While the shenanigans of New Year’s Eve are right around the corner, there are plenty of things to do this weekend. Before you pop the champagne Monday night, start the long weekend with these bar specials, glitzy performances, and cultural happenings.
EAT
Dec. 29: Wing Festival
Delia Foley’s, 1439 S. Charles St. 12-4 p.m. $25-30.
Baltimore is no stranger to outrageous food challenges (think the El Toro Grande burrito at Blue Agave or the Seafood UFO at Jimmy’s Famous Seafood), but Delia Foley’s wing-tastic festival takes it to a whole new level. Along with all-you-can-eat wings and drink specials, an entry ticket to this third annual event admits attendees into the speed-eating competition (yes, there is a trophy), a “facemelter” challenge featuring the highest sauce heat allowed per law, and a create-your-own sauce competition.
DRINK
Dec. 30: Ravens vs. Browns Watch Party
Lee’s Pint & Shell, 2844 Hudson St. 3 p.m. Free.
There’s a lot riding on a Baltimore Ravens win against the Cleveland Browns this weekend: The chance to clinch the AFC North for the first time since 2012, a postseason spot in the playoffs, and, most importantly, an open bar at Lee’s Pint & Shell. Watch the regular season-finale at this Canton corner spot, knock back a few three-dollar drafts and five-dollar Smirnoff bombs and crushes during the game, and celebrate with a one-hour open bar with Miller Lite and Smirnoff if the Ravens head to the playoffs after Sunday night’s game.
SEE
Dec. 29: Glitter Ball
Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 8 p.m. $25-28.
New Year’s Eve may be known as the most glitz and glam-filled night of the year, but thanks to hosts and local burlesque performers Betty O’Hellno and Jacqueline Boxx, this Saturday’s Glitter Ball is making a run for the coveted title. Get dressed to impress (and sparkle) and head to the Creative Alliance to experience a winter wonderland-themed affair filled with circus performers, a Sparkle Market to add even more shine to your look, and an all-out dance party. For the main event, cheer on noteworthy performers like New York City’s Perle Noire and Poison Ivy during one of the most extravagant burlesque shows of the year.
HEAR
Dec. 29: Eze Jackson’s Dirty Christmas
Metro Gallery, 1700 N. Charles St. 7 p.m. $5.
As much as we love the holiday season, the annual agenda of attending one ugly sweater party after another and listening to the same Christmas carols gets old. Luckily, veteran local rapper Eze Jackson is throwing his annual anti-Christmas party in time to break you out of your post-holiday funk. Head to Metro Gallery on Saturday night to hear performances by rising rapper Locus, singer-songwriter Omnia Azar, and, of course, Jackson with The Backwudz Band. Pro tip: Bring a coat to donate and receive a free Flying Dog Bloodline beer.
DO
Dec. 29: Kwanzaa Celebration
Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. 12-4 p.m. $5.
Whether you’re a practiced celebrator or simply want to learn more about the week-long holiday, devote the third day of Kwanzaa to this all-out celebration at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. Visit the downtown museum to take in traditional African dance and drumming performances, learn more about the holiday’s rich history during workshops and lectures, and browse locally made goods in the African Marketplace.