Bar crawls are more than just going from bar to bar. They are an experience that requires careful planning to ensure that everyone can have a great time, stay safe, and visit the best possible venue. It is easy to plan a perfect crawl, but it does take imagination and planning. From start to last drink of the night, this guide will help you plan a bar crawl to remember.
Choose a Theme to Set the Mood
The first step in planning any bar crawl is to choose a theme. A theme serves to give form to the event and makes it more enjoyable. It might be as simple as “Tropical Paradise” or something more specific theme. If everyone knows what to expect, it creates an element of anticipation. Themes can even go so far as including costume requirements or a specific drink to look out for. An open theme gives your event a personal touch, making the event more memorable for attendees. Once you establish the theme, it is easier to select the right bars and create an atmosphere according to your plan.
Plan the Perfect Route
Planning the route is crucial for any successful bar crawl. You don’t want to waste time traveling between stops. Start by selecting bars that are relatively close to one another, especially if you have a large group. Seek out establishments that are in line with your theme and provide something unique—maybe a quaint pub, a hip rooftop, or a dance club. Having a combination of atmospheres guarantees that everyone will find something they can appreciate at every stop. Always plan for an alternative plan in the event that an establishment is too busy or closed. A carefully planned route keeps everything moving efficiently so everyone has a good time.
Set a Clear Budget and Stick to It
Managing a budget for a bar crawl is crucial, especially if you’re organizing an event for a group. Drinks can add up quickly, and without a set budget, things can get out of hand. Start by determining a rough estimate of the costs for each stop. Check if any bars offer specials or group deals to help reduce the overall cost. Decide whether to collect money upfront from participants or split the bill at the end of the night. If you’re planning for a themed crawl, consider negotiating special drink prices in advance with the bars. Budgeting properly ensures that everyone can enjoy the night without financial stress.
Prioritize Safety and Responsibility
Safety is an important factor in any bar crawl. Though it’s easy to let loose and have a good time, everyone must get back home in one piece. Coordinate rides in advance. This can mean arranging designated drivers, ride-sharing services, or coordinating public transportation. Keep track of how much each person is drinking, and remind your team to keep it in moderation. If the group will be traveling a long distance, consider riding a bus or shuttle to transport individuals. Also, remind everyone to take water breaks during the trip. Having everyone’s safety as a top priority when the fun has fun makes the outing enjoyable without any regrets.
Create a Fun and Interactive Experience
A bar crawl should be one to remember, so it’s worth throwing in a couple of playful twists along the way. Try having a photo scavenger hunt at each bar, where clues relate to your theme. For instance, a tacos and tequila bar crawl in Pittsburgh, players may have to take a picture with a margarita or by a specific taco truck. You may also give out small party favors like personalized wristbands or themed accessories to create buzz. Utilizing social media hashtags allows the recording of good times and photo sharing by all. Adding small surprises and games throughout the night ensures that the crawl is engaging and memorable.
Conclusion
Creating the ideal bar crawl is more than just picking a couple of bars. It’s all about creating an experience that flows smoothly, is safe, and provides everyone who participates with an experience to be remembered. From choosing the right theme to budgeting and having safety in mind, every little detail matters. With planning and creativity, the bar crawl can be a blast and an experience to be remembered by all. Use these tips to create a night filled with laughter, new memories, and plenty of fun.
