Paint the town red

Meaning

Celebrate exuberantly in public.

Usage

Used for nights out or big celebrations.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Often linked to a rowdy spree in Melton Mowbray in 1837 involving the Marquis of Hastings, but the link is uncertain.

Recorded from the late 19th century.