At Miracle on Maryland, you can expect festive drinks like Jingle Balls Nog and Coconut Hot Chocolate. | Photo by @miracleonmaryland
What’s better than a local bar? A local bar with a holiday-themed pop-up.
As the most wonderful time of the year begins, several over-the-top holiday bars are opening around Indy.
The Polar Lodge, Grindstone on the Monon | Wednesdays-Sundays now-TBD
Feast on comfort bites + winter warmers on the heated patio, surrounded by icicle lights, greenery, and a family of friendly polar bears.
Union Jack Pub has been concocting fun menu items like this Little Debbie martini since 1979.
Union Jack Frost, Union Jack Pub | Now-Dec. 31 All we want for Christmas is a Little Debbie martini from this family-run, all-ages space for festive food and drinks.
St. Nick’s Lodge, Harry & Izzy’s Northside | Thursdays-Sundays now-Dec. 21
Cozy up in Santa’s hideaway surrounded by snow-frosted evergreens and twinkling lights.
Miracle on Maryland | Now-Dec. 31
Enjoy delightfully tacky decorations, delicious drinks, and “the nostalgic energy of the best office party you’ve ever been to.”
Blitzen’s, Omni Severin Hotel | Now-Jan. 2
Get a taste of the holidays with 10 cocktails curated by mixologist Julie Reiner from Netflix’s “Drink Masters,” plus small bites like Santa’s Secret Cookie Stash and Miso Tinsel.
Call it the curse of the cat. The Colts lost their 11th straight away game to the Jaguars on Sunday, and quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon tear. Find out who might replace him. (WTHR)
Traffic
Commuters, take note: The ramp from southbound I-69 to Binford Boulevard will be closed from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. today for bridge work related to the Clear Path 465 project. (WTHR)
Try This
Been waiting forever for your big break? Maybe you’ll get it on The TODAY Show, which will film at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt on Friday, Dec. 19 at 7:30 a.m. Visitors are welcome to join the crowd — just keep in mind the shops won’t be open during the time of filming.
Arts
Contemporary art is finally returning to Indy. CAMi, Big Car Collaborative’s new museum, will open on May 1, offering visitors a truly unique museum experience that’s less rules and elitism and more vibes. Go behind the scenes. (Mirror Indy)
Holiday
Celebrate the season at A Merry Prairie Holiday. Wander through twinkling lights, enjoy 1800s holiday traditions, skate at Frosty’s Sock Rink, and take a selfie with Santa. Festivities run Fridays through Sundays through December 21, and on December 22 + 23. Grab tickets.*
Pets
As the temperatures drop, city ordinances that help keep pets safe from life-threatening cold are important to follow. Here’s your refresher. (WTHR)
Listen
Ouch.Notre Dame has been snubbed by the CFP Committee. Locked On explains what’s next for the team.
Ranked
If you know a Gen Zer who can’t carry a conversation in a paper bag, you’re apparently not alone. According to a recent survey, Indy ranked the No. 5 city with the most socially awkward young people. Maybe sign them up for one of these groups where they can make new friends?
Post of the Day
One of Indy’s most iconic signs celebrates the Hoosiers. | Photo by @oneamerica
Ursula, the Indianapolis Zoo’s new Amur tiger tenant, emerged from quarantine last week. Stop by the zoo to catch a glimpse of her as she checks out her new snowy home.