In the not too distant past, the term party may have conjured up images of kids wearing funny-looking hats or adult son New Year's Eve with similar styles of head gear blowing on noisemakers. With today's party crowd, the term party can be everything from similar holiday gatherings to getting together with friends at a local bar or tavern and generally having a good time, whether or not there is a defined reason for the party.

A party is often described as a gathering for the purpose of celebration or recreation and in many cases for both. Where any group chooses to party will depend on the common interests of the group. It is not unusual for a group of friends to gather at their favorite watering hole and party for any number of reasons. The end of the work week, or to celebrate someone's rise in their company's ranks are only a few of the reasons for people to gather, but many times they get together for a party simply because they can.

Among the many reasons to party are when one member of a group is feeling down and their friends feel they need something to improve their mood. They often find that lifting a few spirits can have same effect on their friend's spirit and use it as an excuse to party. A job promotion, a new job, a new boyfriend/girlfriend or cutting ties with an old one are often considered reason enough to get a group together and head out to their favorite nightspot and party. For others, just being a specific day of the week is enough reason to party.

On virtually any given night of the week, there is a group planning to party at many different locations. When wandering through places known for their nightlife, it is easy to spot those out for a party. They will be group cloistered together at a group of tables or commandeering a space at the bar sharing in laughs and generally having a good time. The scene may make a few of the other jealous, wishing they could join in the party but typically, a party, even one held in a public bar, club or tavern is by invitation only.

For groups that may want to head out for a night on the town, but have no real reason to go clubbing, many venues offer their own reasons to party. Hosting keg parties or dance parties is becoming a common element at many locations. Helping groups of people enjoy themselves may be seen as self-serving to a few people, but the majority are grateful to have a specific reason to hold a party.

One of the good things about gathering with friends for a party night is having no set plan or agenda. The party can start in one location and if the group feels the need, can move the party around to other locations until they find the night spot in which they feel the atmosphere matches their mood.