Take a 'Nightmare Before Christmas' tavern tour through Old City

Learn the history of holiday celebrations over drinks

Every holiday season there are light shows, decorated trees, mistletoe, Santa Claus appearances, carolers and many other annual traditions. Has anyone stopped to think about where these traditions originated, however? Grim Philly tours take curious guests on a fact-filled bar crawl to explain the roots of many holiday celebrations. 

Learn the surprising history behind the Krampus, caroling, gift giving and more, while hearing how Viking lore, human sacrifice and a pagan past inspired modern festivities.  

The event begins most nights around 5:45 p.m. at Zento p.m. in Old City. At the bar, attendees will listen to holiday histories while enjoying a complimentary snack, a seasonal beverage and prize giveaways. Guests can also opt to head over early and enjoy appetizer and drink specials that will be available to ticketholders from 3 p.m. to the end of the tour. 

Around 7:30 p.m., the crawl heads to JJBootleggers Moonshine Bar for trivia, a shot of seasonal specialty moonshine and drink giveaways.

For guests who want to extend their night out, both Seranno and Sassafras will have special happy-hour deals for ticketholders at 10 p.m.


"Nightmare Before Christmas" Grim Philly Tour

Monday, Dec. 14, through Wednesday, Jan. 27
5:45 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Saturdays 3:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. | $39.99
132 Chestnut St.
(215) 925-9998