6 NJ Shore must-visit Christmas pop-up bars

6 NJ Shore must-visit Christmas pop-up bars

As the holiday season sweeps across the Jersey Shore, a wave of festive cheer fills the air—and the bars. This winter, the NJ Shore becomes a haven for those seeking Christmas-themed drinks, over-the-top decorations, and cozy holiday vibes. Whether you’re a local or planning to rent a vacation home with Shore Summer Rentals, these holiday bars in NJ are a must-visit for your festive plans. Christmas pop-ups in NJ, magical rooftop retreats and more—we’ve rounded up some of the best spots to sip on holiday spirit this season.

What are pop-up bars?

Pop-up bars are short-term, often themed establishments that offer unique and immersive experiences. Christmas pop-up bars take this concept to the next level during the holidays, decking the halls with glittering lights, festive decor, and holiday-themed menus. These temporary hot spots have become a beloved tradition, and New Jersey has plenty to offer for the 2024 holiday season.

Festive holiday cocktail in a copper mug at a Christmas pop-up bar near the NJ Shore, surrounded by colorful lights and cranberries.

#1 – A sinner’s Christmas experience–Sinner’s Seafood and Steakhouse, Point Pleasant Beach

Located in the heart of Point Pleasant Beach, Sinner’s Seafood and Steakhouse transformsinto a magical winter wonderland for the season with”A Sinner’s Christmas Experience.” Santa himself couldn’t resist flying Mrs. Claus in to decorate this cozy spot. Picture twinkling lights, festive music, and a menu that will make your holiday heart sing.

This Christmas-themed restaurant in NJ serves some of the best food on the Jersey Shore. Whether you’re indulging in their holiday specials or sipping on a seasonal cocktail, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Don’t wait—reserve your spot through their website or risk ending up on Santa’s naughty list!


#2 – Keenan’s Gingerbread Grille–North Wildwood

Located in the heart of North Wildwood, Keenan’s Irish Pub is a family-owned establishment that has been a local favorite since 1999. During the holiday season, it’s festive cocktails and cheer galore in this warm and inviting location.

Known for its vibrant events and community spirit, it’s the perfect spot to gather with friends and family to celebrate the holidays. For the latest updates on holiday events and specials, visit their Facebook page.

Festive holiday margaritas with red sugar rims and candy canes at a Christmas-themed pop-up bar near the NJ Shore.


#3 – The Candy Cane Lounge at Resorts, Atlantic City   

Step into a world of holiday cheer at Atlantic City’s Candy Cane Lounge, the festive pop-up bar at Resorts Casino Hotel! Open through the holiday season, this winter wonderland offers seasonal cocktails, an enchanting atmosphere, live entertainment, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re exploring Atlantic City or looking for a unique way to celebrate, the Candy Cane Lounge is a must-visit holiday hotspot!


#4 – Jingle Bell Bar at Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City

Get into the holiday spirit at Ocean Casino Resort’s Jingle Bell Bar, a seasonal pop-up that’s as merry as it is magical! This limited-time experience offers the perfect mix of holiday fun and festive flavors. Sip on expertly crafted drinks inspired by the season while enjoying picture-perfect decor in a festive atmosphere.


#5 – Harry’s Jingle Bar–Cape May

Cape May is already a Christmas wonderland during the holiday season, and Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille takes it up a notch this festive season. Why not try a Mistletoe Margarita or a Snowflake Eggnog while you sit amongst the sparkling lights and bop to the weekend live music?

Also: you can treat it as a pit stop before or after experiencing the Congress Hall Christmas events, including their famous winter carousel.


#6 – Miracle on 96th Street at Agave Tequila Bar–Stone Harbor

Tiki bar in New Jersey, you say? Starting November 27th, Agave Tequila Bar gives itself over to the infamous Miracle pop-up Christmas bar with jovial cocktails and festive snacks throughout the holiday season. There are also lots of festive craft events to mark the start of this jolly holly Christmas bar, so make sure you’re on the nice list to take a trip here!

Colorful holiday cocktails with cranberries, pears, rosemary, and festive garnishes served at a Christmas pop-up bar near the NJ Shore.


Insider tips for visiting a New Jersey holiday pop-up bar

If you’re planning to hit the Jersey Shore’s best holiday pop-up bars, here are a few tips to make your experience even more magical:

  1. Make reservations early: Popular spots like Sinner’s Steakhouse and Miracle pop-ups fill up quickly, especially during peak holiday weekends. Check their websites or social media pages for reservation links to secure your spot in advance.
  2. Dress the part: Many of these bars embrace the festive spirit with themed nights or photo opportunities. Break out your garish Christmas sweaters, Santa hats, or holiday glam for that Instagram-worthy moment.
  3. Arrive early: While reservations are ideal, some pop-ups operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early not only ensures you get a table but also gives you extra time to soak in the decor and festive ambiance.
  4. Pair it with other holiday activities: Many holiday bars are near other Jersey Shore Christmas attractions. Why not try Denville’s Holiday Open House on Ice or the German Christmas Marketat Sussex County Fairgrounds?
  5. Plan a group outing: Holiday pop-up bars are made for groups. Gather your friends or family for a festivenight out, filled with laughter, toasts, and holiday cheer.

A woman admiring holiday lights and festive decorations during a Christmas event at the NJ Shore.


Why visit a holiday pop-up bar on the Jersey Shore?

Sure, Jersey Shore’s holiday pop-up bars serve up delicious, festive-inspired drinks; but they also create an alternative for making original Christmas memories, or even starting a new pop-up Christmas bar tradition. These spaces capture the spirit of the season with their quirky decor and an atmosphere brimming with cheer. Visiting one (or several) is the icing on the cake addition to your Jersey Shore Christmas itinerary.


Plan your holiday getaway with Shore Summer Rentals

If you’re planning a trip to explore these incredible Christmas-themed bars in NJ, why not stay nearby? Shore Summer Rentals makes it easy to find vacation homes across the Jersey Shore without the hassle of extra fees or commissions. Whether you’re visiting PointPleasant Beach, Cape May, or Long Branch, we’ve got the rental to complement your holiday adventures and help you toast the jolly season in style.

Are you a New Jersey Shore vacation rental host? This season, give yourself the gift of more bookings by listing your vacation rental on ShoreSummerRentals.com! With travelers planning festive getaways and summer 2025 vacations early, now is the perfect time to showcase your property. View our new host offers and list your NJ Shore vacation rental here. Cheers to holiday magic, delicious cocktails, and plenty of festive fun!

Posted on Posted in beer, blog, Helpful Tips, NJ Shore Events, Tips & Tricks, Uncategorized, vacation rentals, vacation rentals by ownerTagged , , ,