What is a Bar Crawl and How to Plan Your Own?

If you enjoy a good party with your friends, you may have already heard of the concept of a bar crawl. Bar crawling involves visiting multiple bars and pubs in a single night. It offers a fun opportunity to socialize, try new drinks, and explore the nightlife scene in a new city. However, it could be overwhelming, chaotic, and potentially dangerous without proper planning. Here is everything you need to know about what a bar crawl is and how to organize one.

What is a Bar Crawl?

A bar crawl is an event that involves drinking alcohol at multiple bars or pubs in a single night. Participants typically move from one establishment to another with the goal of experiencing the drinks, atmosphere, and people at each location. Bar crawls often follow a specific route or itinerary, and may involve wearing themed costumes or t-shirts to identify themselves as a group. Some bar crawls may be organized for charity while others are for social or networking purposes.

The History of Bar Crawls

The origins of bar crawls are uncertain, but some sources suggest that they have been around since the early 1900s. In the United States, they became popular in the 1990s as part of college and university culture, as students would go from one establishment to another near campus. Since then, bar crawls have become widely known as a fun activity for groups of friends, tourists, and social clubs.

How to Plan Your Own Bar Crawl?

If you’re interested in planning a bar crawl, here are the essential steps you need to take:

1. Choose Your Destination

Decide on the location for your bar crawl. You can opt for a bustling city, a college town, or a popular holiday destination. Determine the distance between each bar to ensure that your group can comfortably move from one location to another, either on foot or using local transport. You can also research the bars, pubs, and clubs in your chosen area to create an itinerary that suits your group’s preferences.

2. Set a Budget

Bar crawls can quickly become expensive, so it’s essential to set a budget for yourself and your group. Consider the total cost of drinks, transportation, food, and any other expenses. You may opt to ask each participant to contribute towards the cost of the event, especially if you’re planning on booking transportation or special services.

3. Choose Your Bars and Establishments

Take some time to research your chosen bars and establishments to make sure they’re a good fit for your group. Consider the ambiance, the music, the dress code, and the type of drinks and food offered. You may want to call the bars or check their online reviews to ensure they can accommodate your group’s size and preferences.

4. Plan Your Route and Transportation

Create an itinerary or a route that you’ll follow from one bar to another. This will help you stay on track and ensure every participant knows where to go next. You may also want to book transportation, such as a party bus or a limousine, to make your night more memorable and comfortable. Alternatively, walking or cycling could be more practical, depending on your chosen destination.

5. Choose a Date and Time

Choose a date and time that works for everyone in your group. Consider whether you want to have your bar crawl on a weekend, a weekday or a holiday. Planning ahead and giving plenty of notice to your group will ensure people can arrange their schedules and participate comfortably.

6. Dress Code and Theme

You may want to choose a dress code or a theme for your bar crawl to add fun and excitement. It could be anything from a specific color or item of clothing to a full costume theme. Communicate the theme to your group ahead of time so everyone can come prepared and enjoy the night as a collective.

7. Safety First

Safety should be your top priority while planning a bar crawl. Ensure everyone in your group has a designated driver or a reliable way to get home safely, such as using ride-sharing services or public transport. You can also remind participants to drink water and eat food before and during the event to avoid overindulging. You may also want to book accommodation nearby, especially if some participants are traveling a considerable distance.

Conclusion

A bar crawl can be an enjoyable and memorable event for you and your friends. It’s an excellent opportunity to try new bars, drinks and explore different neighborhoods. However, it’s essential to plan ahead, set a budget, and prioritize safety. Follow this guide to ensure you have a fantastic bar crawl experience that everyone in your group will treasure for years to come.