It’s creepy, and it’s kooky, mysterious and spooky, and it's coming back to Government Hill. Halloween bar pop-up Black Lagoon will once again take over Three Star Bar (521 E. Grayson St.) this fall.
The yearly pop-up casts a spell on U.S. watering holes each year, bringing a kitschy environment filled with skulls, coffins, and bats. Organizers have not nailed down the exact dates of this year’s activation, but say it will debut in late September/ early October and perish after Halloween night. Follow Three Star Bar on Instagram for updates.
The immersive cocktail experience was started in 2019 by industry vets Erin Hayes and Kelsey Ramage, whose CVs include cult bars like Two Dots and a Dash and Lost Lake and esteemed consultancy firm Trash Collective. The pop-up debuted in San Antonio in 2024.
Besides the campy decorations, the drinks — some served in collectible tiki mugs — are the stars of the show. This year’s lineup includes:
- Abyssa’s Obsession — a take on the piña colada with pumpkin-infused spiced rums, Oloroso sherry, coconut, pineapple, lime, and tobacco bitters
- Bone Temple — a margarita featuring blanco tequila, Amontillado Sherry, tart cherry, spiced oat orgeat, lime, vanilla honey, absinthe, and tobacco bitters
- Moon Shadow — a riff on the espresso martini spotlighting nutmeg-infused vodka, coffee liqueur, Banane du Brésil, Fino sherry, and cold brew coffee
“Every year, we look for new ways to expand the world of Black Lagoon and create a spooky attraction that goes beyond a traditional Halloween pop-up,” said Hayes and Ramage in a joint statement. “Black Lagoon has always been a place where Halloween fans, cocktail enthusiasts and everyone in between can come together, and we’re excited to continue building that world through new venues, new creations and unexpected surprises this season.”
Black Lagoon is part of a growing trend of nationwide pop-up experiences, providing an income boost for bar owners and adult holiday fun for their patrons. Miracle and Sippin’ Santa, two Christmas-themed concepts, also make frequent stops in San Antonio.The eerie event will take place in 34 North American cities during the 2026 season, including five in Texas:
- Austin: King Bee
- Fort Worth: Nickel City
- Galveston: Daiquiri Time Out
- Houston: Nickel City
- San Antonio: Three Star Bar
