The holiday spirit will be alive and well at several Calgary eateries this year as they transform their spaces and drink lists to create special holiday pop-up bar experiences.
Victoria Park’s Proof will once again become Miracle on First Street, while Ricardo’s Hideaway in the Beltline will become Sippin’ Santa. The two holiday experiences are part of the Miracle and Sippin’ Santa holiday pop-up bar programs, which first launched in New York City and now have pop-ups around the world.
You can also check out a Home Alone-inspired experience at Eighty-Eight Brewing Co., as the brewery once again pays homage to the popular holiday film. And this year, Una Pizza + Wine and Frenchie Wine Bar are getting in on the action with their new Red Nose holiday bar in Frenchie’s space.
Here’s a look at what you can expect at these holiday pop-ups.
Miracle on First Street at Proof
What: Calgary’s Miracle pop-up, known as Miracle on First Street, has been taking place at Proof since 2018. Now, Proof is back with another year of Christmas decor, drinks and music. Stop in to try cocktails like the Christmapolitan, Rudolph’s Replacement and the Santa Slide. This is the only Miracle pop-up in all of Alberta.
Where: Proof, 1302 1 St. S.W., 403-246-2414
When: November 15 to December 24, 2024
Sippin’ Santa at Ricardo’s Hideaway
What: While the Sippin’ Santa program has a similar concept to Miracle, you can expect a few key differences. Not only is there a different festive cocktail menu, but the Sippin’ Santa pop-ups incorporate tropical-inspired elements as well. Try drinks like the Merry Spritzmas or Sugar Plum Mai Tai this year while snacking on bites like cheese empanadas. There will also be a special ugly Christmas sweater party on December 10th at the venue. This is the only Sippin’ Santa pop-up in the city.
Where: Ricardo’s Hideaway, 1530 5 St. S.W., 587-349-2585
When: November 18 to December 31, 2024
ricardoshideaway.ca, @ricardosyyc
Home Alone at Eighty-Eight Brewing Co.
What: For a fourth year, the Eighty-Eight Brewing Co. Taproom will pay homage to the popular holiday film Home Alone (and a few other classic films). Expect Harry and Marv feature flights, a scavenger hunt, holiday movie trivia nights, a Harry and Marv drag show and other events.
Where: Eighty-Eight Brewing Co. 1070, 2600 Portland St. S.E., 403-452-5880
When: November 19 to December 29, 2024
eightyeightbrewing.ca, @eightyeightbrewco
Red Nose at Frenchie Wine Bar
What: Red Nose is the newest holiday bar to join Calgary’s dining scene. A collaboration between Una Pizza + Wine and Frenchie Wine Bar, Red Nose brings a special holiday menu to Frenchie’s space behind Una Takeaway. The 18+ venue will operate on a first come, first served basis during its run.
Where: Frenchie Wine Bar (behind Una Takeaway), 616 17 Ave. S.W.
When: Thursdays to Sundays from November 22 to December 23, 2024
frenchieyyc.com, @frenchiewinebar