FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Milwaukee's Outdoor Holiday Bar
NOV 28 - DEC 31 • WED - SUN • 6pm - midnite
follow for updates, special announcements, and changes due to weather
SAFETY, WEATHER, AND SERVICE
’Twas the Nite is a 21+ outdoor holiday bar. Please drink responsibly. For your safety, use caution around fire pits, heaters, and any wet or icy surfaces, and follow all staff instructions. All hours, programming, and operations are subject to change at any time due to weather, safety concerns, or other unforeseen circumstances; the most current updates will be posted on our social channels @twasthenitepopup.
This information is for general guidance only and does not replace any applicable laws, regulations, or official policies.
THE BASICS
What is ’Twas the Nite and what makes it Milwaukee’s Outdoor Holiday Bar?
’Twas the Nite is Milwaukee’s Outdoor Holiday Bar—a seasonal riverside pop-up on Boone & Crockett's waterfront patio. Under strings of lights, guests gather around fire pits for crafted seasonal cocktails, zero-proof sippers, hot drinks, and hot food while holiday music and special events set the mood. With outdoor heaters, cozy seating, and plenty of room to linger with friends, it feels more like a winter cabin party on the river than a quick stop at a bar. Whether you’re planning a date night, meeting up with friends, or looking for a new holiday tradition, ’Twas the Nite is designed for bundling up outside, soaking in the lights, and enjoying the best of Milwaukee's winter holiday season.
What are the 2025 dates and hours for 'Twas the Nite Outdoor Holiday Popup Bar?
For the 2025 season, ’Twas the Nite: Milwaukee's Outdoor Holiday Bar is scheduled to run November 28 through December 31, Wednesday–Sunday, 6:00 pm–12:00 am (midnite). Any special holiday hours or schedule changes will be shared on our social channels, so check @twasthenitepopup before you head out.
Where is ’Twas the Nite located, and how do I get to Boone & Crockett?
’Twas the Nite lives on Boone & Crockett’s riverside patio at 818 S Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53204, at Water St & National Ave in the Harbor View area of Walker's Point neighborhood, right on the Kinnickinnic River.
There’s a parking lot on site, another lot across the street, and street parking along South Water Street.
For rideshare, ask your driver to drop off and pick up on Water Street, not inside the parking lots.
CLICK HERE for directions via Google Maps
CLICK HERE for directions via Apple Maps
Is ’Twas the Nite 21+ only?
Yes. ’Twas the Nite is a 21+ only experience. All guests must bring a valid, unexpired, government-issued physical ID to enter—no photos, screenshots, or copies. Minors are not permitted on the patio during ’Twas the Nite.
Do I need a ticket or reservation for ’Twas the Nite, or is it first-come, first-served?
Entry and seating at ’Twas the Nite are first-come, first-served—no advance tickets or reservations required. On busy nights we may pause entry if we reach capacity, so consider arriving earlier in the evening if you have a specific time in mind.
Is ’Twas the Nite open on holidays like Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve?
Yes. ’Twas the Nite plans to be open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve, with hours posted on twasthenite.com and @twasthenitepopup as the season approaches. Check for any holiday-specific updates before you visit.
FOOD AND DRINKS
What kinds of holiday cocktails are on the menu at ’Twas the Nite?
You’ll find holiday cocktails specially crafted by ’Twas the Nite—from cookie-inspired sippers and spiked hot chocolate, with plenty of non-alcoholic options. The menu leans cozy, decadent, and fun, built for cold-weather nights by the river.
Are there non-alcoholic (zero-proof) drink options available?
’Twas the Nite features a solid lineup of hot and cold zero-proof (non-alcoholic) holiday mocktails so everyone can join in the cheer.
Is there hot food at ’Twas the Nite, and what do Taco Moto and Snack Boys serve?
Yes—hot food is available on site. Taco Moto and Snack Boys will be serving a mix of street-style tacos, late-night comfort bites, and playful shareable snacks that pair perfectly with holiday drinks. Specific menus and hours may vary by night, so check our social media or onsite menus for the latest details.
Are there vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free food and drink options?
Our food and drink partners often include vegetarian and gluten-conscious options, but selections can change throughout the season and are not guaranteed. Some items may contain nuts, dairy, oats, or other allergens, so please review the nightly menu and talk with staff if you have dietary restrictions or allergies.
Can I see the full ’Twas the Nite menu online before I visit?
Yes. The drink menu is available HERE on twasthenite.com and linked from @twasthenitepopup on Instagram.
Because supply can vary, the menu is always subject to change based on availability and weather.
