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A neighborhood classic that welcomes patrons in a spirit all its own. At Beacon Hill, look for the formerly titled Bull & Finch Pub, the original inspiration for the television series Cheers. At Faneuil Hall, the bar is a replica of the Hollywood set. Traditional pub fare. Open daily from 11 a.m.
This celebrated social club has a warm atmosphere, glowing fireplace and a wall of windows overlooking the Public Garden. The bar is known for its award-winning martinis and classic cocktails, perfect accompaniments to tinkling notes from the baby grand. Light-fare menu. Weekly live solo piano: Tu-Th 6-11 p.m., F-Sa 6 p.m.-midnight. Open M-Sa 11:30-12:30 a.m., Su noon-11:30 p.m. Formal attire.
This small chamber ensemble brings the inspired works of centuries ago to life again playing period music from the baroque, classical and early romantic periods on wind, string, and keyboard instruments. Tickets: $25-75, free ages 17 and under.
Founded in 1970 to perform the complete cycle of J.S. Bach’s cantatas in the liturgical setting they were meant for. Today, the ensemble continues this tradition, as well as presenting large-scale and operatic works of Bach and other composers, frequently working with such luminaries as John Harbison, Mark Morris and Peter Sellars. Tickets: $10-25.
Boston’s main rendezvous for French ex-pats and fans of the Octagon puts on a fun, festive event that makes for a joyeux noel. Shop ‘til you drop for gifts with French flair, including jewelry, accessories, candles, culinary delights, décor, linens, books, toys and more. Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets: $5.
Offers diversity in Boston’s music scene with this gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered-friendly ensemble that performs masterful choral works under the direction of Artistic Director David Hodgkins. Tickets: $18-38.
Adjacent to the Back Bay’s popular Rattlesnake, this club calls to chic professionals with contemporary design and a top-of-the-line entertainment system. Signature cocktails and singles rule the scene here, and the later evening hours are especially busy. Open Th-Sa 6 p.m.-2 a.m.
Support Special Olympics athletes by hitting the pavement and touring the Hub on this 5K fun run that’s spirited and not at all geared toward serious runners. Dec. 6. Race begins at 10 a.m. Registration fee: $35.
A menu with southwestern and Cuban influences that includes the likes of pulled pork, chili and quesadillas is the perfect complement to this spicy joint that has a bustling nightlife scene, especially later in the week. Casual and lively, the Rattlesnake has margaritas and sangria in addition to typical bar offerings. Open daily 11:30-2 a.m.
The Goethe-Institut is dedicated to promoting the German language and fostering international cultural cooperation. Accordingly, the organization offers monthly lectures, films and music events. Visit the Web site for full schedule.
The versatile group of young musicians combines classic chamber music with contemporary and rarely heard pieces to create dynamic and varied performances. Sat at 8 p.m., Su at 3 p.m. Tickets: $18-38.
Whiskey Park is among nightclub mogul Rande Gerber’s empire of ultrahip lounges. While a cocktail does cost a bit more here, you’ll be sipping in an intimate and stylish setting, which features liquid leather love seats, faux mink couches and mahogany bars. Light fare menu. Open M-Sa 4 p.m.-2 a.m., Su 7 p.m.-2 a.m.
Known as “Boston’s living room,” this upscale bar located in the Four Seasons Hotel offers a classic experience and a beautiful view of the Public Garden. Soothing piano music sets the ambiance for relishing a meal, smooth cocktails or the daily afternoon tea service (3-4:30 p.m.). Don’t miss the dessert buffet F-Sa 9 p.m.-midnight. Open M-Th 11-1 a.m., F-Sa 11-2 a.m., Su 11 a.m.-midnight.
This charming watering hole’s dark wooden elements were handcrafted in Ireland and then shipped across the Atlantic, and together with hand-painted murals and stone hearts, create an inviting experience. A heavily Irish staff pours perfect pints to wash down fish and chips or classic Irish boxty. Open M-Sa 11-2 a.m., Su noon-2 a.m.
Calling this quaint old pub a dive only works because it’s located in blue-blooded Beacon Hill. The neighborhood misfit calls to a casual crowd that includes local professionals as often as it does working class folk. Try your hand at darts, belly up to the bar for a pint or sample the tuna melt or spinach dip. Open M-Sa 11:30-1 a.m., Su noon-1 a.m.
The citizens of Nova Scotia give a 50-foot-tall evergreen spruce tree to the city of Boston annually as a symbol of friendship. Gather in Boston Common for the lighting and help celebrate the Yuletide with The Garrett Mason Band from Nova Scotia, choir caroling, Santa and more. Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. Free.
Retro fabulous with a large bar and couches where patrons can mingle and listen to the jukebox, this is a great early evening spot. Large windows let the light in and provide ample people-watching opportunities. Affordable menu of bar fare and an especially good place for lunch. Open M-F 11:30 a.m.-midnight, Sa 11:30-1 a.m., Su 5 p.m.-1 a.m.
BalletRox offers an edgy take on this original holiday rite. It follows Hoffman’s traditional 19th-century fairytale, but the choreography incorporates ballet, swing, hip-hop and tap with Tchaikovsky’s classic score and the sounds of Duke Ellington. Features more than 40 diverse local dancers. Dec. 5-21. Tickets: $20-55.
Boston comics with Boston attitude. Catch a glimpse of Boston through the eyes of local comedians. A refurbished bank with cartoon wall murals of famous human “Beans” and Beantown locations provide the backdrop for some of the area’s funniest stand-up comedy. There’s no telling who might drop by for a guest set. Regular shows M-Th at 8:30 p.m., open mic night on Su. Tickets: $12. National and local headliners F-Sa at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Tickets: $20.
Locals will remember this space as the former digs of the Big Easy. Now adjacent to Suite, the double level club complex comes complete with a vamped-up atmosphere, giant fireplaces, baroque accents and a huge staircase. Nightly entertainment features international DJs and a lot of action on the dance floor. Open F-Sa 10 p.m.-2 a.m.