Let’s face it, the holiday season can be stressful for parents. You’re trying to see holiday attractions, you’re buying gifts for everyone and hopefully fitting in some self-care. While making your list (and checking it twice), set some time aside and enjoy a jolly cocktail at these holiday-themed bars in Chicagoland.
Elf’d Up
- Address: 3484 N. Clark St., Chicago
- Cover: None
If you watched Elf a million times at home, you know Buddy the Elf knows how to spread Christmas cheer. This pop-up bar is centered on the energized elf—and you can expect to see Buddy on Thursdays-Fridays! They’re even serving Buddy’s Breakfast Pasta with pasta, maple syrup and all the sweets you can imagine.
Frosty’s A Christmas Bar
- Address: 809 W. Evergreen Ave., Chicago
Frosty’s knows how to deck the halls with three floors of Christmas decorations that cover every nook and cranny. The Instagram-worthy decorations certainly make the experience worth it. While you are there, enjoy special cocktails, singing Santa shows and visits from Santa’s friends. Tip: Visit during off-peak times to avoid large crowds.
A Very Harry Christmas Pop-Up
- Address: Replay Lincoln Park, 2833 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago
Harry Potter fans will apparate to the latest pop-up at Replay Lincoln Park. The arcade bar is known for its pop culture pop-ups and we love the Harry Potter twist for the holidays. Plus, you need to get cocktails inspired by the founders of Hogwarts—what house are you in?
8 Crazy Nights
- Address: 3441 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago
Graystone Tavern is celebrating Hannukah with thousands of blue and white lights, lighted menorah decor, Mensch on a Bench and more. This pop-up will have specialty cocktails and they also serve Jewish foods including delicious latkes and vodka-infused jelly doughnuts.
The Reindeer Room
- Address: Tack Room, 1807 S. Allport St., Chicago
If you’re looking for something a little more classy for Christmas, stop by The Reindeer Room. They’ll still have holiday decorations and specialty cocktails, but there’s also live Christmas music on the piano.
Santa Baby
Address: 3505 N. Clark St., Chicago
Here’s another pop-up that feels like Christmas threw up all over (and that’s not a bad thing). Santa Baby has weekly specials to make your experience even more magical including Movie Mondays—holiday movies, of course!— and Christmas Karaoke on Thursdays. Check their website to see more special events.
The Christmas Club
- Address: 3460 N. Clark St., Chicago
Known as the original Christmas pop-up, The Christmas Club is certainly worth the stop if you’re doing a holiday bar crawl in Wrigleyville. You’ll enjoy two floors of Christmas decorations, visits from Santa and other holiday characters. Don’t forget about their special drinks — we recommend Cousin Eddie’s Eggnog, which is served in a souvenir mug.
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