The holiday season in Pittsburgh isn’t just about tree lightings, ice skating at PPG Place, or shopping in the Strip District. It’s also prime time for one of the city’s newest and favorite traditions: holiday pop-up bars.
Offering Instagram-worthy décor, twinkling lights and festive cocktails, these seasonal hotspots bring a little extra magic to Pittsburgh’s nightlife. Whether you’re swinging by after work or rallying your friends for a night out, these winter wonderlands are a must-see.
Don’t miss out on the magic—make sure they’re on your holiday bucket list!
Santa’s SideBar at Luke & Mike’s Frontporch
Tucked away on an adorable cobblestone street in the quaint neighborhood of Aspinwall, lies a tinsel-transformed Luke & Mike’s Frontporch. Enter the enchanting land of Santa’s SideBar, where joyful libations and festive merriment await all—whether you’ve been naughty or nice!
Enjoy catching up with friends as you sip on North Pole-inspired concoctions, each brimming with cheerful holiday spirit. Santa’s SideBar is serving up dazzling drinks all night, featuring the Clausmopolitan, Grinch-tini, and even a playful Naughty Elf.
This will SADLY be their final season and they will be closing their doors January 1st. They are hosting their Goodbye Bash December 27th and 28th. Stop by for dinner and drinks one last time and wish them well! Text 412-260-0793 for reservations.
Blitzen’s at the Omni William Penn
Inside one of Pittsburgh’s historic landmarks, the Omni William Penn Hotel, and you’ll find Blitzen’s, the cutest pastel wonderland overflowing with holiday cheer. This iconic venue is already a Pittsburgh treasure, and its transformation into a holiday haven makes it even more magical.
The bar’s décor follows a very maximalist view of “more is more,” combining vintage Christmas charm with contemporary elegance. It’s decorated wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling with twinkling lights, festive wreaths, and cozy seating that invites guests to get cozy and stay a while.
Curated by award-winning mixologist, Julie Reiner, the cocktail menu is full of elixirs to cheer up even the grumpiest of grinches! Seasonal selections include the Tidings of Whiskey and Joy, a cozy combination of whiskey, orange juice, and red wine, and the Wake Me Up Before You Ho, Ho, a festive twist on the timeless Irish Coffee. And of course, all cocktails are served in adorable mugs!
Bring some buddies along if you dare to take on the Cookie Jar Cocktail—talk about an awesome photo op. You can even order Santa’s Secret Cookie Stash (served with a glass of cold milk), or a Dancing Dessert Trio (a fresh selection of treats from Prantl’s), and other small bites from their “Between You, Santa & The Reindeers” menu.
If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, Blitzen’s at the Omni William Penn Hotel is a must! This magical experience is open Thursday – Saturday from 5pm -11pm until January 11th.
The Aspen at Spritzery
If you’re active on social media, chances are you’ve come across one of the hottest pop-up bars making a splash this summer: Spritzery. This aperol spritz-themed hotspot at 960 Penn Avenue has been serving up Amalfi Coast vibes and vivid orange spritz cocktails straight from your Pinterest board dreams.
But with the change of seasons, brings us a whole new experience: The Aspen.
Think cozy mountain lodge vibes, ski chalets filled with warm fires to enjoy with friends in the chilly evenings. That’s exactly what you’ll find when you step into this après-ski escape right in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh.
Don’t worry—there’s still refreshing seasonal spritzes to choose from! Savor winter-inspired cocktails like the Toasted Marshmallow White Russian and an Insta-worthy Snowflake Martini made with vanilla vodka and a delectable white chocolate liquor to keep you snug and warm.
Open Tuesday – Thursday from 4pm – 11pm, Fridays from 4pm – 1am, Saturdays from 1pm – 1am, and Sundays from 4pm – 9pm. The ski lodge officially closes in March 2025, so don’t wipe-out and miss The Aspen.
Don’t want your furbaby to miss out on the fun? Leashed pups are allowed to join in on Thursdays!
Rudolph’s Rooftop at Sienna Mercato: Il Tetto
While you’re strolling around the bustling city sidewalks of Downtown Pittsburgh, make time to journey upstairs to the third floor of Sienna Mercato. Il Tetto’s rooftop has been transformed into Rudolph’s magical holiday village. No reindeer games here. The picturesque view of the city skyline adds to the charm of this decked-out red and green rooftop pop-up.
Holiday cocktails adorn the menu, with delights like Dancer’s Spiked Hot Chocolate—a velvety blend of hot chocolate and vanilla vodka, topped with Penn Dutch peppermint bark cream and a mountain of peppermint whipped cream. Or go for Grandma’s Apple Pie Gin Fizz, or even get bold with the Drunken Gingerbread Old Fashioned!
Mark your calendars for the “Ugly Sweater Party” on December 13th, featuring prizes, a DJ, and a special guest appearance by the legendary Joe Long, the storyteller behind Pittsburgh’s greatest love saga, Don and Deb.
Jingle your way to Rudolph’s Rooftop party before Santa’s sleigh heads back to the North Pole on January 1st! Open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4pm – 10pm, Thursdays from 4pm – 11pm, Fridays from 4pm – 1am, and Saturdays from 2pm – 1am.
The Holiday Tavern at The PA Market
If you have ever visited the Strip District of Pittsburgh, then you know that nothing quite says “yinzer” like enjoying a cocktail within view of the skyscrapers towering downtown, all while indulging in some of the region’s best food! This season, the PA Market has become one of our favorite eateries-turned-pop-up-bar.
Every Friday and Saturday starting at 5pm, The Holiday Tavern on the first floor of The PA Market (108 19th Street) offers a cozy escape filled with seasonal cheer. Step inside and let the warm, inviting atmosphere transport you to a winter wonderland, complete with creative, holiday-inspired drinks.
For those on the hunt for the perfect jingle juice, the drink menu does not disappoint. Mint-lovers can enjoy the “I’m Dreaming of a Mint Christmas” (pictured below), or opt for a spicy kick with the “Christmas in Tijuana”, featuring jalapeño infused tequila and chocolate liqueur.
And what’s a holiday celebration without a great meal? The PA Market has you covered with offerings such as their Market Steak, slathered with a chef’s seasonal butter and white truffle aioli, paired with herb and parmesan house-made french fries. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, The PA Market offers something for everyone.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
