Twinkling lights, cute little reindeer, and snowy scenery are here to get in the holiday spirit. Or get anti-holiday with Krampus. Either way, grabbing a drink just became more fun.
Some people are just born with holiday spirit. The rest of us, however, might need a little help to get there. Whether you want a little liquid push to get in the Christmas spirit or are just looking for an excuse to drink at a place where your friends can't call you Scrooge, we've got your back. From cozy cocktails to tinsel-lined walls, these bars and restaurants are spreading all the Christmas cheer. Meet us under the mistletoe. Bring shots.
Last updated December 5, 2025
SF, Oakland, San Jose, Livermore, Petaluma, Santa Cruz
Via Pacific Cocktail Haven
Miracle returns to Pacific Cocktail Haven in SF, The Double Standard in Oakland, plus many more locations across the Bay Area and California this year. From drinks to decorations, these spots deck their halls to the max with tinsel, stockings, presents, Christmas lights, and more. Sip and savor a Christmapolitan or a Bad Santa while you take in all that cheer.
SF, San Jose, Santa Rosa, Pleasanton
Via Beer Baron
Aloha from the the North Pole! Sippin' Santa is back in the Bay this holiday season, mixing two beloved things: Christmas and Hawaii. Swing by Kona Street Market in SF, 55 South in San Jose, The Flamingo Resort in Santa Rosa, or Beer Baron in Pleasanton for a Ho Ho Hot buttered Rum and other Christmas cocktails, now through December 31.
Thriller Country Club (508 4th St. // San Francisco)
Via Thriller Social Club
Everyone's favorite arcade bar Thriller Country Club transforms into a Grinchy wonderland filled with Grinch-green lights, decor, and cocktails – no Whos allowed. Grinchville is definitely the spot to be if you prefer a naughty holiday outing over a nice one. Make a reservation on Yelp.
Westwood (2036 Lombard St. // San Francisco)
Westwood gets festive with thoroughly decked halls, vibrant seasonal cocktails, and nights of cheery memories for all who attend. Reserve your ticket for entry and a holiday-themed cocktail, plus enjoy a menu of festive bites (and tons of tinsel decor) upon your arrival. Our guess is, once you and your friends get there, your night won't be so silent.
The Vault Garden (555 California St. // San Francisco)
Via The Vault Garden
If you prefer a more refined, classic approach to holiday decor (but don't want to sacrifice cocktails in a Santa-shaped cup), Winter Wonderland at The Vault Garden is for you. Enjoy Gingerbread Mules and Jack-Frosted Tonics overlooking the 555 California St. tree through December 31.
(679 3rd St. // San Francisco)
Via Alchemist Bar & Lounge
If cozy Christmas cheer is your particular holiday vibe, Alchemist is the best place to be. With plenty of lights, comfy leather sofas, and tiny flying reindeer, you'll find it's hard not to feel like you're on the set of a heart-warming holiday movie. They even serve food until 12:30 am, so you can eat, drink, and be merry until the wee hours of the morning.
Four Seasons (2050 University Ave. // East Palo Alto)
Via Four Seasons
This one's for those who prefer a little luxury in their holiday outings. Featuring mini chalets wit couches + fire pits, a synthetic ice rink, and hot holiday beverages, the Après Village at Palo Alto's Four Seasons Hotel has everything to make you feel like you're in cozy mountainside town through January 13, 2025.
(4822 Telegraph Ave. // Oakland)
Via The Avenue
The most wonderful season’s festivities continue in the East Bay at The Avenue, a year-round Oakland establishment. This dive is known for its Halloween decorations as well as for its Christmas decor, and the staff never fails to deliver. Strands of colorful Christmas lights cover every inch of the walls and dangle from the ceiling. We have a feeling these lights are even more dazzling when you're tipsy.
Also, check out:
It's the most wonderful time of the year to see some Holiday Lights in the Bay!
Written by Alida Newson, Katherine Andrews, and Alex Killian
