About Brewtown Upper Hutt
Brewtown Upper Hutt is Wellington’s only craft-beer “village” – a repurposed industrial precinct turned vibrant entertainment hub. Situated on the old Dunlop Tyres factory site, it spans multiple brewing and entertainment venues on about 6,000 – 12,000 m² of former factory grounds . Major craft breweries like Panhead Custom Ales, Boneface Brewing Co and Te Aro Brewing Co have taps here, alongside the Wild Kiwi distillery and guest brewers . The complex keeps a raw, industrial vibe (the original Dunlop sign still stands out front) and explicitly brands itself as “raw, loud and fun” . Brewtown was created by local entrepreneurs with support from Upper Hutt’s city council and mayor Wayne Guppy to turn an unused factory into something that could “bring life and pride to the community” . In other words, it’s more than a bar – it’s become a hub of craft beer and community in the Hutt Valley. Visitors can stroll between multiple on-site brewpubs, restaurants and entertainment attractions, all under one roof or outdoors in festival gardens. The site even features large green lawns and covered stages for events, making it as much an outdoor venue as an indoor brewery complex. In short, Brewtown’s size, mix of breweries and brewpubs, and its history as a former tyre factory make it a truly unique destination in Wellington’s craft-scene .
Events and Programming
Brewtown is built for events of all kinds. It hosts everything from weekly and monthly gatherings to marquee festivals. A signature draw is the weekly Sunday Farmers Market (8 am–2 pm) where local artisans and food vendors gather. Beyond that, you’ll find regular cultural and community events (for example, free community carols each December ). The most prominent festivals are the craft-beer events: for example the NZ Brewers Fest (an annual day-long beer and music festival featuring 20+ of NZ’s top breweries and over 100 beers on tap www.ticketfairy.com) and the big New Year’s Eve party (“Brew Years Eve”), which in recent years has been headlined by bands like The Black Seeds and international acts like Sublime with Rome . Other past events have included automotive and outdoor shows (the massive “Summit to Sea” fun run and car show), competitive events, live music nights (metal and drum’n’bass festivals are often advertised), and family-friendly celebrations. Special themed nights (for example, an Irish festival on St. Patrick’s weekend, or metal tribute evenings) also pop up periodically . Most evenings and weekends have something happening, so there’s a real buzz. Ticket prices vary by event: local community events are often free, market entry is free, while concerts and beer festivals typically run from modest (around NZ$20–40) up to ticketed shows ($50–$100, depending on lineup). Brewtown’s large outdoor stages and lawns have made it possible to host concerts and festivals that draw thousands – capacity can range from under 1,000 for intimate shows up to 15,000 for big outdoor events . In short, Brewtown is the site of Upper Hutt’s major festivals, from craft beer celebrations and Summer concerts to winter carols and community fairs. Every season brings a new lineup of food markets, brew fests, live bands and family days, so check the local listings for what’s on when you plan to visit.
Tickets and Booking
For ticketed events at Brewtown, tickets are sold well in advance through official channels. The venue’s website and affiliated ticketing partners generally list all upcoming events and provide online sales (for example, Brew Years Eve tickets “are available now” through Brewtown’s official site ). Popular events often sell out, so it’s wise to buy early. Sign up for Brewtown’s newsletter or follow its social media for presales and announcements. There is not usually a walk-up box office on event days (most large events rely on print-at-home or mobile tickets), so plan to secure tickets online ahead of time. Small events or last-minute gigs might offer door sales if not sold out, but don’t count on it for big shows. Ticket prices depend on the event: free community events (carols, markets) have no charge, brewery tours or tastings might be small fee, and larger concerts typically have multi-tier pricing. From past events, primary ticket releases have been in the NZ$60–80 range for major concerts, with early-bird or first-release in the $70s (as an example, the first-release Brew Years Eve tickets were NZ$79 ). In summary, keep an eye on event pages and buy tickets through Brewtown’s official channels – and as staff urge at each New Year’s promo, “get in early” as shows likely sell out fast .
