SOCIALLY SWANKY: The upstairs lounge at Le Colonial's is always poppin' on Thursday night's, but expect an especially fun evening tonight with exotic cocktails, delicious appetizers and eclectic holiday mixes from DJ Madrid. 9 p.m., 937 North Rush St
LAWDA MERCY: It may be cold outside, but get that tropical feeling at Reggae Gold, Subterannean's Thursday night party featuring the sounds of DJ Papa G, who spins old school dance hall classics, roots reggae, new hits, bhangara and more. Fuel your evening with $4.50 rum punch and $3.50 Red Stripes. 10 p.m., 2011 W North, $5 Men, Women Free
BAND BOOGIE: Squeeze in one last holiday party tonight with a special performance by the Bandoleros at Pasha in the West Loop. The band is switching up its usual Saturday night residency to perform on this sure-to-be festive evening. Enjoy $5 martinis and $5 shots of Patron all night, along with the newly-revamped menu of hot and cold tapas and several versions of the traditional Spanish dish, paella. 802 West Randolph St., (312) 243-4442
By Christmas Eve you may already be trying to get some distance between you and the fam, and chances are, sweet, sweet alcoholwill be involved. Here's a few spots to get your holiday party on -- especially if you're Jewish and wondering what all the fuss is about.
MATZO BALL: Crimson Lounge is the new location for the 24th annual Matzo Ball, a Christmas Eve bash celebrated in 10 cities across the country targeted toward young, single Jewish professionals -- although everyone is certainly invited. JDate will be in the house with networking and matchmaking games while spins some festive tunes that will likely not include any holiday jams. 8 p.m., 333 N. Dearborn St, Tickets $30
HUBAKAH: HUB51 hosts its annual Christmas Eve bash with tunes by DJ Alex Rage, bites from its popular menu and $5 glasses of Manischewitz Sangria. 4 p.m.-2 a.m., 51 W Hubbard St,
ROCKMITZVAH: This 7th annual event at Rockit Bar & Grill bills itself as Chicago's largest Christmas Eve party. Your $10 ticket includes an appetizer and drink package from from 8:30-10:30 pm, half off food all night and complimentary admission to The Underground later that night. 22 W Hubbard St, Tickets $10
DO THE RIGHT THING: The legendary filmmaker pops through the CHI on the night before Christmas to promote his new book about the 20th anniversary of Do the Right Thing. Spike will be at Barbara's Bookstore to sign copies. 4-6 pm, 1218 S Halsted St, NO COVER, book costs $39.95
LAST CALL: Friday's the last chance to enjoy the Christkindlmarket, the 15th annual, open-air, German-style market showcasing handmade ornaments, accessories, clothing and gifts from more than 50 vendors. Also features German food and drink such as hot spiced wine, potato pancakes, bratwurst, schnitzel, chocolates and more. 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, Daley Plaza (50 W Washington St), FREE
