15 Best Christmas Bars & Holiday Restaurants in Minneapolis and Wayzata for 2026

Looking for the best Christmas bars in Minneapolis, festive restaurants near Wayzata, or holiday dining around Lake Minnetonka? The 2026 holiday season is bringing twinkling lights, immersive Christmas pop-ups, themed cocktails, cozy dining experiences and plenty of reasons to get together with friends and family.

One of my favorite things about living in Minnesota is how the holiday season transforms our communities. From downtown Minneapolis to the charming streets of Wayzata and the Lake Minnetonka area, there are so many ways to make this time of year feel special.

Whether you're planning a Christmas date night, a girls' night out, a festive dinner with friends, or a holiday outing while family is visiting, I've put together this guide to some of the most interesting Christmas bars and holiday restaurants to explore in 2026.

As a longtime west metro resident and real estate professional, I believe enjoying the local lifestyle is an important part of finding a place that truly feels like home. And during the holidays, the Twin Cities have plenty to offer.

Bookmark this guide for your November and December plans. Some seasonal experiences require reservations, and opening dates can vary, so check the official websites before heading out.

Christmas Bars and Holiday Restaurants Near Wayzata and Lake Minnetonka

If you live in the western suburbs, you don't necessarily need to drive downtown to find a festive atmosphere. Wayzata and the surrounding Lake Minnetonka communities offer their own local holiday experiences.

1. Snow Globe Social at Red Cow — Wayzata

Best for: A festive dinner, date night or gathering with friends close to Lake Minnetonka.

One of the most convenient holiday stops for west metro residents is Snow Globe Social at Red Cow in Wayzata.

The seasonal experience features snow-globe-inspired decorations, sparkling winter details and holiday cocktails. Its wintry atmosphere offers a different take on the traditional over-the-top Christmas bar, making it an appealing option for an evening out in Wayzata.

Located at 881 Lake Street North, Red Cow is also a convenient place to meet friends before or after enjoying everything downtown Wayzata has to offer.

Location: 881 Lake Street North, Wayzata, MN.

Official website: https://redcowmn.com/wayzata-snow-globe-social/

Local tip: If you're planning a holiday evening around Wayzata, consider making dinner reservations and leaving time to explore the surrounding downtown area.

2. McCormick's Pub — Wayzata

Best for: A relaxed neighborhood pub atmosphere.

For those who prefer a traditional pub setting, McCormick's Pub is another local name to investigate during the holiday season.

Its holiday decorations have made it a seasonal option for people looking to enjoy Christmas spirit closer to home rather than traveling into Minneapolis.

Because seasonal décor and programming can change, check directly with the pub for its 2026 holiday setup, hours and events before making plans.

Location: Wayzata, Minnesota.

Local tip: This is a good one to check when putting together a holiday evening with friends who want to stay in the west metro.

3. Lord Fletcher's Old Lake Lodge — Spring Park

Best for: A Lake Minnetonka gathering with a classic lakeside atmosphere.

Lake Minnetonka has its own personality in every season. Even when boating season is over, the surrounding communities remain wonderful places to gather with friends and family.

Lord Fletcher's Old Lake Lodge in Spring Park is a longtime lakeside destination with a casual restaurant and bar atmosphere.

Although it isn't being presented here as a confirmed Christmas pop-up, it is worth checking its current seasonal schedule if you're planning an outing around Lake Minnetonka.

Location: 3746 Sunset Drive, Spring Park, MN.

Website: Search for Lord Fletcher's Old Lake Lodge's official website for current menus and hours.

Local tip: Always confirm the current schedule before traveling, particularly if you're organizing a larger group.

The Best Christmas Pop-Up Bars in Minneapolis

If you're looking for elaborate decorations, immersive holiday themes and seasonal menus, Minneapolis is the place to explore.

Here are several experiences to put on your 2026 holiday list.

4. Down Through the Chimney at Hotel Emery — Downtown Minneapolis

Best for: An immersive Christmas experience and a memorable night out.

If you want a holiday outing that feels like stepping into another world, put Down Through the Chimney on your list.

For 2026, Hotel Emery is transforming its Vault Level into an immersive North Pole experience, complete with a Gingerbread Toy Factory, a North Pole Post Office and Blitzen's Dive Bar.

The experience is designed around Christmas décor, imaginative spaces, festive drinks and photo opportunities.

2026 dates: November 25–December 26.