COMFORT, WEATHER AND ATMOSPHERE
Are there heaters or fire pits at ’Twas the Nite to help guests stay warm?
Absolutely. The patio is lined with crackling fire pits and outdoor heaters to take the edge off the cold. Seating around the fires is communal and first-come, first-served, so plan to share the warmth and make some new friends.
What should I wear to stay comfortable at an outdoor holiday bar in Milwaukee winter?
lan to dress for real Midwest winter—you’ll be outdoors the whole time. Think warm layers, insulated coat, hat, gloves, and boots with good traction. If you bring a dog, consider a coat and paw protection for road salt and snow so your pup can be as comfortable as you are.
What happens if the weather is extremely cold, snowy, or rainy—can ’Twas the Nite close or delay opening?
Twas the Nite is designed for cold-weather fun, and we stay open through typical winter temps, light snow, and normal conditions. In cases of extreme cold, heavy snow, ice, or dangerous storms, we may limit patio access, delay opening, or close early for safety. The most up-to-date info will always be posted on Instagram at @twasthenitepopup.
Is there music or special events during ’Twas the Nite season?
Expect festive holiday playlists and a lively winter-bar atmosphere most nights, with occasional special events or themed evenings announced throughout the season. Follow @twasthenitepopup for details on any pop-ups, takeovers, or one-off happenings.
SEATING AND GROUPS
What kind of seating is available at ’Twas the Nite (picnic tables, fire pits, and standing room)?
The patio offers a mix of picnic tables, seating clustered around fire pits, and plenty of standing room along rails and high-top areas. Seating is communal and first-come, first-served, so it’s easy to slide in with a group and settle in for the night.
Do I need a reservation to visit ’Twas the Nite, or is seating first-come, first-served?
No reservations are needed—or offered. All entry and seating at ’Twas the Nite are first-come, first-served, including for larger groups, with no reserved sections or paid holds.
Can ’Twas the Nite host large groups, office parties, or private events?
Groups of all sizes are welcome to join us as walk-ins during normal hours, but we are not currently booking private patio buyouts or reserved sections for ’Twas the Nite. Please plan for first-come, first-served service and arrive early if you’re coordinating a bigger crew.
AGE LIMITS, PETS AND POLICIES
Is ’Twas the Nite 21+ only, or are children and families welcome?
’Twas the Nite is a strictly 21+ outdoor holiday bar. All guests must show a valid, unexpired, government-issued physical ID at the door; photos or copies are not accepted. Minors are not allowed on the patio during ’Twas the Nite.
Is ’Twas the Nite dog-friendly?
Yes—well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome on the patio. Please keep dogs close at all times, take them off property to relieve themselves, and clean up after your pet. Winter gets cold and salty, so consider a coat and paw protection so your dog stays comfortable on the concrete and snow.
Can I bring in outside food, non-alcoholic drinks, or water bottles?
No outside food, non-alcoholic drinks, or water bottles are allowed at ’Twas the Nite. For everyone’s safety and in compliance with alcohol laws, outside alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Complimentary water stations will be available on site so you can stay hydrated throughout the night.
What is your policy on smoking or vaping on the patio?
Smoking and vaping are allowed only in outdoor areas of the patio and must not take place in the covered patio, under awnings, or under any overhead coverings. Please be mindful of wind direction, keep clear of doorways and lines, and respect other guests and staff while you smoke or vape.
ACCESSIBILITY, PARKING AND PAYMENTS
Is ’Twas the Nite accessible for guests with mobility devices or wheelchairs?
Yes. The ’Twas the Nite patio is single-level with flat surfaces, and there are accessible restrooms available. As with any winter venue, surfaces may become wet or icy, so please use caution and let staff know if you need assistance moving around the space.
Where can I park when visiting ’Twas the Nite at Boone & Crockett?
You’ll find a parking lot at Boone & Crockett, an additional lot across the street, and street parking along South Water Street. For rideshare, ask your driver to drop off and pick up on Water Street rather than pulling into the lots to help traffic flow and keep pedestrians safe.
What forms of payment are accepted at ’Twas the Nite—cash, credit cards, or mobile pay?
’Twas the Nite accepts cash, major credit and debit cards, and most mobile/contactless payment options (such as Apple Pay or Google Pay). Some food partners may run separate tabs, but they generally accept the same forms of payment.
Who can I contact with additional questions about ’Twas the Nite or to inquire about partnerships or press?
For general questions, partnerships, or press inquiries, reach out at [email protected] or send a direct message to @twasthenitepopup on Instagram. Include your event idea, preferred dates, and contact information so we can follow up efficiently.
LOCATION
818 S Water St
Milwaukee, WI 53204
