Halloween is in the rearview mirror, and Philadelphia has wasted absolutely no time moving on to the next holiday. The pumpkins are disappearing just as fast as the candy, and in their place are Christmas lights appearing just as quickly. We're certainly not complaining.
November might have just started, but Philadelphia’s holiday bar scene is already getting ready for its annual transformation into a winter wonderland. These are the Philadelphia holiday bars to keep on your radar as the season gets underway.
Tinsel
If there's one place in Philadelphia that doesn't believe in easing into the holiday season, it's Tinsel.
Located in Midtown Village, Tinsel has become one of the city's most recognizable Christmas bar experiences in Philadelphia. The space totally converts into a holiday spectacle packed with lights, ornaments, installations, and seasonal cocktails.
For anyone who wants their first holiday cocktail of the season to come with maximum Christmas spirit, Tinsel belongs near the top of the list.
Keep an eye out for its official 2026 opening announcement and seasonal details.
Craftsman Row Saloon
If your idea of holiday cheer involves a drink that could double as dessert, Craftsman Row Saloon is calling your name.
This Center City favorite has built a reputation for going all in on seasonal decorations, and its Christmas details are certainly no exception.
Here, you’ll encounter every corner covered in holiday decorations, with elaborate seasonal milkshakes and indulgent food offerings adding to the fun. It's a great stop for a festive night out, especially if your group wants something a little different from the norm.
Watch for this year's holiday theme, menu, and opening details.
McGillin's Olde Ale House
Some bars need an elaborate holiday pop-up to get into the Christmas spirit, but McGillin's has been doing Christmas in Philadelphia for generations.
As one of the city's most beloved historic taverns, McGillin's Olde Ale House is known for embracing the season with festive decorations, lights, and the kind of cozy, lively atmosphere that makes you want to stay for another round. And plus, there's just something especially charming about grabbing a drink in a historic Philadelphia bar that's decked out for the holidays.
Uptown Beer Garden
Beer gardens are just for summer? We don’t think so, and neither should you.
Uptown Beer Garden has previously embraced the colder months with its seasonal holiday curation. With its central location right in downtown Philadelphia, it's also a convenient stop to pair with other holiday activities around Center City, especially if you're planning an evening of Christmas shopping, seasonal sightseeing, and a few drinks along the way.
Check for confirmation of its 2026 holiday setup before planning your visit.
Miracle on South 13th Street
Technically this one isn't a bar, but hear us out.
If you're planning a holiday night out in Philadelphia, Miracle on South 13th Street always sticks the landing.
Every holiday season, this South Philly block becomes one of the city's most recognizable Christmas light displays, with neighboring homes covered in colorful decorations, glowing familiar holiday figures, and elaborate installs.
It's an ideal stop before or after grabbing drinks nearby. Also, walking through a street covered in Christmas lights is a pretty good way to convince yourself that the holiday season has officially begun, and this year’s opening happens to be November 29th!
Christmas Village in Philadelphia
Another honorary addition to the list, because no Philadelphia holiday outing is complete without mentioning the Christmas Village.
The annual German-style holiday market at LOVE Park brings together festive shopping, seasonal food, decorations, and plenty of opportunities to get into the Christmas spirit.
The village can be found right near some of Center City's best drinking destinations, making it easy to turn a visit into an entire evening out.
Grab something warm, browse the market, and then head to a nearby bar for a proper holiday cocktail.
It's the perfect excuse to start celebrating Christmas before Thanksgiving, as it open November 21st.
It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Cocktail Season
Our holiday bars are known for going all out, and the next several weeks will bring more seasonal menus and holiday experiences to explore.
Our advice? Don't wait until December to start making your plans.
And keep checking back with us as we follow the latest holiday pop-up openings, festive events, and places worth visiting throughout the season.
From Christmas Cheer to Pickle Beer
And if you're looking for another excuse to get out and have some fun this November, we've got one that's kind of a big dill.
The Big Dill Pickle Festival bringing a whole lot of pickle packed fun to the city. Check out our article for everything you need to know!
