Twas the nights before Christmas, back in 2014, when a tiny bar on East 9th Street in New York City transformed into a festive holiday haven. The place was packed, and the drinks were as magical as the season.
This marked the beginning of Miracle on Ninth Street, a holiday-themed cocktail pop-up that has since become a global sensation.
The Birth of a Holiday Tradition
Greg Boehm, the mastermind behind Miracle on Ninth Street and owner of Cocktail Kingdom, came up with the idea thanks to his mom.
The original plan was to open Mace, a cocktail bar, but with some convincing, Boehm decided to use the space for a holiday cocktail extravaganza between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
In 2014, pop-ups weren’t as expected, especially themed ones offering craft cocktails. But Miracle quickly proved how much people craved a mix of whimsy and holiday cheer during the festive season.
Joann Spiegel, vice president of Miracle and its tropical spinoff, Sippin’ Santa, recalls how unique it was:
“It was a new and exciting way to bring fun to the holiday season within the hospitality scene.”
The Magic of Miracle Drinks and Decor
Miracle is known for its over-the-top festive atmosphere. Picture glittering tinsel, colorful lights, and quirky holiday knick-knacks covering every corner. The drinks are equally delightful, served in themed vessels like Santa T-Rex mugs and dreidel-etched glasses.
Fan-favorite cocktails Include:
- Christmapolitan: A festive twist on the Cosmopolitan.
- Snowball Old Fashioned: A classic with a wintry touch.
- Santa Slide: A creamy chocolate-orange delight inspired by Terry’s chocolate oranges.
- Crooked Antler: A rich blend of brandy, port, vanilla, and chestnuts.
The fun doesn’t stop in New York City. By the third year, Miracle had expanded to 24 locations across the U.S. Now, there are nearly 200 pop-ups worldwide, including in Canada, Europe, and Asia.
How Miracle Creates Holiday Cheer in a Glass
According to Spiegel, the secret to capturing the flavor of Christmas lies in using ingredients that evoke holiday memories. Think mulling spices, baking spices, and flavors tied to festive treats.
For example:
- The Santa Slide draws on the nostalgia of chocolate and orange.
- The Crooked Antler offers a smoky, nutty warmth, perfect for cold nights.
Spiegel’s advice? Use flavors that are personal and meaningful to you to craft cocktails that tell a story.
Hosting Tips Inspired by Miracle on Ninth
If you can’t visit a Miracle or Sippin’ Santa this year, you can still bring the magic home with these hosting tips:
Personalize Your Cocktails
Create a signature drink inspired by your favorite holiday flavors or memories. If you love gingerbread, experiment with a ginger-spiced whiskey cocktail.
DIY Drink Stations
Set up a self-serve bar with various spirits, mixers, and garnishes. Guests can mix their drinks, adding a fun, interactive element to your gathering.
Batch Your Cocktails
Make a big batch of a festive punch or a pre-mixed cocktail. This makes it easier to serve drinks and keeps the host from being stuck behind the bar.
Hire a Bartender
Hiring a bartender ensures you can enjoy the party and mingle with guests if your budget allows.
Use Festive Glassware
Serving drinks in fun, holiday-themed vessels adds instant cheer. Look for mugs or glasses with holiday motifs like Santa, snowflakes, or dreidels.
Why the World Loves Miracle
The appeal of Miracle lies in its ability to bring people together. Spiegel notes:
“The holidays have a special way of uniting people, and Miracle allows them to share in that festive joy.”
People embrace the notion of holiday cocktails in large cities and small towns, proving that the season’s magic is universal.
FAQs
What makes Miracle on Ninth Street unique?
Miracle combines creative holiday cocktails with an immersive, over-the-top festive atmosphere. Every drink and decoration tells a story, making it an unforgettable experience.
How can I create a festive drink at home?
Use holiday-inspired flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, or chocolate. Start with a base spirit (whiskey, vodka, etc.) and add syrups, mixers, or garnishes to match the theme.
What’s the best way to serve drinks at a party?
Set up a DIY drink station or make a large batch cocktail. This keeps things simple for the host and fun for guests.
Are festive serving glasses necessary?
While not essential, themed glasses or mugs can elevate the experience and make your gathering feel extra special.
Can I host a cocktail party on a budget?
Absolutely! Focus on one or two signature drinks, use simple garnishes, and get creative with holiday-themed decorations you already have.
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