As the holiday season ramps up bars all around Denver are transforming into immersive wonderlands of cheer – for you and yours to celebrate. With festive cocktails and over-the-top winter wonderlands dripping in nostalgic tinsel for all your photo-op desires – these limited-time experiences are a welcomed addition year after year and seemingly get better and better.
Here is a rundown of our favorite themed pop-ups to be at the top of your list – naughty or nice.
XXX-Mas Bar
When: November 20 – December 28, Wednesday – Sunday 3 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Where: Los Chingones RiNo, 2463 Larimer St., Denver
The Lowdown: Los Chingones in RiNo has transformed into a naughty list XXX-Mas Bar for the holidays. This 21+ experience is sure to provide you with warmth, fun and a lot of flirt. Promising extra surprises and live performances on Saturday’s, this is the pop up to satisfy the cheeky glassware – sexy photo ops – and over-the-top vibes you are looking for – including ultra boozy cookie shots and a LOT of whipped cream.
Mistletoe Lounge
When: November 21 – December 24, Sunday-Wednesday 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Thursday-Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Christmas Eve 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: Cherry Creek Holiday Market, 105 Fillmore St., Denver
The Lowdown: The Mistletoe Lounge is a two-story holiday pop-up within The Cherry Creek Holiday Market loaded with spirit and spirit-less options for all. The event put on by MSE and Havenly is a not to be missed part of your holiday market shopping adventure with themed cocktails and mocktails, beer, wine and light snacks. Try the North Pole Nightcap – Vodka, Kahlúa, crème de cacao, cold brew coffee, toasted marshmallow foam, graham cracker dust – and mark off everyone on your list. The entire space is also available for rent for corporate or private party needs.
Santa’s Little Man Ice Cream Factory
When: November 28 – December 31, Monday – Thursday 3 p.m. – 9 p.m., Friday 3 p.m. – 10 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Little Man Ice Cream Factory; 4411 W Colfax Ave., Denver
The Lowdown: Everyone’s favorite ice cream spot is transforming into Santa’s Little Man Ice Cream Factory – boasting the mega fun in-store slide amidst all the ornaments and lights it could fit inside. A White Christmas-inspired Winter Wonderland serves as the perfect storefront to get all of your stocking stuffers and favorite pints with seasonal flavors thrown in like Egg Nog, Gingersnap, and White Chocolate Candy Cane. A true delight for the entire family awaits with recurring events like photos with Santa, bingo with Mrs. Claus, private ice cream-making parties, gingerbread house building, and so much more.
The Moët Chalet
When: December 12 – January 21, Thursday – Saturday 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Where: The Kimpton Claret Hotel, 6985 E Chenango Ave., Denver
The Lowdown: Cypress Terrace on the 2nd floor of the Kimpton Claret is getting decked out with all the chalet and ski resort vibes without having to sit on I-70 traffic. The Moët Chalet will showcase Moët branded glassware , ice buckets and ski goggles galore. Champagne will be flowing in glass and specialty cocktail form. This elevated holiday pop up is a perfect start – or end – to a bougie night out.
READ: Staycation or Date Night – The Kimpton Claret Hits the Mark
Snowdrift
When: November 29 – December 31, Tuesday – Thursday 5 p.m. – 10 p.m., Friday – Saturday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Where: Adrift, 218 S Broadway St., Denver
The Lowdown: SoBo’s favorite tiki bar is back again this winter with its holiday from the beach themed Snowdrift Pop-up. A garland-filled winter wonderland heats Adrift up with Yuletide cheer – complete with an igloo beach bar and food and drink specials to transport you out of Colorado. Get comforted with food options like the Yuletide Loco Moco Meatloaf – house-made gochujang-glazed meatloaf, scratch-made brown gravy, white rice, jalapeño serrano cranberry sauce, fried egg and crispy shallots – and a whole menu of beach themed winter drinks like the delightful frozen cocktail Chi Chis Roasting on an Open Fire, Family Jones Vodka, coconut, acidulated pineapple and chestnut. Why deal with the airport when you can have your own beach vacay right here?
