Get into the spirit at one or all of these pop-up holiday-themed bars happening around Austin this winter.
Gibson Street Bar
Head to Gibson Street Bar for festive drinks and an over-the-top holiday display. This South Lamar hotspot is known for celebrating the season in style, and this year is no exception. Guests can step into a dazzling Winter Wonderglam wonderland featuring larger-than-life décor, photo opportunities with Santa, and a menu of specialty holiday cocktails. The celebration runs from the end of November through January 5.
Lil’ Easy’s
Lil’ Easy’s Fine Cajun and Bar will host its second annual Cajun Night Before Christmas popup extravaganza from Nov. 28 through Jan 6. Festivities will include New Orleans-style decorations, such as Santa’s sleigh being pulled by alligators, readings of the Southern classic Cajun Night Before Christmas by Chef Evan, the resident local Cajun, frozen holiday drinks served in limited-time-only memorabilia cups, and specialty pies. While you’re there, don’t forget to place an order for a King Cake to kick off Mardi Gras season.
Merry Marlow Bar
Marlow transforms into a festive wonderland this December for Merry Merry Marlow, running December 2–28. The bar will feature elegant holiday décor, perfect for gatherings, office parties, and seasonal fun. Highlights include A Holiday Cabaret on December 18 and 19 with live carols, guest performers, and a “drunk Santa” photo op. Other events include an inclusive vinyl dance party (Dec. 12), a Waikiki Christmas industry party (Dec. 15), and a Christmas Vacation watch party with free cookies (Dec. 16). Guests can also enjoy festive cocktails and surprise pop-ups announced via Marlow’s Instagram.
Lala’s and Lala’s South Pole
It’s Christmas time all year round at the original Lala’s on Justin Lane and the newest location, Lala’s South Pole on Davis Lane. This Austin staple is the place to be for holiday merriment. With wall-to-wall decorations and the booziest holiday-themed cocktails in town, both locations are sure to bring the Christmas magic.
Kitty Cohen’s
Kitty Cohen’s will once again transform into Get Lit, a Hanukkah-themed pop-up first imagined in 2019 by owners Josh Brownfield and Jeremy Murray. The celebration kicks off on December 1 and runs through the end of the month, with lively decorations taking over the bar. Guests can enjoy a special Hanukkah-inspired cocktail menu — while the regular drink list remains available. Highlights include the Maccabee’s Knees, Oy Fashioned, and Latke Punch, a nod to the traditional potato pancake featuring potato vodka, apple cider, ginger liqueur, and lemon.
Hotel Van Zandt
Hotel Van Zandt’s Reindeer Over Rainey is an upscale yet cozy outdoor holiday pop-up, bringing seasonal cheer to the heart of Rainey Street. From Dec. 3 through Dec. 28, gather your crew in a festive Santa Lounge (2–6 guests) or celebrate big in a Snowflake Suite (up to 10 guests). Each reservation includes a chef-curated dinner, holiday-inspired craft cocktails, indulgent desserts, vinyl holiday records to spin, classic board games, and plenty of seasonal surprises. Reservations open Monday, November 3 — don’t miss your chance to celebrate the holidays in true Hotel Van Zandt style.
Rodeo Room
Downright Austin’s Rodeo Room transforms into a winter wonderland from Nov. 20 to Jan. 4 for Santa’s Afterparty. Guests can sip holiday-themed cocktails, including the Merry Marg, Spiced Apple Martini, and decadent Swim Club Eggnog, while snacking on festive bites such as fried brie, roasted chestnuts, and s’mores by the fire. With cozy décor and a playful holiday spirit, it’s the perfect spot to toast the season in style.