Formal season is in full swing in the region, with many venues booked out every night of the week.

Harbourview Function Centre has 14 formals scheduled in the next fortnight.

Other popular venues include Newcastle City Hall, Newcastle Jockey Club and the University of Newcastle's Brennan Room.

A survey of students having their photos taken in Civic Park before their formals revealed that most girls spent between $150 and $300 on their outfits, while most males rented a tuxedo for the night.

Even so, when expenses such as hair and make-up, limousine transfers, shoes, dress, corsage and professional photographs are added, the cost of the big night out can top $1000.