For many women, a night out with close friends isnt just a luxury — its a necessity. A new nationwide survey shows women believe they need a girls night about once every 22 days to feel balanced and recharged.
Commissioned by Bezel Wines and conducted by Talker Research, the nationwide poll of 2,000 women revealed that nearly eight in ten (78%) view girls nights as a necessity rather than a luxury.
Wine plays a starring role. Eighty-eight percent of respondents said it was their drink of choice for the occasion, far surpassing any other beverage, and it doesnt take long to appear: 85% of women reported opening a bottle within 16 minutes of the first guests arrival, marking the true start of the evening.
“Wine plays such a unique role in how we connect with others,” said Bezel winemaker Jane Dunkley. “You dont need a fancy spread or a curated vibe. Its about choosing wines that make everyone feel welcome — whether youre opening our Cabernet Sauvignon to pair with a grilled cheese sandwich, or Chardonnay with chips and French onion dip.”
Food, though varied, is another centerpiece. Thirty-one percent said they prefer a traditional charcuterie board of cheese, crackers, and cold cuts. Others leaned toward heartier fare like sliders, wings, or chips with guacamole. Eleven percent opted for sweet treats such as cookies and cupcakes.
Conversation, however, is what truly defines girls’ night. Eighty-three percent said they prefer unstructured talk to any planned entertainment. The most popular topics included personal updates (19%), relationships (15%), and family news (13%), with work chatter or celebrity gossip far behind.
“Theres something powerful about slowing down and creating space for real conversation,” Dunkley said. “We believe its those ordinary rituals, a bottle of wine, a snack you love, a night with friends, that often turn out to be the most extraordinary.”
The survey also found that 62% of women would choose a girls night over a romantic dinner with a partner. Hosting duties are often informal, with nearly six in ten respondents saying their group doesnt have an official host.
When it comes to activities, watching movies was the top choice (66%), followed by dancing (55%) and cooking together (45%). The survey suggests that for most women, girls nights are less about extravagance and more about simple, shared connection.