If you love kitschy décor, themed cocktails and an excuse to wear ugly holiday sweaters in public, the Cincy Region's bar scene always delivers this time of year. Below are several can’t-miss events on both sides of the river that will get you feeling festive (and maybe a little buzzed). Keep reading for opening dates, hours, how to get tickets or reservations and what vibe to expect at each.

Tiki and holiday decor at Tiki Tiki Bang Bang
You'll spend half the time at Sippin' Santa looking at all the decor! (photo: Tiki Tiki Bang Bang)

Pop-Ups in Cincinnati

 

Sippin' Santa at Tiki Tiki Bang Bang

Head to Cincy's landlocked tiki bar, Tiki Tiki Bang Bang in Walnut Hills, for Sippin' Santa! This annual pop-up transforms the bar into a nautical and festive holiday extravaganza. Enjoy a reimagined menu full of creative drinks, including the "Silent Nightcap" shot that comes complete with an adorable reindeer shot glass that you get to keep! No tickets or reservations required. November 18 - December 31.

 

Tinsel Haus at The Graduate Cincinnati 

Step inside Tinsel Haus, a holiday pop-up bar designed to offer a festive, seasonal experience at The Graduate Hotel Cincinnati. The space features detailed holiday décor, illuminated installations, and a variety of themed elements throughout. Guests can enjoy a menu of seasonal cocktails, explore several photo-friendly areas, and take in the atmosphere created for the winter season.

 

Miracle at the Overlook Lodge at The Overlook Lodge

The Overlook Lodge, located in Pleasant Ridge, is already a memorable bar, as it is totally inspired by and modeled after the horror classic "The Shining". However, you won't see any of that during their annual Miracle at the Overlook Lodge pop-up. The decor? Over the top. The drinks? Strong and good. The experience? Smooth. 

 

Tickets are required, and they sell out fast. A ticket is $40, which includes a welcome shot, two cocktails and gratuity is included. Like your glass? You can even buy a souvenir keepsake. This 70-minute experience is totally immersive, including an adorable ending that we won't ruin for you. Trust us: it's worth it! November 21 - December 28.

 

Winter Wonderland at Cobblestone OTR

Cobblestone OTR takes holidays to the next level. Their Winter Wonderland pop-up runs from November 14 through January 4 and has to be seen to be believed. The decor is impressive and the drinks are tasty. Add this one to your list! No tickets or reservations required. 

 

Pitchmas at The Pitch

Choose from 10 tasty and seasonal cocktails, then take festive photos at 4 different themed installations at The Pitch during Pitchmas! This spacious bar, located directly across from TQL Stadium, will be decked out for the holidays from November 14 - January 5. 

 

St. Nick's Speakeasy at Arnold's 

Pop into the oldest bar in Cincinnati, Arnold's, to experience St. Nick's Speakeasy, a no-reservations-required holiday getaway! Enjoy over-the-top decor, twinkling lights, and a full menu of festive cocktail specials from December 1 - January 1. 

 

Holiday Hideaway at Red Leprechaun

Looking for a pop-up with cute drinks AND comfort food? Look no further than Holiday Hideaway at Red Leprechaun at the Banks! This insta-worthy setup is sure to get you in the mood for the holidays, along with special Christmas movie nights every Friday! No reservations or cover; drop in anytime this December!

 

Jingle & Juice at Cinema OTR

Sip on something festive at Jingle & Juice, Cinema OTR's immersive holiday experience. Cocktails, decor, Christmas movies and more - all at one of the coolest nightlife stops in OTR. No reservations required, running from December 4 - 31. Also available to book your holiday party!

Lit up Christmas trees made of beer barrels at Covington Yard's Winter Wonderyard
Covington Yard's Winter WonderYard (photo: Covington Yard)
Daytime photo of clear plastic igloo on the rooftop of Braxton Brewing.
Braxton's Covington location is the perfect spot for an igloo hang out (photo: Braxton Brewing Company)

Pop-Ups in Northern Kentucky

 

Winter WonderYard at Covington Yard

Covington Yard is already a great time with food trucks, an indoor/outdoor bar and tons of lawn space to spread out and watch Cincy sports. Starting November 12, visitors can experience Winter WonderYard - a massive holiday glow-up. Think holiday decor, igloos, festive cocktails, live music and more all season long. Bring a group and check it out! No tickets required. 

 

Miracle on Madison at Galaxie

For the first time ever, the "Miracle" pop-up makes its way to Covington! Galaxie, one of Covington's newest and hottest clubs, is getting into the spirit with its own run of Miracle on Madison. Starting November 18, visitors can check out this immersive experience all on their own - no tickets required!

 

Igloobar at Braxton Brewing Company

What's better than enjoying an ice cold Braxton beer? Doing so in a heated, comfy igloo! These cozy, private igloos are available to rent for just $40, which gets you 2 hours and seating for up to 8 people. Sip on one of Braxton's seasonal brews, or try a holiday-themed cocktail. Each igloo comes with a heater, blankets, a table, and a bluetooth speaker. Perfect for parties or family outings! Note: Igloobar is available at Braxton's Covington, Union and Factory 52 locations. 

 

 

Ready to plan your holiday trip to the Cincy Region? Order your FREE Official Visitors Guide today and check out our calendar of local events

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