Who doesn’t love a good theme party? And when it comes to Christmastime, New York is one giant themed celebration filled with music, decorations, parties, and events that begins the second that Dunkin’ switches their specialty drinks from pumpkin spice to peppermint mocha.
But for those looking for a little more kick to their holiday beverages, The Big Apple doesn’t disappoint. In recent years, Christmas pop-up experiences have taken over some of Gotham’s favorite haunts. And these places know that there’s more to drawing a holiday crowd than throwing up a little tinsel and putting Mariah Carey on repeat.
We went east side, west side, and all around the town (and Brooklyn) to put together a list of 10 pop-up bars that you won’t want to miss this season. Who knows? You may run into 10 lords a-drinking and nine ladies dancing–on tables.
East Village
Miracle on Ninth at Cabinet
649 East Ninth Street
Christmas explodes in this East Village edition of the international chain of holiday pop-up bars including locations in 26 U.S. states. Expect a full menu of cheerful libations and saturated, floor-to-ceiling holiday décor, ranging from nostalgic to contemporary and everything in between. Throw in the perfect soundtrack of holiday songs, and you’ve got yourself a real party. Reservations are highly recommended.
Lower East Side & Williamsburg
Sippin’ Santa at Thief
161 Ludlow Street - East Village
595 Union Ave - Brooklyn
The tropical companion to the chain of Miracle Christmas bars, this place asks guests to envision Santa on a surfboard instead of a sleigh. Replace the classic pine tree with palms decked with ornaments, and hang hibiscus garlands alongside tinsel—that’s how Sippin’ Santa rolls. With two locations in the East Village and Williamsburgh, you’ll have your options on either side of the river. For information and hours, click here.
Brooklyn
Krampus Kove at Someday Bar
364 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn
If Santa gives presents to good children, what do the bad kids get? According to German folklore, a good whipping. A Brooklyn spin on the twisted teutonic holiday legend,
Krampus' Cove offers an immersive cocktail experience that takes the traditional celebrations surrounding Christmas and turns them on their head. Krampus and his crew of naughty elves, evil snowmen, and more, offer a 90–minute experience with seasonally inspired cocktails. Click here for tickets and info.
The Seaport
Disney’s The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland at Pier 17
South Street
The popular Disney+ series comes to life in this massive open-air spectacle suitable for kids of all ages. Glide into the holiday season while enjoying breathtaking views of the dazzling city skyline on Manhattan's only rooftop skating rink. The magic continues as you explore Santa's famous sleigh overlooking the water, zoom down a mini slide, and book a dinner in one of our private cabins. When you’re ready to warm up and relax, grab seasonal treats, hot chocolate, and adult-themed beverages. Access to VIP experiences and heated indoor areas. For info and reservations, click here.
FiDi
Jingle Jangle at Dead Rabbit
30 Water Street
There’s Christmas, and there’s Irish Christmas, boasts the website for the saloon that claims honor to being “the world’s most awarded bar.” Enjoy all three floors and in every room, this nostalgic celebration of Irish family festivities. Expect warm seasonal dishes served alongside kitsch-themed cocktails, over-the-top decor, and a magical Christmas soundtrack with all your favorite hits. Reservations are encouraged.
Hudson Yards
Santa’s Secret
More naughty than nice, this pop-up inside Hudson Yards boasts live bands, cabaret, burlesque, and “unique” acts. Leave the kiddies at home and come dashing through the snow to the best elfing holiday experience this side of the North Pole. Explore a winter wonderland with eight immersive installations in search of Santa's best-kept secret: a vintage speakeasy-style room featuring some naughty performances that will leave you saying, “nice.” Click here for reservations and information.
Times Square
Frosty’s Christmas Bar at Bacall’s
220 West 44th Street
After taking Broadway by storm last year, Frosty’s Christmas Bar is back for the 2023 Holiday season better than ever! Experience three floors of sensational seasonal cocktails. Give all your friends FOMO with Instagrammable holiday photo experiences. Throw in lights, music, and enough Christmas baubles to sink a small fleet and you’ve got a holiday bar experience that will knock your Christmas stockings off! Make your reservations sooner rather than later.
Lower East Side
Loreley Beer Garden
7 Rivington Street
New York’s favorite Oktoberfest bar turns into one of the Lower East Sides’ best outdoor holiday experiences with the largest heated patio in the neighborhood. Enjoy hearty German food and wash it down with rotating Seasonal Craft Beers, Bourbon Hot Chocolate, Spiked Eggnog, Holiday Cocktails, Famous Mulled Wine, Hot Toddy's, Winter Sangria & more! Reservations are recommended.
West Village
Maccabee Bar at Ollie’s
64 Downing Street
This place is like a dreidel that lands on gimel every time. What began as an answer to the holiday gap, has turned into a West Village destination for those looking to put a little Hanukkah into their December. You don’t have to be Jewish to love this place. Drink offerings change every year, but you can always expect latkes and lots of chutzpah! Reservations are recommended.
