There’s nothing quite like Christmas in New York City. From the real-life magic on 73rd street to a 21-year-old in a soiled Santa outfit splayed out on your doorstep, the signs of the season are popping up all over town.
So why not indulge in a holiday spirit (or four) at one of the 10 highly festive bars we’ve compiled below, all of which have decked the halls to the nth degree this year. From rooftop igloos to knock-you-on-your-ass nog, here’s your guide to maximum merriment.
Happy Holidays to you and yours.
Sippin’ Santa at Boilermaker
East Village
A very Mele Kalikimaka version of the holidays, complete with surfing Santa decor and barkeeps in Hawaiian shirts. This tiki-themed good time also has a roster of seasonal mixes for warming thyself island style, from a Kris Kringle Colada to the signature Sippin’ Santa, a rum-soaked gingerbread number served in a Santa glass. Merry Christmas, brah.
13 First Avenue (map) – Website
The Holiday Movie Revival Pop-Up at Arthouse Hotel New York City
Upper West Side
For the nostalgic cinephile, Arthouse’s lobby and Wine Bar have both transformed into scenes from iconic Christmas movies, from the house of Kevin McCallister to the living room from A Christmas Story to the burnt Christmas tree from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. And for discerning fans, yes, even Die Hard has a presence. From the swill list, we recommend the Punch served from a leg lamp, an homage to “fra-gee-lay.”
2178 Broadway (map) – Website
Grinchy Tavern at East Village Tavern
East Village
A Whoville takeover of a go-to watering hole, Grinchy Tavern is all things mean and green, from the Grinchhopper (with green creme de menthe and creme de cacao) to the complimentary green Jell-o shots served at the top of every hour.
158 Loisaida Avenue (map) – Website
Winter Chalet at Industry Kitchen
South Street Seaport
A whimsical scene of classic holiday magic, Industry Kitchen is dripping in sparkling lights, snow-laced trees and reindeer clacking on the roof. Sip a Frozen Peppermint Slide or Spiked Hot Chocolate and nibble on Gingernut Pizza with eggnog frosting.
70 South Street (map) – Website
Winter Rose Holiday Garden Pop-Up at Dream Downtown
Chelsea
Perfect for impressing one’s holiday mate or date du jour, the Dream’s lobby is saturated floor-to-ceiling with 15,000 red roses amidst red velvet loungers with rose-infused cocktails and bites to complete an artful take on holiday hoopla.
355 West 16th Street (map) – Website
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