Why is it Called a Stag Do? | Origins & Meaning Explained

If you’ve ever been invited to a stag do, you might have wondered where the term comes from. While today it's synonymous with pre-wedding celebrations for grooms-to-be, its roots go much deeper. Let’s dive into the history and meaning behind this iconic term.

The origins and meaning behind the term 'Stag Do'

What does 'stag' mean?

The word "stag" traditionally refers to a male deer known for its strength, independence, and status in the animal kingdom. Over time, the stag became a symbol of masculinity, particularly within British and European cultures. It makes sense, then, that a "stag do", often an all-male event, would borrow from this imagery, representing male camaraderie and the groom’s final night of freedom before marriage.

When did the term 'stag do' originate?

The term "stag do" is thought to have emerged in the UK during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Before it became the familiar event it is today, similar pre-wedding celebrations existed under various names. However, as language evolved, "stag" became the preferred slang for men’s gatherings ahead of a wedding, especially in the UK and Ireland.

A stag do also has a connection to Celtic and Pagan beliefs. The Horned God, Cernunnos, in Celtic and early English mythology, was a symbol of all things male, and the stag is often associated with fertility and the wild hunt, related to the groom's last night of freedom before marriage. 

What is the difference between a stag do and a hen do?

A stag do is the male counterpart to a hen do, which is the equivalent celebration for brides-to-be. Both events serve the same purpose: to celebrate the end of a single life, but they are often stereotyped by gender. While stag dos may lean into themes of adventure, mischief, or nightlife, hen dos often feature different activities, though the lines have blurred in modern times.

What are other names for a stag do?

Depending on where you are in the world, you might hear alternative terms for a stag do, such as:

• Bachelor party (commonly used in the US and Canada)
• Bucks party or Bucks night (popular in Australia and New Zealand)
• Groom’s party (less common but occasionally used)

Each variation carries the same meaning, though the traditions and activities can vary by region. 

How have stag dos changed over time?

Traditionally, stag dos were one-night affairs, usually involving a trip to the local pub with close friends. Over the decades, they’ve evolved into more elaborate events. Today, stag dos can include entire weekends abroad, activity-based adventures like skydiving or go-karting, and even wellness retreats.

Cultural shifts have also softened the idea of the stag do as a night of wild partying. More modern stag dos are diverse, tailored to the groom’s interests, and increasingly inclusive, with some even blending into joint celebrations with the bride’s party also known as Sten Parties. 

What does the future hold for stag dos?

Looking ahead, stag dos are likely to continue moving away from stereotypical boozy nights and lean further into personalised, experience-driven events. Adventure travel, luxury getaways, and even eco-conscious or charity-based stag dos are becoming more common. As societal views on marriage and gender roles evolve, so too will the traditions surrounding stag dos.

Why is it called a hen do instead of a stag do for women?

The "hen" in "hen do" mirrors the stag in a playful way. Just as the stag represents the male aspect, hens (female birds) have historically been used to represent women. The term "hen do" came into popular use in the UK, particularly from the mid-20th century onward, reflecting the cultural tendency to assign animal metaphors to gendered gatherings.