Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than sipping on a festive cocktail at a cozy Christmas bar? Philadelphia is decked out in its finest holiday attire, and its bars are no exception. This season, some of the city's top bars are transforming into winter wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights, warm fireplaces, and an arsenal of holiday-themed drinks.
From classic eggnog to creative concoctions featuring gingerbread and candy canes, Philly's Christmas bars are the perfect place to gather with friends and family to toast the season. Whether you're a native Philadelphian or just visiting the city, you won't want to miss out on the festive fun. Here's a guide to the best Christmas bars in Philadelphia this season:
Frankford Hall's Winter Wonderland
Frankford Hall is a popular spot for outdoor drinking and dining year-round, but during the holiday season, it's transformed into a winter wonderland. The bar's sprawling beer garden is decked out in lights and festive decorations, and the menu features a range of holiday-themed drinks, including a Spiked Eggnog and a Candy Cane Martini.
Holiday Drinks to Try
- Spiked Eggnog: A creamy eggnog cocktail made with bourbon, nutmeg, and cinnamon
- Candy Cane Martini: A sweet and festive martini made with vodka, peppermint schnapps, and candy cane syrup
Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest is a beloved Philadelphia holiday tradition, and this year, it's back and better than ever. The outdoor ice rink and winter garden are located on the Delaware River waterfront, offering stunning views of the city skyline. The bar features a range of holiday-themed drinks, including hot cocoa and mulled wine, as well as a selection of local beers and cocktails.
Holiday Drinks to Try
- Hot Cocoa: A rich and creamy hot chocolate made with dark chocolate and topped with whipped cream
- Mulled Wine: A warm and spicy wine made with red wine, cinnamon sticks, and cloves
The Olde Bar's Sleigh All Day
The Olde Bar is a historic Philadelphia pub that's been transformed into a festive holiday hotspot this season. The bar's Sleigh All Day menu features a range of creative cocktails made with seasonal ingredients, including gingerbread, eggnog, and candy canes.
Holiday Drinks to Try
- Gingerbread Man: A sweet and spicy cocktail made with ginger-infused bourbon, ginger beer, and whipped cream
- Eggnog White Russian: A creamy and indulgent cocktail made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and eggnog
Brauhaus Schmitz's Weihnachtsmarkt
Brauhaus Schmitz is a German-style beer hall in South Philadelphia that's transformed into a festive Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market) this season. The bar features a range of traditional German holiday drinks, including glühwein and weihnachtsbier, as well as a selection of local beers and cocktails.
Holiday Drinks to Try
- Glühwein: A warm and spicy mulled wine made with red wine, cinnamon sticks, and cloves
- Weihnachtsbier: A festive holiday beer made with a blend of German-style beers and spices
McGillin's Olde Ale House's Holiday Cheer
McGillin's Olde Ale House is Philadelphia's oldest continuously operating tavern, and it's the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit. The bar's Holiday Cheer menu features a range of festive drinks, including hot cocoa, eggnog, and a special holiday beer made with local brewer, Yards Brewing Company.
Holiday Drinks to Try
- Hot Cocoa: A rich and creamy hot chocolate made with dark chocolate and topped with whipped cream
- Eggnog: A creamy and indulgent cocktail made with bourbon, nutmeg, and cinnamon
Whether you're a fan of classic holiday drinks or creative concoctions, Philadelphia's Christmas bars have something for everyone this season. So gather your friends and family, and get ready to jingle and mingle at one of these festive hotspots.
Get Involved!
Have you visited any of these Christmas bars in Philadelphia? Share your favorite holiday drinks and experiences with us in the comments below!
Share the Cheer!
Share this article with your friends and family to spread the holiday cheer!
What is the best way to get into the holiday spirit in Philadelphia?
+The best way to get into the holiday spirit in Philadelphia is to visit one of the city's many Christmas bars, which offer a range of festive drinks and decorations. You can also attend one of the city's many holiday events, such as the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest or the Philadelphia Christmas Village.
What are some popular holiday drinks in Philadelphia?
+Some popular holiday drinks in Philadelphia include eggnog, hot cocoa, mulled wine, and festive cocktails made with seasonal ingredients like gingerbread and candy canes.
Where is the best place to go for a holiday-themed beer in Philadelphia?
+Brauhaus Schmitz is a great place to go for a holiday-themed beer in Philadelphia. The bar offers a range of traditional German holiday beers, including weihnachtsbier and glühwein.