Enjoy a Cup of Cheer at These Festive Pop-Up Experiences
While there may not be snow on the ground, the holiday season in Southern California is still a cozy and nostalgic time of year, and Los Angeles is no exception. From beautiful tree-lighting ceremonies to ornate decorative displays, the city shines under the twinkling lights. But a lesser known bit of holiday magic also makes its grand entrance during this wondrous time of year—in the form of quaint, cozy and decadent pop-up holiday bars. From hidden gems that will warm even the coldest hearts to some sultry secret spots that might put you on Santa’s naughty list, LA nightlife loves getting in on the holiday cheer, and now you can, too. Read on to see our curated list of some of the very best pop-up holiday bars and speakeasies coming to LA this season.
Swiss Chalet at Fairmont Century Plaza
For those seeking a bit of mountainous luxury, the Swiss Chalet dining experience at Fairmont Century Plaza is for you. This charming limited edition experience transports guests to a pristine Swiss Alps-style lodge where you can dine on delicious holiday-themed comfort classics. With a decadent menu featuring everything from artisan fondue to oxtail soup to espresso martinis, this one-of-a-kind restaurant is cozy and delectable. Just be sure to reserve your chalet soon—seating is limited, and this amazing option won’t be around forever.
Location: Century City
Krampus’ Cove Pop-Up at Lost Property Bar
Who says fun spooky bar experiences are limited to Halloween? Thanks to the fun and spirited staff at Lost Property Bar in Hollywood, they are now a feature of the holiday season as well. At Krampus’ Cove, guests are greeted by an evil array of hellish hosts, including the seasonal demon Krampus himself, before being seated for a brief but spectacularly ghoulish live show. During the show, guests can also enjoy an assortment of spooky specialty drinks inspired by the dark side of the season, and afterwards the bar becomes a devilishly fun speakeasy where guests can lounge, laugh and relish in the magic of this creepy yet uproariously fun holiday bar experience.
Location: Hollywood
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Miracle at The Ordinarie
Long Beach, LA’s friendly neighbor to the south, is once again joining in on the boozy holiday cheer this year with their acclaimed pop-up bar: Miracle at The Ordinarie. Located right in the heart of downtown, this pop-up takes inspiration from classic holiday fanfare, throwing up all the glittery and twinkling holiday decor one could wish for, and even serving specialty cocktails in the most adorable cozy Christmas mugs. Kids are also welcome in the bar/restaurant before 9 p.m., so this is a great outing for the whole family to enjoy as well. Be sure to peep their website in the coming days, as the complete list of holiday themed food, fanfare and beverages is as clever as it is delicious and fun.
Location: Long Beach
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Miracle at Neighbors
Speaking of miracles, Playa Vista is also throwing in a bit of classic, kitschy holiday cheer with their very own pop-up: Miracle at Neighbors. Following in similar spirit to their friends in Long Beach, Neighbors is dialing up the coastal Christmas vibes this year in the form of classic decor, including beautiful twinkling lights, a festive holiday-themed drink menu, and, of course, their signature Santa mugs. So grab a scarf and come enjoy some swanky holiday fun by the bay at Miracle at Neighbors.
Location: Playa Vista
Winter Wonderland at The Green Room
Known for its gorgeous balcony bar area overlooking rolling hills and dazzling city skylines, The Green Room is bringing the holidays home to Burbank this year in the form of their very own special seasonal pop up: Winter Wonderland. Decked floor-to-ceiling in ornate gold and white decor, this elevated cocktail lounge is pulling out all the stops in an attempt to spread holiday cheer, including introducing several new signature cocktails inspired by fan-favorite holiday films, such as the Lost in The Big Apple signature drink, featuring cognac, apple brandy, Krupnik Bitters, and crushed streusel, all inspired by one of our favorite holiday films, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.”
Location: Burbank
Santa’s Secret
Taking it all the way back to an infamous time in the city’s history, this vintage pop-up features sprawling art installations, showcasing everything from icy igloos to wintery forests, as well as some rather risque yet delightfully cheery burlesque performances. But the best-kept secret here is the coveted hidden entrance to Santa’s very own North Pole speakeasy, serving up delicious holiday cocktails and live music. So be sure to keep your eye out for clues and secrets as you explore this immersive winter wonderland, and you just might stumble upon one of the very best speakeasies in LA.
Location: West Hollywood
