Minneapolis Holiday Cocktail Guide: The Most Festive Drinks & Pop-Up Bars
- Kari Lynn
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
If you’re in Minneapolis this holiday season — or plan to visit — there are some really fun bars and pop-ups serving up festive, holiday-themed cocktails. Here’s a detailed blog-style guide to some of the best holiday-cocktail spots around town, with vibe, drink highlights, and what to expect 🍸🎄
Top Holiday-Cocktail Bars + Pop-Ups in Minneapolis
AC Hotel Minneapolis Downtown — pop-up: Sippin’ Santa
Through December 30, the AC Hotel is hosting a festive pop-up tiki bar called Sippin’ Santa. Think of it as a tropical-holiday cocktail experience— a fresh, fun twist if you want something less traditional.
Drinks are crafted with seasonal cheer and served in limited-edition glassware. There are even zero-proof cocktails this year for those who want the vibe without alcohol.
Atmosphere tends to be upbeat and festive — good for groups, holiday outings, or a fun night out.
Bassett Hound (North Loop)
Bassett Hound is getting rave reviews this season for its holiday cocktail menu. One standout is “Santa’s Manhattan”, made with High West Holiday Dram Bourbon, sweet vermouth, and cocoa bitters — a winter twist on a classic.
Another fan-favorite: “Mrs. Claus Holiday Nog” — a richer, cozy drink with Røkar Rya whiskey (or similar), Calvados (an apple brandy), and eggnog. Great if you want something smooth, warming, and festive.
For lighter, more playful drinks: try spritz-style drinks like the “Fireside Spritz,” “Jack Frost Spritz,” or “Grinch Spritz.”
Overall vibe: chill North Loop spot, seasonal but not over the top — good for both first holiday drinks or a cozy night out.
The Local Minneapolis — pop-up: Gaelic Glow
For a more moody, cozy take on holiday celebration, the Gaelic Glow pop-up transforms The Local with jewel-toned lights, upside-down trees, and cozy pub vibes.
The holiday cocktail menu includes drinks like a wintery “Winter Orchard”, “Stout Old Fashioned”, and a “Kindred Spirit” among others — good choices if you like darker or more robust cocktails.
The atmosphere feels more intimate and relaxed — a nice contrast to brighter, more playful holiday pop-ups.
Red Cow Uptown — pop-up: Red Nose Room
The Red Nose Room pop-up returns this season (through early January), bringing playful holiday décor and a full menu of festive drinks and mocktails.
Expect drinks like a “Gingerbread White Russian”, a “Frozen Cranberry Margarita”, and even non-alcoholic options like a cranberry spritzer. Great if you want variety or are sticking to mocktails.
Vibe here is more lively and celebratory — good for groups, festive nights out, or when you want a classic holiday-bar energy.
Hotel Emery — pop-up: Down Through the Chimney
This bar transforms into a fully immersive holiday experience — think candy-cane cocktails, storybook-style decor, and lots of photo-ops. Perfect if you want a festive night that feels magical rather than just merry.
Their menu has fun seasonal offerings like a toasted s’mores espresso martini and a chocolate-cherry Old Fashioned — a cozy treat if you love sweet holiday flavors.
It’s also a popular spot for group gatherings or holiday parties, with private/reservation options for bigger groups.
📝 What to Know Before You Go
Reservations & Pop-ups: A few spots (like Sippin’ Santa, Down Through the Chimney, and Red Nose Room) are seasonal pop-ups. It’s smart to check ahead — some require tickets or reservations, some are first-come first-serve.
Drink Variety: You’ll find classic cocktails (with a holiday twist), lighter spritzes, creamy or dessert-style drinks, and even non-alcoholic/mocktail options. Great if you’re going with a group with different tastes.
Atmosphere Matters: Some places lean cozy and intimate (Gaelic Glow, Hotel Emery), others are playful and festive (Red Cow’s Red Nose Room, Bassett Hound). Choose based on whether you want a chill night, a fun holiday vibe, or a festive outing with friends.
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