New research reveals the nation’s thirst for celebration

Brits have endured an average 301 days without any fun since the first lockdown began last year, a new poll reveals. For the average Brit, it’s been 11 months since they last went to a party or sporting event, 10 months since their last trip to the pub and nine months since their last date night.

The survey, by drinks brand Southern Comfort, has put lockdown into numbers and reveals in the last year, we’ve each forgone 17 meals out, 15 pub nights, 12 trips to the cinema or theatre and 11 social events with people from work.

On the nation’s fun-ometer, which according to the recent poll would normally be at a solid 10, is stuck at a measly 3.5 – with Brits desperate to get out there and enjoy life again.

As the nation eagerly awaits restrictions to be relaxed, 2 in 3 admit finding it hard to think of new things to do at the weekend. Almost half of those polled are craving higher-tempo group experiences as a direct anecdote to lockdown fatigue.

More than half surveyed admit to craving escaping their current day-to-day routine and it’s music festivals and concerts that we’re missing the most. 3 in 5 also admit to missing the feeling of being ‘totally free to express ourselves’ as we continue to be bogged down with remote working and home-schooling.

The research comes in time for ‘Southern Comfort Presents Mardi Gras’, a month-long celebration that takes place throughout February inspired by the brand’s unique hometown, New Orleans – whose optimism, creativity and welcoming soul make it a place like no other. Typically, the annual celebration sees thousands of people coming together to dance, sing and parade down the streets of New Orleans during its month-long celebration.

Teaming up with the booze brand to get the celebrations started in style, RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Cheryl Hole says: “Divas! Much like the rest of the UK, I’m craving a FUN night out with my fellow dolls – I can’t wait to be on the dancefloor again! I’ll be tuning in to the free Southern Comfort Presents Mardi Gras x Bongo’s Bingo live event on the 20th, thank god there’s finally something fun to put in the diary. Let’s all get together for a night of fun, games and of course…dancing! Happy Mardi Gras everyone”

‘Southern Comfort Presents Mardi Gras x Bongo’s Bingo’ will bring the fun to your front room. With bead giveaways, to tasty New Orleans inspired food boxes in partnership with MEATliquor, the night promises to be one like no other.

With a Mardi Gras inspired schedule of live performances, celebrity appearances and an interactive twerkshop, the 2-hour experience is guaranteed to be fun fuelled, transporting viewers to the feel-good streets of New Orleans. Come together and watch along with friends, family or riding solo, absolutely everyone is welcome.