The holiday season is in full swing, and Tampa is brimming with festive energy! Several bars and restaurants have transformed into holly jolly holiday pop-up destinations, perfect for sipping seasonal cocktails and soaking in the holiday cheer. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy winter wonderland or a lively Christmas party vibe, here are the top spots to check out this season.
For even more holiday fun, our friends at I Love the Burg have compiled a list of pop-up bars to explore in Pinellas County.
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Jingle Bar on Water Street
Where: Small Giant, 1051 Water Street
When: All holiday season (through New Year’s Eve)
Hours: During normal restaurant/bar hours
Celebrate the season in style at Small Giant, which has transformed into the Jingle Bar for the holidays. Step into a dazzling winter wonderland adorned with festive decor and indulge in a menu of seasonal cocktails, including the Sugar Cookie Martini, Mistletoe Martini, SG Eggnog, and the decadent Boozy Iced Hot Chocolate. Whether catching up with friends or enjoying a solo holiday retreat, this spot on Water Street promises to make your season extra merry.
Miracle at Strandhill Public – Tampa
Where: Strandhill Public, 309 W Palm Avenue
When: November 29–January 1
Hours: Sunday–Thursday, 5 p.m.–midnight; Friday–Saturday, 5 p.m.–2 a.m.
The Miracle Bar brings holiday magic to Tampa Heights with its over-the-top Christmas decor and quirky festive cocktails. Every corner of Strandhill Public is decked out in kitschy holiday cheer, from twinkling lights to ornaments galore. Sip on playful cocktails served in mugs shaped like Santa, dinosaurs, or even a holiday koala, and experience a holiday celebration like no other.
The Blitz Inn – Ybor City
Where: Barterhouse Ybor City, 1811 N 15th St, Suite A
When: Throughout the holiday season (typically ends after December 31)
Hours: During normal restaurant hours
Barterhouse Ybor City transforms into The Blitz Inn, a Christmas wonderland filled with festive cheer. Expect stunning holiday displays, from twinkling lights to wrapped gifts cascading from chandeliers, alongside beautifully decorated Christmas trees. Pair the magical ambiance with Barterhouse’s top-notch cuisine for a memorable holiday dining experience.
Joy Dive Bar – Tampa
Where: 6905 N Armenia Avenue
When: ALL YEAR!!
Hours: 5 p.m.–3 a.m. daily
At Joy Dive Bar, the holidays never end. This year-round holiday pop-up is a nostalgic haven decked out with twinkling lights and wild Christmas decor. The atmosphere combines festive nostalgia with the energy of an out-of-control office holiday party. Guests can enjoy drinks alongside fun activities like pool tables, beer pong, and a claw machine for some extra holiday fun.
Willa’s
Where: 1700 W Fig Street
When: Throughout the holiday season
Hours: During normal restaurant hours
Willa’s goes all out for the holidays, transforming into a visual feast of tinsel, ornaments, towering Christmas trees, and nutcrackers. While not a traditional pop-up bar, this Tampa hotspot offers a winter wonderland ambiance that’s not to be missed. On December 7, Willa’s will host Tampa’s first-ever Mezzo Market, featuring 80 local vendors, making it a prime holiday destination for both dining and shopping.
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