Hen Party & Stag Party

🍻 Things to Consider When Planning a Hen or Stag Party in Ireland

1. Know Your Guest List (And Your Guest of Honour!)

Before booking anything, get a clear idea of who’s invited — and more importantly, what the bride or groom actually wants. Is this a wild weekend away or something more chilled and low-key? Not everyone dreams of bar crawls or adventure sports. Think about the person you’re celebrating and tailor the experience to their personality. Always ask yourself: “Will they love this, or will they dread it?”

2. Budget, Budget, Budget

A great hen or stag doesn’t need to break the bank. Be mindful of what guests can realistically afford — especially if there’s a wedding coming up and travel or accommodation is involved. Choose activities with flexible price points, be transparent about costs from the start, and offer payment plans if needed. And don’t forget to factor in food, drinks, transport, and surprise extras.

3. Timing Is Everything

Plan it far enough in advance of the wedding so everyone has time to recover — physically and financially. A good rule of thumb? Four to six weeks before the big day is ideal. It avoids last-minute stress and gives the couple space to focus on final wedding prep without hangovers or sunburn.

4. Location, Location… or Staycation?

From glamping in Galway to cocktail-making in Cork, Ireland is packed with fantastic hen and stag destinations. Think about travel time, accommodation availability, and what kind of weekend suits your group. City vibes? Beachside chill? Country retreat? Also consider: Is your guest of honour a homebird who’d love a one-night local party instead of a weekend away? That’s just as valid.

5. Make It Meaningful (and Memorable)

It’s easy to fill a schedule with drinking games and dares, but don’t forget to add a personal touch. A scrapbook, a surprise guest appearance, a playlist of shared memories — these small gestures can turn a fun night into a lasting memory. The best hen or stag parties strike the perfect balance between entertainment and sentiment.

Final Tip: Keep communication open and inclusive. A WhatsApp group or shared planning doc works wonders — just make sure the plan feels exciting for everyone, especially the person you’re celebrating.

At MyBigDay.ie, we connect you with trusted wedding suppliers across Ireland for hen and stag activities, who can accommodation, entertainment, and more — all tailored to your group’s vibe and budget.