10 Outrageous Holiday Pop-Up Bars 2025

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! ‘Tis the season to don your cutest holiday outfit, gather your group, and head out to one of the country’s most outrageously festive, sometimes-silly, and always-filled-with-cheer holiday pop-up bars. Yelp searches for holiday bars typically spike in December, according to Yelp’s Trend Tracker. Even Taylor Swift has been spotted enjoying her favorite libations at a holiday pop-up in Kansas City.

We found 10 special bars that are taking holiday parties to new levels this year. From decked-out dives to elegant winter wonderlands, these seasonal spots are the places to be, according to Yelp reviewers. They feature swanky Santa drinks, Yuletide games, eye-popping decor, and, yes — even five-star food! 

So if FOMO is getting the better of you, read on for your ticket to a good time.

Mocktails and more. No-proof libations are high on everyone’s wish list this year, and every pop-up on our list has sophisticated holiday mocktails, like the Smoked Rosemary Cranberry Spritz at Joy on the Avenue in Alexandria, Virginia. Other new cocktail faves? Hot drinks are “hot,” say Yelpers, like the Hot Buttered Grog at at Sippin’ Santa at Beachbum Berry’s Latitude 29 in New Orleans, Louisiana, or the mulled wine (spiced with Demerara) at Lillie’s Victorian Establishment (Times Square location) in New York City.

Elf themes, Krampus twists, and club-like events. Some pop-ups are going beyond Santa and introducing whimsical new themes in decor and drinks, featuring holiday movies like Elf at Elf’d Up at Stretch Bar & Grill in Wrigleyville (Chicago), Illinois, or even scary Krampus at Holiday Horrors at Raven’s Manor in Portland, Oregon. Others are adding events to the cocktail-sipping festivities, like the karaoke, costume contests, and drag bingo at Dallas’s Tipsy Elf’s Tipsy Town Texas.

There’s probably a pop-up near you. The best news? You don’t have to travel a long way for a festive, show-stopping bar. Small cities are creating pop-ups, too — many with the help of national holiday brands like Miracle, Sippin’ Santa, or Holly Jolly. These companies lend their inventive cocktail menus to hundreds of bars around the country (along with hilarious, collectible souvenir glasses). The bars then add their own local twists, like Milwaukee’s whiskey-forward Miracle on 2nd at The Tin Widow or Winter Park Florida’s swanky Miracle on Orange at The Courtesy Bar.  

Be sure to check the reviews before you go, because Yelp users have a lot of good tips for attending these short-term fun zones! Here are a few:

Beat the lines. To avoid long waits, check the bar or restaurant’s Yelp page for reservation details — and reserve ahead if they allow it. For walk-in-only pop-ups, Yelpers recommend visiting at the start of the season, start of the week, or start of a weekend evening to be sure to snag a seat. 

Some pop-ups require tickets. Although none of the pop-ups on our list requires a ticket or cover charge, others across the country do. So be sure to check with your local pop-up before leaving home so you can stay merry and cheerful.

Other Yelper tips? — Bring your ID; dress warmly for outdoor events and outside lines; wear comfortable shoes for lines or standing-room only situations; and — most of all — enjoy yourself!

We can’t wait to hear what fun you have out there! Don’t forget to add your always-in-the-know reviews to your favorite holiday pop-up experience. We depend on you to tell us about the best places! 

Have you discovered an outrageous holiday pop-up bar that didn’t make our list? Let us know on Instagram and TikTok with #YelpOutrageous. We only know how good these surprising spots are if you review them or share pictures on Yelp!

Note: Pop-up end dates may change (they’re sometimes extended into January) and some spots may be closed on actual holidays. Check with the bar before you go.

How we did it: We compiled a list of 10 holiday pop-up bars that received top ratings from Yelp users. Holiday bar dates and menus are current as of publication date: November 11, 2025.

Outrageously festive! — Holiday revelers strolling popular Mount Vernon Avenue — the “main street” of the charming and historic Del Ray neighborhood — look forward to the day this Christmassy spot pops up each year. The pop-up has been wowing locals for five years with its stunning designs — all set up by the staff itself (a designer, three restaurant owners, a bar manager, and a carpenter). They throw open their doors just before Thanksgiving to reveal more than 3,000 ornaments hanging from the ceiling, illuminated picture frames, and thematic structures like last year’s snow globe and this year’s new National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation display. “[The] amazing decorations make the environment for imbibing or having some nibbles a wonderful holiday experience,” says Yelp Elite Michael C.  

