No one can deny the magic of the holidays in New York. From seasonal staples like the famed Rockefeller Tree Lighting to the annual holiday markets, the city lights up during the winter months.

Summer lounging lawns turn into ice rinks, and bars and restaurants across the city transform into festive holiday-themed spaces, bursting with lights and decor. This time only comes once a year, though, so we’ve rounded up the top holiday bars and pop-ups in NYC this winter to make sure you don’t miss out!

Oscar Wilde

Known for its lavish and quirky extravagance, Oscar Wilde in NoMad is a favorite for grabbing drinks and small plates. During the holidays, you can expect to find Christmas trees, wreaths, baubles, and twinkle lights throughout the already over-the-top Victorian-era space. They even hang stockings on the 1840s French fireplace.

Where: 45 West 27th Street., New York, NY 10001
For more information on Oscar Wilde.

EXPLORE MORE:
NYC's Ultimate 2022 Winter Bucket List
The Best Places to See Holiday Lights in NYC
The Bucket Listers Guide to NYC Ice Skating Rinks.

Heated Bubbles at Route 66 Smokehouse

Starting in November, you can book a heated igloo at Route 66 Smokehouse on historic Stone Street. Complete with blankets, a mini electric fireplace, and a make-your-own s’mores experience, there isn’t a more picturesque way to spend a winter evening.

Where: 46 Stone St, New York, NY 10004
For more information on Heated Bubbles at Route 66 Smokehouse.

The Tinseltown Pop-Up Bar

Tinseltown is all about celebrating Christmas so you can expect Santa, elves, presents, tinsel, festive tunes, and lots of winter warmer drinks, including a fabulous Christmas cocktail menu! The halls are more than fully decked with baubles, bows, hanging trees, wreaths, and just about every festive goodie you can imagine.

Tickets include entry to the themed bar and a themed drink on arrival. No grinches allowed. There will also be family-friendly sessions that will offer mocktails/non-alcoholic drinks only and no alcohol will be served.

Where: Pekarna NYC: 594 Amsterdam Ave., New York
For more information on Tinseltown.

A very Tipsy Winter Brunch at Selene

Selene is the perfect cozy restaurant to enjoy an amazing winter brunch and cocktails. Get out of the cold and try holiday-themed plates from gingerbread donut waffles with cream cheese glaze to avocado tree toast, plus a selection of fun drinks!

Each ticket includes an entree from the brunch menu and unlimited cocktails.

Where: Selene: 11 Hanover Square, New York, NY 10005
For more information on A Very Tipsy Winter Brunch at Selene.

The Santa Clauses' Winter Wonderland

The Watermark at Pier 15 is transforming into the North Pole from November 15th through January 15th! Inspired by Disney’s The Santa Clauses, the waterfront will be decked out in candy canes and lights along with photo ops, private glass houses, and a gingerbread bar stocked with seasonal treats and drinks.

You can also explore Santa's living room, where you can settle into a cozy armchair and snap a picture in front of the Claus’ fireplace, and step into a larger-than-life giant snow globe perfect for group photo-ops, plus much more!

Where: Watermark: 78 South St Pier 15, New York, NY 10038
For more information on The Santa Clauses’ Winter Wonderland. 

The Holly Jolly Pop-Up Bar

Get into the holiday spirit with some festive spirits (the alcoholic kind) at the Holly Jolly Cocktail Bar. The halls of Mad Morton will be decked from top to bottom, and you’ll feel like you just stepped into a Hallmark movie. $30 gets you 90 minutes of good vibes, entertainment, and a welcome cocktail, and the event runs from November through January. 

Where: Mad Morton: 47 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014
For more information on The Holly Jolly Bar at Mad Morton.