Behind the Bar: The Most Challenging Nights of the Year for Bartenders

As a bartender, you're no stranger to chaotic shifts and demanding crowds. But some nights are worse than others. From St. Patrick's Day to New Year's Eve, we'll explore the most challenging nights of the year and what they mean for bartenders.

St. Patrick's Day: A Night of Revelry and Chaos

For many bartenders, St. Patrick's Day is the ultimate challenging night. The combination of green beer, pub crawls, and rowdy crowds can be overwhelming. Sam Donner, a bartender at Lemon in Chicago, describes it as a night of "suburbanites, no one's costume is as funny as they think it is, and the whole point of the holiday is to drink so much green beer you leave puke that looks like old Lucky Charms milk on the floor of a random bathroom."

Halloween: A Night of Disguises and Debauchery

Halloween is another night that can be daunting for bartenders. The influx of costumed revelers can create a madhouse atmosphere, making it difficult to keep up with demanding crowds. Preston Lee, managing partner at Lemon, notes that "putting on a costume lets people hide their inhibitions and pretend to be someone else for one night, but it doesn't mean you get to drink for you and your alter ego."

Thanksgiving: A Night of Sacrifice

Working on Thanksgiving can be a particularly tough night for bartenders. Scott Kitsmiller, bar manager at Gus' Sip & Dip in Chicago, notes that "we get to work with our friends most of the time (and maybe some people even get to work with family), we certainly are far from a home-cooked meal at the bar." However, many bartenders find solace in the camaraderie of their colleagues and the post-shift drinks that follow.

New Year's Eve: A Night of Celebration and Chaos

New Year's Eve is a night of fireworks, countdowns, and, of course, champagne. Javen McKenzie from Lemon notes that "people crush sparkling wine and stay up way past their normal bedtimes." The pressure to create a memorable experience for customers can be intense, but the rewards of ringing in the new year with a happy crowd can make it all worth it.

Personal Tough Times: When Life Gets in the Way

Sometimes, the toughest nights aren't necessarily tied to specific holidays or events. Nikki Schultz, a bartender at Thunderbolt in Los Angeles, notes that "the worst night to work is the second day of my period. Everything takes more energy, my brain is foggy, and I'm uncomfortable … but I still gotta hit 'em with the same razzle-dazzle all night long."

What This Means for Bartenders

So, what can bartenders take away from these challenging nights? Here are a few actionable insights:

• Prepare for the unexpected: Whether it's a holiday or a personal challenge, be ready for anything that comes your way.
• Lean on your team: Camaraderie is key in the service industry. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
• Take care of yourself: Make sure to prioritize your own well-being, both physically and mentally, to navigate the demands of bartending.
• Stay flexible: Be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances and crowds.

If you're considering a career in bartending, these challenges may seem daunting. But with the right training and mindset, you can navigate even the toughest nights with ease. Check out our [[bartending programs|/programs]] to learn more about getting started in the industry.

And if you're already a seasoned bartender, don't forget to take care of yourself during these challenging nights. Remember to prioritize your well-being and lean on your team when you need it.

Happy bartending!