Seating and Layout
Brewtown’s event spaces are mostly open-plan. The core areas are the “Greenspace” and “The Field.” The Greenspace is a covered, grassy courtyard (about 30×40 m) with a solid roof overhead . It can accommodate roughly 2,400 people standing or 500–800 seated comfortably , with an adjacent paved area. Often it is used for medium-sized concerts or private events. Down the hill is The Field – a huge 12,000 m² open-air lawnsurfaced festival ground . The Field is fenced and can host up to ~15,000 people for big outdoor shows . By default most concerts and festivals at Brewtown are general admission (GA) – there are no assigned seats. Festival grounds typically have standing room near the stage, with people spreading out on the grass behind. If you want a guaranteed seat at a family event (like the carols), guests often bring their own lawn chairs (in fact, Brewtown’s carol event notes say “Deck chairs are all good” , though large picnic rugs may be discouraged to save space). Inside the brewpubs and bars (Panhead, Boneface, etc.) seating is in traditional table-and-chair format around the bar and taproom. Some special events might reserve a section or offer VIP areas in front of stage, but generally it’s floor/general admission. For best views at concerts, aim for a spot facing the stage on fairly level ground – the Greenspace roof helps spread the sound, and The Field often has a purpose-built raised embankment at one end for a natural grandstand effect . Note that lawn areas can get muddy or uneven when wet, so sturdy shoes are advisable. In sum: think festival vibes, not a fixed-auditorium – stake out a spot early for close-up viewing, or bring a folding chair and enjoy a more relaxed watch from back on the grass.
Getting There and Parking
Brewtown sits at 27 Blenheim Street, Upper Hutt (just off SH2) – about 40 minutes by car from Wellington city centre . It lies roughly a 5–10 minute drive or 10–15 minute walk north of Upper Hutt’s town centre. For drivers, a large free carpark is available on-site. In fact, Brewtown owns extensive parking areas and can even accommodate caravans and campervans under its awnings . (Motorhomes and self-contained vehicles are welcome in designated zones – the managers even encourage overnight stays for licensed campers .) On busy event days it fills quickly, so early arrival is recommended. Rideshares and taxis can drop off at the main Blenheim St entrance. Public transport access is excellent: Brewtown is only about a 7–10 minute walk from Upper Hutt railway station, which is the terminus of the Hutt Valley/Wairarapa train lines from Wellington . (Simply exit the station onto Main Street and walk north along Blenheim Street.) Local Metlink buses (e.g. routes 110, 115, or 930) also serve stops on Main Street just a block south of the venue. In short, Brewtown is very accessible. If driving, note the venue has free parking; if taking transit, trains arrive every 30–60 minutes and it’s an easy stroll from the station – visitors often take the train to avoid event traffic . After late events, paid taxis or city buses back to Wellington are available, or the last trains of the night.
Inside the Venue
As you enter Brewtown events, expect standard festival and bar security: ID checks for age-restricted shows and possible bag searches for everyone . Brewtown enforces a strict Conditions of Entry. For safety, climbing or crowd-surfing is banned, and intoxicated or disruptive patrons will be removed . The venue is CCTV-monitored at all times . In terms of atmosphere, think industrial-chic meets beer garden. The brewpubs (Panhead, Boneface, Te Aro, Wild Kiwi, etc.) each have their own taproom with a rustic/modern decor, breweries on display, and long communal tables. Throughout Brewtown, there are multiple bars pouring craft beers, local wines, ciders and crafted cocktails – often cashless for speed and convenience (in fact, big events like Brew Years Eve are explicitly “cashless” ). Food options are plentiful: each brewery offers pub-style fare, and there’s a central takeaways stand (Victory Lane) serving burgers and snacks. On event days you’ll also find food trucks and a range of local vendors selling everything from burgers to gelato (as one review notes: “Plenty of restaurants to choose from plus the food trucks outside” ). Restrooms are abundant – the Greenspace alone supports up to 1,000 patrons with toilet facilities , and the bars have guest restrooms too. There’s no cloakroom, so carry only what you need. Mobile phone reception is generally good in this area. In short, expect a lively scene: long beer queues at peak times, people milling between bars and the open-air stages, music playing, and the air scented with both hoppy ale and barbecue smoke. It feels more like a festival than a single enclosed club. For convenience, bring a fully charged phone for digital tickets/payments, and note that phones/books can be photographed but large professional cameras or recording gear are not allowed without permission . Overall, Brewtown inside is spacious, unpretentious and geared for socialising: you’ll see kids on the indoor trampolines, families with deck chairs on the lawns, and plenty of craft-beer enthusiasts demo-ing every new brew on tap.
