We may not be getting a white Christmas, but it’s certainly starting to feel like the holidays – and just in time! Stay warm y’all. Whatever your plans are this weekend: Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals. Finally. I’ve been running out of holiday puns, and I’m starting to turn into a Grinch. I hope y’all have some holly, jolly celebrations planned with your families, complete with tamales, turkey, or whatever your favorite holiday food is. Mine’s lumpia. Still looking for things to get away with (or from) the family? Here’s a short list of things to check out.
COASTAL CHRISTMAS
Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
American Bank Center
It’s the last day of the season to strap on some skates and glide through American Bank Center’s winter wonderland. Bring the whole family to grab your last minute holiday photos with Santa. Warm-up (after skating or after braving the arctic blast outside) with hot cocoa. Don’t procrastinate (like I’ve done with my Christmas shopping) and miss out – this event only comes once a year. 
H-E-B FEAST OF SHARING
Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
American Bank Center
Every year, for 34 years now, H-E-B has hosted a free meal at its annual Feast of Sharing. The event will also feature live music, arts and crafts, children’s activities and entertainment for the whole family. No wonder us Texans are spoiled: No store does more, am I right? Find a full list of events here.
MERRY PUNKMAS ’22
Friday, 10 p.m.
Black Monk Tavern
Sick of that cheerful Christmas music you’ve heard pretty much everywhere? Kick off your holiday weekend with some punk rock shenanigans at Black Monk Tavern. Rock out with Left Handed Knives and others, and show off your Christmas cheer (or lack thereof). No kids allowed, though – this event’s strictly 21 and up.
HOUSE OF ROCK TAMAL DINNER
Saturday, 8:30 p.m.
House of Rock
It’s not Christmastime in South Texas without tamales. Don’t have an abuelita or tia plug for those sweet goods? Just want to celebrate the holiday with family of your choosing? House of Rock has got you covered. Head downtown Christmas eve for the 18th annual tamal dinner. Doors open at 8:30 p.m., and dinner’s at 9. While you’re there, try your hand at guessing how many Lone Stars were downed to make that epic can tree (and maybe even down some Lone Stars with your meal!)
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS SPIRITS
Friday-Sunday
Downtown
Three words: Christmas pub crawl. Say less. Celebrate the holiday in party animal style by participating in the Downtown Management District’s 12 Days of Christmas Spirits. Do it for the ’gram: Snap a photo of your themed cocktail and tag @downtowncorpuschristi and the business in your post for a chance to win a gift package. But don’t end up on Santa’s naughty list: drink and make merry responsibly.
CHRISTMAS AT THE MOVIES
Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.
Alamo Drafthouse
You and the kiddos have ripped open all the presents under the tree, emptied those stockings hung by the chimney with care, and eaten all the chocolate from the advent calendar. What now? Catch a showing of everyone’s favorite mean, green Dr. Suess character at the Alamo Drafthouse. (The 2018 version with Bandicoot Cucumberbatch — err, Benedict Cumberbatch). Grab your tickets now!
