Welcome to our festive blog, your go-to guide for everything Christmas and holiday-related! Dive into a magical world of seasonal cheer with our latest write-ups on the top Christmas Pop-Up Bars worldwide. Whether you're searching for festive drink menus, stunning décor, or unique holiday-themed experiences, we’re here to provide you with all the details, from cozy gems to grand displays of holiday magic in the heart of major cities.
Our blog is more than just about bars — it’s a celebration of everything that makes the season unforgettable. Expect inspiring blog content on holiday traditions, gift ideas, Christmas decor tips, winter travel guides, holiday music, festive recipes and cocktails, and the best holiday events across the globe. This is the perfect place to discover new ways to make your season brighter and more memorable for you and your loved ones.
Ryan Smith, known as The Grateful Diabetic, uses running as a powerful way to face life with Type 1 diabetes and inspire others. A marathon runner and BreakthroughT1D Outreach Ambassador, Ryan turns endurance, resilience, and hope into action. His story is a reminder that the holidays are about more than celebration—they’re about perseverance, connection, and belief. This inspiring Christmas feature shares how embracing challenges can bring strength, healing, and meaning during the season.
Brant Buckley's book Chicago Blues History: Preserving The Past makes for a great Christmas present for the music lovers in your family. The book is 8.25" x 6" and can even fit into a stocking! You will travel through 15 cemeteries in the Chicagoland area viewing 80 legendary Blues artists. Featuring colored grave photos, flowers for each headstone, song recommendations, and artist write ups. This Xmas gift a piece of music history - a book that keeps the Blues alive!
John Mayer’s blues-soaked holiday performances make for the perfect soundtrack to your Christmas season. While he hasn’t released a full Christmas album yet, his live renditions capture everything we love about Mayer—soulful vocals, expressive guitar phrasing, and an emotional depth that feels both intimate and timeless. In this countdown, we explore his most memorable holiday moments highlighting the songs where he truly shines and the performances that display why fans are eagerly waiting for his first Christmas record.
Blues and Christmas are a perfect match, and this playlist proves it. From soulful laments to upbeat holiday shuffles, these ten tracks capture the heart, grit, and warmth of the season. You’ll hear everything from Freddie King’s slow-burning sorrow to Chuck Berry’s joyful rock ’n’ roll energy. Each song brings its own story, mood, and musical magic to the holidays. Dive into the Top 10 Blues Christmas Songs and discover why these timeless classics still shine every December.
Andy Williams brought unmatched elegance, warmth, and vocal perfection to the holidays with his timeless release, The Andy Williams Christmas Album. Featuring some of the cleanest notes and smoothest vibrato ever recorded, Williams’ joyful delivery helped define the sound of Christmas for generations. From beloved classics to iconic originals, his radiant smile and effortless charm shine through every performance, creating a festive atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and endlessly uplifting. Journey through Andy Williams’ most cherished Christmas songs and discover why this record remains one of the greatest Christmas albums ever made.
James Taylor brought a heartfelt warmth to the holidays with his beloved 2006 album, James Taylor at Christmas. From classics to reinterpretations, Taylor’s unmistakable voice and signature acoustic guitar create a cozy, reflective atmosphere that feels both familiar and new. Lush orchestration, jazz-infused arrangements, and his bright fingerpicked chords give these timeless songs a modern touch. Dive into this track-by-track journey through his top four Christmas recordings and discover why this album remains a quiet treasure of the season.
Brant Buckley, the creator of Xmas Pop-Up Bars, revisits his 2015 Chicago Summer EP in a reflective look at how songs written in one season can take on deeper meaning over time. Created during a formative period living in Chicago, the three-song release captures place, longing, and emotional growth through clear vocals, ringing guitars, and intimate songwriting. What began as a snapshot of summer would later extend into weddings and lifelong love stories, reminding us that music often reveals its true purpose long after it’s written. Step into this track-by-track reflection and explore how Chicago Summer continues to live beyond its original moment.
Michael Bublé’s Christmas music has become the modern soundtrack of the holiday season, blending classic crooner charm with a warm, contemporary glow. With his smooth phrasing, timeless arrangements, and effortless swing, Michael Bublé helped reintroduce a new generation to the magic of traditional Christmas songs. His landmark Christmas album didn’t just celebrate the season — it reshaped holiday music for the 21st century. Step into our look at Michael Bublé’s Christmas legacy and discover how his voice came to define the sound of the holidays.
Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby defined the sound of Christmas, and their legendary 1957 holiday special proves exactly why. From intimate duets to joyful carols, this unforgettable broadcast captures the warmth, elegance, and timeless spirit of the season. You’ll hear everything from Sinatra’s velvety swing to Crosby’s rich baritone—two voices blending effortlessly into pure Christmas magic. Dive into this track-by-track journey through Happy Holidays with Bing & Frank and rediscover why no Christmas special has ever come close.
Lady Gaga’s A Very Gaga Holiday is a stunning four-song live EP drawn from her 2011 ABC television special. Featuring masterful jazz interpretations of “White Christmas” and “Orange Colored Sky,” alongside intimate piano-and-vocal performances of “You and I” and “The Edge of Glory,” the EP showcases Gaga’s depth as a vocalist and interpreter. Warm, soulful, and deeply personal, this holiday release highlights her jazz brilliance and emotional storytelling — a timeless Christmas listen worth revisiting.
Ed Sheeran’s Christmas music captures both the joy and the ache of the holiday season, blending heartfelt songwriting with a modern pop sensibility. From the festive sparkle of “Merry Christmas,” his chart-topping collaboration with Elton John, to the emotional honesty of “Under the Tree,” Sheeran explores the full spectrum of what this time of year can bring. His melody-driven writing, intimate vocals, and relatable lyrics give each song a personal touch that feels timeless yet contemporary. Take a closer look at why his Christmas songs resonate long after the lights come down.
Mount Shasta has long been known as a powerful place for healing and spiritual renewal, and Andrew Oser has been guiding retreats on the mountain since 2006. Through sacred-site hikes, guided meditations, time in silence, and spiritual life coaching, Andrew helps participants reconnect with their true selves and gain clarity for their lives. In this interview, he shares his personal journey with Mount Shasta and explains why a retreat there makes a deeply meaningful Christmas or holiday gift.
Joe Bucher’s Christmas story blends fishing, music, and reflection into a season shaped by patience, creativity, and gratitude. A Hall of Fame angler and lifelong guitarist, Bucher shares how a first guitar became his most meaningful Christmas gift, shaping both his music and his approach to life. From winter fishing lessons to soulful holiday guitar performances, his story captures the quiet, reflective side of the season. Dive into our interview with Joe Bucher and discover how tradition, practice, and passion come together during Christmas.
Mariah Carey’s Merry Christmas isn’t just a holiday album — it’s a cultural moment that redefined modern Christmas music. Blending gospel roots, soulful phrasing, and pop brilliance, Carey channels deep emotion and pure holiday joy into every performance. From reverent, church-inspired moments to festive, feel-good classics, the album showcases her voice as both powerful and deeply expressive. Dive into our countdown of the top songs from Merry Christmas and rediscover why this album continues to define Christmas, year after year.
The Chicagoland area is the mecca for Home Alone Christmas Pop-Up Bars. Venues include Almost Home Tavern and Grille, Cortland's Garage, Easy Street Pizza, and Towne & Oak. You will imbibe in movie themed festive drinks and special foods. Our cocktail favorites include The Fuller, The Southbend Shovel Slayer, The Hot Iron Old Fashioned, and Lez Incompetent. You are going to love these four Home Alone Xmas Pop-Ups!
Jeff “Beachbum” Berry is one of the leading voices in tiki culture and the creative force behind the Sippin’ Santa Christmas Pop-Up Bar franchise. His work bridges classic tiki history with festive holiday energy, bringing tropical flavors, immersive décor, and pure Christmas joy to cities around the world. This interview dives into Jeff’s story, the rise of Sippin’ Santa, and the magic behind these unforgettable holiday experiences.
Eric Clapton’s Happy Xmas offers a Blues-soaked take on the holiday season, blending classic Christmas songs with his unmistakable guitar tone and soulful voice. Released in 2018, the album features heartfelt performances, tasteful arrangements, and moments of pure Clapton magic. From intimate vocals to expressive Blues turnarounds, this record feels warm, honest, and deeply personal. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, Happy Xmas is a holiday album worth revisiting.
