Is your go-to local bar/restaurant decking its halls this holiday season? Chances are, it might be! Holiday-themed pop-ups have been storming the metro Atlanta dining scene over the years, and they’re only getting more popular.
The concept is festive yet simple. Local bars and restaurants transform their interiors into winter wonderlands complete with string lights, garlands and boozy bubbles. Dozens of nightly holiday parties are scattered in and around Gwinnett, and everyone’s invited! We’ve rounded up some of our favorites in the area. Add one (or a few) of them to your holiday festivity bucket list.
HOLIDAYS ON THE ROOF – PONCE CITY MARKET – ATLANTA
poncecityroof.com
The Atlanta-famous Ponce City Market hosts a pop-up, an ice skating rink and other winter games and festivities on its scenic rooftop overlooking the Atlanta skyline. This magical dreamscape is perfect for a holiday date night or family fun. You can even amplify the experience and enjoy a feast above the city from inside an igloo; just be sure to rent your igloo in advance!
OVER THE TOP BURGER – BUFORD
overthetopburger.com
Gwinnett County has its own fair share of holiday pop-ups, and this one’s unique theme each year is definitely worth checking out. This bar offers a funky, retro vibe and a casual atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to take refuge from a cold winter night without having to halt your holiday celebration.
THE BLIND ELF – ATLANTA
theblindpigparlourbar.com
The Blind Pig, a bougie parlor bar in Atlanta, has mastered the art of the pop-up bar. With pop-ups all year long, including The Playa Pig (summer) and The Wicked Pig (Halloween), they end the year with a bang with The Blind Elf, their take on elegant holiday gatherings. Complete with Christmassy cocktails adorned in pink fairy dust, mini marshmallows and nutmeg, and menu items like Brie Bruschetta and Bacon-Wrapped Dates, your phone will certainly eat first.
TIKI HOLIDAY – DECATUR
sostiki.com
If you’d prefer Christmas in the tropics, this is the holiday pop-up for you! With over-the-top decor, including bartenders in tacky Christmas sweaters, dancing Santas and plastic reindeer, it’s reminiscent of classic, cheesy holiday film favorites like Christmas Vacation. Grab a lei and some reindeer antlers and join the party!
HAPPY WHO-LIDAYS – ALPHARETTA
mercantilesocial.com
Mercantile Social, downtown Alpharetta’s most popping bar, transforms into Whoville every holiday season. Grinch fans will get their fix of Who Libations and snacks inspired by the iconic Christmas movie, like roast beef sandwiches and Grinch-er bread martinis.