Nearby Amenities
While there’s a lot to do on-site, Upper Hutt’s town centre is just down the road if you need more options. Within a kilometre you’ll find cafés, restaurants and bars along Main Street. For example, the My Taproom (on Main Road East) and the White Swan Hotel (a historic pub on Main Street) are popular local bars with food. The Laird Hall vicinity (Main & High St) has Vietnamese, pizzeria and fast-food spots. If you need a sit-down meal before a show, head to Upper Hutt CBD (5–10 minutes drive south) where places like Rendezvous Hotel Restaurant or The Oxford Terrace are options. For drinks after the event, the Wakefield Hotel (a dozen minutes’ drive or a short taxi ride away in Trentham) is a lively late-night pub. In terms of lodging, overnight visitors have some choices: Brewtown itself offers secure parking for self-contained campervans , and the newly built Village at NZCIS complex (about 10 minutes’ drive) has serviced apartments with two king beds and kitchenettes . Other nearby hotels/motels include the Wakefield, Gateway Motor Inn, and Tri Star both just a few km away off the motorway. For late-night transport home, note that rideshare apps, shuttle services and Tranzit taxis operate in Upper Hutt. Just outside Brewtown’s gates on Blenheim Street there’s a bus stop for routes headed back toward Wellington. In short, you won’t run out of food or lodging: Brewtown’s own eateries are always open when entertainment’s on, and Upper Hutt’s train/bus links plus a few nearby hotels cover the rest.
What Makes This Venue Special
Brewtown sports a one-of-a-kind personality. Architecturally, it melds old and new: the ancestral Dunlop factory’s steel framing and brick walls are visible reminders of the past, while bright logos and refurbished interiors showcase its new life. This mix of heritage and hip makes it striking to visit. More importantly, Brewtown has become Upper Hutt’s cultural landmark – the city’s “craft beer mecca” as media describe it . It’s put Upper Hutt on the map as a beer-touring destination. Historic firsts have happened here: for example, very few New Zealand regional venues host major international rock acts like Sublime With Rome , yet Brewtown did the first time on New Year’s Eve! In the local scene, opening Brewtown was seen as a transformative moment (one write-up calls it the “story of Brewtown” in uplifting terms ). Its community impact is also big – by creating jobs and tourists, the project is credited with boosting the area’s economy and identity . Artists love it too because it’s so flexible and outdoorsy; fans say it has “something for everyone” . Staff and locals alike point out that you can experience six breweries, eateries and half a dozen entertainment activities (bowling, karting, axe-throwing, mini-golf, etc.) in one day – that breadth is rare. At Brewtown, memorable moments happen: kids paddle a loon in mid-summer or families sing carols under the night sky , all while sharing tasting paddles of limited-release beers. In sum, the venue’s charm comes from this blend of big-city event capability (huge concerts, festivals) with the laid-back village feel of a country craft brewery – a mix that genuinely makes Brewtown stand out in New Zealand.
Visitor Tips and Information
Planning to visit? Here are some insider pointers. Arrive early on event days: Brewtown opens gates typically 1–2 hours before showtime (for example the Christmas carols gate opened at 1 pm for a 2 pm start ). This gives time to find parking, grab food and a good spot. Be aware of weather: most of Brewtown is outdoors or semi-outdoors. Bring warm layers or a raincoat for wind and rain (it can be blustery in the Hutt Valley), although the big Greenspace is roofed so you’re protected from above. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if the ground is muddy after rain. Brewpubs have dress codes of casual attire – this is a pub vibe, not a nightclub, so no one’s dressing up. Use the public toilets at bars or at the festival stages. Beer gardens are cashless (card-only) at large events, so have a mobile payment or card ready . Most Brewtown events are R18 or at least 18+ after dark – carry photo ID (NZ Driver’s License or passport) even if you look under 25. The official policies say no outside food or drink (aside from personal water bottles) , and your bags may be searched. Don’t bring large cameras or video gear . On the upside, Brewtown is very family-friendly in daytime: kids just need adult supervision , and parents often bring low folding chairs and snacks (though note “no picnic blankets” may be requested to ensure space ). Registered guide dogs and mobility devices are permitted , but pets do not accompany. Finally, check brewery hours if planning a visit beyond events. Many of the brewpubs are closed Mondays/Tuesdays , so a weekday visit is best midweek onwards. One last tip: Brewtown’s Wagga (Indiginous name for river) trail shows it’s right by the river, so if you come by train, it’s scenic to walk down Wairere Drive and across the hatchery bridge for the riverside path into the venue. In any case, when you go, bring a big appetite and an open mind – whether it’s for beer, music or family fun, Brewtown is built to deliver a memorable outing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Brewtown Upper Hutt and what can I do there?
