Weekend Preview: Holiday cheer

Christmas season is in full swing now that the turkey casserole, turkey sandwiches, turkey chunks and turkey stew are gone after a week of leftovers from Thanksgiving. It’s a good thing then that there are a few events this weekend to get even the Scroogiest of Scrooges into the holiday spirit.

The first on the list is quite literal. Few things say “holiday cheer” quite like a fine cocktail. Varsity Grill is hosting a tasting of Signiture Finlandia Vodka cocktails, and a showcasing of the new JB Eau De Parfun from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. tonight. There will be appetizers and paraffin hand massages to relieve the stress of shopping and drinking.

Also on tap tonight is the Art Doors Auction at Speakeasy Cooperative that will benefit Tacoma Art Place, Speakeasy and the local artists. The auctioneers of this annual event will be Alan and Cheryl Gorsuch of Sanford & Son Antiques. Our MC for the night will be Pierce County Auditor Julie Anderson, also known as the Energizer bunny of elected officials. Kim Archer and Nick Sandy will provide entertainment. Tickets start at $10 for this all-ages event.

An event for the whole family occurs Saturday, when the Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center will host a Kids Day at the Mary Bridge Festival of Trees, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Families can view the decorated trees, get their pictures taken with Santa and entertain the children with crafts and activities. Tickets are $2 to $6.

Let the festivities begin.