Making Spirits Bright

Sorry, Buddy the Elf, but the best way to spread Christmas cheer is raising a glass of spiked eggnog at a festive pop-up bar—we don’t make the rules! Ring in the season at these holly jolly watering holes across the Carolinas that have decked their halls with themed cocktails, twinkling lights and so much more.

Miracle at The Haymaker
Raleigh

Ready to get lit like a Christmas tree? Once again, DTR cocktail bar The Haymaker transforms into a whimsical holiday haven complete with playful cocktails, like the new Marshmallows & Unicorns
or fan-fave Yippie Ki Yay Mother F****r—all served in Miracle’s signature kitschy glassware. 

Insider tip: This hot spot is first come, first serve, so be prepared to stand in line—however, General Manager Josh Gagne says, “our goal is to operate so you don’t have to wait once you get inside.” Or, try going early in the week when the crowd’s not as intense. Through Dec. 31, thehaymakerraleigh.com

St. Nick’s
Raleigh

“St. Nick’s is the embodiment of holiday cheer and festive fun,” says owner Mikhail Wright of this Raleigh pop-up that touts a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Featuring signature cocktails, interactive art installations and a cozy fireplace, it’s the ideal destination for any crew looking to start a new Christmas tradition. Keep an eye out for special events including live music, themed parties and an appearance
by Santa himself. Santa, I know him! 

Insider tip: While reservations aren’t required, they are recommended for larger groups to ensure a comfortable experience. Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased in advance or at the door. Through Jan. 5, stnicksnc.com

Photo by Randy Schmidt, courtesy of Wye Hill

Sippin’ Santa at Wye Hill
Raleigh

Santa’s gone on holiday to the tropics—er, Wye Hill. For the first time ever, Raleigh’s fave patio will be hosting a festive leisure-inspired oasis rooted in the celebration of “togetherness, relaxation and the importance of leisure time often overlooked by the bustle of the holidays,” says co-owner Sara Abernethy. Um, we’ll cheers to that (!). Surf into the season with tropical cocktails and memorable festivities alongside Wye’s regular food menus. Hang loose! 

Insider tip: Reservations are highly recommended. And, yes, you can purchase the nostalgic surf culture-esque glassware to take home with you. Through Dec. 31, wyehill.com

Tinseltown at Billy Sunday 
Charlotte

Located within Charlotte’s Optimist Hall, Billy Sunday ushers in a top-to-bottom holiday takeover to celebrate the most wine-derful time of the year. “Any surface that could be decorated, will be decorated,” says GM Annie Stevenson of the cocktail bar’s Tinseltown concept. “We want people to feel the same butterflies we felt as children when thinking about Christmas on its way.” Seasonal sips such as a sugar cookie martini, apple pie Old-Fashioned and housemade coquito make the experience even sweeter. 

Insider tip: Arrive early or snag a spot on the waitlist, especially on weekends when the food hall is bustling with diners and shoppers. Through Dec. 31, billy-sunday.com 

Miracle at The Golden Pineapple
Asheville

“Imagine the most over-the-top, wild holiday party all your friends want to be at… that’s Miracle at The Golden Pineapple!” says co-owner Katey Devitt-Ryder of the buzzy West Asheville pop-up. Floor-to-ceiling decorations and Instagrammable sips—we’re talking cocktails served in mugs shaped like Santa pants, a Christmas T-rex and even a Krampus this year—set the backdrop for a magical night you may or may not remember… 

Insider tip: For parties larger than eight guests, Miracle at The Golden Pineapple offers bar buyouts. Drink up, grinches! Through Dec. 31, goldenpineapplebar.com

White Christmas at Harold’s Cabin
Charleston

If you’re headed to the Holy City, don’t miss this holiday bar that’s truly a feast for the senses. “Each year our upstairs lounge, The Pickled Beat, is transformed into a different world,” says owner John Schumacher. “We want our guests to escape for an hour (or more!) into the holidays.” Picture decor and lights galore, a rotating winter drink menu (the fermented eggnog and Naughty Ginger cocktails are must-trys), holiday movies on TV and more. 

Insider tip: Look for the upside-down Christmas tree as it makes “the perfect backdrop for fun group photos,” Schumacher shares. And for those who prefer a more intimate experience, Harold’s Cabin also offers a semiprivate rooftop Cabin Igloo that seats eight guests. Through Jan. 6, haroldscabin.com