This time of year, many productions are heart-warming — but the theaters are packed with kids, in-laws and Santa hats. If you need another way to get all warm and toasty, we scouted out theaters with the best bar offerings.
The Walnut Street Theater
825 Walnut St.
At the bar: The Barrymore Cafe is named after the famous thespian family, some of whom have performed on the Walnut’s historic stage. Head downstairs for a full bar serving drinks, snacks, coffee and all manner of desserts.
When to visit: The cafe is open during the show and at intermission, but you must enjoy your treats in this designated area. There’s a ton of memorabilia on the walls to ogle, so you won’t be bored.
See this: “The Music Man,” the classic musical about a con artist band director, is running through Jan. 6.
The Keswick
291 N. Keswick Ave., Glenside
At the bar: Bar manager Janis DeMarco often tries to create a drink that reflects the night’s show. During December, expect some crafty eggnog-themed cocktails.
When to visit: You can take your drink back to your seat, so you may want to make it a double — there’s no guarantee that they’ll be open after intermission (that decision is made on a night-by-night basis).
Upcoming show: Check out “Philly Nutt Crak-Up” — ContempraDance Theatre annual spoof on the classic — Dec. 15 and 16.
The Wilma Theater
265 S. Broad St.
At the bar: You won’t find any cocktails here — the Wilma keeps it PG with snacks, coffee and soft drinks at the concession stand. But what they lack in booze they more than make up for with indulgent goodies provided by Metropolitan Bakery.
When to visit: The stand is open one hour before the show and remains open until the end of the final intermission, which means it’s OK to get seconds.
Upcoming show: Through Dec. 2, get to know Louis Armstrong in “Satchmo at the Waldorf.”
Sellersville Theater
24 W. Temple Ave., Sellersville
At the bar: There are two options here: the full bar inside the theater and the adjacent Washington House Restaurant.
When to visit: We’d recommend the Washington House before your show to take advantage of happy hour deals such as $3 martinis (Monday, 4-6 p.m.) and two-for-one appetizers (Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 4-6 p.m.).
See this: There’s a ton of holiday entertainment on the Sellersville’s menu, but we’ll get you started with “A Rat Pack Christmas” (Dec. 16), “It’s a Wonderful Life” free screening (Dec. 19) and the “Anti Holiday Holiday Concert” (Dec. 22).
