Five Awesome Bars Open On Christmas Eve

It's the night before Christmas if you're looking for one last knees up before the family arrive, get into the spirit with a night on the town. No plans yet? No problem! Eater's here with a handy set of recommendations to assist in your Christmas Eve destination decision-making. From five star to dive bar, below are five San Diego watering holes that promise a night of festive antics and fun.

Bison Burgers & Belgian Drafts: Encinitas Ale House

Cozy up on Christmas Eve at this petite North County public house famed for its extensive list of Belgian brews including Cuvée des Trolls and Delirium Tremens. Great for suds and pub grub, here you can try a flight of four 5 oz. pours for $10 or single 5 oz. tastes for $2.50, plus robust burgers like Kobe sliders and wild game variants such as buffalo and elk. During happy hour (Wednesday to Friday, 3 - 6 p.m.) enjoy $2 off drafts, $5 wines ($8 off bottles), plus half off all starters and apps. HOURS: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. 1044 S. Coast Hwy. (760) 943-7180 [Photo: Trip Advisor]

Christmas Carols Around The Piano: Red Fox Room

Grab a martini and gather round the piano for an impromptu carol session at this feted steakhouse and piano bar. With its low amber lighting, 16th Century English woodwork and old-school-cool burgundy red Naugahyde booths, the 'Fox makes a nostalgic spot to gather with friends, or that someone special, the night before Christmas. Known for 'stiff cocktails, steak and seafood' enjoy a reasonably priced petite filet mignon or surf and turf special along with a beverage or two while soaking up a little San Diego history. HOURS: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. 2223 El Cajon Blvd. (619) 297-1313 [Photo: The Lafayette Hotel]

Pints & Pizza: Blind Lady Ale House

Courtesy of BLAH

Renowned for its exceptional craft beer list and wood-fired pizzas this Normal Heights mainstay will be open between 5 - 10 p.m. for all your Christmas Eve drinking needs. Stop by and enjoy The Flight Before Xmas, featuring CorsendoNk Christmas, Automatic Amalgamation with Cherries, N'Ice Chouffe, DogFish Head Pennsylvania Tuxedo, Craftsman Fall Back and Hell Hath No Fury. Or pick up one of their festive 'Blue Christmas' sweater tees while supplies last. 3416 Adams Ave. (619) 255-2491 [Photo: Facebook]

Games, Beer & Good Cheer: Sidecar

The sister bar to Midtown's Regal Beagle, Sidecar is a convivial Bay Park dive boasting great vibes, friendly bartenders and a good selection of San Diego brews. Here you will find a weekly rotating keg selection, 16 oz. canned local beers from Swami's IPA and Modern Times, plus cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Irish mimosas. Not to mention solid pub games like darts and pool, plus hipster fave Big Buck Hunter. Sustenance comes in the form of occasional food trucks with Beagle burgers a regular feature on Fridays. Other happenings include brewery events and live music throughout the week. HOURS: 3 p.m. - 2 a.m., happy hour (Monday to Friday) 3 - 7 p.m. 1310 Morena Blvd. (619) 230-5715 [Photo: Facebook]

Leatherbound Books & Rich Mahogany: Lobby Lounge

For impeccable service and sumptuous surrounds this Christmas Eve park up at The Grand in Del Mar for expertly crafted cocktails and light bites. Enjoy a fireside scotch in the handsome library, or sip an expertly mixed drink like the strawberry-infused tequila Amor Dulce Amor Martini by the commanding marble bar. Light fare such as the crispy tuna roll, or California cheese and charcuterie board will pair perfectly without ruining your appetite. HOURS: 2 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. 5300 Grand Del Mar Ct. (858) 314-2000 [Photo: Trip Advisor]