Arrival Drinks - Birthday / Engagement / Anniversary Party

AlbertoBalsam

I'm keen to know whether it is the custom to buy all your guests a drink on arrival at a private function for a 30th Birthday Party. I guess my question is also relevant to other private functions such as engagement parties or a special anniversaries.

I've experienced both but on the whole it tends to be parties for older age groups I've had a free drink on arrival unless a parent is picking up the tab at say a 21st Birthday party.

It's tended to be a ticket or poker chip which you are given on arrival which you then can exchange for a drink of your choice at the bar as opposed to a set laid out drink at the entrance.

Is this the norm? was it ever the norm? Is it a generation or regional thing?

Anatidaephobia

I don't think I've ever been to a birthday party at a venue or function hall where I've been bought or given a free drink on entry.

Gloomendoom

I've been to a few where the first drink at the bar is free or there is a time cut off at the bar. After that, you pay.

74jax

At my 30 I paid for all drinks and guests paid for their set meal.

At my 40 recently I paid for all drinks and the meal.

At our wedding I paid for a sangria fountain all night, they could buy alternatives at the bar and paid for all food.

DD265

I've been to some where the hosts or family members have put tabs behind the bar - it's amazing how fast a £500 tab can go!

I wouldn't expect it though.