The holidays have crash-landed in Richmond, and they didn’t even wait for the turkey to hit the table. We’ve already tipped you off on the best dive bars to soak up some holiday spirit, but now it’s time to raise the stakes. Here’s where Richmond’s upscale spots pull out all the stops, decking the halls with enough flair to make Santa jealous.
Richmond’s holiday bar scene has gone from a quirky sideshow to a full-blown phenomenon. Every corner of the city seems to have a pop-up promising yuletide cheer—think festive cocktails, kitschy mugs, and Instagram-worthy setups. If you’re ready to embrace the madness, here’s your roadmap to the glitzier side of holiday drinking. Fair warning: reservations vanish faster than a plate of Christmas cookies. Walk-ins? That’s a game of chance for the bold.
Beaucoup’s Noël
New to the scene, this Robinson Street oyster bar brings Parisian charm with holiday cocktails and nightly specials. Starting Dec. 1, it’s already Richmond’s hottest holiday ticket—good luck finding a weekend spot.
Bingo Beer Co. Winter Wonderland
The heated tent is already up, with indoor festivities joining the mix soon. Seasonal brews, lights, and a mid-December ‘90s mall-themed holiday market make this a nostalgic dream with a buzz.
Black Lodge’s Christmas Movie Marathon
Starting Dec. 2, this spot doubles down on holiday movie nights paired with drinks that could make even Scrooge crack a smile. Expect an eclectic mix of flicks, laughter, and cocktails.
Cirrus Vodka’s Santa’s Cocktail Shop
Every Thursday through Sunday, this tasting room transforms into a vodka-fueled winter wonderland. With over a dozen seasonal cocktails, it’s the perfect stop for those who like their holiday cheer shaken, not stirred.
Emerald Lounge’s Sippin’ Santa
Church Hill goes tropical starting Nov. 22. Tiki drinks meet Christmas kitsch in this pop-up, with frozen concoctions and bold entrees from chef Bobo Catoe. Reservations open Nov. 14—don’t hesitate.
Helen’s
The Fan’s unshakable icon delivers a masterclass in holiday cool. Decorations, drinks, and a vibe so effortlessly hip it hurts. This isn’t just a bar; it’s Richmond at its holiday best.
Hotel Greene’s WinterFreuden Apres Ski Chalet
Downtown’s mini-golf bar flips the script, turning its lobby into a ski lodge starting Black Friday. Glühwein, hot toddies, and eggnog abound—no reservations needed, just a little holiday spirit.
Krampustown at Révéler Experiences
Carytown gets cheeky with this irreverent pop-up, open now. Holiday happy hours, themed cocktails, and the occasional game show like “The Nice + Naughty List” make it as playful as it is festive.
Miracle on Cary at The Jasper
The OG holiday pop-up—or so some say. Back Nov. 20, this fan-favorite delivers kitschy mugs, over-the-top decor, and cocktails that scream holiday excess. Large party reservations open Nov. 15 and will vanish quickly.
Quirk Hotel
Always a stunner, this downtown hotspot levels up for the holidays. The rooftop bar is an unbeatable spot for a festive drink with a killer view.
The Evergreen
Birdie’s Arts District oyster bar kicks off its pop-up Nov. 17. With reservations already booked for weeks, this is one you’ll need to plan for—but it’s worth the effort.
The Tobacco Company
A downtown classic that drips with holiday nostalgia. Grab a seat, sip a seasonal cocktail, and let the ambiance remind you why this spot remains a Richmond institution.
Richmond’s holiday bar scene is equal parts magic and madness—exactly what you need to survive the season. Grab your crew, book your tables, and let the drinks flow. Cheers to making this holiday one for the books.
Main photo from Helen’s by R. Anthony Harris
