Top Holiday Pop-Up Bars and Bar Crawls in New Orleans

Photo courtesy of Beach Bum Berry’s Latitude 29 on Facebook

The holiday season is here, and in New Orleans, where city lights twinkle and the cocktail culture thrives, bar-hopping takes on a whole new festive spirit. We’ve pulled together a quick guide to six standout holiday-pop-up bars around town — the playful, the elegant, the over-the-top — plus a few tips and crawl opportunities to make your yuletide outings extra memorable.

Top Holiday Pop-Up Bars in New Orleans

Barrel Proof – Miracle on Magazine

If you want full holiday immersion through decor and craft cocktails, this is the place. Barrel Proof, tucked in the Garden District at 1201 Magazine Street, is a serious whiskey bar (over 350 whiskeys on offer) that, for the season, transforms into Miracle on Magazine.

Why it stands out:

• The “Miracle” pop-up has become somewhat of a cult classic in the U.S., known for over-the-top holiday decor and signature cocktails served in fun keepsake glasses.
• At Barrel Proof, it leverages the serious cocktail/whiskey foundation of the bar but layers in seasonal fun (think gingerbread-spiced old-fashioneds, marshmallow-topped hot-chocolate-inspired drinks).
• Location in the Garden District offers a slightly more relaxed vibe (compared to the French Quarter bustle), though expect it to get lively.

Tip: Arrive earlier in the evening (4 p.m. opening) to avoid the weekend rush, and consider grabbing one of the souvenir mugs/glasses for a fun keepsake.

Beach Bum Berry’s Latitude 29 – Sippin’ Santa

For a holiday bar with a twist — aloha style — Sippin’ Santa brings the tropical holiday cheer. Located in the French Quarter at 321 N. Peters Street, Latitude 29 (under tiki-cocktail legend Jeff “Beachbum” Berry) transforms into this festive pop-up.

Why it stands out:

• The concept flips the snowy holiday imagery: Santa on a surfboard, palm garlands instead of fir boughs.
• Expect colorful and creative tiki-inspired cocktails (think rum, tropical fruit, fun mugs), which make it more than just another holiday bar — more of an experience.
• Because it’s in the Quarter, it pairs nicely with a night out among other bars or late-night eats.

Tip: Consider arriving earlier in the week (Monday–Thursday) for a slightly more relaxed vibe. Also, keep an eye out for the souvenir mug — perfect for a fun photo.

The Eliza Jane – Jingle & Jester

At 315 Magazine Street, The Eliza Jane hotel offers a stylish holiday bar pop-up dubbed Jingle & Jester.

Why it stands out:

• The focus here leans into ambiance: warm lights, colorful decorations, and a dedicated “boozy hot cocoa” bar where you can choose toppings and liqueurs.
• The setting feels a bit more upscale and relaxed — good for an early evening stop or a more refined holiday outing.
• A nice choice if you want holiday cheer without full party-bar intensity.

Tip: It’s a great pre-dinner stop or a spot to unwind after exploring other New Orleans nightlife. Check for mobile bar schedule or special events (Thursday–Saturday evenings).

Virgin Hotels New Orleans – Mariah Carey’s Black Irish Holiday Bar

Here’s holiday fun with a pop-culture twist — the “Queen of Christmas,” Mariah Carey, lends her name to a themed holiday bar: Black Irish Holiday Bar at Virgin Hotels.

Why it stands out:

• Themed around Mariah’s holiday persona and her Irish cream liqueur brand, Black Irish, this pop-up is immersive: think photo ops (oversized wreaths, letters to Mariah), glittery cocktails, and a glam holiday vibe.
• It’s ticketed (90-minute slots) and includes a welcome cocktail — so it’s less spontaneous than some bars, but more of an “experience.”
• Good for fans of Mariah, or anyone who feels like experiencing a holiday spectacle.

Tip: Reserve ahead. Since it’s ticketed and popular, spaces may fill up. Also, consider going earlier in their slot windows with fewer crowds.

Omni Royal Orleans – Blitzen’s

Located in the heart of the French Quarter at 621 St. Louis Street, Omni Royal Orleans launched Blitzen’s — a holiday pop-up in its Promenade Room.

Why it stands out:

• The decor leans into kitschy Christmas iconography (leg-lamps, tinsel, neon) paired with well-crafted cocktails by notable mixologists.
• Conveniently placed in the hotel, this may offer an easier “drop-in” bar stop compared to extra-ticketed events.

Tip: If you’re doing a bar crawl through the Quarter, this makes for a solid mid-point stop. Check closing times and cover charges when you plan your night.

Image courtesy of The Roosevelt New Orleans, a Waldolrd Astoria Hotel, home of The Sazerac Bar, on Facebook

The Roosevelt New Orleans, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel – The Sazerac Bar

While not a pop-up in the strict sense, the iconic Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt is worth including. Known for its timeless elegance, it rolls out seasonal cocktails (like the “Christmas Cookie”) and a dressed-up atmosphere during the holidays.

Why it stands out:

• If you prefer a refined, classic environment rather than full pop, then this is your spot.
• It offers cocktails that respect craft and heritage, in one of New Orleans’ legendary hotel bars.
• A great choice for an earlier festive drink before heading elsewhere or for a quieter holiday evening.
• The stunning hotel’s lobby, decorated for the holidays, is a beloved seasonal tradition and a sight to behold.

Tip: Dressing smart-casual is a good bet. Book ahead if you expect to sit at the bar or want a table. Ask for the seasonal cocktail list.

Holiday Bar Crawl Events

If you’re in the mood for movement and merriment, here are two big bar-crawl events to bookmark.

SantaCon Bar Crawl

Hosted by Pub Crawl, starting at Coyote Ugly Saloon (225 N. Peters St.).

Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025, starting at 1 p.m.

Features 4+ venues, waived cover fees, drink specials, an after-party, a live DJ, and more.

Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl

Same day, same start time (1 p.m.) at Coyote Ugly. This one is themed around pulling out your ugliest holiday sweater and enjoying a crawl across top bars.

Pro Tips for a Crawl

• Start early, so you’re ahead of most.
• Wear the theme (think Santa suits, elf hats, and ugly sweaters).
• Bring a water bottle and pace yourself — holiday cocktails can be strong.
• Use safe transport or rideshare/backup plan — it’s easy to overshoot.

Additional Tips

• Reservations/Tickets: For ticketed pop-ups (especially Black Irish), reserve early. Even for non-ticketed pop-ups and events, bars may get busy.
• Dress Code: Some bars are more relaxed, some more upscale. If you’re going to The Roosevelt or a hotel lobby bar, smart-casual is safe. For the more offbeat pop-ups, you can have some fun with it.
• Photo Ops: Many of these bars put effort into decor and social-media-friendly setups, so bring your phone and maybe plan for a holiday-themed photo-op.
• Overdrinking Caution: Holiday cocktails often lean sweet and strong. Pace yourself, drink water in between, and know your limits.
• Late-Night Transport: If you’re bar-hopping late, consider rideshare or safe transit rather than driving.
• Budgeting: These holiday bars may have higher prices than your neighborhood standard — plan accordingly.

Coming to New Orleans for the holidays?

Check out our guide to where to stay in the French Quarter, and be sure to check out our resource for French Quarter Hotels. Also, consider booking a guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 to experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans.

For easy, informative sightseeing, we recommend the City Sightseeing New Orleans city tour on the open-top, double-decker bus. It runs every 30 minutes through the Garden District, French Quarter, and CBD. You can hop on and off anytime!

Happy Holidays!

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