FAQs — Butlins Big Weekenders
What is a Butlins Big Weekender?
A 3-night, themed adults-only party weekender at a Butlins UK resort (Bognor Regis, Minehead, or Skegness). Each event is built around a music era (70s, 80s, 90s, 2000s) or genre (Britpop, indie, garage, dance, Pride) with headline acts, themed bars and a full programme. Most attendees wear fancy dress, especially on Saturday night.
When are the 2026 Big Weekenders?
Big Weekenders run year-round, with most weekenders happening between February and November. Ultimate 80s runs the most dates (multiple per resort). Specialist weekenders (Garage, Bugged Out, Replay, Shiiine On, Pride) tend to have 1–2 dates per year. See each guide for the specific 2026 dates at butlins.com/bigweekenders.
Is fancy dress required?
Not technically required, but ~80% of attendees do it on at least Saturday night. The decade weekenders (80s, 90s, 70s) have the highest fancy dress participation. Music genre weekenders (Garage, Bugged Out, Replay, Shiiine On) lean more towards themed t-shirts and accessories than full costumes.
Where do I buy Butlins Big Weekender fancy dress?
SQUAD SOCIETY makes the event-specific personalised t-shirts and squad outfits for every Big Weekender. For the costume itself, charity shops and any fancy-dress retailer cover the theme basics. Browse all personalised apparel, , or jump to your event's dedicated collection from the Shop By Weekender section above.
Can I get personalised squad t-shirts for our group?
Yes — one order, every item personalised differently. Names, nicknames, 80s alter egos, in-jokes. Direct-to-garment printed on Gildan 64000 cotton. Group orders ship to one address. Order 7–10 working days before the weekender. Group discounts on orders of 5+, 10+ and 15+.
Which resort should we go to?
Pick by location and event programme. Bognor Regis = south coast, closest to London. Minehead = west country, best for decade and indie weekenders. Skegness = east coast, largest resort, hosts the most weekenders overall. See each resort guide for venue specifics.
What's the best Big Weekender for a stag or hen?
The 80s is the most popular stag/hen weekender because the costumes are easy and recognisable. The 90s and 2000s are growing fast. For hen-led groups looking for full glam, Pride and the 70s are unbeatable for sequins and photo energy. See the Butlins Stag Do guide or Butlins Hen Do guide.
How early should I book my costume?
2–3 weeks for off-the-shelf costumes (popular sizes sell out closer to peak weekenders). 7–10 working days for personalised squad tees. For events 4+ weeks out, you have full size availability. Last-minute? Express delivery available up to 5 working days before.