Happy Camper
When: Monday – Wednesday 11 a.m. – 12 a.m., Thursday 11 a.m. – 2 a.m., Friday 10:30 a.m. – 2 a.m.,
Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 2 a.m., Sunday 9:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: 3211 N Pecos St., Denver
The Lowdown: Instragrammers and bloggers already love Happy Camper for its year-round photo-ops, but over the holidays it becomes a top to bottom, sparkly DRIP of a Christmas theme. Decorated in oversized disco ball ornaments and no shortage of decked out trees, twinkling lights and immaculate seasonality throughout the menu – you can get your spritz and your glitz on. As always Happy Camper is 21+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Noel
When: November 29 – December 31, Friday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m., Saturday 2 p.m. – 12:00 a.m., Sunday 2 p.m. – 10 p.m., Wednesday – Thursday 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: The Bluegrass Coffee & Bourbon Lounge, 7415 Grandview Ave., Arvada
The Lowdown: Olde Town Arvada’s local loved Bluegrass becomes Noel – complete with a month full of activities for the big kids and little kids alike. Whether it’s the Boozy bingo or Christmas Trivia, testing your skills at the Gingerbread House Competition or just popping in to sip on their infamous Blitzen’s Nog – available spirit free – this pop up entices you to put on your Christmas Eve pajamas or don your best retro slope-fits – and hurry on down for one of their six Shot Skis. Promising to be kid friendly and encouraged – with a themed menu for the little’s in your life – there’s no reason not to come down.
Delorean
When: November 27 – December 27, Wednesday – Thursday 5 p.m. – 11 p.m., Friday – Saturday 5 p.m. – 1 a.m., Sunday 2 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: Delorean, 1753 S Broadway, Denver
The Lowdown: The already retro-themed cocktail bar Delorean is bringing the ultimate 80’s throwback holiday experience – from the décor to the menu, expect to be transported back to your childhood in adult form. This 21+ adventure is sure to hit some memory buttons as you play video games and catch a classic movie like Scrooged on limited days – and sip cocktails from heavily nostalgic themed glassware – like the Frageelé – a piña colada for two in a leg lamp mug of your own.
Avantiki
When: November 22 – December 28, Monday – Wednesday 5 p.m. – 10 p.m., Thursday 5 p.m. – 11 p.m., Friday 5 p.m. – 12 a.m., Saturday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m., Sunday 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: Avanti Food & Beverage, 3200 Pecos St., Denver
The Lowdown: Avantiki presents another opportunity to pretend you’re at the beach while in our soon to be snow covered town, but don’t worry, the holiday lights are on. Located within the second-floor of Wolf Bar, this experience does have a $5 entrance fee – but know you’re drinking for good. A portion of the entrance fee will go to Culinary Hospitality Outreach and Wellness, which provides mental health support and services to restaurant industry workers. The food vendors are getting involved too – providing tiki-themed offerings and the bar promises to provide a delightful mix of holiday-inspired beach sips and classics like egg nog and hot cocoa. Reservations are highly recommended.
Bezel Lodge
When: December 6 – January 31, Thursday – Saturday 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Bezel Cocktail Lounge, 1550 Court Pl., Denver
The Lowdown: Bezel Cocktail Lounge transforms into the uber sexy Bezel Lodge to bring the cozy mountain lodge vibes to the heart of the city. Snuggle up around the fireplaces with fuzzy blankets, a chairlift photo-op and lots of ski-themed décor. The menu will showcase specialty seasonal cocktails and small bites, but you can also enjoy classics like the Black Truffle Grilled Cheese with muenster, gouda and swiss, or the American Wagyu Sliders – Onion Bacon Jam and Camembert.
Miracle Bar
When: November 15 – December 24, 4 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Where: Union Station, 1701 Wynkoop St., Denver
The Lowdown: The famous Miracle Bar pop-up is back at Union Station highlighting the true nostalgia of the season with its mega immersive atmosphere. Ugly sweaters and your best holiday outfits are highly encouraged to fully take in the experience. Over-the-top cocktails, purchasable mugs and glassware, surrounded by Christmas music and more than likely, appearances by Santa and his elves are what’s in store regardless of which side of the list you fall under this year.
Krampus Room
When: November 26 – December 31, Tuesday – Thursday 5 p.m. – 12 a.m., Friday – Saturday, 4 p.m. – 2 a.m., Sunday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Where: Electric Cure, 5350 W 25th Ave., Edgewater
The Lowdown: The fourth annual Krampus Room Tiki Bar is back at Electric Cure – but don’t expect this one to be anything like the other tiki-inspired options on this list. You will not find Santa spreading the jolly at this bar – think of it more as Santa’s revenge. Drinks are sure to be on fire as Krampus takes over the menu creating a vicious but oh so delicious chance to enjoy the adult side of the holidays – with Electric Cure’s signature line crossing thrills. Don’t let the outrageous names scare you – I Caught Mommy… is a play on a Coquito with spiced Bacardi, peanut butter washed Cachaca, condensed and evaporated milk, coconut cream, toasted coconut milk powder and a miso infused dulce de leche whipped cream – worth it – even if it does land you on the naughty list.