Brewtown Upper Hutt is a large craft-beer and entertainment precinct built on an old factory site in Upper Hutt, Wellington. It’s home to multiple craft breweries (like Panhead, Boneface, Te Aro and a distillery), as well as restaurants, bars and fun activities (bowling, karting, axe-throwing, mini-golf, etc.) . Visitors can drink award-winning local beers, grab hearty meals at its brewpubs, shop at the Sunday Farmers Market, or attend a variety of events and festivals. Essentially it’s a beer village where you can spend an afternoon or evening trying craft beers, eating out, enjoying live music, and taking part in games and entertainment.
How do I buy tickets for events at Brewtown?
Tickets for Brewtown’s events are generally sold online through the venue’s official channels. The Brewtown website lists upcoming shows and links to ticket platforms. As noted in recent press releases, major events like New Year’s concerts sell tickets via Brewtown’s official site and partner services . Check Brewtown’s website or social media for the event you want, and follow the links to buy. There is usually no walk-up box office, so it’s best to purchase in advance. Popular shows do sell out, so buy early or sign up for notifications.
What is the typical ticket price for Brewtown events?
Ticket prices at Brewtown vary widely by event. Free events (like community carols or festivals) have no charge, while music gigs, beer festivals, or special markets do. In recent events, smaller community shows might be $0–10, while large concerts and beer fests often range from around NZ$50 up to $100 or more. For example, first-release tickets for Brewtown’s big New Year’s Eve party have started in the NZ$70–80 range . Always check the event listing for the exact price and any early-bird or tiered pricing.
Can I buy tickets at the door on event day?
It depends on the event. Smaller events or daytime activities might allow on-site purchases if not sold out. However, popular concerts and festivals often sell out in advance with no guaranteed tickets left at the door. Many big events at Brewtown have moved to fully advance ticketing. If you arrive hoping to buy at the door, you risk finding it sold out. Whenever possible, purchase online before the event. Some events may advertise "door sales available" only if they haven’t reached capacity.
Where are the best spots to watch performances at Brewtown?
Brewtown performances are usually general admission, so seating is not fixed. If the concert is on the covered Greenspace stage, front and centre near the stage will give you the clearest view. The Greenspace has a roof but open sides, so it’s like a big pavilion. If the show is on the open-air Field stage, you can stand on the lawn or sit on the grassy bank (there is a built-up embankment on one side). For sightlines, getting closer to the middle (rather than far to the side) is best. Some festival events mark an “X” or tent areas for VIPs near front, but most guests spread out across the grass or stand around the bar areas. For relaxing, bring a low camping chair or blanket in grassy areas (though events like the Christmas carols specifically ask for chairs, not large blankets ). In short, pick your spot early and remember it’s a casual outdoor vibe – there are no reserved seats except on the brewery patios.
What is the capacity of Brewtown’s event spaces?
Brewtown actually has multiple event areas. The main covered Greenspace (a 30x40m lawn under a roof) can hold about 2,400 people standing (roughly 500–800 seated) . The large Field area is about 12,000 m² of open lawn and can accommodate up to around 15,000 people for big festivals . Smaller bars and indoor venues (Panhead, Boneface, etc.) hold a few hundred each. Overall, for a single large concert that uses the Field and Greenspace, Brewtown can host well over ten thousand attendees. Event organizers often quote these capacities when planning festivals or concerts here.
When do events at Brewtown typically start and finish?
Event times vary depending on the type of event. Daytime markets and family events often run from morning (e.g. the Sunday Market is 8am–2pm) or early afternoon. Concerts and festivals typically kick off in the late afternoon or evening (doors often around 4–6pm for live music events). For example, Brewtown’s New Year’s show started at 4pm and ran until after midnight . Always check the specific event info: most tickets or listings will show door/open times and when the show ends. Since Brewtown is an outdoor venue, many events do wind down by 11pm to midnight, though New Year’s and special events can go later.
