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 at Ricardo’s Hideaway. 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- and Home Alone 2-inspired experience at Eighty-Eight Brewing Co., as the brewery once again pays homage to the popular holiday films. SunnyCider is also getting in on the action with its Tinseltown pop-up.
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 Krampus. 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, 2023
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 Ho Ho Hot Buttered Rum or Merry Spritzmas this year.
Where: Ricardo’s Hideaway, 1530 5 St. S.W., 587-349-2585
When: November 16 to December 31, 2023
Home Alone at Eighty-Eight Brewing Co.
What: For a third year, Eighty-Eight Brewing Co. will be paying homage to Home Alone during the holidays. The brewery’s upstairs taproom will be inspired by the 1990 film Home Alone, while the downstairs taproom will be designed around the sequel, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Expect Harry and Marv feature flights, a scavenger hunt and other events. Movie fans will also appreciate the transformation of the brewery’s in-house pizzeria, Portland Street Pizza, into Little Nero’s Pizza.
Where: Eighty-Eight Brewing Co. 1070, 2600 Portland St. S.E., 403-452-5880
When: November 21 to December 31, 2023
Tinseltown
What: A local cidery is turning into Tinseltown for just over a month this winter. The Christmas-themed experience will feature a festive cocktail list created with Confluence Distilling, as well as holiday music and decor. The $15 timed tickets get you a 90-minute visit and a drink.
Where: SunnyCider, 1, 3300 14 Ave. N.E., 403-454-0638
When: November 22 to December 30, 2023