As we celebrate the holiday season in Washington, D.C., the bar scene has definitely taken notice! Some of D.C.’s favorite bars and restaurants are decking the halls and revamping their menus with festive decor and holiday-themed drinks. Below, Secret D.C. has rounded up the holiday-themed bars you don’t want to miss.
1. Winter Chalet at Dirty Habit
Conveniently located just steps from the DowntownDC Holiday Market, Dirty Habit’s Winter Chalet is an urban oasis. The outdoor courtyard space is decked out with cozy blankets, fire pits, and seasonal decor to transport you to the snowy slopes of Aspen. The space is now open to the public and is serving up hand-crafted beverages including hot chocolate, toddies, and other seasonal cocktails.
Where: 555 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
2. The Holly Jolly Bar at The Brighton
The Brighton’s festive pop-up experience has taken over both levels of the popular British-themed pub, offering ample space for parties of all sizes. With special cocktails like “Reindeer Games,” a hot cider and Jack Daniels beverage, and “In a Pear Tree,” featuring Titos and pear syrup, the seasonal menu is bound to get you in the holiday spirit. The bar is open from November 22 to December 29, and is decked out in tinsel, trimmings, ornaments, and more.
Where: 949 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
3. Mercy Me’s Winter Chalet
Capturing the spirit of Patagonian winter, El Chalet at Mercy Me is returning on Tuesday, December 3 to offer festive fare and fireside cocktails. Adorned with snow-covered pine, fireplaces, and rustic wood textures, the space is the perfect seasonal getaway this winter.
Where: 1143 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037
4. Miracle at Death Punch Bar
Miracle at Death Punch Bar is giving off some truly holly jolly vibes! Whether you want to drink from a Santa mug, chat beneath holiday lights, or rock around the Christmas tree, this Christmas pop-up makes all of this possible. Plus, who wouldn’t want to drink a specialty cocktail called, “Grandma Got Run Over By A T-Rex”?! This fan-favorite pop-up kicks off on Wednesday, November 27.
Where: 2321 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
5. Lulu’s Wine(ter)garden
Returning for its second year, Lulu’s Wine(ter)garden will whisk guests away to the holidays in the desert with cactus Christmas trees, lush garlands, fiery chimineas, and more. Enjoy a seasonal winter menu filled with comfort food and festive beverages, including their gingerbread cookie-topped espresso martinis. The holiday experience kicks off on Friday, November 22.
Where: 1940 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
6. Colada Shop Holiday Bar
Colada Shop has brought back its holiday pop-up bar, and it’s more festive than ever! Tropical decor and garland galore collide to create the perfect Cuban Christmas ambiance, while themed cocktails like the “Mo-Ho-Ho-Ho-ito” and the “Candy Cane Colada” make for a fun holiday indulgence! The pop-up is open at the 14th Street and Clarendon locations from Wednesday, November 20 to Tuesday, December 31.
Where: 1405 T St NW, Washington, DC 20009, 2811 Clarendon Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201
7. Swingers, the Crazy Golf Club’s Winter Courtyard
Swingers, the crazy golf club has transformed into a magical winter wonderland for the holidays. Cozy up amidst snow-frosted trees and magical fairy lights to enjoy seasonal cocktails après-golf style before hitting the greens! In true D.C. fashion, the Dupont Circle hotspot also offers a festive bottomless brunch menu.
Where: 1330 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
8. Makers Union Blitzen Bar
Popping up at all three Makers Union locations in the DMV area, the Blitzen Bar transports visitors right to the North Pole with its merry decor and delightful drinks. Skilled mixologists have created twelve special holiday cocktails, including “Frosty’s Merry Margarita” and “The Elf Is Missing From The Shelf!” shot special. The jolly pop-ups will remain open through Christmas.
Where: 676 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024, 1450 S Eads St Suite 65, Arlington, VA 22202 & 1811 Library St, Reston, VA 20190
9. Francis Hall’s ‘Christmas Story’ Themed Pop-Up Bar
Hotel Heron’s cocktail bar, Francis Hall, just announced a festive ‘Christmas Story’ pop-up in collaboration with Campari. Adorned with charming decorations, the nostalgic winter wonderland is serving up themed cocktails that capture the essence of the season. The cozy retreat is open until December 26th!
Where: 699 Prince St, Alexandria, VA 22314
10. Holiday Candy Land Pop-Up at El Techo
Shaw’s vibrant El Techo has transformed into a dazzling Holiday Candy Land for the month of December. Visitors can enjoy an array of limited-edition holiday drinks, plus tasty bites, atop the festive rooftop. El Techo has teamed up with Creations By Brenda to bring this seasonal wonderland to life.
Where: 606 Florida Ave NW #1853, Washington, DC 20001
11. Urban Roast
Known for going all out for most holidays, Urban Roast has truly decked the halls in honor of Christmas: a ceiling of presents, Christmas trees, candy canes, and bows galore! If you’re looking for an Instagrammable hotspot, this is the place! Just grab a S’mores Martini and sit by the fire pit. The experience has officially opened for the 2024 holiday season.
Where: 916 G St NW suite c-2, Washington, DC 20001
For more holiday sparkle, be sure to check out the magical Candlelight Christmas concerts this December. They reimagine popular carols and more holiday tunes in a beautiful, candlelit setting.