As the holiday season approaches, Chicago is embracing the festivities with a variety of pop-up bars and themed events. From rooftop igloos to winter wonderlands, residents and visitors can enjoy a range of activities designed to spread holiday cheer. This year, 30 unique venues have been highlighted for their immersive experiences, festive cocktails, and seasonal decor.
Holiday Pop-Up Highlights
At the Winter Wonderland at JoJos Shake Bar, located at 23 W. Hubbard St., diners will find an extensive array of holiday decorations and themed cocktails. Open until December 24, the venue offers activities such as ornament painting and gingerbread decorating. It operates from 11:00 to 22:00 on weekdays and extends hours to midnight on weekends. Reservations are recommended.
Another noteworthy venue is the Holly Jolly Holiday Bar at Puttery. This ticketed pop-up features vibrant decorations and offers a 90-minute open seating experience for $22, including a complimentary welcome drink. It operates until December 28, with select hours from 17:15 to 22:30.
For those seeking a darker twist on holiday cheer, DMen Tap introduces the Krampus pop-up. This unique experience, themed around the Christmas demon, features a costume parade on December 5. The pop-up runs through December 29, with hours from 16:00 to 02:00 on weekdays and noon to 02:00 on weekends.
The Sleigh Bar at the Sheraton Grand Chicago, located at 301 E. North Water St., transforms into a festive retreat with holiday cocktails and complimentary appetizers. It is open daily until December 30, and offers special appearances by Santa on select dates.
Fans of the popular Netflix series can celebrate at Replay Lincoln Park with the Stranger Christmas: A Hawkins Holiday pop-up. Running through December 30, this venue features themed cocktails and trivia nights, inviting guests to immerse themselves in an ’80s sci-fi holiday experience.
More Festive Options in the City
Other notable pop-ups include the Nutcracker Pop-Up Bar, where guests can indulge in a festive atmosphere and cocktails for tickets starting at $22.49, and Frosty’s, a grand celebration spanning four bars over three floors, open until December 31.
The Jingle Junkie is returning for its fifth year, featuring a heated ski lodge-inspired patio with holiday cocktails and an abundance of decorations. Located in Wrigleyville, it will be open until January.
For those looking for free admission, Christmas Club offers a two-floor experience featuring special appearances by Santa and Christmas characters. Guests can enjoy food and drink packages starting at $25, available until early January.
The Christmas Inn at the Hubbard Inn is also worth a visit, showcasing a variety of seasonal drinks and themed events throughout the week. The venue operates until January 1, offering different activities each day.
With so many options available, Chicago’s pop-up bars and holiday-themed venues are set to provide memorable experiences for everyone. Whether you’re looking to sip festive cocktails, engage in holiday crafts, or simply soak up the seasonal atmosphere, these locations promise something for every taste.
For a complete list of holiday pop-ups and more information on each venue, potential visitors can check local websites or contact the establishments directly.
