This is the time of the year when all of the holiday pop-up bars, speakeasies, and themed restaurants start. There are more San Diego Holiday Pop-Up Bars and Restaurants this year than in previous years. Some pop-ups are San Diego favorites and there are some new ones on the list. Not surprisingly, a vast majority of them are in the Gaslamp Quarter. If you are planning to visit a few in one evening, The Gaslamp Quarter would be the best area to go. Many of the themed experiences are immersive, and it is very evident how much time and effort has gone into planning them. Unfortunately, some are very disappointing. A few decorations from the $.99 store do not warrant making it on this list. But have fun, take lots of photos, and get into the holiday spirit now as all of these are open. Please check online for information about making reservations. Some have cover charges and others are free.
Pacific Beach:
A Great Dicken’s HOLIDAY POP-UP
Located in Duck Dive
Starts November 30th
Duck Dive is bringing the holiday vibes with a Great Dickens Holiday Pop-Up! Inspired by Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, this timeless story gets a fun twist. Expect festive drinks, decorations, and good times. They have added Duckin’ Onion and Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese Dippers for the first time this year.
Free.
No reservations are required.
Sippin' Santa
Located in The Grass Skirt
Featuring tropical holiday-themed cocktails by Beachbum Berry at all Sippin’ Santa locations.
Free.
No reservations are required.
hillcrest:
HOLIDAY OASIS EXPERIENCE
Located in insideOUT.
It features San Diego’s most stunning gold-themed light and snow experience.
Walk-ins are welcome on a first-come, first-served basis with full bar service. Reservations are encouraged, but not required. Individuals may set an alert on OpenTable for reservations (tables are released 30 days in advance). No reservations are needed for cocktails in the atrium lounge (see host).
The experience will last through January 5, 2025. 18+ entries only.
Free.
Book through OpenTable.
gaslamp quarter:
Margaritaville Pop Up
Located in Margaritaville Gaslamp Quarter lobby.
The festive experience will be open to the public December 6, 13, 14, and 20 from 5-8 PM.
Inclusive of live music, signature holiday cocktails, and seasonal décor, other experiences include cookie decorating station, Sip & Shop, Surfin’ Santa, and more.
Free.
No reservations are required.
xmas bar
Santa called, and he’s decking the halls of XMAS Bar with a vintage twist!
The Xmas Bar holiday experience is now open inside Good Night John Boy.
You can look forward to dancing the night away to Christmas tunes, getting a kiss under the mistletoe, and taking a selfie with all the fun holiday décor.
Free.
No reservations are required.
Santa’s Lair
Located in Parq Nightclub
Santa’s Lair is the perfect destination if you are on the hunt for a touch of cozy and nostalgia during the festive season.
$18.50 for tickets.
Make reservations here.
Deck the Halls
Located in Nason’s Beer Hall
Join in the festive revelry with over-the-top holiday décor and shenanigans, alongside a festive holiday cocktail menu, crafted in partnership with the Elves.
Free.
No reservations are required.
Tipsy Grinchmas
Located in Tipsy Crow.
The Tipsy Grinchmas Holiday Pop-Up is taking over The Tipsy Crow! All three levels will be decked out in Grinch-inspired décor, with specialty cocktails that even the Grinch wouldn’t refuse.
Free.
No reservations are required.
The Jingle Bar
Located in Bang on 5th
After spreading festive cheer to over 5,000 holiday lovers on the East Coast, the most magical Christmas pop-up bar is finally landing in San Diego this December! Get ready for a dazzling season filled with twinkling lights, heartwarming holiday moments, and festive fun around every corner.
You must buy tickets online for $14.50.
MISSION BEACH:
miracle at draft
Lacate in Draft, Belmont Park.
The Christmas-themed cocktail pop-up returns for the second year with over-the-top holiday decor and collectible mugs.
Free.
No reservations are required.
miramar:
Winter Lodge
Located in Cutwater Tasting Room and Kitchen.
The restaurant and bar has been transformed into Cutwater Lodge from November 21st to December 31st.
Free.
Reservations required.
Chula Vista:
Holly Jolly
Located in Las Tres Catrinas.
An over-the-top holiday pop-up bar for cocktails, entertainment, and memory-making! You can get a S’mores kit delivered right to your table.
Free.
No reservations are required.
Mission HILLS:
Snowed Inn
Located in Fort Oak Restaurant.
Happening November 27th till the end of the holiday season, the cocktail bar has been transformed into a holiday pop-up bar.
Free.
No reservations are required.
Little Italy
False Idol
Holiday decor and themed cocktails.
Free.
No reservations are required.
Queenstown Public House
Holiday decor and themed cocktails.
Free.
No reservations are required.
San Marcos:
Miracle at Brickmans
Located in Brickmans Restaurant & Bar.
This is a family-friendly event. In addition to holiday-themed cocktails, they have a Winter Wonderland with a Grand Igloo Dining Experience
Free.
No reservations are required.
downtown san diego:
Elf on the 12th
Located at Mister A’s.
Elf on the 12th” is officially making its third annual appearance this December at Mister A’s, offering a touch of holiday magic in the form of festive cocktails. Featuring seven new seasonal sips created by Bar Manager Alvin Pugeda and his team, each one celebrates classic holiday flavors, all with a delicious twist.
Free.
No reservations are required.
Over The Top HOliday Lounge
Located in Top of the Hyatt.
From November 27th through January 5th, you can enjoy the lights, and festive cocktail menu, relax with friends in the bunk bed lounge, or take a picture in a ski lift chair for two as you soak in the cabin’s warm holiday cheer.
Free.
No reservations are required.
North Park:
The Elf Bar
Located in AIR CONDITIONED Lounge.
Joining the San Diego Holiday Pop-Up this year is this whimsical, elf-themed pop-up Christmas bar designed to spread holiday cheer with festive décor, and playful vibes.
$16 per person (90-minute experience).
You need to buy tickets online.
Christmas Village
Located in The Lafayette Hotel
Holiday decor and themed cocktails.
Free.
No reservations are required.
La Costa
Blitzen's
Located in Omni La Costa Resort & Spa.
Holiday decor and themed cocktails.
Free.
No reservations are required.
