One of my favorite things about the holiday season is the transformation that cities go through. Downtowns are so festive with twinkle lights projecting into the skyline turning them into winter wonderlands full of fun. A recent trend has been bars getting all decked out for the holidays and, well, I am here for it. These are 7 bars in the Triangle perfect for celebrating the holiday season.
Looking for more holiday inspiration? Be sure to check out this page!
Top 7 Bars in the Triangle to Celebrate the Holidays
Angus Barn | Raleigh
If you want an over-the-top, quintessential holiday tradition, then add Angus Barn to your list. They are now requiring reservations to sit in the Wild Turkey Lounge in addition to their regular seating arrangements because of the popularity. It’s worth the wait and worth the hype!
Miracle at the Haymaker | Raleigh
The Haymaker transforms into Miracle at the Haymaker and is quite a fun display of holiday decorations complete with themed glassware and festive drinks. It’s such a fun spot to enjoy the season! It is located right downtown on Fayetteville St. in Raleigh. Be sure to get there early! My go-to order is the Elfing Around: gin, prosecco, mulled wine reduction, grapefruit shrub, aromatic bitters, orange bitters.
St. Nick’s at House of Art | Raleigh
Y’all. Every room is decorated and perfect for a photo opp. The patio has fire pits, there is a Grinch bus, and their drink selection is delicious. Do not miss a trip here to celebrate the holiday season. It is open Thursdays-Saturdays and reservations are required on Fridays and Saturdays.
Jack Tar & The Colonel’s Daughter | Durham
Get into the holiday spirit with the Jack Tar team this season when they deck the halls of The Colonel’s Daughter. They’ve transformed the space into a Winter Wonderland in their signature 1950s style with festive cocktails and snacks! The Rudolph the Red Nosed Cocktail, General Tso’s Cauliflower, and Crab Rangoons are my favorite items on the menu! P.S. You can also order from Jack Tar’s menu–see more from our recent date night weekend in Durham.
Peck and Plume at the Mayton Inn | Cary
Photo via Mayton Inn Instagram
Downtown Cary looks mighty festive right now and the Mayton Inn offers the perfect spot to stop in for a cocktail and cozy up in the library for holiday cheer. Grab a bite to eat at the restaurant or check out one of the others located nearby, like MC Restaurant or Hank’s Downtown Dive.
The Patio and the Studio at the Unscripted | Durham
Photo via Unscripted Durham Instagram
The Unscripted is such a cool spot in Durham regardless on the season. You may have seen them all over Instagram for their igloos on the patio. They also decorate the first floor Studio with season decor and offer Studio Nights with local live DJs on Fridays and Saturdays! See the schedule here. Pst.. see more of my Durham favorites available here.
Wye Hill | Raleigh
Wye Hill is one of my go-to places for date nights, happy hours, and girls’ nights out. It is a true gem with its view of Downtown Raleigh, with a fresh, locally sourced menu. Their exterior is absolutely stunning for the holiday season and is quite warm thanks to their heaters! Their hot toddies are delicious and a great way to warm up as well.
This post was originally written in 2019 and has since been updated and re-circulated for 2022.
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I love this holiday cocktail post! I cant wait to try some! There were some i was not aware of. Thanks MBG!