Nov 20, 2025 - Food and Drink

15 festive holiday pop-up bars in San Diego

Kate Murphy

Cheers to the holiday season with two "Tinsel-tinis" at InsideOUT in Hillcrest — Cheers to the holiday season with two Tinsel-tinis at InsideOut in Hillcrest. Photo: Kate Murphy/Axios

San Diego bars and restaurants are tapping into the holiday season with over-the-top decor, festive cocktails and pop-ups.

The big picture: There are tons of places making spirits bright around the city, but here are some new and favorite spots to sip on Christmas cheer:

Santa's Cabana pop-up at Brisa is new this year, with holiday lights, decor, cocktails and mocktails at the Tulum-inspired bar in Little Italy. Nolita Hall is glowing and now open on Mondays.
Fort Oak's snow-globe-inspired pop-up Snowed In is back in Mission Hills, and InsideOut in Hillcrest added a new light show and holiday cocktails to its Holiday Oasis Experience.
Miracle is bringing its festive drinks and decor to Botanica Bar in North Park and Coaster Saloon in Mission Beach this year.
The Jingle Bar landed its sleigh at Molly's in Mission Beach, and Draft at Belmont Park has turned into a Winter Wonderland.
In Pacific Beach, Duck Dive is decked out with A Great Dickens' pop-up, and the tiki-themed Sippin' Santa has taken over Grass Skirt.
There's a punk/pop Emo Christmas pop-up at El After Social Club, as well as a groovin' disco Xmas bar at Good Night John Boy's downtown. F6ix nightclub is hosting the Holly Jolly Christmas Bar, and Parq Nightclub is becoming Santa's Lair.
In South Park, Mothership commenced its "Lost on Holiday" protocols with festive lighting and cocktails.

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15 festive holiday pop-up bars in San Diego

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