How to arrange the perfect lads night out
The comedian Micky Flanagan explains in one of his most famous skits about being “out”, and being “out, out”: for those who haven’t seen it, it’s an exploration of the difference and evolution between just venturing for maybe a quick pint and engaging in a madly enjoyable all-night drinking session.
For a young man, the passage hits home because so many great nights are just spontaneous. However, some people like to plan, to research, to get all of their friends in place for an evening to remember at pubs, restaurants, sporting occasions, and stylish nights. Such occasions, especially in other cities, need to be arranged properly – here are several tips
The last minute
Let’s say you do decide at midday that tonight’s the night. The first thing to do, obviously, is to contact the crew through Facebook, Snapchat, or the arcane practice of texting.
Be tactical in how you do this, as an open status might attract an unwieldy number, while individual invites might inadvertently miss someone. The app market has made arranging a night easier through newer applications such as Howl and Barpass – here’s more from Mashable on downloads to consider.
Ask for suggestions for venues, especially ones with group discounts – if someone’s got a little spare time a rough pub crawl can be worked out, incorporating any live music. Check which pubs show live football/boxing/rugby, and time your visit accordingly.
More preparation
For special occasions, and a night worth marking, a little more time is needed to add the finishing touches. Much of what is written above should be followed, but further in advance. For example, a pub crawl could be themed if further in advance – rugby shirts, fancy dress as film or soap stars are all good and easy ideas, and costumes can be picked up more easily. Here’s ten suggestions from Askmen for nights of chaos.
You might fancy a trip to another city or venue. Before booking tickets/hotels etc, take a look to see if there are any major events on – some groups love a night where everyone’s out and about, until they’re stuck in the melee of a six-deep bar queue. But is that any better or worse than a quiet graveyard of a night? A quick call out on Twitter for recommendations for good bars might unearth some hidden diamonds and good offers.
Tripadvisor and a well-placed Twitter request might also find you a decent hotel or hostel. One person can organise accommodation, but it’s a risky policy. Someone will invariably pull out late and then refuse to pay, someone else will decide to stay elsewhere etc. It’s better to arrange your room details only, but enquire about availability at the same time. – and let the other members of the group know.
Once you’ve researched and decided on venues, a more detailed itinerary of bars, each timed to perfection, will ensure each bar gets a fair crack. If you’re planning an activity such as visiting the dog track or a sporting event, enquire about discounts and offers. If every attendee has at least one number of the organiser then any stragglers who have been cut off from the pack can find their way back.
Whatever happens if you each keep a taxi number, a few pounds and a debit card spare, you won’t go too far wrong.
Amanda Walters
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