Location: Hotel Emery, 215 South Fourth Street, Minneapolis.

Official website: https://downthroughthechimneymn.com/

Reservations are highly encouraged, and the experience is for guests 21 and older. Check the official website for current reservation availability and hours.

5. Snow Globe Social at Red Cow — Wayzata

Best for: A festive west metro evening without driving downtown.

This one deserves another mention because it is particularly convenient for residents of Wayzata, Minnetonka, Plymouth and the surrounding Lake Minnetonka communities.

Snow Globe Social offers a winter-wonderland atmosphere with snowflake-inspired décor, holiday cocktails and seasonal food.

For people who want to enjoy the Christmas pop-up trend while supporting a local west metro dining destination, it is a natural place to start.

Location: 881 Lake Street North, Wayzata.

Official website: https://redcowmn.com/wayzata-snow-globe-social/

Check the restaurant's website for its current holiday dates and seasonal menu.

6. The Gaelic Glow at The Local — Downtown Minneapolis

Best for: Festive décor, Irish pub atmosphere and a night with friends.

The Local is giving its downtown space a holiday transformation with The Gaelic Glow.

Expect jewel-toned lights, upside-down Christmas trees, seasonal cocktails and a festive atmosphere that blends holiday decorations with the character of a traditional Irish pub.

The experience is a fun alternative to the more exaggerated Christmas pop-ups. It is especially appealing if you want to combine holiday décor with food, drinks and time to catch up with friends.

2026 season: Opens November 28 and runs into mid-January, according to the venue's current announcement.

Official website: https://thelocalminneapolis.com/the-gaelic-glow/

Check the website for seasonal menus and any separately ticketed events.

7. Full-On Christmas at Fulton — Minneapolis

Best for: People who believe you can never have too many Christmas lights.

If understated holiday decorating isn't your style, Fulton is taking the opposite approach.

Its Full-On Christmas experience promises thousands of twinkling lights, abundant tinsel and an unapologetically over-the-top holiday atmosphere.

The Minneapolis taproom is a good option to investigate for a casual group outing or an evening when the decorations are as much a part of the experience as the drinks.

2026 season: November 20–January 11, 2027.

Location: Fulton Taproom, 414 North Sixth Avenue, Minneapolis.

Official event page: https://www.fultonbeer.com/events/christmas

Check the venue's current calendar for hours, special events and any changes to the schedule.

8. Jingle Giles at Earl Giles — Northeast Minneapolis

Best for: A festive group outing and an impressive holiday setting.

Earl Giles has become associated with an elaborate seasonal transformation featuring holiday lights, decorations, themed drinks and a large Christmas tree.

Its Jingle Giles experience is worth investigating if you're looking for a holiday outing that feels bigger than a traditional dinner at a restaurant.

The Northeast Minneapolis location can also work well as part of an evening exploring the area's restaurants and local businesses.

Location: 1325 Quincy Street NE, Minneapolis.

Official website: https://earlgiles.com/

Check the official website for the 2026 holiday schedule, reservations and seasonal programming before visiting.

9. Hell-a-Dazzle at Hell's Kitchen — Downtown Minneapolis

Best for: Holiday brunch, festive décor and a fun daytime outing.

Not every holiday outing needs to happen at night.

Hell's Kitchen is known for its distinctive personality and brunch offerings. Its seasonal Hell-a-Dazzle transformation adds a Christmas twist with colorful decorations and holiday-themed details.

Consider it for brunch with friends, a daytime outing with visiting family or a festive stop before exploring downtown Minneapolis.

Location: 80 South Ninth Street, Minneapolis.

Official website: https://www.hellskitcheninc.com/

Check the website for confirmed 2026 dates, brunch hours and seasonal specials.

10. Sippin' Santa at AC Hotel Minneapolis Downtown

Best for: A tropical twist on the Christmas season.

Who says Christmas has to mean snowflakes, evergreen trees and traditional holiday décor?

Sippin' Santa brings a tropical, tiki-inspired approach to the season, with holiday-themed drinks and colorful festive surroundings.

The concept is a fun alternative for people who enjoy trying something different each year.

Location: AC Hotel Minneapolis Downtown, 401 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis.

2026 season: The published Minneapolis holiday guide lists a November 20 opening. Confirm the full season dates and hours directly with the venue.

