Seven in 10 university students now prefer day raves and soft-clubbing over traditional all-nighters, according to research by Papa Johns. The study suggests that daytime dancing is becoming a growing trend among students, with three quarters (76%) of students in Manchester favouring a day rave over a conventional night out, followed by Liverpool at 74% and Edinburgh at 73%.
Daytime socialising on the rise
The findings indicate a significant shift in future Freshers weeks, particularly as three in five (59%) students drink less when socialising during daylight hours, while a further 11% abstain from alcohol entirely. Despite this, students still have a strong desire to socialise, with dancing alongside new friends (39%) and bonding over music (58%) remaining popular ways to spend their first week of term.
The research also highlighted that house parties come into their own once students settle into their new surroundings. More than three-quarters (76%) of students agree that some of the most memorable moments occur in the kitchen, describing it as the perfect spot to meet new people (65%), engage in meaningful conversations (68%) or simply find the best atmosphere (68%).
Papa Johns hosts kitchen rave
On October 7, Papa Johns and Red Bull brought these findings to life by hosting a rave in their Fallowfield, Manchester, branch, which was converted into an unexpected rave venue. Freshers gathered for a performance from DJG2 (@djg2uk), Papa Johns pizza slices and Red Bull beverages.
A Papa Johns spokesperson stated: "Students are choosing to rave earlier and the kitchen is officially the place where everyone comes together. So, when Manchester was crowned the UK's day-rave capital, we thought 'why not invite its students into our kitchen for the ultimate party?' Freshers From The Kitchen served up great music, piping-hot pizza and plenty of energy, without a 3am finish required."
House parties overtake clubs
The Papa Johns research claims to demonstrate clubs are no longer the sole destination, as house parties have now surpassed clubs as the most favoured way for students to socialise (55%). The study also found that proper ingredients still count, with 45% stating a shortage of decent party food can spoil the atmosphere, while 64% cite poor music and 51% highlight inadequate sound quality or speakers.
Papa Johns is seeking to rescue students nationwide from a disappointing house party by 'helping Freshers create the ultimate vibe at home'. Their limited-edition 'Kit-chen' packs feature Papa Johns pizza vouchers, merchandise and stickers, Red Bull cans and a bass-heavy speaker.
Feeling refreshed rather than battling a hangover is the primary motivation (31%) for those reducing their partying. Others cite wanting to prioritise their health and wellbeing (35%), not requiring alcohol to enjoy themselves (43%), or favouring non-alcoholic alternatives such as soft drinks and energy drinks (32%).
Comfort food and student offers
When it comes to what students require to sustain them throughout the week, simple comfort food emerges as the clear winner (72%), with pizza leading the way for three quarters (76%). The pizza chain is offering students an opportunity to secure a limited-edition 'Kit-chen' pack and host their own Papa Johns and Red Bull powered kitchen gathering.
For a chance to win, participate in Win it Wednesdays through the Spin to Win feature on the Papa Johns app on Wednesday October 14. Students who establish and verify a Papa Johns student account can also claim a complimentary Personal Pizza reward, while unlocking weekly deals, discounts and special offers on the app.
