The 12 Pubs of Christmas: A Festive and (Potentially) Chaotic Tradition
The 12 Pubs of Christmas. The very name conjures images of festive cheer, questionable decisions, and a whole lot of laughs. This legendary Christmas pub crawl is a staple of the holiday season, a tradition celebrated (and sometimes barely remembered) across the globe. But before you dive headfirst into a night of yuletide drinking, it’s crucial to understand the (unofficial) rules of engagement. This guide will navigate you through the dos and don’ts, ensuring your 12 Pubs experience is memorable for all the right reasons (mostly).
Understanding the Core Principles
At its heart, the 12 Pubs of Christmas is simple: visit 12 different pubs and have a drink in each. However, the fun (and the challenge) lies in the added rules and themes that participants often incorporate. These rules are usually designed to be silly, challenging, and ultimately, to add to the entertainment of the evening. The goal is less about excessive drinking (though that can happen) and more about shared experiences and festive camaraderie.
The Foundation: Essential Rules for Every Crawl
Before we delve into the more creative and outlandish rules, let’s cover the basics:
* **The 12 Pub Limit:** This is non-negotiable. Twelve pubs. No more, no less.
* **One Drink Per Pub:** This can be a pint, a half-pint, a shot (if you’re feeling brave), or even a non-alcoholic beverage if you need a break. Choose wisely.
* **Designated Route:** Plan your route in advance. Consider proximity, pub opening hours, and transportation options. Walking is often the best (and safest) way to travel between pubs.
* **Buddy System:** Always travel in groups and look out for each other. Nobody gets left behind.
* **Pace Yourself:** It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Remember, you have 12 pubs to conquer.
Spice Things Up: Rule Variations and Theme Ideas
This is where things get interesting. The beauty of the 12 Pubs is its adaptability. Feel free to invent your own rules or adopt some of these popular variations:
Dress Code Challenges
* **Ugly Christmas Sweater:** A classic. Bonus points for the most outrageous and festive sweater.
* **Themed Costumes:** Choose a theme (e.g., superheroes, historical figures, Christmas characters) and have everyone dress accordingly.
* **Secret Santa Outfit Swap:** Exchange outfits with someone in your group before the crawl. Hilarity ensues.
Drinking-Related Rules
* **No Talking:** At a designated pub, no one is allowed to speak. Communicate through gestures or charades.
* **Drink with Your Opposite Hand:** Sounds easy, but it’s surprisingly difficult after a few pubs.
* **Buy a Drink for a Stranger:** Spread the Christmas cheer (and lighten your wallet).
* **The ‘Waterfall’ Rule:** The first person to start drinking can’t stop until the person next to them starts, and so on. This can get messy quickly.
Activity-Based Rules
* **Sing a Christmas Carol:** In each pub, the group must perform a Christmas carol (or at least attempt to).
* **Take a Photo with a Stranger:** Capture the memories (and the awkwardness).
* **Complete a Dare:** Before the crawl, write down a series of dares and have participants draw them at each pub.
The ‘No Rule’ Rule
* **At one pub, there are no rules at all.** This can be a welcome relief (or a recipe for disaster).
Navigating the Night Responsibly
While the 12 Pubs is about having fun, it’s also crucial to be responsible. Here are some tips for a safe and enjoyable experience:
* **Eat Before You Go:** Line your stomach with a substantial meal before starting the crawl.
* **Stay Hydrated:** Drink plenty of water between pubs to avoid dehydration.
* **Know Your Limits:** Don’t feel pressured to drink more than you’re comfortable with.
* **Plan Your Transportation Home:** Arrange for a taxi, designated driver, or public transportation in advance.
If you are planning on having cocktails, and wondering what the best choices are for the ladies, you may want to investigate beforehand what to order. Some ladies prefer lighter, fruitier concoctions while others have a taste for the classics. Check out this article about the best alcoholic drinks for ladies, a guide to flavor, occasions, and personal style: https://dropt.beer/insights/the-best-alcoholic-drinks-for-ladies-a-guide-to-flavor-occasions-and-personal-style/.
12 Pubs of Christmas: A Tradition to Remember (or Not)
The 12 Pubs of Christmas is more than just a pub crawl; it’s a tradition, a celebration, and a chance to create lasting memories (even if you can’t remember them all). By understanding the rules (and breaking them occasionally), you can ensure a festive and unforgettable experience. So gather your friends, don your ugliest Christmas sweater, and prepare for a night of yuletide cheer… and maybe a few questionable decisions along the way.