Thanksgiving Eve is arguably the biggest social night of the year, and if you’re still stumped about how to properly pregame for the big feast, the local bar scene has you covered. Gather your hometown crew, reminisce about old times, and start the long weekend off right by hitting any one of these spots in celebration of the so-called “alco-holiday.”
Goodbye Pikesville Party at Colette: The craft cocktail community was shocked a few weeks back when it was announced that Baltimore’s beloved Pikesville Rye had been discontinued. (Apparently, us Baltimoreans are the only ones in the country who drink the stuff, so Rittenhouse could no longer justify its production.) Luckily, Colette has a few bottles of the white-label whiskey stashed away for safekeeping. On Thanksgiving Eve, give the special spirit a proper sendoff at this party featuring live DJ entertainment, whiskey cocktail specials, and rye-infused desserts. 1709 N. Charles St., 443-835-2945
Friendsgiving Fête at The Chausseur: From charity fundraisers to holiday parties, this convivial corner spot is a known go-to for neighborhood get-togethers. At a special pre-Turkey Day bash, munch on duck-fat tots, order a round of discounted drinks, and enjoy the company of old friends. Plus, in the spirit of giving, bring a few canned goods for a chance to win raffle prizes. 3328 Foster Ave., 410-327-6984
Thanksgiving Cooking Class at Schola: If the bar scene isn’t your thing, ditch the lines and prepare for Turkey Day at this cooking class led by chef Jerry Pellegrino. Whether you’re throwing together a feast for the masses or just hoping to perfect a potluck pleaser, the tutorial will go over all of the basics including how to whip up a green bean casserole, macaroni and cheese, cranberry sauce, pumpkin soda bread, and maple-sausage stuffing. 1005 N. Charles St., 443-714-7516, $49
Thanksgiving Eve Bash at Michael’s Café: Head to this Timonium mainstay for its annual Black Wednesday party featuring drink specials and plenty of live music. Snag a seat at the indoor bar to jam to live alternative covers by the Luthervillians, or venture onto the heated outdoor patio to enjoy music spun by DJ Leni K. 2119 York Road, Timonium, 410-252-2022
The Last Waltz Live Toy Drive: At this special Waverly Brewing Company show, a handful of local bands are coming together to perform covers from The Last Waltz—Martin Scorcese’s 1978 documentary detailing the final performance of roots rock group The Band. Spend your “Dranksgiving” sipping craft drafts while bobbing your head to familiar renditions (think “Up on Cripple Creek”) from the likes of local rockers Mike Darby, Reggie Styte, and Dunn Brandt. The brewery will be collecting unwrapped gifts to be donated to Healthcare for the Homeless all night long. 1625 Union Ave., 443-438-5765
Thanksgiving Eve Party at Bond Street Social: With sleek woods, leather furnishings, and flickering fireplaces, this aptly named gathering place on the water in Fells Point is a great spot to catch up with friends you haven’t seen in a while. For the price of admission, enjoy one drink on the house, complimentary passed hors d’oeuvres, and DJ entertainment from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. 901 S. Bond St., 443-449-6234, $10
Friendsgiving at Black Flag Brewing: This brand new brewery in Columbia is celebrating its first Thanksgiving with a beer bash in its taproom showcasing signature releases like the Z. Morris blonde ale and the Mother of Dragons porter made with cherry wood-smoked malts. Make the most of your Turkey Wednesday by touring the brewery, filling a growler or two to stock up for the holidays, and feasting on pit beef and pulled pork from Laurel-based caterer Giggy’s BBQ. 9315 Snowden River Parkway, Ste. C, Columbia, 443-864-5139
The Bridge’s 15th Anniversary Thanksgiving Eve: The Bridge may have “broken up” a few times, but you can always count on the beloved local funk and blues band to reunite the night before Thanksgiving to commemorate the anniversary of their first show. It’s been 15 years since the sextet first started jamming together, and on November 23 they’re keeping their yearly tradition alive, taking the stage at Ram’s Head Live for a special performance with local electronic funk rockers Electric Love Machine (ELM). Grab a beer, squeeze your way into the crowd, and get nostalgic with familiar tunes like “Big Wheel” and “Easy Jane.” 20 Market Place, 410-244-1131, $29.50
Black Phriday at Baltimore Soundstage: Technically, this one is happening after Thanksgiving, but we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Psycho Killers’ annual Black Friday Show to benefit Toys for Tots. This year, the local Talking Heads cover band is switching things up by collaborating with members of ELM and Weekapaug Orchestra to perform a special tribute to Phish. Beloved Baltimore soul singer Bosley is also featured on the lineup for the special event, which annually collects unwrapped toys to be donated to families in need during the holidays. 124 Market Place, 410-244-0057, $15-18