Are you looking for a festive spot to celebrate the holidays? There are so many to choose from! Every post I see, there’s a new one! So here are my top picks for holiday bars and restaurants in Chicago! I’ll note which places are 21+ and any ticket requirements for entry.

Wrigleyville

❄️Rudolph’s Bar – Wrigleyville. All ages are welcome at Lost Never Found’s holiday pop-up, but it’s 21+ only after 8 pm. A general admission ticket includes one drink ticket, one holiday shot, and one candy cane, but no table. A Table for two will start at $50. November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025

❄️Alma at Hotel Zachary – Wrigleyville. The boutique hotel’s lounge has excellent views of Wrigley Field, and it’s so nicely decorated. You can see at the bar, lounge area or by the fireplace. If you want to dine, reserve a Globe on the Terrace in advance!

❄️Mistletoe at Hush Money – Wrigleyville. Mordecai’s upstairs cocktail lounge, Hush Money, transforms into the cutest little Christmas escape. 21+ only. November 15, 2024 – January 4, 2025

❄️Noche Buena, a Latin Christmas pop-up – Wrigleyville. This is a new Latin-themed Christmas pop-up at Moe’s Cantina Wrigleyville this year. We’re excited to check it out! They promise, “From creamy Coquito to festive Ponche, Chocolate Abuelita, Tamales & more with all your favorite Latin holiday soundtracks and classic games—no one celebrates Christmas as we do! 🎄✨”

❄️Santa Baby – Wrigleyville. Bamboo Club transforms into an over-the-top Christmas decoration extravaganza. It’s great during the day for the family! You can make a reservation online if you want to eat, but walk-ins for photo ops and bar service are welcome. Beginning in December, all reservations and walk-ins may be subject to a $5 cover charge. Santa Baby is 21+ only after 8 pm. November 21, 2024 – January 5, 2025

❄️ Elf’d Up – Wrigleyville. Stretch Bar transforms into the ultimate homage to the movie Elf. Arrive early, as space is limited, and don’t plan on staying for long! No reservations or cover charges. Guests under 21 can enter before 6 PM Monday-Thursday and before 3 PM Friday-Sunday. Buddy makes random appearances Thursday to Sunday. November 9, 2024 – January 5, 2025

❄️Christmas Club – Wrigleyville. No cover, no reservations. Kids are allowed until 7pm on weeknights and 5pm on weekends. November 22, 2024 – mid-January

❄️8 Crazy Nights – Wrigleyville. The Graystone Tavern becomes a Hanukkah Bar featuring Matzo Ball Soup, Specialty Latkes, and plenty of punny cocktails. opens November 25, 2024

Loop and Near North

❄️The Christmas Inn on Hubbard Street – River North. Love Hubbard Inn for girls’ brunch! Make your reservations now! November 26, 2024 – January 1, 2025

❄️River North Pole – River North. The tiki bar Three Dots and a Dash becomes “River North Pole” with themed cocktails like Sweater Weather and Mistletoe Mai Tai. New this year I hope to check it out!

❄️JoJo’s ShakeBAR – River North, Naperville. JoJo’s does Christmas like it does everything – over-the-top, fun, and huge! This is the best place to bring the kids – especially if you have a group of them!

❄️Rudolph’s Rooftop – Loop. LH Rooftop evolves into a warm, sparkling getaway every winter with the arrival of Rudolph’s Rooftop Winter Igloos. Visitors are invited to head up to the rooftop to take in the beautiful views and enjoy the festive holiday decorations, with the choice to bring a drink from the indoor bar. However, food service on the outdoor rooftop during the winter is only provided for those who reserve an igloo in advance. It’s pricey, but you can grab a drink at the bar and check out the views too. November 16, 2024 – January 31, 2025

❄️Mariah Carey’s Black Irish Holiday Bar at Virgin Hotel – Loop. General admission starts at $20 and includes a 90-minute reservation and one cocktail. Best for photo ops in my opinion! November 15-December 29, 2024

❄️The Drawing Room at Chicago Athletic Association – Loop. This hotel lounge magically takes you to a cozy living room all dressed up for the holidays. It’s so relaxing. Grab a drink and sit by the fire place.

❄️Happy’s at Chicago Athletic Association – Loop. Another one of my favs. Happy’s is a holiday pop-up on the ground level of the Chicago Athletic Hotel. Enjoy this holiday dive bar-like space that sort of makes you feel like you are in your grandma’s basement. It is 21+ under until 6pm and they don’t take reservations. Usually opens in early December.

Not Loop or Wrigleyville

❄️Chief O’Neill’s – Avondale. O’Neill’s is an authentic Irish pub and restaurant with amazing vintage holiday decor. Make reservations online! One of my favorites! More of a neighborhood spot.

❄️The Kennedy Rooftop – Wicker Park. This rooftop restaurant and bar on the 7th floor of the Hyatt Place Wicker Park has beautifully decorated igloos. Great skyline views. Make reservations early!

❄️Holly Jolly Bar – West Town. Whiskey Business becomes Holly Jolly. Buy general admission tickets starting at $18, which includes a 90-minute reservation and one welcome cocktail. Curling lane rentals start at $149 for up to four people. Another great photo opp spot but I do love the curling component too! 21+ only. November 22 – December 28, 2024

❄️Frosty’s Christmas Bar – Goose Island. Let’s just say Frosty’s has four bars, three levels, two dance floors, and they promise Santas and elves. So, this immersive Christmas explosion is best for the youngest of legal drinkers. Not my thing anymore, but would have been when I was in my early 20’s! 21+ only. Entry packages start at $23 and include one drink. November 15 – December 31, 2024

❄️Butch McGuire’s – Gold Coast. Last but not least is our annual tradition of visiting Butch McGuire’s! This tavern has the best old-school classic decorations! MY FAV! Kids are allowed before 8 pm. No reservations, go as early as possible! November 4, 2024 – late January

OK Chicago, that’s my grand list of Chicago’s Holiday Pop-Up Bars and Festive Restaurants for the 2024 Holiday Season! Cheers!

Christine

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