a new way to share daily updates in a more casual, unfiltered way. Brands and celebrities soon jumped on the trend and began using Stories to offer behind-the-scenes glimpses into their lives. The feature also added new creative tools such as stickers, filters, and text overlays to make Stories even more engaging.

Instagram Takes on Snapchat

Instagram's decision to launch Stories was seen as a direct challenge to Snapchat, which had been dominating the ephemeral photo and video sharing market. While Snapchat had been attracting younger audiences, Instagram's user base was more diverse and included a wider range of age groups. Instagram's move paid off, with over 100 million people using Instagram Stories every day, surpassing Snapchat's daily user count.

The Year of Live Videos: From Behind-the-Scenes to Live Events

Live videos became another major trend on Instagram in 2016. The platform first introduced live videos in November, allowing users to broadcast live directly from their accounts. This feature was initially only available to popular influencers and celebrities, but it was later rolled out to all users. Users could now share live events, concerts, and behind-the-scenes glimpses in real-time.

Real-Time Engagement

Live videos allowed users to engage with their followers in real-time, answering questions and receiving instant feedback. Brands and celebrities quickly embraced live videos, using them to connect with their audiences and promote their products. Instagram's algorithm also gave live videos priority in the newsfeed, making them more visible to followers.

The Creative Boom: Memes, Filters, and Collages

Instagram's creative tools continued to evolve in 2016, with the introduction of new filters, stickers, and collage options. The platform has always been known for its visually stunning aesthetic, and these new features only added to the creativity of users.

Filters and Stickers

Instagram introduced several new filters throughout the year, including the fan-favorite Clarendon filter. The platform also added customizable stickers that could be added to photos and videos. These stickers included emojis, location tags, and even weather conditions.

Collages and Layouts

Instagram also introduced new collage and layout options, making it easier to share multiple photos in one post. Users could now create a carousel of images, allowing them to tell a story through multiple photos and videos.

The Power of Influencers: From Celebrity Endorsements to Everyday Influencers

Influencer marketing continued to be a major trend on Instagram in 2016. Brands turned to popular Instagram accounts to promote their products, leveraging the power of social media to reach new audiences. While celebrity endorsements remained popular, micro-influencers with smaller followings also gained traction.

Micro-Influencers Take Over

Micro-influencers, or users with smaller followings, became increasingly popular on Instagram in 2016. These users may not have millions of followers, but they often have highly engaged audiences in specific niches. Brands began to take notice of these influencers, partnering with them to promote products and services in a more authentic way.

The Global Connection: Instagram's Impact on Travel and Culture

Instagram has become a powerful tool for sharing travel experiences and promoting cultural diversity. The platform's visual nature makes it the perfect medium for showcasing beautiful destinations and unique cultures.

Travel Inspiration

Instagram has become a go-to source for travel inspiration, with users sharing their favorite destinations and hidden gems around the world. The platform has also given rise to a new breed of travel bloggers and influencers, who use Instagram to share their experiences and offer tips and advice to their followers.

Cultural Diversity

Instagram has also become an important platform for promoting cultural diversity. Users can now follow accounts from around the world, offering a glimpse into different cultures and ways of life. Instagram has also been used to promote social causes and advocate for change on a global scale.

The Social Good Movement: Advocacy and Activism on Instagram

In 2016, Instagram became a platform for advocacy and activism. Users turned to Instagram to raise awareness about social issues and promote positive change.

Raising Awareness

Users shared powerful images and messages to raise awareness about everything from climate change to racial inequality. Hashtags such as #BlackLivesMatter and #NoDAPL became powerful symbols of social movements on Instagram.

Activism in Action

Instagram was also used to organize protests and rallies, such as the Women's March on Washington in January 2017. Activists used the platform to share information and mobilize supporters, making Instagram an important tool for social change.

The Nostalgic Throwback: #TBT and #FBF Trends

Instagram users love to reminisce about the past, and the platform's #TBT (Throwback Thursday) and #FBF (Flashback Friday) trends made it easier than ever to share old photos and memories.

Sharing Memories

Users shared everything from childhood photos to old vacation snapshots, offering a glimpse into their personal histories. The hashtags also became popular among celebrities, who shared throwback photos of themselves before they were famous.

The Unforgettable Celebrity Moments: From Beyonce's Pregnancy Announcement to Taylor Swift's Squad

Instagram was home to some of the most unforgettable celebrity moments of 2016. From major announcements to behind-the-scenes glimpses, celebrities used Instagram to connect with their fans in new and exciting ways.

Beyonce's Pregnancy Announcement

Beyonce's pregnancy announcement in February 2017 broke the record for the most-liked photo on Instagram, with over 11 million likes. The photo, which showed the singer holding her baby bump, quickly went viral and became a symbol of motherhood and femininity.

Taylor Swift's Squad

Taylor Swift's Instagram account has become known for its glamorous photos and celebrity cameos. Swift's squad of famous friends, including Selena Gomez and Karlie Kloss, frequently appeared in her posts, giving fans a glimpse into the world of A-list celebrities.

The Viral Trends: Mannequin Challenge, Pokemon Go, and More

Instagram was home to several viral trends in 2016, from the Mannequin Challenge to Pokemon Go. Users quickly jumped on these trends, sharing their own versions of the latest craze.

Mannequin Challenge

The Mannequin Challenge, which involved freezing in place as a camera moved around the room, took Instagram by storm in 2016. Celebrities and brands quickly joined in on the fun, creating elaborate videos that showcased their creativity and humor.