The nine main national Christmas Pop-Up Bars include Miracle, Mariah Carey Bars, Blitzen’s, Frosty’s, Sippin’ Santa, Jingle Bar, Holly Jolly Bar, Xmas Bar, and Santa’s Secret. Each concept defines the Xmas Pop-Up movement bringing dazzling décor, festive drinks, and constant holiday fun to cities throughout the World. These events will bring you Christmas joy and you will feel so much festive spirit!
Kenn Kweder’s holiday tune Truckin’ Trees for Christmas carries his signature mix of wit, charm, and indie folk-rock spirit, making it a memorable seasonal standout. A longtime Philly music icon, Kweder has spent decades shaping the city’s creative landscape with his unmistakable sound and legendary live presence. In this interview, he reflects on why he chose this Xmas song, how his version stands apart, and what the Christmas season means to him. Kweder’s work always bursts with personality — especially his whimsical and energetic Christmas original.
Bruce Springsteen’s Christmas performances capture his trademark blend of heart, grit, and larger-than-life stage presence, turning holiday classics into unforgettable moments filled with energy and soul. A defining voice of American rock, Springsteen has spent decades shaping music culture with storytelling, passion, and an connection to his audience. In this article, we explore why The Boss gravitates toward Christmas music, how his versions stand apart from the countless covers out there, and what makes his holiday interpretations so enduring.
Taylor Swift’s Holiday Collection offers a heartfelt glimpse into her early songwriting years, blending warm acoustic guitars, thoughtful melodies, and genuine holiday emotion. Released in 2007, the album showcases Swift’s natural storytelling instincts and includes original songs and Christmas favorites. In this article, we rank the top tracks from the record, exploring the lyrics and musical moments that make this holiday release a seasonal favorite for fans old and new.
XmasPopUpBars counts down the Top 12 Christmas songs of all time! Artists include Chuck Berry, Frank Sinatra, Mariah Carey, Bobby Helms, Andy Williams, Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, Brenda Lee, Vince Guaraldi, Tchaikovsky, and Thurl Ravenscroft. Each song will get you into a festive Christmas mood! In our opinion, Chuck Berry wrote the greatest Christmas song ever, "Run Rudolph Run." It was recorded in 1958 at Chess Records in Chicago.
Hands of Spirit, a family-owned Boulder, Colorado business specializing in stones, crystals, minerals, and jewelry, will host their annual Holiday Instagram Live Sale this November 15th at 1 p.m. MT, November 16th at 3 p.m. MT, December 6th at 1 p.m. MT, and December 7th at 3 p.m. MT. Shop a dazzling array of one-of-a-kind crystals and minerals—perfect for Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers. Mira leads each event with expert knowledge, festive energy, and holiday cheer. Tune in and join the fun!
Miley Cyrus approaches Christmas music the same way she approaches her entire career—with heart, edge, and fearless individuality. Rather than sticking to polished tradition, she brings a raw emotional honesty to the holidays, blending rock ’n’ roll attitude, country roots, and deeply personal vocals into every festive performance. Whether she’s tearing into a classic with gritty guitars, delivering a tender carol on the edge of vulnerability, or adding playful warmth and personality between lines, Miley’s Christmas songs feel lived-in and real.
Morgan Myles brings soulful holiday energy with her new Christmas releases, “Naughty List Blues” and her spin on “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Her powerful voice, timeless style, and heartfelt storytelling capture the season’s magic, offering listeners festive joy, warm nostalgia, and unforgettable Christmas spirit. These songs glow with emotion and celebrate the heart of the holidays!
Brian Lupo is a Chicago Blues guitarist known for his soulful tone, rhythm-forward style, and deep roots in the city’s music scene. His holiday song “Snowing in Chicago” blends Blues, Funk, and reflective storytelling, capturing the feeling of returning home after years away. The track evokes the chill, nostalgia, and comfort of a true Chicago winter, highlighting Lupo’s ability to translate personal experiences into warm, heartfelt music.
The greatest Christmas themed bar goes to The Almost Home Alone Tavern. Inspired by the Home Alone franchise, there is one incredibly festive menu and a lot of cocktail options. We talked with John Otto VonPerbandt, principal at Almost Home Tavern, who shared his thoughts with us. Also, they have a cool Almost Home Alone t-shirt and mug for sale. Check this festive Xmas Pop-Up out!
