In the past, ‘blokes’ would often gather at local pubs to celebrate the stag’s supposed last night of freedom with plenty of pints and raucous shouting. Over time, this evolved into stag weekends held several weeks before the wedding to ensure no one missed their own ceremony. These weekends sparked a thriving industry of activities and entertainment that continues to grow today.
Alongside the trend of stag dos, the humble hen do has also seen significant growth, expanding at a similar pace. However, there’s a noticeable shift happening. While there used to be distinct differences in the types of activities favored by each gender, women are reclaiming the fun and opting for activities that were less common a decade ago. In fact, companies like Fizzbox are reporting a big upsurge in women booking activities that used to be predominantly male. This is great news, why should the boys have all the fun!
Hen Do Standards
There were always some pretty standard hen-do activities. It was pampering days, spa days, and maybe wine tasting or afternoon tea but that was about it. These are all quite sedate and relaxing and for a lot of women this is fine but this doesn’t mean the girls don’t want to do something active too. The trend was partly caused by women booking these things but also perhaps because of a lack of other things on offer. Thankfully, things are changing now, and women are increasingly seeking out a wider range of fun bachelorette party ideas that include adventure, excitement, and loads of fun.
What Kind Of Things Are Popular?
Of course, the options are diverse, but here are just a few activities that were traditionally associated with stag parties and are now popular choices for any savvy bachelorette party planner!
Karting
It was mentioned earlier and it is still growing in popularity every year. It may seem like something full of people who know what they are doing and so creating a non-welcoming environment but good karting tracks offer some amazing packages where you can have the track to yourselves and feel confident the team is there to make sure you have a blast. It is basically quite easy to drive a kart around the track but to go fast is another thing entirely. It is incredibly exciting, and it is something most people never forget.
Clay Pigeon Shooting
No one ever said girls didn’t like guns which is possibly why so many hen dos are choosing to do a bit of shooting as a daytime activity before heading out on the town or back to a big party house. These days the idea of actually shooting a living thing is likely to only be popular with a minority but clay pigeons don’t feel a thing! It’s great fun and it offers a great mix of trying something new, doing something a little bit scary, and all with an element of competition. Learning to shoot a shotgun is fun in itself and seeing the clays explode when you hit one is very satisfying!
OK, it’s a bit of a traditional one but there is a reason stag parties have been heading to these places for years. As with karting, good paintball companies will allow you to have the area to yourselves so there is no room for any stupid macho showboating or intimidation. This is a chance for the girls to grab some guns, run around a lot and really get some adrenalin flowing. It is full-on, it does help if you are a little bit fit and it does hurt a bit. BUT….these things all go to making it an amazing thing to do. The tales of who shot who and the sharing of the bruises afterward lead to some very funny memories!
Never Have I Ever
Contrary to the popular belief that men only like going outdoors, some do like house parties and adult booze games, especially when it comes to Stag parties. The same can be said for brides-to-be and their hen parties! Not every other hen celebration needs to be enjoyed in a crowded place. Some individuals may like to host in-house parties and play their favorite Never Have I Ever. This is one of the most played games that gets everyone pumped up for the big night ahead and uncovers some dirty little secrets! Participants complete the phrase “Never have I ever…” in turns. Example: “I have never had a fling with a doctor” or “I have never kissed on the beach.” Anybody who has done it must take a sip of their booze! If you drink, you must tell everyone all the gory details of the incident. While there is a fair possibility of you and your guests getting drunk and hungover from all the spirits consumption, you can keep a hangover kit for weddings, bachelorette parties or events handy to get back on your feet quickly without losing out on the fun that is awaiting you.
Conclusion
There are so many more choices out there from school sports day games, bubble football, surf lessons, and more. You can choose from any of the options mentioned above. Note that there is no restriction. It is your time and so you should enjoy it to the fullest. Now if that means playing card games, so be it! After all, you get to decide what would make you feel good during this time.