Official hotel website: https://www.marriott.com/

Search for AC Hotel Minneapolis Downtown and its AC Lounge for current event details.

11. Holiday Flight Club at Travail — Robbinsdale

Best for: A creative dining experience and an evening that feels different from the usual dinner reservation.

For those who want more than Christmas decorations, Travail's Holiday Flight Club is an experience worth watching.

The concept explores holiday food traditions from different parts of the world, paired with creative drinks and an immersive setting.

This is a strong option to investigate for a special occasion, a holiday date night or an outing with people who appreciate adventurous food.

Location: Travail Kitchen and Amusements, Robbinsdale, Minnesota.

Official website: https://www.travailkitchen.com/

The seasonal experience is reservation-oriented, so check the restaurant's official announcements for 2026 dates, menus and ticket availability.

12. Frosty's Bar at Brit's Pub — Minneapolis

Best for: A playful winter experience and a holiday outing with friends.

Brit's Pub has featured Frosty's Bar as a seasonal North Pole-inspired experience, bringing winter decorations, themed food and drinks, games and holiday entertainment into the downtown setting.

It is worth checking if you want a festive outing with more of an event atmosphere than a standard restaurant visit.

Location: Brit's Pub, 1110 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis.

Official website: https://britspub.com/

Confirm the 2026 event dates and whether reservations or tickets are required before planning your visit.

13. Pink Country Christmas at Centro — Northeast Minneapolis

Best for: A playful, colorful alternative to traditional Christmas décor.

For something different from the usual red-and-green Christmas theme, Pink Country Christmas at Centro combines holiday fun with a country-inspired atmosphere.

The seasonal concept has featured themed drinks, country-inspired snacks, music and activities.

It is a fun option to investigate for a casual evening with friends who want something less traditional.

Location: Centro's Quincy Street location, Northeast Minneapolis.

Official website: https://www.centrorestaurant.com/

Check the restaurant's current event announcements for the 2026 holiday schedule.

14. No Coal for You at Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza — North Loop

Best for: A casual holiday meal with a little Christmas mischief.

Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza has featured No Coal for You as a holiday-themed restaurant experience, bringing festive decorations and playful Christmas surprises into its dining room.

It is a good option for people who want to combine holiday atmosphere with a meal rather than visit a cocktail-focused pop-up.

The North Loop location also makes it easy to combine dinner with an evening exploring downtown Minneapolis.

Location: 600 North Washington Avenue, Minneapolis.

Official website: https://blacksheeppizza.com/

Check the official website for the 2026 holiday event dates and current menu.

15. Snow Globe Social and Downtown Wayzata: Make a Holiday Evening of It

Best for: People who want to enjoy the holiday season close to home.

One of the best parts of living in the west metro is having local destinations to enjoy without making every outing a trip downtown.

Consider starting with dinner at Red Cow's Snow Globe Social, then exploring downtown Wayzata and its local shops and seasonal offerings.

Wayzata's appeal goes beyond the holidays. The walkable downtown, restaurants and proximity to Lake Minnetonka are part of what makes the community attractive to people who want a balance of neighborhood atmosphere and access to Minneapolis.

If you're visiting from outside the area, this is a good opportunity to experience the west metro beyond the usual downtown destinations.

Plan your visit: https://redcowmn.com/wayzata-snow-globe-social/

Check local business announcements for additional seasonal events and holiday shopping opportunities.

EVERY YEAR we go to as a family to Nico's!

Nico's Navidad at Nico's Taco Bar — Uptown Minneapolis

Best for: Over-the-top Christmas decorations, tacos, margaritas and a fun night out with friends.

If you love Christmas decorations that go all out, put Nico's Navidad on your Minneapolis holiday list.

Nico's Taco Bar transforms its Uptown location into a festive Christmas destination, featuring elaborate holiday décor, themed spaces, seasonal cocktails and plenty of photo opportunities. Past experiences have included a Candy Cane Bar, a Whoville-inspired room, an outdoor courtyard with firepits and a bobcat sleigh.

It's a fun alternative to a traditional holiday dinner and a great option for friends looking to make an evening out of the Christmas season.

Location: 2516 Hennepin Avenue South, Minneapolis.

Official website: https://nicostacobar.com/

2026 planning tip: Check Nico's official website or social media for this year's opening dates, reservations and holiday offerings before visiting.

If you're creating a Twin Cities Christmas bar bucket list, this is one to investigate early.

