Groups, birthdays and hen parties

Can we come?

Yes, in many places. Blackpool's drag shows are a popular choice for hen parties and birthday groups, and Funny Girls in particular offers dinner-and-show packages. Lots of the quarter's bars are happy to see straight friends join the fun. But the gay bars exist first and foremost as safe, welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ people, and that's what this guide is about: how to be a guest, not a takeover.

The golden rules

1. Remember whose space it is. You're a guest in somebody else's community space. Many people in the room have travelled there precisely because it's the one place they can relax and be themselves.
2. Don't treat people as part of the entertainment. Don't stare, ask personal questions, or try to "set up" the bride or groom with the gay best friend. Don't touch anyone without their consent, including the drag queens and bar staff.
3. Keep group size sensible. A group of twenty in a small Lord Street bar fills the room. Split up into smaller groups, or ring ahead and ask whether the venue can fit you in.
4. Don't take over the stage or the microphone. Join in when invited, cheer loudly, but let the performer run the show.
5. Tip the queens. If a bucket or glass comes round, put something in. Tips are always appreciated, especially in the free-entry bars.
6. Check before bringing props. If a venue asks you to leave inflatables or novelty props at the door, do.
7. Be kind to the staff. They're running a busy bar for everyone, not just your party.
8. Respect "no". If the door staff say the venue is full or not suitable for groups tonight, accept it gracefully.

Men-only venues are men only

A few venues in the quarter are strictly for men, including Trades Bar, the Growlr Club above the Man Bar, the two saunas and a couple of hotels. A hen party, or a mixed stag do, can't go in, and asking repeatedly puts staff in a difficult position. Some guesthouses are also adults only or LGBTQ+-focused, so check before you book rooms for a large group.

Best options for groups

• Funny Girls. A theatrical drag revue that's well used to groups. Book seats in advance, and consider a dinner-and-show package in Garbo's. Larger groups should phone the box office.
• The Flying Handbag. A big venue that takes booth bookings and can provide a buffet if you book ahead.
• Garlands. Free afternoon drag, though it gets busy, so smaller groups fit in more easily.
• Peek-a-Booze and Lu-Lu's. Cabaret bars that welcome a party atmosphere.
• Drag brunches in town-centre venues are designed for groups.

For the LGBTQ+ hen and stag

LGBTQ+ couples have hen and stag parties too, and the quarter is a brilliant place for them. Talk to venues about what they can do for you, look at the guesthouses that take group bookings, and book Funny Girls well ahead.

For the groom, bride or partner of honour

• Wear the sash or the veil with pride, but if you're asked to do something on stage you don't want to do, it's fine to say no with a smile.
• Keep your group together at the end of the night and make sure everyone gets home in a licensed taxi.

If you're LGBTQ+ and a group is spoiling your night

Speak to the bar staff or door staff. They'd far rather deal with it early than let the atmosphere sour. If you experience homophobic, biphobic or transphobic abuse, you can report it. See our safety guide.

Places mentioned in this guide