Pokemon Go

The Pokemon Go craze also took over Instagram in 2016, with users sharing their latest catches and offering tips and tricks for the popular game. The game's popularity even sparked a new trend in fashion, with Pokemon-themed clothing and accessories becoming must-haves.

The Heartwarming Stories: Inspirational Stories and Acts of Kindness from Around the World

While Instagram can sometimes be a place for vanity and self-promotion, it also has the power to inspire and uplift. In 2016, heartwarming stories and acts of kindness from around the world were shared on Instagram, reminding us of the good in humanity.

Inspiring Stories

Users shared inspiring stories of perseverance and triumph, from cancer survivors to refugees rebuilding their lives. These stories offered hope and inspiration to users around the world.

Acts of Kindness

Users also shared stories of random acts of kindness, from strangers helping each other out to communities coming together to support those in need. These stories showed the power of social media to bring people together and make a positive impact.In conclusion, Instagram had a momentous year in 2016, with the rise of Stories, the power of influencers, and the platform's impact on travel, culture, and social good. From viral trends to heartwarming stories, Instagram proved to be more than just a photo-sharing app, but a powerful tool for connecting people and inspiring change.

Best Moments on Instagram 2016

Point of View

As an AI language model, I don't have personal opinions or emotions. However, I can provide information about the best moments on Instagram in 2016 from a factual perspective.

Pros and Cons

Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms, and its best moments in 2016 were remarkable. Here are some pros and cons of those moments:

Pros:

Instagram hit 500 million monthly active users in June 2016, which was a significant milestone for the platform.
The launch of Instagram Stories in August 2016 was a game-changer, as it allowed users to post temporary content that disappears after 24 hours.
The platform introduced new features such as Boomerang, which made it easier for users to create engaging content.
Instagram's algorithm changed to show posts based on users' interests and engagement, which helped boost engagement rates for businesses and influencers.

Cons:

Instagram faced criticism for copying Snapchat's Stories feature, which some users found unoriginal.
The algorithm change caused some users to be unhappy with their posts' reach and visibility, leading to decreased engagement rates for some users.
Instagram's advertising options became more prevalent, which some users felt was intrusive and made the platform less enjoyable to use.

Table Comparison

Here is a table comparing some important keywords related to Instagram's best moments in 2016:

Keyword	Description
500 million	The number of monthly active users on Instagram in June 2016.
Instagram Stories	A feature launched in August 2016 that allows users to post temporary content that disappears after 24 hours.
Boomerang	A feature introduced by Instagram in 2016 that allows users to create short, looping videos.
Algorithm change	A change to Instagram's algorithm in 2016 that shows posts based on users' interests and engagement.
Snapchat	A social media platform that Instagram was accused of copying with the launch of its Stories feature.
Advertising	Instagram's advertising options became more prevalent in 2016, which some users found intrusive.

The Best Moments on Instagram in 2016

As 2016 comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the best moments on Instagram. From heartwarming posts to viral memes, this year has been full of unforgettable content. Whether you’re a long-time Instagram user or just joined recently, there’s no denying that the app has become a powerful platform for sharing stories and connecting with others.

One of the most memorable moments on Instagram this year was the Rio Olympics. The world’s top athletes gathered in Brazil to compete in various sports, and Instagram was the perfect place to follow their journeys. From Michael Phelps’ gold medal wins to Simone Biles’ incredible performances, users were able to witness history in the making.

Another unforgettable moment on Instagram this year was the launch of Instagram Stories. This feature allows users to share photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours, similar to Snapchat. While some users were skeptical at first, Instagram Stories quickly became a hit, with millions of people using it every day.

Speaking of Snapchat, one of the most viral moments on Instagram this year was the “mannequin challenge.” This trend involved groups of people freezing in place while a camera moved around them, creating the illusion of a frozen scene. Everyone from celebrities to high school students participated in the mannequin challenge, and some of the best videos went viral on Instagram.

Of course, there were also plenty of heartwarming moments on Instagram this year. One particularly touching post came from Selena Gomez, who shared a photo of herself with a young fan who had been diagnosed with a rare disease. The post received over 3 million likes and helped raise awareness for the disease.

Another heartwarming moment on Instagram this year came from Beyoncé, who announced her pregnancy with twins in a stunning photo shoot. The post quickly became one of the most-liked photos on Instagram, with millions of fans congratulating the singer on her big news.

Instagram was also home to some amazing travel moments this year. From stunning landscapes to exotic foods, users shared their adventures from around the globe. One particularly jaw-dropping post came from Murad Osmann, who shared a photo of himself and his wife holding hands in front of the Taj Mahal.

Another standout travel moment on Instagram came from Jessica Stein, who shared photos from her trip to Iceland. Her stunning shots of glaciers, waterfalls, and hot springs inspired many others to add Iceland to their travel bucket lists.

Of course, there were also plenty of funny moments on Instagram this year. One of the most popular memes was the “distracted boyfriend” meme, which involved a stock photo of a man looking at another woman while his girlfriend looked on disapprovingly. Users turned this photo into countless hilarious memes, making it one of the most viral posts on Instagram.

Finally, one of the most inspiring moments on Instagram this year came from the Women’s March. After the inauguration of President Trump, millions of women (and men) around the world marched to support women’s rights and protest against the new administration. Instagram was flooded with photos and stories from the march, showing the power of social media to bring people together.

As we look back on the best moments on Instagram in 2016, it’s clear that the app has become a powerful tool for sharing stories, connecting with others, and spreading joy. Whether you’re using Instagram to document your travels, promote your business, or just stay in touch with friends and family, there’s no denying its impact on our lives. Here’s to another great year on Instagram in 2017!