Running a successful pub is about more than just good beer and a welcoming bar. While quality drinks and great service are essential, many pubs find that live music and entertainment play a key role in driving footfall, increasing dwell time and building a loyal customer base.
For prospective publicans or existing operators looking to improve performance, investing in the right kind of entertainment can have a big impact on trade and long-term success.

Driving Footfall

One of the most immediate benefits of live music in pubs is its ability to attract customers who may not otherwise visit. A well-advertised band, acoustic act or open mic night can turn a quiet evening into a busy one.

Live music creates a clear reason to visit rather than choosing to stay at home or go elsewhere. Regular events also help establish patterns of behaviour, when customers know a pub hosts live music every Friday night, it becomes easier to build consistent weekly trade.

Longer Stays, Higher Spend

Entertainment doesn’t just bring people through the door, it keeps them there longer. Customers who stay for a full set or quiz are more likely to purchase additional drinks and food.

Longer dwell time often leads to:

  • Higher wet sales per head
  • Increased food orders before or during events
  • Stronger late-evening trade

Many pubs also see opportunities to upsell during entertainment nights, such as additional rounds during intervals. When entertainment is well-paced and comfortable, customers are less likely to rush off elsewhere, helping maximise spend without feeling forced.

For pub operators, this shift from short visits to longer, more engaged stays can have a meaningful impact on overall weekly performance, particularly during evenings that may otherwise trade quietly.

Creating Atmosphere

Atmosphere is one of the hardest things to define but one of the easiest things for customers to feel. Live music and well-planned entertainment help create energy, buzz and a sense of occasion.

Over time, this contributes to a pubs identity. Some pubs become known for folk music, others for acoustic sessions or big bands. This clear positioning makes marketing easier and helps customers quickly understand what kind of experience to expect.

For people looking to run a pub, developing a recognisable entertainment offer can be just as important as food offer and drinks line up.

Building Community

Entertainment has a powerful social element. Quiz nights, live music evenings and open mic sessions encourage interaction between customers and help foster a sense of belonging.

Regular events often create core groups of loyal customers who attend week after week. These customers don’t just provide consistent trade, they help shape the atmosphere of the pub and make new visitors feel welcome.

Live music and entertainment also give pubs the opportunity to support local talent. Showcasing local musicians or quiz hosts strengthens ties with the surrounding community and helps position the pub as a hub rather than just a place to drink.

Over time, this sense of community can become one of a pubs strongest assets. Customers are more likely to choose a pub where they feel recognised, involved and part of something familiar. For publicans, this translates into repeat visits, word-of-mouth recommendations and greater resilience during quieter trading periods.

Choosing the Right Entertainment for Your Pub

Not every pub needs loud bands every weekend and not every venue is suited to large scale entertainment. Successful entertainment strategies are aligned with the pubs size, location and customer base.

Consider:

  • Acoustic acts for smaller or food-led pubs
  • Quizzes and themed nights midweek to drive quieter trade
  • Seasonal entertainment to coincide with peak periods
  • Local performers to build community ties

The key is consistency and quality. Poorly planned entertainment can deter regular customers, while the right offer enhances their experience.

Promoting Live Music Effectively

To maximise the return on entertainment, promotion is essential. Pubs should ensure events are visible both online and in-house.

Effective promotion includes:

  • Social media posts and event pages
  • In-pub posters and table talkers

Consistency is key. Promoting events in the same format and at the same time each week helps build familiarity  among customers. Simple, clear messaging around dates and times is often more effective than overcomplicated campaigns.

Many pubs also find value in:

  • Creating a regular entertainment schedule customers can rely on
  • Encouraging performers to share events with their own audiences

  • Using mailing lists or noticeboards to reach regulars who may not use social media

Well-promoted live music not only improves attendance on the night but helps position the pub as an active, vibrant venue within the local community.

Is Live Entertainment Worth the Investment?

While there is a cost associated with live music and entertainment, many pubs find that the uplift in sales and customer numbers far outweighs the expense.

For operators focused on long-term success, entertainment shouldn’t be viewed as an occasional add-on, but as part of a wider strategy to keep the pub vibrant and competitive.

Live music and entertainment remain powerful tools for a pubs success. When done well, they increase footfall, boost sales, strengthen customer loyalty and help define a pubs character.

For anyone researching how to run a pub or improve performance, entertainment is a proven way to stand out and create memorable experiences that keep customers coming back.