What is the address of Brewtown and how do I get there?
Brewtown is located at 27 Blenheim Street, Upper Hutt, Wellington 5018, New Zealand. By car, take State Highway 2 to the Maoribank or Upper Hutt exit and head towards the city; Blenheim St. is just off Main Street north of Upper Hutt Station. By train, take the Wellington–Upper Hutt line and exit at Upper Hutt Station; it’s only a 7–10 minute walk north along Blenheim Street from the station to Brewtown . Several Metlink bus lines also stop near the venue on Main Street. There is ample free on-site parking (cars and even campervans are welcome) , so driving is straightforward. Uber/taxi drop-offs are fine at the main entrance. In summary: 27 Blenheim Street, walkable from Upper Hutt station, or drive and park in Brewtown’s lots.
Is parking available, and is there a cost?
Yes. Brewtown provides large on-site parking areas that are generally free for patrons. There are paved lots and grass parking around the complex, easily fitting hundreds of cars (and even a few campervans) . Commercial events may have additional reserved areas, but for most concerts and festivals, parking is included. Look for signs directing you to “Brewtown Parking” when you enter the main gates. Arrive early on busy days, since the lots can fill. Overnight parking for self-contained campervans is allowed in a designated section (the Brewtown team even advertises camping spots under the canopy) . No paid parking lots are used – it’s all local free parking managed by Brewtown during events.
Can I take public transport or rideshare to Brewtown?
Absolutely. Upper Hutt has excellent public transport. The easiest is the train: take the Metlink Hutt Valley/Wairarapa train to Upper Hutt station – it’s the last stop and runs frequently from Wellington. When you exit Upper Hutt station, Brewtown is about a 600m walk (down Main Street onto Blenheim Street heading north) . Buses on the Upper Hutt network (e.g. lines 110, 112, 115, 930, etc.) stop on Main Street roughly 300–500m from Brewtown; check the Metlink route maps. Many concert-goers simply take the train or bus to avoid parking hassle. If that’s not convenient, Uber, Ola and local taxis serve the area – drop-off and pickup at Brewtown’s front gate are common. Note that after midnight, train frequency drops (so check the last train time); you may need a taxi home for late events. In summary: train is a 10-minute walk away, buses stop nearby, and rideshare/taxi can use the main entrance.
Can I bring my children or pets to Brewtown events?
Brewtown often hosts family-friendly events, but policies vary by event. During the daytime markets and family concerts (like the Christmas Carols) kids are welcome – in fact Brewtown marketed those as “fun for the whole whānau” . Children under 18 must be supervised by a guardian at all times . Evening concerts or big music festivals may be R18 – check the event age restriction. As for pets: Brewtown’s official security policy allows only registered guide dogs . In practice, well-behaved dogs on leads might be invited at some daytime events or in the camping areas, but during ticketed shows non-service animals are technically not permitted. So, plan any visit for kids under adult care; and unless you have a guide dog, leave Fido at home or in a pet sitter’s care during busy events.
Can I bring my own food or drink into Brewtown?
No – Brewtown has a strict no-outside-food-or-drink policy at events . The rules say no commercially branded or homemade food is allowed inside the precinct, and no outside alcohol or glass bottles . The only exception is personal water bottles (often they allow clear, empty bottles to be brought in for refilling). All drinks and meals should be purchased on-site from the bars or food vendors. Bag searches may be conducted at entry to enforce this rule. In short, plan to eat and drink from the brewery kitchens, vendors and food trucks at Brewtown – trying to sneak in snacks can get you turned away at the gate.
What are the official rules and dress code at Brewtown?
Brewtown’s event rules come from its Conditions of Entry. In general, they emphasize safety and respect: follow staff instructions, don’t climb fences or crowd-surf, and keep exits clear. . A “good attitude” is expected. The only animals allowed are guide dogs . Allowed items include personal belongings, coats, and small clear water bottles . Prohibited items include outside food/beverages, alcohol in any container, glass, weapons, and professional camera setups . Dress is casual – festival or club attire. Closed shoes are recommended if you’ll be standing in the grass. There is no formal dress code; you’re welcome in T-shirts, jeans and sneakers. If the event is R18, you must show valid photo ID at the door (NZ driver’s licences, passports or 18+ ID cards). Overall, as long as you’re not drunk/drugged or unruly, and you follow the “no outside drink/food” rule, you’ll be fine. Security may bag-check at entry, so travel light. And remember: smoking is only allowed in outdoor smoking areas and not inside any brewpub.