How to Plan Your Minneapolis Christmas Bar Crawl

With so many holiday experiences available, a little planning can make the evening easier.

If you live in Wayzata or Lake Minnetonka

Start with Snow Globe Social at Red Cow in Wayzata. You can keep the evening close to home and enjoy the surrounding downtown area.

If you want an immersive Christmas experience

Look into Down Through the Chimney at Hotel Emery. Check reservations early, especially for weekends and larger groups.

If you love elaborate decorations

Explore Full-On Christmas at Fulton or Jingle Giles at Earl Giles. Check their event calendars before making plans.

If your group prefers food over cocktails

Consider Hell's Kitchen for brunch or investigate the seasonal dining experiences at Travail and Black Sheep Pizza.

If you are planning a holiday date night

Choose a venue based on the atmosphere you want, confirm reservations and consider arranging transportation if your plans include alcoholic drinks.

Important: Seasonal event dates, hours, menus and reservation policies can change. Always verify details with the venue before visiting. Some experiences are 21+, while others are restaurant-based and may accommodate a broader range of guests.

Why the West Metro Is Such a Wonderful Place to Spend the Holidays

The holidays are a reminder that choosing a home is about more than square footage, bedrooms or a property's resale value.

It's also about the everyday experiences surrounding your home.

For some people, that means being close to downtown Minneapolis for dinner, entertainment and seasonal events. For others, it means enjoying Wayzata's downtown, spending time near Lake Minnetonka, finding favorite neighborhood restaurants or being close to the communities where their children attend school.

The western suburbs offer a variety of lifestyles, from established neighborhoods and lake-area homes to newer construction and luxury properties.

For people considering a move to Minnesota, exploring local restaurants, shops, parks and seasonal events is a great way to start understanding what makes each community different.

And if you're already here, it's a wonderful reminder to enjoy everything our area has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Bars in Minneapolis

What are the best Christmas bars in Minneapolis in 2026?

Popular holiday experiences to explore include Nico's Navidad at Nico's Taco Bar, Down Through the Chimney at Hotel Emery, Full-On Christmas at Fulton and The Gaelic Glow at The Local. Check each venue's official website for confirmed 2026 dates, hours and reservations.

Where can I find Christmas-themed restaurants near Wayzata, Minnesota?

Snow Globe Social at Red Cow in Wayzata is a festive option to investigate for seasonal dining and holiday drinks. You can also explore downtown Wayzata for local restaurants, shopping and seasonal events.

When do Minneapolis Christmas pop-up bars open in 2026?

Opening dates vary by venue. Some holiday experiences begin in November, while others open closer to Thanksgiving or in December. Check official venue websites before planning your visit.

Are Minneapolis Christmas pop-up bars family-friendly?

It depends on the venue. Some experiences are restricted to guests 21 and older, while others are restaurant-based. Confirm age restrictions and reservation requirements directly with each business.

What are fun holiday activities near Lake Minnetonka?

Explore downtown Wayzata, enjoy seasonal dining, visit local shops and check community event calendars for holiday activities around Wayzata, Minnetonka and the surrounding west metro.

Where can I find more information about living in Wayzata or Lake Minnetonka?

Vicki Peters specializes in luxury real estate and relocation throughout Minneapolis's west metro, including Wayzata, Minnetonka and the Lake Minnetonka area. Visit https://vickipetersrealestate.com/ to explore local real estate information and available services.

Thinking About Moving to Wayzata, Minnetonka or the Lake Minnetonka Area?

I have lived in the Lake Minnetonka area and the Wayzata school district for more than 20 years, and I understand that finding the right home involves more than choosing a property.

It's about understanding the communities, school districts, commute patterns, neighborhoods and lifestyle that make the west metro such a special place to live.

Whether you're planning a move to Minnesota, exploring luxury homes around Lake Minnetonka or considering a change within the western suburbs, local knowledge can make the process more informed.

I'm Vicki Peters, a west metro Minneapolis real estate professional specializing in luxury homes, relocation and the Wayzata, Minnetonka and Lake Minnetonka markets.

If you are considering buying or selling in the area, I would be happy to help you understand your options.

Visit my website to learn more about local communities, homes and real estate services.

Vicki Peters | Luxury Real Estate | Minneapolis West Metro

Website: https://vickipetersrealestate.com/

Enjoy the holiday season, support local businesses and make the most of everything the Twin Cities have to offer!