Surely there’s no better way to celebrate Holidays 2023 than sipping on a festive cocktail at one of Charlotte’s nine(!) holiday themed pop-ups. From sugar cookie martinis to a pecan pie old fashioned and more, here are all the places you can enjoy a delicious holiday themed drink in the Queen City. Cheers!
The Garrison
314 Main St, Pineville
This historic two-story restaurant and bar in downtown Pineville has transformed into a winter wonderland complete with Christmas cocktails, holiday decor, and a whole lot of festive spirit. You can’t go wrong with any of their festive cocktails, but we love the cleverly named “I’m Santa Clause, Teddy, not Yoda” made with peppermint schnapps, vanilla rum, and godiva white chocolate liquor, topped with a candy cane. Reserve your spot on Open Table or call 704-889-4277 to book.
BackStage Lounge at SouthBound
2433 South Blvd
Upon stepping into SouthBound’s speakeasy, BackStage Lounge, you’re transported into a Christmas extravaganza. The space is decked out in holiday decor, Christmas music plays through the speakers, and there’s even a snow machine. The cocktail menu includes 12 holiday drinks that all come in themed glasses, plus a “nice” shot and a “naughty” shot. BackStage Lounge is walk-in only, and be sure to check their Instagram account before heading over to get the password to enter.
Aura Rooftop
124 E Brooklyn Vlg Ave
Enjoy uptown skyline views in a winter wonderland at Aura Rooftop’s pop-up – Winter in the Queen’s Garden. The rooftop has heated tents and firepits to keep you warm while you sip on festive drinks like “Spiced with Purpose” and “The Queen’s Hot Chocolate” – plus, if you order the hot chocolate, you’ll automatically be entered into their Golden Ticket Sweepstakes. If you find a golden ticket in your drink, you’ll win a complimentary staycation at the JW Marriot, two spa vouchers, and dinner for two at Dean’s Italian Steakhouse. Don’t miss out on the potential prizes and guaranteed good time at this pop-up! Walk-ins and reservations available.
Supperland Speakeasy
1212 The Plaza
Supperland’s speakeasy will be hosting a ticketed “Toast to the Holidays” pop-up event November 24th – January 6th. The team has put together a “Spirit Experience” that gives visitors the chance to enjoy coursed cocktails paired with small bite pairings in their intimate, ten-person bar. Don’t forget to wear your ugly sweater, as the customer with the staff’s favorite will win a Supperland gift card.
The Royal Tot
933 Louise Ave Suite 350
The Royal Tot’s Sippin’ Santa event is back with themed cocktails, live music, and Santa’s spirit. Plus, the festive cocktail mugs you get your drinks in are available for purchase in-person. Walk-ins are allowed and limited reservations are available.
Humbug
2501 The Plaza #1
Humbug, the new Plaza Midwood cocktail bar, is hosting a “House of Krampus” holiday pop-up through the month of December. The experience is ticketed, at $10 an entry, and promises a one of a kind holiday drink menu, holiday snacks, and plenty of other surprises. Parties must be four people or less, and each ticket grants you a two hour experience.
Billy Sunday
1115 N Brevard St, Unit 1
Billy Sunday’s Tinseltown pop-up runs through December 31st. The festive cocktail menu is extensive, with some of our favorites being the “Throne of Lies” espresso martini, “Holiday Who-be, What-ee” hot toddy, “Son of a Nutcracker” pecan old fashioned, and the naughty and nice shots, which can also be taken as a shot-ski that serves four. Seatings are first come, first served, but if there’s a wait when you arrive, put your name on the list then head up to the Spindle Bar in Optimist Hall for a holiday cocktail while you wait on your table.
El Thrifty
115 N Brevard St, Unit 100
Also conveniently located in Optimist Hall, El Thrifty Mexican restaurant is transforming their cantina into a tropical Christmas paradise, complete with a menu of festive cocktails, at A Very Tiki Christmas. The pop-up runs through the end of December and combines a beach theme with holiday favorites that are sure to make your spirit bright.
Thigs Cocktail Bar
21234 Catawba Ave, Cornelius
Step into a tropical winter wonderland at BeachBumBerry’s Sippin’ Santa pop-up bar! Running through, December 31st, this Cornelius cocktail bar will transform into the holiday spirit with a beachy twist. Not only will there be festive cocktails to sip on, but there will also be Christmas cocktail classes, bourbon tastings, holiday movie trivia, ornament decorating, gingerbread decorating, Christmas karaoke, and even an ugly sweater competition. At Thigs Cocktail Bar, there is no shortage of festive fun to be had this year.
Author’s Note: This article was written by Alex Maloney. You can find more of her Charlotte-related content on Instagram, @slicesandsushi.
