Toast of the Town: Sippin’ Santa at Prohibition: How Charleston and Columbia Found Their Holiday Spirit
by Pamela Jouan
The holidays in the Lowcountry are usually marked by seasonal wreaths on charming Charleston doorways and twinkling lights along cobblestone streets—all festive, and certainly whimsical. The tradition of the over-the-top Christmas pop-up bar, where fairy lights rain down from the ceiling and cocktails arrive in Santa s, is akin to the ugly Christmas sweater trend: adorably tacky but impossible not to love. Yes, Prohibition in Charleston and its sister outpost in Columbia have rewritten the holiday script. Their Sippin’ Santa pop-ups have become more than a seasonal diversion—they’re a phenomenon, a tradition eagerly awaited by locals and visitors alike.
Crafting the Holiday Magic
When Prohibition first partnered with Sippin’ Santa, an offshoot of the nationally renowned Miracle pop-up series, the team saw an opportunity to transform their award-winning cocktail bars into something playfully unexpected. “This year marks our fourth season in Charleston and our third in Columbia,” says founding partner James Walsh. “Miracle selects just one cocktail bar per city for this partnership, and we were proud to be the hosts. It’s a great fit—our focus on craft cocktails and elevated experiences aligns perfectly with the spirit of the pop-up.”
Transforming the moody, late-night character of Prohibition into a holiday playground comes with its creative challenges. Walsh admits that designing décor that feels authentically festive while still respecting the brand takes careful thought. But the payoff is undeniable: both locations draw in packed crowds of regulars, newcomers, and even families eager to experience the glittering spectacle. “There’s truly something for everyone,” Walsh says. “Whether guests are looking for a fun night out or simply to soak in the holiday spirit.”
Families, Food, and Festivity
Chef and partner Greg Garrison has seen firsthand how the event changes the dynamic of the restaurant. Known primarily as a destination for adults—dining regulars, cocktail aficionados, and Charleston’s nightlife crowd—Prohibition suddenly becomes a family affair during Sippin’ Santa. “I especially love hearing from families with young kids,” Garrison shares. “Seeing their eyes light up at the decorations and knowing they feel the magic we’ve created is one of the most rewarding parts of the season.”
Food has become just as much a part of the celebration as the cocktails. Each year brings a refreshed holiday-inspired menu that riffs on Prohibition’s signature style while leaning into the season’s cozy flavors. “Last season, we noticed a lot of demand for sweeter options,” Garrison explains. “This year, we’re expanding on that and having some fun with it. I think guests will be pleasantly surprised by what we’ve put together.”
Cocktails in Collectible Mugs and Glasses
If there’s one thing that unites Sippin’ Santa locations nationwide, it’s the cocktails. Beverage director and founding partner Jim McCourt ensures that Charleston and Columbia stay true to the official lineup while layering in their own ambiance. Each section of each venue is transformed with its own holiday theme, creating a variety of experiences under one roof.
The drinks themselves are as memorable as the décor. Year after year, the runaway favorite has been Holiday on Ice, a spicy twist on the White Russian served in a signature Santa glass. “Guests love the festive vessels,” McCourt says with a laugh. “Many even collect them year after year. Sippin’ Santa usually adds a new vessel annually, particularly when they retire a previous cocktail, so people can build a collection—and yes, they’re available for purchase during the pop-up.”
Beyond the Bar
The success of the pop-ups goes beyond glitter and cocktails. Prohibition uses the platform to give back, participating in Sippin’ Santa’s national fundraising efforts while also serving as a drop-off site for local drives like Toys for Tots. Walsh describes it as an extension of the holiday spirit—guests get to enjoy themselves while contributing to a larger cause.
Memorable moments abound, too. Walsh recalls sourcing an authentic 1800s sleigh that quickly became the centerpiece of Charleston’s celebration. “It added a unique, memorable touch to the experience and resonated especially well in a city known for its history and love of antiques.” McCourt adds that mini events, like roasting s’mores on the patio in Charleston, give the experience an added layer of charm.
A Tradition That Keeps Growing
From the start, Prohibition has measured success not in sales alone but in feedback on the decor, food and cocktails from guests—and the energy of its own team. “It’s one of the busiest times of year for us,” McCourt admits, “but we truly enjoy bringing this magical holiday experience to life.” The festive photo ops, lively entertainment, and imaginative cocktails have made Sippin’ Santa a highlight of the holiday calendar in both Charleston and Columbia.
The holiday magic doesn’t fade when the wreaths and the twinkling lights come down, either. Prohibition has embraced a Halloween pop-up as well. Unlike the synchronized Sippin’ Santa, each Halloween theme differs between Charleston and Columbia, enticing adventurous guests to visit both.
For now, though, December belongs to Santa. In Charleston and Columbia, the Prohibition team has managed to turn cocktail culture into pure Christmas theater—where mugs clink as locals and tourists alike gather under twinkle lights to toast the season.