When the city lights up for the holidays, there’s no better way to celebrate than over a few festive cocktails with friends. NYC knows how to do holiday happy hour right. The best part? You don’t need a reservation at a five-star restaurant to feel that December magic. Here’s to some good company, creative drinks, and a cozy spot to toast the season.
These were some of last year’s favorite holiday bars and happy hour hangouts, and we’re already counting down to see which ones return this winter.
1. Oscar Wilde, Flatiron
Oscar Wilde doesn’t do Christmas halfway. The place turns into a full-on holiday scene with garland, ornaments, and even life-sized polar bears scattered around. It’s completely over the top, in the very best way. Grab a cocktail by the fire and take it all in.
2. Ophelia Lounge, Midtown
At the top of Beekman Tower, Ophelia transforms into a snow globe in the sky. The Art Deco bar has a cozy winter vibe, great cocktails, and views that make the city look like it’s glowing. It’s an easy pick for a holiday happy hour that feels a little fancy without trying too hard.
3. Winter Bar at The Palace, Midtown
It doesn’t get more New York holiday than the Lotte New York Palace. The Winter Bar sits right under a massive Christmas tree covered in lights, with cocktails and sweet treats all around. It honestly feels like walking into a holiday movie.
4. Watermark, Seaport
Watermark on Pier 15 goes all out for the holidays. They set up heated glass houses right by the river, serve festive snacks and drinks, and make it easy to enjoy the season without standing in the cold. It’s a relaxed spot to grab a cocktail and take in the views.
5. Miracle on 9th Street at The Cabinet, East Village
As one of the most popular NYC holiday pop-ups, Miracle on 9th Street brings all the over-the-top spirit you could ask for, like Santa mugs, fun cocktails, and more tinsel than your local department store. It’s a must for holiday bar-hoppers.
6. Foxtail’s Holiday Hideaway, SoHo
Tucked inside Arlo SoHo, Foxtail’s pop-up leans into the swankier side of Christmas. Sip a Yuletide Toddy or Spiked Mexican Hot Cocoa and pretend you’ve escaped to an upscale North Pole speakeasy.
7. Haven Ski Chalet, Midtown
Haven Rooftop gets a full ski chalet makeover with flannel decor, twinkling lights, and Times Square views included. Get your hands on a hot toddy and settle in for that “apres-ski without leaving Manhattan” feeling.
8. Grinchy’s at Roberta’s, Bushwick, Brooklyn
If you like your Christmas with a wink, Roberta’s Grinch-themed pop-up is a must. Between the festive cocktails and feast-worthy eats, it’ll make even the Grinch in your crew crack a smile.
9. Jingle Jangle at The Dead Rabbit, Financial District
All three floors of The Dead Rabbit turn into a Christmas explosion, complete with live Irish music, themed cocktails, and a crowd that’s as merry as the drinks.
No matter which corner of the city you end up in, there’s a holiday happy hour waiting to make your spirits bright. These bars proved last year that New York knows how to throw a festive party, and we can’t wait to see how they top themselves this season.
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