Eat, drink, and be merry: The cocktails are as spectacular as the decorations: Baby It’s Cold Outside (a warm, boozy hot chocolate), Warm Me Up (a gingerbread Old Fashioned), and Rudolph 75 (a holiday twist on a French 75). There’s also a lineup of mocktails (including the Smoked Rosemary Cranberry Spritz), guaranteed to keep sober spirits bright.

When it pops up: November 22, 2025, through the holiday season

How to attend: Walk-ins only. Best times to come (to minimize the wait in line) are Mondays and Tuesdays, or right at opening (2 pm) on weekends, according to the pop-up organizers. 

Yelpers say: “Joy on the Avenue is such a fun Christmas popup bar in Del Ray. It’s overrun by decorations and music and is super festive. Staff is friendly. We really liked our drinks. The Hansel & Gretel featured a gingerbread man and Frangelico, two of my favorite things. And the Four Wisemen was delicious and cinnamon-y.” —Yelp Elite All-Star Lia M. 

Find more holiday-themed pop-up bars in Virginia.

Outrageously neighborly! — You’ll feel like you’re celebrating the season with old friends at this popular neighborhood whiskey bar, decked out in over-the-top, light-and-tinsel-strewn decor. “Tin Widow is something special,” says Yelp Elite Amber K. “Always a cozy vibe, [and the staff] are caring, creative and want to chat with you when they have a breather.” The community-driven atmosphere extends during the holiday season to even include an alcohol-free, family-friendly Cocoa Bar from noon to 6 pm every weekend in December, so kids can come with their parents to see the eye-popping, joyful decorations.  

Eat, drink, and be merry: One of the 100+ Miracle pop-ups across the country, The Tin Widow taps its enormous, eclectic whiskey collection to take one of Miracle’s holiday classics to new heights: the Snowball Old Fashioned (with rye whiskey, gingerbread flavoring, and orange essence, served with a “snowball” ice cube). For a great gin experience, try the Dancing Sugarplums (with gin, limoncello, plum wine, and nutmeg). 

When it pops up: November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026

How to attend: Walk-ins only.

Yelpers say: “The decorations are an absolute showstopper! There is so much to look at. I could have spent hours there just finding all the fun, hidden nods to holiday movies, traditions and stories. It was a busy Friday night, and the wait was well worth it. We appreciated the time and attention taken for each specialty cocktail, especially with the higher price point. We tried four holiday drinks, each served in a themed glass or mug. My favorite was the Snowball Old Fashioned with a gingerbread twist.” —Yelp Elite Allie E. 

Find a Miracle Christmas-themed pop-up bar near you.  

An outrageous block-party! — The largest Christmas-themed pop-up on our list — Tipsy Elf’s annual adult playground — brings club-like merriment and mischief to the Bishop Arts District. “Every corner [is] decorated to Christmas perfection” for this sprawling, mostly outdoor event along the corner of N. Bishop Avenue and 9th Street. This year’s theme is Tipsy Town Texas, a wild holiday takeover with a Texas twist, according to organizers. Revelers will find frosty fun and refreshment at places like Casablanca bar, with its signature drinks and Insta-worthy backdrops; the Casanova Karaoke Lounges, where you can reserve rooms for community karaoke; and Tejas restaurant, whose outdoor bar will be refitted as the Tipsy Tex Saloon — all connected by multiple bejeweled and be-glittered outdoor spaces.

Events: Larry the Elf, a consummate mischief-maker, roams the area, while live DJs keep the fun and games going. Events include Drag Bingo with Mrs. Claus (most Wednesday nights), a Whoville Gone Wild Weekend (November 28–30), and SantaCon Night (December 6), where everyone is invited to dress in their most creative Santa suit (disco Santa, cowboy Santa, and glam Santa are all encouraged). Though the area is 21+ after dark, there are a couple of early-evening family events, like the (Un)Tipsy Kids event on December 2 for photos with Santa. 

When it pops up: November 21 – December 21, 2025

How to attend: Walk-ins only.

Yelpers say: “This is the cutest holiday pop-up! I really enjoyed the props and all of the picture-worthy decor! The drinks tasted delicious; we even tried a hot cocktail for the first time and it was one of my favorites! The hot drinks come with a cute mug, so that was a fun surprise. Service was good, and [it] didn’t take long to get drinks. The place has a club-type vibe with loud music, so go there expecting to have a good time!” —Yelp Elite Jessica M. 

