Christmas pop-ups are comin' to town

It's the most wonderful time of the year, and two Downtown Fort Wayne bars are gearing up for the season with themed pop-ups. Sidecar and Night Train are both transforming their menu and interiors to over-the-top Christmas themes, complete with lights, unique drinkware, and decor.

Both pop-ups are from Miracle, a pop-up concept out of the East Village in NYC. Miracle began in 2014, the company is celebrating its 10th year of operation with locations in Fort Wayne and Worldwide. 

This is the first year Fort Wayne has had more than one holiday pop-up. 

Miracle on Jefferson

Miracle on JeffersonSidecar
301 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN

For its sixth year in a row, Sidecar has transitioned into a winter wonderland for its holiday-themed pop-up, Miracle on Jefferson. 

Located inside a heated area outside of Parkview Field, Miracle on Jefferson will feature six new cocktails using mulled wine, buttered rum, and cognac mixed with traditional Christmas flavors like nutmeg, orange or mint, and more! 

The specialty drinks are served in holiday-themed drinkware, like Santa mugs or dinosaur-shaped mugs covered in lights, which are available for purchase. Miracle donates 10% of proceeds to the Seva Foundation.

Miracle on Jefferson Bar Manager Chandler Vanous says they look forward to, "the joy it brings both our guests & our team. It's a lot of work, but so worth it."

Vanous has planned a canned food drive and karaoke nights throughout the season.

The pop-up will run from November 27 through December 28 and is open on Sundays from noon to 8 p.m., Tuesdays to Thursdays from 5-10 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m to 1 a.m.
 

Sippin’ Santa

A reindeer shot glass, available at Night Train.Night Train
135 W Columbia St, Fort Wayne, IN

Relatively new to the Fort Wayne night scene, Night Train is bringing Tiki Vibes to The Landing with their Sippin’ Santa pop-up. The immersive tropical meets Santa-themed pop-up lets guests escape to the beach during cold holiday months. 

Their specialty drink menu features tropical flavors like coconut, pineapple, and tropical spirits while keeping with the holiday theme. 

It might be tempting to take home one of the festive mugs that show Santa dressed for the beach and surfing, but you can avoid the naughty list by purchasing your very own Sippin' Santa-themed drinkware, available for purchase. Miracle donates 10% of proceeds to the Seva Foundation.

"Pop-up bars give us the opportunity to experiment with unique themes, special events, and seasonal concepts that turn our space into a true destination while helping Night Train stand out in a competitive market," says Preston Wallace, co-owner of Be Better Hospitality, which owns and operates Night Train. "We've seen excitement for themed pop-ups grow each year, and we're thrilled to be part of it. It's a chance to blend creativity and holiday spirit all under one roof. Sippin' Santa isn't just about great cocktails or festive decor—it's about creating an experience. As the first Sippin' Santa pop-up in Fort Wayne, it's a fresh and fun way to celebrate the season with the community."

Sippin’ Santa will run from November 25 to December 29 and is open daily from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m. daily.