George Michael’s Christmas music blends emotional depth, timeless pop melody, and unforgettable seasonal feeling — making his work essential holiday listening. From international superstardom with Wham! to his celebrated solo career, Michael left behind some of the most beloved Christmas songs of the modern era. In this article, we explore how he wrote these classics and why they continue to resonate every December. His songs are filled with nostalgia, sincerity, and heart — especially his iconic Christmas originals.
Sam Smith’s Christmas music is defined by intimacy, emotional honesty, and a quiet, reflective beauty that feels tailor-made for the holiday season. With an angelic voice capable of conveying deep vulnerability, Smith brings a modern sense of longing and warmth to Christmas songs. In this article, we count down Sam Smith’s most essential Christmas songs and explore why his voice has become one of the most affecting sounds of the season — capturing both the loneliness and hope that Christmas so often brings.
Shane Alexander’s Xmas song Christmastime Is On My Mind is a warm, acoustic singer-songwriter holiday tune sure to get you feeling festive. Based in Los Angeles, Shane’s music has appeared in commercials and films, and he’s supported artists such as Seal, Jewel, and Styx. In this interview, he shares the inspiration behind the track and the Christmas music he loves most. Alexander’s work always hits the heartstrings — especially his heartfelt Christmas original.
Kenn Kweder is a Philadelphia music legend who has performed with Amos Lee, Kris Kristofferson, Patti Smith, and Elvis Costello. He recorded Alan Man's cult classic, "Christmas On The Block." Kweder says, “Christmas On The Block, written by Alan Mann, is actually about a home for the blind. The message is that although they cannot see what we see, they have the ability to see and understand beauty way more than the rest of us visually gifted folks; those of us who take sight for granted.”
Two Brothers Brewing Company, founded by Jim and Jason Ebel in Warrenville, Illinois, has long been rooted in creativity and craft. Their Peppermint Bark Porter captures true Christmas magic in a can—rich, smooth, and touched with chocolate and peppermint. Available November through December, this festive seasonal brew is a holiday favorite and a perfect gift for the season.
Allen James offers a rare, firsthand look inside the story of Christmas on the Block—from joining Alan Mann’s band in the early 80's to standing in the cold during the chaotic two-day music video shoot that would unexpectedly make history. In this candid interview, Allen reflects on the street-level spirit of Alan Mann, the local scene that surrounded the song’s rise, the surreal moment of seeing it air on MTV, and why the track has endured as a uniquely Philadelphia Christmas tradition. It’s an honest, ground-floor perspective on a song that continues to resonate.
Few songwriting partnerships have ever shaped popular music like John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Their Christmas songs capture two sides of the season: reflection and joy. Lennon’s Happy Xmas (War Is Over) offers a soulful, end-of-year meditation on peace and possibility, while McCartney’s Wonderful Christmastime celebrates childlike wonder through bright melodies and playful sound. Together, these songs remain timeless holiday staples—reminding us that Christmas can be both meaningful and magical.
Brant Buckley, the creator of Xmas Pop-Up Bars, is a songwriter, guitarist, author and Berklee College of Music graduate.
"Wedding Love" is Brant Buckley's newest acoustic ballad - a heartfelt, intimate song, featuring fingerstyle guitar, warm vocals, and a live string quartet. Written as a deeply personal gift for his cousin's wedding, Brant performed the song live during her ceremony at the Boulder Country Club in Colorado, where it became a defining emotional moment. Recorded in 432hz, a tuning that resonates deeply with the heart and soul, "Wedding Love" carries a calming, connective energy that listeners instantly feel. The song has received national attention, earning airplay on 34 radio stations across the U.S. and becoming Brant's debut entry on the Americana Music Association (AMA) charts. The song is ideal for wedding ceremonies, first dances, bridal showers, and romantic playlists. If you are an artist interested in covering this song, please contact Brant below.
In addition, Brant has over 16 years of experience teaching guitar to students aged 7-84. His lessons focus on real musical application, creativity, and personalized instruction. Specializing in Blues, Folk, Jazz, Pop, and Songwriting, Brant offers engaging online guitar lessons via Zoom for students at any skill level.
Brant is also the author of Chicago Blues History: Preserving The Past, a book dedicated to honoring the greatest Blues musicians. His work celebrates music, storytelling, and cultural heritage - the same passion that drives the creation of Xmas Pop-Up Bars.
If you'd like to connect about music, lessons, performances, or writing, Brant would love to hear from you.
© Xmaspopupbars.com, 2024
Website By: Brant Buckley