Another reason related to 2 is simple convenience. Compared to someones house a bar likely has:
readier access to beverages and food that may be required while socialising.
A large enough area to sit the relevant number of people comortably.
And be in a mutually beneficial location. E.g. if my friends and I all live 10+ miles from the city centre in differing directions it would be very difficult for us all to congregate at ones house, but easier for us to all reach a centre point. Even more so if we are all in the same place for another reason (after work drinks).
Another reason related to 2 is simple convenience. Compared to someones house a bar likely has:
readier access to beverages and food that may be required while socialising.
A large enough area to sit the relevant number of people comortably.
And be in a mutually beneficial location. E.g. if my friends and I all live 10+ miles from the city centre in differing directions it would be very difficult for us all to congregate at ones house, but easier for us to all reach a centre point. Even more so if we are all in the same place for another reason (after work drinks).