Sippin' Santa's Surf Shack Heats Up Chicago's Lost Lake

Here in Chicago, we all dream of escaping the winter winds and heading somewhere tropical for Christmas. This year, merrymakers don't have to leave the city for that island atmosphere – Sippin' Santa's Surf Shack has come to town!

Combining tiki cocktails and holiday spirit, the pop-up bar began at Boilermaker in New York City three years ago. This year, the concept is expanding to partner up with bars here in Chicago as well as in New Orleans.

Here's what Sippin' Santa's got in store in the Windy City.

Venue: Lost Lake in Logan Square is a top destination for cocktails in the city. Helmed by renowned bartender Paul McGee and partner Shelby Allison, it is often found at the top of "best of" lists and is always hopping with Chicagoans looking for a little escape.

Décor: The "surf shack" part of the pop-up is already handled: Lost Lake transports you to a beach getaway with island prints, wicker furniture, and thatched bamboo throughout the bar. With the addition of colored lights, tinsel garland, and dangling snowflakes, it really does feel like you're celebrating Christmas in the tropics. Even the staff goes all out in their finest ugly sweaters and fancy headwear.

Cocktails: The collaboration between Lost Lake, Boilermaker, and Latitude 29 in New Orleans has resulted in a festive line-up of nine holiday cocktails, each served in its own specially chosen glass. The Hawaiian Milk Punch is creamy and potent, mixed with fragrant baking spices that warm you right up. Served in a ceramic coconut, And a Parrot in a Palm Tree is a favorite, stirring up tequila, mezcal, and spiced coconut syrup. Lost Lake has never pulled punches with their boozy beverages, and this special menu will have you feeling holly 'n' jolly.

Verdict: Even the most cynical Scrooge can't help but have fun at this pop-up. It's the perfect escape from plummeting temperatures and stressful shopping. So don a Hawaiian shirt and a Santa hat, and enjoy a taste of an island Christmas. After all, there's nothing like a little rum to put the "ho ho ho" in your holiday.

Check out what's happening in New York City and New Orleans too!