The Brewhouse in central Bendigo closed for Christmas Day but has been open every day since.

Supervisor Jacinta Mew said Brewhouse staff were used to a heavy workload on weekends, but not on weekdays. 

At the moment, she said, every day was a weekend.

Ms Mew said it seemed everyone's family was visiting Bendigo and all wanted to come out for a coffee in large groups of eight to 12. 

She said other cafes closing over the Christmas break was another reason for the heavy flow of customers which meant more people converged on the places that were open. 

On Sunday afternoon the Brewhouse was full of large groups, with old and young alike enjoying coffees and lunches.

Ms Mew said the busy week was excellent for business, but hard work for staff.

She said the Brewhouse had not put on extra staff to cope with the rush, because its staff were well-accustomed to catering for big numbers. 

This holiday period is so busy the Brewhouse has not yet had its staff Christmas party.

Ms Mew said they would probably celebrate in January, once the crowds had died down.