First Night gets a new name and location

The holiday parties are winding to an end (no more ugly sweater parties!) which means it's time to get ready for New Year's Eve celebrations. First Night is now CLT New Year's Eve and it will be held on MLK at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Starts at 7 p.m. and concludes with the annual raising of the crown and pyrotechnics. There will be food trucks, ice skating at WBT's Holiday On Ice, WBT personalities, carriage rides, face painting and more. More details.

If you're looking for holiday performances, such as this weekend's "Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical" and "A Soulful Noel" please read Lawrence Toppman's comprehensive list. Family holiday events on the Observer's mommy blog.

Please note, I'm compiling my New Year's Eve party list. If you have a NYE party send me details: sipandplayclt@gmail.com.

Now, let's jump into these holiday parties...

Today

Hops and Shops 2 is a chance to shop with beer, always a good thing. The Boulevard at South End, Small Keys, Jewels by Julia, Pink Social, Bearded Buddha and Beau Outfitters on East Blvd will be participating. Papi Queso food truck will be onsite for your grub needs. 5-8 p.m.,  Triple C Brewing Co., 2900 Griffith. The brewery will unveil a batch of 3C Imperial IPA with honey.

Just added Get sweaty at the NoDa Brewery Ugly Sweater Run. Come early and buy a beer ticket. They are expecting a big crowd. Tickets will not be available after the run. Each ticket will cost $4 and worth a 12 oz pour of either CAVU, Jam Session or Ramble on Red. There will be prizes and more. 6 p.m. NoDa Brewing Company, 2229 North Davidson St. Food truck: Papa Librettos Street Pizza. #TJturnup

Thursday

Just added Join the original Cufflinks and Cocktails Jingle Mingle holiday party. 6 p.m.  The Ritz-Carlton (lobby/lounge), 201 East Trade Street. Paid parking available.

Friday

 Updated XOXO presents A VERY TAMPONE CHRISTMAS with your favorite swinging socialites throwing a Christmas Party! Games, songs and the Mystery of Christmas will be yours to enjoy this event. It features a rotating roster of special musical guests and gourmet treats at each performance. 8 p.m. Dec. 19-21. The Frock Shop, 901 Central Ave. $25,18+, Limited Seating. Reservations Required: xoxoperformance@gmail.com Bring a white elephant gift to exchange with someone. #TJTurnup

Just added Get spooked at the Ghosts of Christmas Tour of the 4th Ward. Dress warmly for a candlelit cemetery tour of the 4th Ward hosted by Good Eats and Meets and the Get Dead Crew. 7 p.m. RiRa, 208 N. Tryon St. $15/$25. 

Saturday

Just added A Few Good Men host the 6th Annual Christmas Jumpoff party. Enjoy drink specials and food until 1:30 a.m. Music by the Mighty DJ D.R. 9 p.m. Fountain Blue Lounge, 7200 Albermarle Road (East Albermarle Shopping Center near Albermarle and Laywers roads)

















Just added Break out your ugliest sweater and you could win $100 gift card at Nan and Byron's Ugly Holiday Sweater Party. Enjoy beer and vodka specials and a late night menu. Music by DJ Bwillackers. 10 p.m. Nan and Byron's, 1714 South Blvd. Parking onsite.

Got a holiday party? sipandplayclt@gmail.com