The ‘Big Occasion’ Factor
How to make the most of special events
The most popular days for dining out are Christmas Day, Valentine’s Day, New Year’s Eve and Mother’s Day, and with consumer expectations higher than ever, operators need to go the extra mile to impress. How will you attract consumers looking to celebrate one of these big occasions?
Christmas
25 December
The Roof Gardens in Kensington truly goes the extra mile for their customers, hosting a number of events during this holiday period. Think jazz evenings, magicians during Sunday lunch and the creation of a winter terrace, complete with warming cocktails, baked cheeses and blankets. Not to mention the seasonal winter BBQ and breakfast themed canapes.
Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day)
9 February
An average of two pancakes are consumed per person on Pancake Day, which accounts for around 117 million pancakes in one day! My Old Dutch Pancake House in London offers consumers pancakes with a boozy kick by serving it with a chocolate cream liqueur. This liqueur is also served as a milkshake to accompany the many other savoury and sweet pancakes on offer.
Valentine’s Day
14 February
Sixty-eight percent of consumers celebrate Valentine’s Day, with the third most popular gift – after cards and chocolates – being dining out. The Pipe of Port in Essex is offering a Valentine’s feast with a selection of Champagne cocktails.
Mother’s Day
6 March
Mother’s Day accounts for three times more reservations than a typical Sunday. In addition, more group reservations are made on Mother’s Day than any other day of the year… so bring out the magnums! The Marquis at Alkham gives consumers a reason to celebrate through a number of offerings. These include a three course Sunday lunch, an afternoon tea or even a seven course tasting menu with wine to match each dish.