The concept of distinct lines between men and women in social circles has undergone significant evolution over time. While some couples may opt for an all-girl or all-boy celebration, others may not find it as clear-cut. To bridge this gap, we’ve curated a list of ideas for a mixed-gender hen or stag party, also known as a ‘Sten do’ or ‘Sten party.’
A key aspect is that couples can have their own individual hen or stag weekends while still enjoying a joint celebration with friends.
If you and your partner have a strong social circle, it’s likely that you share many mutual friends, making a pre-wedding night with the entire gang a compelling idea. Similarly, these concepts can apply to same-sex couples who wish to celebrate with their closest friends.
It’s not to say that men cannot enjoy afternoon tea or visit a day spa, nor is it assumed that women cannot participate in a pub crawl in Prague or engage in an inflatable Zorb adventure – the goal is simply to break free from stereotypes and create activities that appeal broadly across your social circle. By doing so, you can bring together your friends for an unforgettable experience.
Ideas for a Mixed Gender Hen or Stag Party
(Pent)House Party
Pay homage to those unforgettable house party nights with a luxurious spin! Many hotels now offer exclusive suites and rooms that can be rented for private A-list style gatherings – think slumber parties taken to the next level. In Dublin, The Dean boasts an impressive loft space complete with a foosball table and its own bar. Alternatively, The Morgan Penthouse comes equipped with a spacious outdoor terrace and even an airstream caravan.
For a unique experience in Cork, The Clayton Hotel offers a stunning split-level Penthouse suite featuring private dining and drink stations – the ultimate party pad.
Surf Trip
The concept of a surf weekend with friends might seem like a familiar scene from TV shows, but it’s an experience that’s just as fun in real life. The West Coast of Ireland is home to some incredible surfing spots, including Bundoran, Strandhill, and Lahinch. These areas are not only great for beginners looking to try out the sport, but also cater to more experienced surfers. For those new to surfing, schools in the area offer gear rental and lessons, making it easy to get started.
Some top options include Lahinch Surf School and Strandhill Surf School.
Tipple Tastings
As we’ve previously discussed the potential for pub crawls as a mixed-gender hen or stag activity, it’s only natural to explore alternative options for group outings. With Ireland’s thriving distillery and brewery scene, tastings and tours have emerged as an excellent way to bring your gang together while sampling some of the country’s finest spirits.
For whiskey enthusiasts, Teeling in Dublin offers distillery tours, Bushmills in Northern Ireland provides a tour and tasting, Dingle does the same in Kerry, and Jameson offers tastings in Dublin and Cork. Those with a taste for wine can visit Ely Wine Bar in Dublin or The Wine Society at Hayfield Manor in Cork.
Gin lovers may enjoy making their own spirit at Listoke Gin School, while beer aficionados can check out White Hag in Sligo, Galway Bay Brewery, Franciscan Well Brewery in Cork, Wicklow Wolf in Bray, and even the well-known micro-brewery Guinness.
Karaoke
While not everyone’s cup of tea, karaoke is an integral part of a fantastic night out experience. Even the most tone-deaf individuals can’t help but get caught up in the fun when singing their favorite tunes in private, away from prying eyes. In fact, we’ve found that even those who initially resist the idea of belting out a tune in public will soon be hooked. For us, karaoke is an essential component of a memorable night out.
If you’re looking for inspiration, check out our comprehensive guide to Ireland’s top karaoke hotspots.
Bowling
Bowling has shed its reputation as a kid-friendly activity, with trendy bowling alleys popping up that cater to adults’ tastes. These modern establishments often feature bars, extended hours, and a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for a night out with friends. The fun can be amplified by adding some friendly betting to the mix. Consider visiting spots like The Mardyke in Cork or Base Entertainment in Kildare.
For those who prefer to bring their own drinks, options such as Bray Bowl, Super Dome, and Pirates Cove offer BYOB nights. As for other exciting activities, Dublin Bay Cruises is also worth exploring.
Boat Trip
When it comes to organizing a HenStag or Sten Party boat trip, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, booking a private cruise is the way to go – and Charter Ireland is an excellent starting point. Alternatively, you could opt for a fun-filled sea excursion with operators like Dublin Bay Cruises, Casey’s Skelling Islands Tours, or Dingle Dolphin Tours. If you’re looking to make a weekend (or even a week!
) of it, consider hiring a self-sail cruiser or barge and navigating the Shannon River – Shannon River has all the information you need on boat hire and routes. Ultimately, boats are an excellent way to please any crowd, whether your friends are adventurous types who want to take the helm or just want to relax at the back with a glass of bubbly.
Book Out a Cinema
Booking a cinema for the night is an exciting experience, especially when it’s part of a memorable hen or stag do with friends. For larger groups, it’s a fantastic option to consider as well. The best part? You get to choose your favorite films to enjoy together – think double bills like Clueless and The Sound of Music! There are numerous private-hire cinemas in Ireland, including the Montenotte Hotel in Cork, IMC Cinemas, and Excelsior Cinema.
For those looking for more options in Dublin, we’ve got a comprehensive post that’s worth checking out.
A Day At The Races
A day at the races is an exciting experience that brings joy to people of all ages. Whether you’re a keen gambler, enjoy dressing up in your finest attire, or simply appreciate the lively atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. While major festivals like those in Galway, Leopardstown, and Punchestown draw large crowds, regular racing events are held across the country throughout the year. For more information on these events, visit Go Racing.
If you’re interested in greyhound racing, head to IGB.
Escape Down The Country
Ireland’s diverse landscape offers a plethora of opportunities for a memorable weekend getaway. From Connemara’s rugged beauty to North Donegal’s stunning coastlines, Wexford’s picturesque villages, the Burren’s unique limestone landscapes, West Cork’s wild Atlantic Way, Sligo’s rolling hills, the Ring of Kerry’s breathtaking scenery, and the islands off our west coast, you’ll find no shortage of charming countryside.
And let’s not forget the cozy cottages, complete with crackling fires, nearby hiking trails, and local pubs perfect for sharing stories with friends. A weekend retreat is an ideal setting for a mixed-gender group activity, where you can tailor your experience to suit everyone’s interests (don’t forget to pack some friendly competition for those board games!). Look no further than these incredible Irish Airbnb options for inspiration.
