Embark on a journey through California’s boozy winter wonderlands. From Krampus Cove’s eerie allure to luxe après-ski experiences, toast to some of the top holiday pop-up bars in California.
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Duck Dive’s Great Dickens Holiday Pop-Up
San Diego
The holiday season in Pacific Beach just got merrier with Duck Dive’s Great Dickens Holiday Pop-Up. Beginning on Friday, Dec. 1, the beachside bar and eatery will transport you to the pages of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The venue will be adorned with holiday decor reminiscent of a Thomas Kinkade Village, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with themed cocktails, including the Bah-Rum-Bug with rum, Aperol, pineapple, maple, lime and a dash of cinnamon, or the delightful Fizziwig’s Ball featuring duck fat-washed bourbon, lemon, chai syrup, cardamom and egg white, garnished with a tasty cookie. For more information, visit theduckdive.com.
Miracle at Belmont Park
San Diego
A Clark Griswold-Worthy Experience, Belmont Park welcomes the return of Miracle at Belmont Park, the Christmas-themed pop-up bar at Draft restaurant and bar. Opening on Friday, Nov. 17, and running through Sunday, Dec. 31, this holiday pop-up bar in California promises an over-the-top holiday experience. Enjoy original festive cocktails served in Miracle’s signature kitschy glassware, paired with a menu of delectable treats such as wagyu lasagna, winter squash soup and grilled cheese, truffle fries and a “pretzelcuterie” board. The park itself will be aglow with the fifth-annual Winter Wonder event, featuring oversized winter sculptures and twinkling lights throughout the park. For more information, visit belmontpark.com.
Santa’s Lair
San Diego
What better way to cheers to the holiday season than by visiting Santa’s Lair? Offering an inside look at Saint Nick’s cozy headquarters, Santa’s Lair, from Parq Nightclub, invites guests to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit with premium cocktails, spirits, mind-blowing decor and more surprises at this extravaganza. The pop-up will officially open on Nov. 22 and will be open Thursday to Saturday, from 4 to 10:30 p.m., and Sunday, from 2 to 8 p.m. For more information, visit santaslairsd.com.
The Cutwater Holiday Lodge
San Diego
Running from Nov. 16 to Dec. 31, The Cutwater Holiday Lodge promises a winter wonderland of flavors. Delight in Cutwater’s curated menu featuring two flights and a lineup of 11 winter-inspired cocktails, including traditional, spirit-free, warm and frozen choices. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, complete with seasonal merchandise, themed photo opportunities and an array of culinary delights. For more information, visit cutwaterspirits.com.
Over the Top Holiday Lounge
San Diego
From Nov. 22 through Dec. 27, the 40-story dining destination, Top of the Hyatt, at Grand Hyatt San Diego, transforms into the Over the Top Holiday Lounge. This snowy wonderland in sunny San Diego invites you to cozy up around the warm hearth, sip cocktails in a nostalgic setting of bunk beds reminiscent of a family vacation and enjoy the breathtaking views. The lounge features a festive cocktail menu, with a spotlight on Maker’s Mark and Suntory. Live entertainment awaits every Tuesday and Friday night, along with a special Christmas Eve celebration from 7 to 9 p.m. For more information, visit topofthehyatt.com.
Krampus Cove
Hollywood
Enter the dark side of holiday cheer at the Krampus Cove pop-up in Hollywood. This unique holiday experience takes a wicked twist on the traditional festivities, drawing inspiration from the legendary Krampus. Embrace the eerie ambiance, indulge in devilish cocktails and immerse yourself in a holiday celebration that’s not for the faint of heart. Krampus Cove promises an unforgettable and spine-chilling experience for those looking to add a touch of horror to their holiday festivities. The cove is open until Dec. 30, with seatings available at 6 and 8 p.m. For more information, visit krampuscovepopup.com.
Swiss Chalet
Los Angeles
For a holiday celebration steeped in luxury, Fairmont Century Plaza is the epitome of elegance. The iconic hotel transforms into a holiday haven with the return of its Swiss Chalet. This holiday pop-up bar in California boasts lavish holiday feasts, enchanting decorations, indulgent sips, fire pit seating and more. The Swiss Chalet is available until Dec. 15, open nightly at 5 p.m. For more information, visit fairmontcenturyplaza.com.
Sippin’ Santa
San Francisco
Check out Beachbum Berry on Instagram for a holiday celebration with an urban twist at Sippin’ Santa. This holiday pop-up bar in California will take place at Kona Street Marker Bar through Dec. 30, combining the season’s festive spirit with tiki-inspired fun. Explore a unique blend of holiday-themed cocktails, beach-inspired fare delights and vibrant decor that captures the essence of a luau-style winter wonderland. For more information, visit instagram.com/sippinsanta or instagram.com/konastreetmarket.
Après Village & Skate Rink
Silicon Valley
Après Village at Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto has transformed into Après Village & Skate Rink, offering a unique and festive experience for the entire family until Jan. 28. Quattro’s outdoor terrace becomes an intimate winter retreat with wooden chalets, cozy fire tables and illuminated alpine trees, inviting guests to savor the holiday season amid plush plaid cushions and snug pashmina blankets. This year introduces the Après Food Truck, inspired by Airstream trailers, adding a delectable dimension. The Synthetic Skate Rink, a winter favorite for all ages, returns, while semi-private wooden Chalets offer an exclusive retreat for families and groups of four to six. Don’t miss the signature s’mores and custom cocktails, perfect for enjoying in cozy mini-chalets or on the new Après Skate Rink, where snowfall enhances the enchanting atmosphere. For more information, visit fourseasons.com.