Are there food, drinks, and other amenities on-site?
Yes – Brewtown is packed with places to eat and drink. Each brewery has its own bar and menu (for example, Panhead and Boneface brewpubs serve burgers, pies and pub fare with their beer). There’s a common takeout stand (Victory Lane) with burgers/fries, as well as food trucks at events serving pizza, kebabs, ice cream and more . The brewpubs serve all the craft beers on tap, plus ciders, wines and cocktails as variants. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are usually available. All venues have restrooms. You’ll also find merch stands at large events selling shirts, hats and glassware. There is no coat check service, so keep coats and bags with you (spinlocks or lockers aren’t provided). Free Tasmanian spring water can often be found to refill bottles (ask a staff or on Facebook if available). There is decent cell signal for mobile internet, but no public Wi-Fi is consistently advertised. In summary: come hungry and thirsty – Brewtown has drinks in abundance and a wide food selection from its pubs and vendors.
What should I bring and what should I leave at home?
Pack light. Bring your event ticket (printed or on phone), photo ID, cashless payment, and a water bottle to refill. Dress for the weather – layers for cool evenings or rain gear if forecast. A small foldable chair or blanket can be nice for family events (check if chairs are allowed). Leave outside food, alcohol and glass containers at home . If you plan to shop or drink enough, you might pack an empty tote bag. Avoid bringing professional cameras or tripods (only small cameras are usually permitted ). High-heels or open sandals aren’t great for grass fields. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for day events. In short: comfortable clothes, sensible shoes, and your essentials; skip anything bulky that will slow you in line.
Is Brewtown wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Brewtown’s main precinct is mostly flat, with paved walkways through greenspace and ramps into each venue. Wheelchair grips can move between the covered courtyard and outdoor Field with minimal barriers. There are accessible toilets at the brewpubs and event stages. Brewtown even explicitly permits “mobility equipment” on site . Service/guide dogs are welcome . Keep in mind that large crowds may make navigating harder, but there is space in the front or sides of stages to accommodate roll-up chairs. If you have specific needs, contacting the event organizers in advance is a good idea, but generally this venue is considered mobility-friendly.
Can I photograph or record performances at Brewtown?
For personal use, small handheld cameras and smartphones are usually fine. The venue’s policy states that professional cameras (DSLRs, video cameras, GoPros, etc.) aren’t allowed without permission . Selfie sticks and tripods are also banned. In practice, snapping photos for Instagram is commonly done, but major concert filming is not permitted. For details, always check the specific event’s conditions – some festivals forbid all recording, while others allow small cameras for publicity shots. If you have any doubt, err on the safe side and use a phone or point-and-shoot only, without flash or obstructing others.
When are Brewtown’s bars and breweries open to the public?
Outside of special events, the individual brewpubs operate on their own hours. For example, Panhead and Boneface are usually closed Mondays and Tuesdays, opening Wednesday through Sunday from around midday . Te Aro, Wild Kiwi/Good George and Fermented Bar also mostly open midweek onward . Food trucks and entertainment venues (Daytona karting, etc.) have their own schedules as well. In general, weekends have the longest opening hours. It’s best to check each venue’s current hours (on Brewtown’s website or their social media) before you go. Note: on weekends, the whole complex can stay open late into the night for events, whereas breweries have more limited off-event hours.
What happens if the weather is bad on event day?
Most Brewtown events proceed rain or shine. The large covered Greenspace stage provides shelter from rain, and many bars are fully indoors. If heavy rain is forecast, bring waterproof clothing – ponchos and umbrellas (small collapsible ones only) are advised. Events in the open Field may have some covered backstage areas, but also expect to get wet. Organizers will announce any cancellations or delays on the event’s page, but small amounts of rain usually don’t stop the show. If lightning or severe weather were to occur, staff will direct patrons to safe zones (typically inside bars). In short, brace for Wellington weather and layer up; many visitors plan to stay anyway (with warm drinks in hand) even if it sprinkles.
