Neon lights, thumping music, and the thrill of yelling "BINGO!" in a crowd of dancing ravers. Welcome to the world of Rave Bingo, where the traditional game gets a modern twist that's sure to light up any party. If you haven’t yet heard of this growing phenomenon, you are seriously missing out. But not to worry: we’ll help you out by filling in some of the important gaps.

Rave bingo has gained popularity among young adults seeking a unique and competitive socializing experience that blends music, gaming, and camaraderie into one unforgettable night out. If you are a bar or other venue owner looking to introduce the popular trend of rave bingo into your business, keep reading…

What is rave bingo?

Rave bingo is exactly what it seems: a high-energy, interactive event that combines the excitement of electronic dance music (EDM) with the competitive nature of traditional bingo. Participants gather in a club or festival setting where they are provided with bingo cards and markers.

As the DJ spins energetic beats, random numbers are called out, and players mark them on their cards in an attempt to achieve various winning patterns such as lines, corners, or the complete page (a blackout). The pace of the game is lively and exhilarating, creating an electrifying atmosphere that keeps participants engaged and entertained throughout the event.

Some companies that run and host rave bingos include Bingo Lingo and the Ultimate Rave Bingo.

The benefits of hosting rave bingo in your venue

Hosting your own rave bingo or any type of rave bingo inspired event in your venue can offer numerous benefits to your business. By incorporating this popular form of entertainment into your establishment, you can attract a younger demographic and increase foot traffic on slower nights. Rave bingo provides a unique and interactive experience for patrons, creating a fun and lively atmosphere that encourages socializing and engagement.

This can lead to increased sales as customers stay longer and spend more money on food and drinks. Most significantly, rave bingo can help differentiate your bar or restaurant from competitors, allowing you to stand out in an already crowded market. Hosting rave bingo can also be a cost-effective way to boost revenue, enhance the overall customer experience, and strengthen your brand image as a fun and trendy destination for nightlife entertainment.

Though rave bingo isn't the only social entertainment trend you can consider for your venues. Activities like AR darts or karaoke rooms can yield positive benefits for your venue without the need to organize large scale events like bingo raves.

Check out our guide to choosing in-house entertainment at your venue here.

Why is rave bingo so trendy?

Rave bingo is gaining popularity as a growing trend due to its unique combination of two seemingly unrelated activities––traditional bingo and energetic rave culture. The concept of rave bingo offers participants an immersive and high-energy experience that appeals to a younger demographic seeking excitement and social interaction.

In addition, the incorporation of electronic dance music (EDM), colorful lights, extravagant decorations, and live DJs elevates the traditional game of bingo into a modern, dynamic event that attracts a blended audience. And as always, the element of competition, with prizes often including cash or merchandise, adds an extra layer of thrill and motivation for players.

And speaking of competition…

As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, competitive socializing has become a prominent trend in entertainment venues and restaurants. Offering a unique blend of dining, gaming, and social interactions, competitive socializing experiences are becoming increasingly popular among millennials and Gen Z consumers who seek immersive, interactive entertainment experiences.

These types of venues often feature activities such as axe throwing, escape rooms, virtual reality games, and karaoke that foster friendly competition and create memorable bonding moments among friends and strangers alike. By appealing to the need for both socialization and excitement, establishments that embrace competitive socializing stand out in the market by providing guests with experiences that go beyond just food or drinks. This trend not only drives foot traffic but also enhances customer loyalty and strengthens brand identity in an ever-changing industry landscape. And best of all, it’s just really a LOT of fun.

How to host a Rave Bingo?

Starting a rave bingo business can be an exhilarating and rewarding venture for those looking to combine the thrill of a rave party with the classic game of bingo. But like any new venture, a rave bingo business requires careful planning and attention to detail.

If you are thinking of starting a rave bingo business from scratch (in other words, NOT just incorporating rave bingo into your existing business), here are some key steps to consider:

1. Target an audience

First and foremost, you’ll want to start by researching the rave scene in your area to determine the demand for this type of entertainment. The target audience for Rave Bingo is typically a mix of bingo enthusiasts and partygoers looking for a unique and lively experience––think young adults who love to dance, socialize, and have a good time.

2. See who else is out there

Scope out the competition in the event and entertainment industry to see what other businesses are offering. Look for ways to differentiate your Rave Bingo business by bringing a fresh and exciting angle to the market. Keep an eye on trends and customer feedback to stay ahead of the game.

3. Obtain the necessary forms

Before you start hosting Rave Bingo events, make sure you have all the required permits and licenses. Check with local authorities to understand the regulations surrounding gaming and entertainment events in your area. Being compliant from the start will save you headaches down the line.

4. Put a plan in place

Develop a solid financial plan, set clear goals, and monitor your budget closely to ensure the financial health of your rave bingo business. Keep track of expenses, revenues, and profits to make informed decisions and keep the party going strong.

5. Select the right location

Location is key when it comes to hosting successful Rave Bingo events. Choose a venue that can accommodate your target audience, offers the right atmosphere for a rave-style party, and is easily accessible––whether it's a nightclub, bar, or event space, make sure it fits the vibe you want to create.

6. Deck out your space

Transform your venue into a Rave Bingo paradise with colorful decor, flashy lights, and a stage for the DJ calling out numbers. Create a layout that allows for dancing space, invest in high-quality equipment such as sound systems, put in seating areas for players, and easy access to food and drinks. The more immersive and engaging the environment, the more memorable your Rave Bingo nights will be.

7. Market and promote your business

You've got the coolest rave bingo experience in town, now it's time to let the world know about it. Building a strong brand identity and using creative marketing tactics will help you attract a loyal following of bingo enthusiasts and party animals. Define what makes your bingo business unique and build a brand around it.

8. Include the right people

Hire a team of dedicated and energetic staff who share your passion for rave bingo. Provide thorough training to ensure everyone is equipped to deliver a top-notch experience for your customers and keep the party going all night long. Behind every great rave bingo party is a well-oiled operation. Make sure you have the right team in place, solid financial planning, and efficient processes to keep your business running smoothly.

There you have it! A breakdown of the growing trend of rave bingo, and how to set up your very own rave bingo business. With determination and creativity, you can launch a successful venture that stands out in the competitive entertainment industry.