Find more holiday pop-up bars in Dallas.

Outrageously movietastic! — A full-blown bow to the movie Elf, this high-energy pop-up taking over the Stretch Bar & Grill will make you want to “sing loud and clear for all to hear” like Buddy the Elf. Guests are treated to an explosion of colorful lights; 1,000 elf figurines of all shapes and sizes; wreath chandeliers; and numerous nods to the movie, including wall quotes, cut-out figures, and even table condiment holders with the “four main food groups” (candy, candy canes, candy corn, and syrup, of course). “Every inch of the place was decorated for Christmas,” enthuses Yelper Michelle W. “We love the movie Elf, and this place looked like Buddy had been there.”

Eat, drink, and be merry: Drinks and food stay in character, too: Cocktails include the Ninny Muggins (cinnamon-flavored Chila Orchata liqueur topped with whipped cream and Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal) and Son of a Nutcracker (Bulleit bourbon with Demerara syrup and orange bitters). Food includes appetizers and full meals, like the “You Sit on a Throne of Lies” Club Sandwich, and Buddy’s Breakfast Pasta from the movie (spaghetti, maple syrup, chocolate fudge, chocolate syrup, mini marshmallows, and Frosted Strawberry Pop Tarts). 

When it pops up: Now through December 31, 2025

How to attend: Walk-ins only. The pop-up recommends arriving early to get a great spot! Under 21 are allowed for brunch and lunch. Then 21+ only after 1 pm Fridays–Sundays and after 6 pm Mondays–Thursdays. 

Yelpers say: “What a great holiday experience! I [sat] in the back [bar] area — the ambiance will definitely put you in the mood. We ordered holiday drinks as well as regular hot chocolate and had an order of loaded nachos. All the drinks hit the spot. If you’re looking for an outing with your friends during the holiday season, this is it.” —Yelp Elite Camille R. 

Find more holiday pop-up bars in Chicago.

Outrageously tropical! — Although there are nearly 100 tiki-themed Sippin’ Santa pop-ups across the country (part of the Miracle pop-up chain), this is where it all began. Jeff “Beachbum” Berry — who has run this NOLA tiki bar since 2014 after authoring a book of historic tiki cocktail recipes — is the mixologist behind the entire national Sippin’ Santa tiki-drink menu. At Latitude 29, he keeps the rum, craftsmanship, history, good vibes, and “well-balanced and creative” drinks flowing every Christmas — as well as serving year-round Asian-inspired food that has earned national media accolades. If you can’t get to Louisiana to drink with the tikimaster, you can taste Beachbum Berry’s recipes at any Sippin’ Santa near you (link below).

Eat, drink, and be merry: New on the 2025 menu are the Hot Buttered Grog (Jamaican and Puerto Rico rums, honey-butter batter, and warm island spices) and non-alcoholic Designated Sledder (lime, coconut, pineapple, pandan syrup, and tonic water). Of course, there’s the OG Sippin’ Santa drink: aged Demerara rum, amaro, lemon, orange, nutmeg and ginger syrups, served in a for-purchase souvenir surfin’ Santa mug. (“Whoever thought gingerbread mix would be good in a drink is a genius!” says Yelper Kevin P. “I’ll have to add this Demerara rum to the home bar collection after this drink.”) 

When it pops up: Now through January 1, 2026

How to attend: Reservations are highly encouraged. Walk-ins will be accommodated, but there will be a wait.

Yelpers say: “Went tonight to experience Sippin’ Santa before it got too crazy. The Santa’s Bowl was a fun two-person cocktail for my partner and I to share. [For dinner], the eggplant was delicious, as were the Brussels sprouts and plantains with hummus. Service was a bit slow, given the amount of people that were there, but nothing too ridiculous, as it is New Orleans. I would recommend going any time if you like authentic tiki bars, but especially at the holidays if you love kitschy throwback holiday decor and seasonally derived drinks and food!” —Yelp Elite Lisa H. 

Find a Sippin’ Santa Holiday Pop-Up Bar near you. 

Outrageously ‘Miraculous’! — The highly rated The Courtesy cocktail bar and lounge plays host to this popular Miracle event for the 11th year. The pop-up welcomes celebrants with over-the-top, light-studded Christmas decor that Yelp Elite Bonnie J. describes as “holiday spirit splattered everywhere: lights galore, tons of festive gift boxes hanging from the ceiling, adorable seat covers, and so many other thoughtful touches — even the bathroom is decked out.” And the drinks? Holiday-lightful! Several Yelpers give big thumbs up to the bartenders “with great personalities” and talent, who offer up magical concoctions that “taste like Christmas.” 

