GRAPEVINE, Texas — The Grapevine food hall Harvest Hall recently unveiled its Holly Jolly Bar, offering a little bit of the Christmas spirit right in the heart of summer in the form of a holiday-themed pop-up bar.
Outside, North Texans may be sweltering in the mid-July summer temperatures, but visitors here can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit in spite of the heat -- and without having to wait another five months for the traditional winter festivities around these parts to begin.
It's certainly a sight to be seen. Harvest Hall Director of Operations Mitch Johnson says that's on purpose, too, describing the vibe at the Holly Jolly Bar as "kitschy, over-the-top craziness."
Typically, Johnson says, July is something of an off-month for holiday celebrations (Independence Day events notwithstanding). But, he's happy to report, people seem to be digging the reason behind the Holly Jolly Bar's season, and crowding the space every night.
It's a feast for all the senses, too. Alongside the enchanting décor in this historic building, the bar here serves a variety of drink specials and food.
The choice to bring the Holly Jolly Bar to Grapevine -- the Christmas Capital of Texas, of course -- is no coincidence. This North Texas city known for its festive activities each traditional holiday season, drawing visitors from near and far.
"There's nothing else like it," Johnson says. "I'm serious!"
And at the Holly Jolly Bar, the goal is to capture that same sense of cheer -- along with, Johnson says, the true essence of the holiday, which is being around and spending time with those you love.
"Family, gathering, eating, having a good time," Johnson says. "But mostly family."
The Holly Jolly Bar is open at Harvest Hall's Third Rail through July 31st. It's open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays, and 11 a.m. until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
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