Paint the town red
/peɪnt ðə taʊn red/informalUK · US
What does “Paint the town red” mean?
Paint the town red means to go out and celebrate noisily or enthusiastically
After passing their final exams, friends might plan to paint the town red. The point is an energetic celebration rather than a quiet meal.
Alcohol is often part of the scene, but the phrase does not require it. The lively night out is what matters.
When do people say it?
Use it for a lively night out, often involving dancing or several bars. It sounds playful and a little old-fashioned.
“After our final exam, we went out to paint the town red.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The image turns a celebration into something that changes the whole town. The phrase does not mean that anyone actually paints buildings.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Paint the town red” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-10-01