SCRANTON, Pa. — Nothing gets Dallas Shaw into the Christmas spirit like decorating. She's not only hanging lights in her home but at Blitzen, the holiday pop-up bar taking over Lackawanna College's student-run restaurant, 409 on Adams.
This is the second year Shaw is transforming the space for the holidays.
"We only had about a week and a half to bring this to life because this is an operating restaurant. So, it normally looks nothing like this. Everything is handmade; all of these walls aren't real," Shaw said.
Every piece of decor tells the story of Blitzen, whom Shaw refers to as Santa's forgotten reindeer.
"He's Santa's least favorite Reindeer, and in our mind, he is very egotistical, and he's been leading the back of the pack for years, and he has feelings about it," she added.
Blitzen is spotlighting a Christmas character and the hospitality students at Lackawanna College.
They're creating the Christmas magic behind the bar and in the kitchen. The students created the Christmas-themed food and drink menu, and instructor Susan Markovich says it is a unique final exam.
"It's a great way for them to learn speed they wouldn't naturally get in the real world, or they wouldn't get before they got to the real world. But it's a safe place for them to learn and test their foundational skills that they're learning in the classroom," Markovich said.
Danielle Pilotta, one of the students, helped open Blitzen last week. She says serving the crowds was a fun yet challenging assignment.
"Blitzen has more speed. There are no reservations, and people can just come in and drink," Pilotta said.
She says that gives her and her classmates work experience that will beef up their resumes while spreading some holiday cheer and sharing the story of Blitzen the reindeer.
"It's definitely not a traditional pop-up bar at all. This one has some story and heart, and we designed a full character," Shaw said.
Blitzen is open Wednesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight. And you have till December 23 to get the full Blitzen experience.
Enjoy WNEP's coverage of the 2023 Scranton Santa Parade on YouTube: