Several Atlanta-area restaurants and venues are launching holiday-themed pop-ups this month, aiming to attract guests with immersive seasonal experiences.
Marlow’s Tavern is transforming its East Cobb and Woodstock locations into “Santa’s Speakeasy” for the first time. The event features festive decorations, a menu designed by executive chef, CEO, and co-founder John C. Metz, Jr., and themed cocktails such as the Polar Bare Necessities!, which is a variation on eggnog with Old Forester bourbon. Dishes include Festive Fondue, Poinsettia Pizzetta, sticky toffee cake, and molten holiday chocolate cake.
Lauren Reeves of The Spirit Exchange in Marietta was hired to oversee the transformation. She explained that planning begins with collaboration between restaurant owners and designers: “This is the most fun part of the project!” she said. According to Reeves, initial investments in décor are higher during the first year due to sourcing from wholesalers and commercial vendors. In subsequent years, costs are mostly limited to labor for setup and minor updates.
Reeves noted that installations usually occur outside business hours: “It appears as though a team of elves came in overnight! The installs take anywhere from 5-10 hours to 1-10 days, depending on the volume/size of the project.” For storage concerns after the season ends, designers can often arrange off-site storage for decorations as part of their fee.
When asked if these pop-ups generate more revenue than typical bars or restaurants, Reeves responded: “Absolutely! Christmas pop-ups tend to bring in way more cheer — and sales — than a typical bar or restaurant. The magic of the décor, themed cocktails and cozy holiday vibe draws big crowds and keeps the register jingling. The upfront décor costs? Totally worth it when the season’s spirit turns into both memories and measurable returns!”
Reeves recommends beginning preparations about six months ahead of time.
Other Atlanta businesses are also joining in on holiday pop-up events. The Blind Pig Parlour Bar in Buckhead has again become “The Blind Elf,” offering a winter wonderland atmosphere since November 7. Guests can enjoy festive small plates like Santa’s milk and cookies—sea salt chocolate chip cookies paired with a maple oat milkshake—and themed cocktails such as the Polar Express Martini. Pre-payment is required for The Blind Elf Experience between November 28 and December 25; tickets cover two specialty cocktails and two appetizers per person at $54 plus tax and gratuity.
In Alpharetta’s Halcyon development, HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern has opened its Ski Chalet Pop-Up Bar on its rooftop since November 5. Visitors can enjoy seasonal drinks by a fire along with live entertainment every Friday and Saturday night through December 31.
Delbar in Alpharetta has launched its Winter Wonderland pop-up featuring Christmas trees, garlands, lights, snow machines on its patio, private igloos for group reservations starting November 14, mulled wine, hot cocoa, photo areas including a sleigh display and an igloo.
Atrium at Ponce City Market is hosting a retro-themed holiday bar experience this season with seasonal cocktails and treats. Meanwhile, The Betty will open Whiskey Wonderland starting November 21 at Willow Garden next door; tickets include whiskey flights at $20 each along with discounted parking.
