Get out early today before you hit the streets

Today is the calm after the storm. It's time to reset and prep for New Year's Eve. On nights like this, I head to my favorite chill spots such as Soul Gastrolounge which boasts a new Winter Cocktail List. I'm also digging the bourbon selection at The Improper Pig's bar, which recently opened in Cotswold. The bar is tiny, but the bourbon selection is great. My friends would also say that I'm becoming obsessed with the city's ever-growing local brewery scene.

If you're looking to hear live music, check out Courtney Devores weekend picks of Charlotte's own Another Lost Year at Amos Southend and Misguided Youth at Snug Harbor. 

Now let's get this party started. See you in the streets....

College Hoops - Watch the Kentucky v. Louisville rivalry with diehard Wildcats fans. This is usually a fun party with a DJ and rabid fans. 2 p.m. Sip Charlotte, 200 N. Tryon St. Ste. 100

Celebrate Kwanzaa - Enjoy African music, storytelling and learn about the seven principles of Kwanzaa at the Nubian Rootz Cultural Center's Kwanzaa Celebration & African Marketplace. 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. Tuckaseegee Recreation Center, 4820 Tuckaseegee Road. 

The B-Sides - Enjoy hip-hop, soul, rare grooves and other classics spun by DJ 2Tone and DJ Justice along with art by Dammit Wesley at Su Casa: Rarities and B-Sides. 9 p.m., Petra's Piano Bar, 1919 Commonwealth Ave. $5.

Happy Birthday Herb! - Celebrate with Charlotte's favorite couple Herb and Felicia Gray for Herb Gray's Birthday Celebration. 9 p.m., Sports One, 521 N. College St.

Don't Forget:

Ashy Larry Is Back -You've seen Donnell Rawlings as Ashy Larry on the "Chappelle Show." $17. Various show times starting at 8 p.m. The Comedy Zone, 900 NC Music Factory.

Warning: This is adult comedy!

Holla: sipandplayclt@gmail.com