The Cozy Cabin
When: November 22 – January 5, Tuesday – Thursday 4 p.m. – 10 p.m., Friday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m., Saturday 11 a.m. – 12 a.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: Ace Eat Serve, 501 E 17th Ave., Denver
The Lowdown: The entire patio at Ace Eat Serve has been transformed into a true snow-draped retreat. The Cozy Cabin pop-up is one of the longest of the season and presents snow covered trees and all your décor dreams on a heated patio. The specialty cocktails are a true delight and right on theme from shot skis to disco ball punches – try the Peppermint Chalet – Absolut Vodka, Peppermint Schnapps, White Chocolate Liqueur, cream, chocolate and crushed peppermint candy – or the Summit Sunset – Patron Silver, 5-Spice Orange Syrup, lime and saline. Put down an order of their signature Tiger Wings and après the day away. For the Denver Housing Authority Ace Eat Serve is collecting toy donations in exchange for a complimentary cocoa and a $10 voucher, redeemable in house or at Steuben’s next door.
Big Holiday Energy
When: November 27th – January 1st, Monday 3 p.m. – 9 p.m., Tuesday – Thursday 3 p.m. – 10 p.m., Friday 2 p.m. – 11 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m. – 11 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Call to Arms Brewing, 4526 Tennyson St., Denver
The Lowdown: Call to Arms Brewing has become the most epic Christmas Vacation themed winter retreat with more decorations than ever before. Its extended heated tent is home to an assortment of ceiling hung ornaments and its own light show, while the brewery inside is transformed into a near forest with Christmas trees suspended from the ceiling. Expect the icon moose mugs and a handful of special pop-ups all month long starting Thursday, December 5th. Lottie’s Meats will be on-site serving Swedish cuisine on December 14th and 21st. Follow along on its social for more surprises – bust out your best Griswold outfit – call cousin Eddie – and cheers with your favorite pint!
Polar Bear Express
When: November 29 – January 6, Monday – Thursday 3 p.m. – 10 p.m., Friday – Saturday 3 p.m. – 11 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: Señor Bear, 3301 Tejon St., Denver
The Lowdown: Take a ride on the Polar Bear Express if you’re looking for a more chill way to enjoy the season without all of the cliché glitter and glamour – this is the pop up for you. Back for the 7th year Señor Bear is traditionally decorated and will showcase a holiday cocktail menu inspired by the Latin American culture. The Rumpope is a rich and delectable spin on an egg nog with overproof whiskey, spiced rum, golden graham infused cream and cinnamon. The Feliz 43 features a local gin, Campari, Locor 43, Grand Marnier, cranberry, lemon and bubbles. The kitchen will be putting out a comfort menu that seamlessly blends with its daily menu, such as braised pork tamales with salsa rojo and queso fresco.
Yuletide Renaissance Faire
When: December 1 – December 31, Sunday – Tuesday – Thursday 4 p.m. – 10 p.m., Friday – Saturday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Where: The Stockroom, 5713 Olde Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada
The Lowdown: Neighborhood speakeasy The Stockroom in Olde Town Arvada is ready to open its doors all month long with a refreshing and playful twist on the holiday pop-up bar – presenting its Yuletide Renaissance Faire. Celebrate the season in 16th century fashion, and given, the Stockroom’s history of going all in on their pop ups, expect to have a night of sport and merriment. Each table will have its own theme from Fantasy and Magic to Dungeons equipped with a fully immersive bar. The Midwinter Mage is a cleverly created cocktail featuring rosemary infused helium bubbles – a float you won’t want to miss.
Ski Jorts City
When: November 20 – December 31, Monday 3 p.m. – 8 p.m., Tuesday -Thursday 3 p.m. – 10 p.m., Friday – Saturday 12 p.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Lady Justice Brewing, 3242 S Acoma St., Englewood
The Lowdown: If you are seeking a pop-up outside of the norm – this is the one you’ve been waiting for. Inspired by one of its flagship beers, Ski Jorts Lager, Lady Justice has transformed for the first time into a fully immersive taproom experience: Ski Jorts City. Expect fabulous 70’s-queer-apres-ski decor, interactive events, fundraising, a special beer release and so much more as a playfully eccentric alternative to the rest of the Christmas pop-ups. For your creature comforts there will be lavish 70s-inspired chalet vibes with a fireplace and plush seating while the crowd of flannel and denim jorts will provide a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere to celebrate the season.
Editor’s Note: Updated 12/03/24 to reflect accurate dates and times for The Moet Chalet.