We probably won’t see a white Christmas in Austin, but don’t let that ruin your holly jolly spirit, because some of Austin’s best bars have invested heavily into making Austin’s holiday season bright and merry to keep you lit-up with refreshing beverages. You can fully wet your whistle and enjoy some of the most creative and festive pop-ups, complete with specialty holiday cocktail and snack menus. With so many options this year, here are our top picks for the best holiday pop-up bars across town.
Miracle on 5th Street at The Eleanor
Returning for its eighth year, Miracle on 5th Street at The Eleanor has set the pace for the most over-the-top Christmas pop-up in town. The festive pop-up features a wide array of beautiful twinkley decor, themed cocktails, shots, non-alcoholic drinks, and holiday-themed snacks. Tickets start at $5 and can reach up to $1,000 for large groups, with reservations available for groups of eight or more.
Ugly Sweater Bar at the Fairmont
It’s time to sport your tackiest Christmas sweater at The Ugly Sweater at The Fairmont, which takes over the Rules & Regs rooftop bar. The entire bar has been transformed into a whimsical holiday universe filled with dazzling lights and nostalgic holiday decorations.
Yule Time at Azul
Yule at Azul, is easily the highest holiday pop-up in town, taking place on the top floor of the Westin Austin Hotel. It features festive holiday cocktails, private cabanas and the best views in the city. Running from November 21 to December 29, walk-ins are welcome, but it’s advisable to book a table or cabana in advance. Each cabana has its own unique holiday theme and costs $100 to reserve.
Ice Rodeo at Four Seasons Hotel
Experience the magic of ice skating in Austin at the Ice Rodeo, Austin’s premier ice rink overlooking Lady Bird Lake. From November 22, 2024 through January 5, 2025, skate beneath the stars in a winter wonderland at Four Seasons Hotel Austin. Enjoy outdoor ice skating, cozy dining cabins, pop-up lounges, immersive holiday décor and art installations.
Après Swim at Swim Club
Located at the Downright Austin Hotel, Swim Club is launching its inaugural holiday programming the Rodeo Room transforms into Après Swim, an experiential pop-up bar led by industry veteran Travis Tober. This whimsical pink winter wonderland offers holiday enthusiasts a delightful place to eat, drink, and be merry. Enjoy activations such as a sugar-cookie decorating kit and Christmas movies on The Lawn every Thursday evening, complete with lawn chairs and fire pits for roasting savory s’mores.
JW Marriott’s Snow Much Fun at Edge Rooftop
There’s almost zero chance of snow for Christmas, but Snow Much Fun, at JW Marriott’s Edge Rooftop bar helps to bring the winter magic to life. Running from November 23 through the holiday season, this event features s’mores, firepits, craft cocktails, and hourly “snowfalls,” creating a festive and cozy atmosphere.
The Lodge at Hotel Van Zandt
The Lodge at Hotel Van Zandt returns for its fifth year, featuring festive cocktails, bites, and signature igloos on the fourth-floor pool deck. Each cozy igloo accommodates six guests and includes a dedicated server, Bluetooth speaker, holiday decor, and board games. Igloos are available for rent in two time slots: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and 8 to 10 p.m. Reservations can be made via Eventbrite.
Rudolph’s Road House at Lefty’s Holiday Pop-Up Bar
Celebrate the season at Lefty’s Brick Bar in East Austin with Rudolph’s Road House Holiday at the interactive holiday pop-up, complete with decked-out holiday decorations and special holiday-themed drinks. Stop in for a night of holiday cheer and festive fun!
Candy Land at Cosmic Saltillo
Step into a whimsical world at “Candy Land,” a Christmas pop-up at Cosmic Saltillo inspired by a blend of classic gingerbread house aesthetics and the enchanting Candy Land game board. This pop-up bar is adorned with vibrant holiday decor, some of which are interactive, and offers sweet sips that transport you to a holiday wonderland. Sip your way through a carefully curated menu designed like the Candy Land game board, featuring themed cocktails that celebrate the season.
Lala’s Little Nugget South Pole
Lala’s Little Nugget on Justin Lane has been enchanting patrons since 1972. Today its newer South Austin location, Lala’s South Pole, is just as cozy and kitschy, making it perfect for enjoying yuletide drinks and pizza any day of the year.
Reindeer Room at Tiger Lilly
Located in the basement of Tiger Lilly at 400 Colorado Street, Reindeer Room offers a festive escape reminiscent of your grandparents’ cozy basement, with a delightful mix of retro Christmas kitsch and playful holiday spirit. Adorned with twinkling lights and nostalgic décor, this pop-up features cocktails that are sure to make Santa blush. Whether you’re coming to sip, snap, or celebrate, Reindeer Room is the ultimate destination for holiday cheer and unforgettable vibes. Tickets required, open through December 30th.
Naughty or Nice Upstairs at Caroline
The “Naughty or Nice” theme as returned to Upstairs at Caroline. Enjoy a specialty cocktail menu, s’mores, and the “Polar Express Shotskii,” where “naughty people get Malört and nice people get rumple mintz.”
Gibson Street Bar
Make your way to Gibson Street Bar for excellent drinks and an extravagant decorative display. Located on South Lamar, this spot is known for celebrating holidays in style, and this season is no exception. Guests can look forward to a “Winter Wonderglam” theme, featuring larger-than-life decorations and specialty crafted cocktails, available from November 27th to January 5th.
WinterSol Igloos on the Otopia Rooftop
The Otis Hotel’s Otopia Rooftop bar has been transformed into a delightful winter wonderland of luxury with private igloo rentals, each equipped with a cookie-decorating kit, a Polaroid camera for group photos, postcards, board games, and a vinyl record player. This festive pop-up bar offers a cozy atmosphere with charming decor and warm cocktails for you and your friends to savor. Igloo rentals are available through December 30th, and reservations are required, starting at $200. Celebrate the season in style at Otopia Rooftop!