Eat, drink, and be merry: The Christmapolitan — reported to be Taylor Swift’s favorite when she went to a Kansas City Miracle pop-up — is a heavenly concoction of vodka, elderflower, dry vermouth, spiced cranberry sauce, rosemary, and absinthe mist. Other classics include “Naughty” and “Nice” shots (flavored tequila or brandy) and the Coconut Hot Chocolate made with rum, amaretto, and hazelnut and served in a for-purchase souvenir Unicorn Mug. Mocktails include the Silent Night (a tart cherry and chocolate flavor). Small bites include sandwiches, burgers, and bar snacks. 

When it pops up: Now through December 30, 2025

How to attend: Walk in only for parties of three or fewer. (If there’s a short wait to get in, you can get on the waitlist or — on weekends — enjoy the outdoor mobile bar while you’re waiting.) Reservations are accepted for parties of four or more. Reservations open in two-week batches throughout the season, with the first release already begun (to reserve dates from November 11–25) and the second release November 19 (to reserve dates from November 26–December 10). 

Yelpers say: “Whether you go with your best friend or family in town, you’ve got to try this place out. The curated drinks for the season come in the most fun cups and are so festive! Make sure to put on your ugly sweater or your best Christmas T-shirt, pick up your cap or your antlers, and head in for a wonderful evening of drinks and a tasty menu!” —Yelp Elite Tita R.

Find a Miracle Christmas-themed pop-up bar near you.  

Outrageously year-round! — Since the ’70s, Lone Star locals have been celebrating Christmas 365 days a year at this beloved Austin dive bar that’s permanently decorated with kitschy, over-the-top garlands, rooftop plastic reindeer, and an enormous countdown-to-Christmas clock over the bar. “Santa would come more than once a year if he knew about Lala’s,” says Yelp Elite Glen N. During the actual Christmas season, the holiday-themed “maximalist’s dream” gets even jollier: Out comes the winter cocktail menu, and visitors watch the clock more closely. On Christmas Eve, revelers count down to the magical hour of Christmas together and raise their glasses to the day they’ve been waiting for. 

Eat, drink, and be merry: The cocktail menu features specialty drinks like the Watermelon Noel (watermelon and lime with Aguasol Blanco), Berry & Bright (blackberry, lime, and ginger brew with Absolut), and the zero-proof Elf Energy (blackberry and lemon with Blueberry Red Bull) to make everyone’s spirits bright between pool games and neighborly gatherings. No food is served, but patrons are welcome to place an order at the bar for the highly-Yelp-rated Pedroso’s Pizza next door. 

When it pops up: It’s year-round Christmas!

How to attend: Walk-ins only. The bar recommends grabbing your table early each evening.

Yelpers say: “Though I’ve been here many times, the last visit was finally on Xmas. It was spectacular! Service is always good. Always. Xmas was insanely busy and bartenders are still able to provide service that makes you feel like you’re the only customer in the bar. Meaning the attention is there. The quality is there. The drinks are there! The decor is so far beyond holiday glitz and glamour. Absolutely the best fun.” —Yelp Elite All-Star Karla D. 

Find more Christmas-themed pop-up bars in Texas.

 Outrageously fantastical! — Where else but California can you enjoy a gorgeous, over-the-top “winter wonderland” set on a sunny patio? The immersive, mostly outdoor dining experience winds through life-size art installations and past a decorated pond-shaped water feature. You’ll feel like you’re inside an animated movie, complete with Christmas tree sparkles, pretend snow falling every hour to holiday music, and — new this year — a light show. It’s a “dreamy place,” says Yelper Nadia P., “and fully decorated (oh, my eyes!).” 

Eat, drink, and be merry: Diners enjoy a new California-Mediterranean menu every year from Executive Chef Johnny Duran (brunch, dinner, and seasonal bites). This year’s holiday cocktails and mocktails — whipped up by expert mixologists — include the Clear Winter Night (with peppermint vodka, Mozart Dark Chocolate cream, and Amaro Nonino), the Partridge in a Pear Tree (with Angel’s Envy bourbon and spiced pear liqueur), or the nonalcoholic Blackberry Faux-jito (with muddled mint and blackberry puree). 

When it pops up: Now through January 4, 2025; open every day except Mondays.

How to attend: Walk-ins welcome for cocktails and small bites. For brunch or dinner (18+ dining only), rolling reservations open up 30 days in advance.

