The Christmas season doesn't offer many respites from the blinking-light, carol-singing, tree-decorating storm, so we've unwrapped a few places where you can get out of the cold and into some good music and drinks. –Mike Gorman
Bearly's House of Blues and Ribs
Down with all of this holiday cheer flooding the streets? Head on over to Bearly's for its annual Xmas Eve Blues Party. The Roger Howse band will play all day and into the evening, giving you an eve of good music and deliciously messy ribs (no cover).
1269 Barrington Street, 423-2526
The Economy Shoe Shop
The kitchen may be closed, but the Economy Shoe Shop's bar will be manned single-handedly this Christmas Eve by co-owner Victor Syperek, as he continues this annual tradition, now in its 15th year. Drinks will be served so long as he wants, so get in early.
1663 Argyle Street, 423-8845
Jamieson's Irish House and Grill
A free turkey dinner will be served at Jamieson's (above) on Christmas Day for anyone left out in the cold, left alone or left plain hungry. Chef Mike Tilley graciously serves his holiday banquet at 1pm, but reservations must be made and space is running out fast.
5 Cumberland Drive, 433-0500
Winston's Bar and Eatery
No money down, no layaway and you don't have to pay in 2013! This December 26, Winston's has its Boxing Day Blow Out. The bar's overstocked with booze, and is looking to get rid of all liquid assets. Says bartender Scott Samways: "Everything must go!"
Clayton Park Shopping Centre, 278 Lacewood Drive, 443-7024
