thank you for your comment.

I like the idea of naming events – it makes it clear exactly what is happening (“Drinks”) and perhaps when (“Friday Night Drinks”).

Specification of inclusions are important – and not only what is available within the ticket price, but as you point out, what other options are available for attendees at a price (“The main dinner is here, but if you prefer to head straight to the cocktail lounge, it is just around the corner and up the stairs”). I think it is also important that social event food/drink coverage is well publicised – this allows participants to make an informed decision to attend (or not) and thus plan to take best advantage of their time.

Best regards, Andrew

Oh, and food! Many conference websites are unclear about if and if so: how much drinks, snacks, and proper meals are provided (for free/at cost). Will there be breakfast? Lunch? Coffee? At each break? And what does “reception” mean: one free drink? Two? A lot? And what about dinner?
In other words: being clear about the food and drink situation is crucial for expectation management around social events.