Yelpers say: “This was such a fun restaurant! My first time coming here was at Christmas and I have never seen so much holiday decor in one place: lights, trees, nutcrackers, snow, and each table was unique. They gave us umbrellas when the snow fell. They had a special holiday menu with holiday cocktails. We tried [two], and both were great and very cute. The food was super tasty. We shared everything and enjoyed each dish thoroughly. Highly recommend for a fun experience with a date or friends.” —Yelp Elite Taylor C. 

Find more holiday pop-up bars in San Diego.

Outrageously opulent! — Yuletide meets Victorian elegance at this two-location gilded establishment named after Lillie Langtry, a legendary actress and socialite in the 19th century. At Union Square, red-gold-and-green ribbons and ornaments cover every inch of the restaurant and bar “like a Victorian Christmas stamp,” while at Times Square, gold-and-white embellishments, angels, polar bears, white poinsettias, and white twinkle lights create a dreamy winterscape. “The decorations and vibe are something to remember. Just over-the-top in a lovely way,” says Yelp Elite Kasey B.

Eat, drink, and be merry: Seasonal and signature libations include hot cocktails like a hot toddy or mulled wine (Times Square location), The Velvet Cloak mocktail (fresh pineapple, tangerine, and orange juices with a hint of agave and splash of grapefruit soda) (Union Square location), and a popular sangria with a botanical liqueur (both locations). Regular-menu brunch, lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea are also served. 

When it pops up: Union Square location: Now – the holiday season. Times Square location: Thanksgiving week – the holiday season.

How to attend: First-come, first-served for cocktails. For meals, reservations are encouraged.

Yelpers say: “We had some extra time before a show, so we stopped [at the Times Square location] to get a drink. It was packed! Luckily, we got there right as someone at the bar was leaving, so we actually got in. I was very excited to see the Victorian building. There was so much Christmas decor, I couldn’t even see the walls. It was amazing! The service at the bar was great. We tried a sangria, passion fruit mimosa-type beverage, and I honestly don’t remember the name of mine, but they were all fantastic!” —Yelp Elite Darcy D. 

Find more holiday pop-up bars in NYC.

Outrageously horrifying! — If you’re more into “ho-ho-horror” than “ho-ho-ho,” you’ll love this haunted-manor-style bar and gastropub that takes on a creepy Krampus overlay at Christmas. The horned-and-hooved Krampus monster from central European folklore — who accompanies St. Nick to punish the naughty children — even makes an animatronic appearance, along with bloodied stockings, murderous-looking elves-on-a-shelf, witch cauldrons for winter drinks, and an eerie Christmas tree decorated with “unsettling” dolls and toys. “It feel[s] like Christmas and Halloween all at once, and was the highlight of my vacation!” says Josh P.  

Eat, drink, and be merry: Drinks get fun twists, too, with terrifying names (but delicious, festive ingredients) like All Work, No Play (a Banhez mezcal cocktail featuring St. Elizabeth allspice, cranberry bitters, “a touch of acid,” and garnished with cinnamon); and Grýla’s Glühwein (served in a cauldron and consisting of a “spellbinding” blend of red wine, chai, and blood-orange-spiced Aquavit). Even the Grinch has a matcha-based cocktail named after him. Menu items range from hearty burgers to delightful desserts. 

When it pops up: November 12, 2025 – January 5, 2026

How to attend: Reservations are encouraged. Walk-ins are welcome, but expect a wait.  

Yelpers say: “From the moment you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world filled with eerie Christmas decorations and a life-size Krampus! The menu features twisted takes on traditional Christmas dishes, with a focus on dark and decadent flavors. The Krampus-themed cocktails are a must-try [and] pack a punch. If you’re a fan of all things creepy and Christmas, this restaurant is a must-visit.” —Yelp Elite Leticia V. 

Find more holiday pop-up bars in Oregon.

If you’re looking for a holiday bar near you, start by searching Yelp. You’ll find ratings and reviews of all the top spots for holiday fun.

Yelp’s 10 Outrageous Holiday Pop-Up Bars was written and reported by Laurie Sanchez, based on Yelp’s list.

Cover photo: The Holiday Oasis Experience at insideOUT restaurant and bar in San Diego, California; photo via Cody R. on Yelp. Tipsy Elf’s Tipsy Town Texas event spanning multiple bars along Bishop Lane in Dallas, Texas; photo via Tee J. on Yelp.