Looking for a fun way to get in the Christmas spirit? The Cape Fear Literacy Council will host its third annual 12 Tastes of Christmas 7-9 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Brooklyn Arts Center.

Local bars and restaurants will serve bites and sips while guests mingle and enjoy music from DJ Free Waterfall. This year’s participants include: The Blind Elephant, Beer Barrio, Caprice Bistro, Chops Deli, Flytrap Brewing, PinPoint, Palate, Delish NC, Wilmington Brewing Company, Fork ‘N’ Cork, Goat & Compass, Twist & Stout Cakery, Costello’s, Soulful Twist, Detour Deli, Duck & Dive, Freaky Tiki Country Club, YoSake and Folks on Fourth.

Some of the flavor combinations on the lineup are a chocolate stout cupcake with Bailey's Irish Cream buttercream from Twist & Stout Cakery paired with Wilmington Brewing Company’s Blair’s breakfast stout. Another will be a braised short rib mac and cheese from Fork N’ Cork paired with a bourbon and smoked honey cocktail from The Blind Elephant.

According to organizers, 12 Tastes has been a huge success since its inception, raising over $10,000 for the literacy council's Adult Literacy and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. The event has sold out the past two years.

“The impetus behind 12 Tastes is to create a level of affordable giving both for individuals and small businesses, keeping ticket prices and sponsor levels within reach for most budgets,” said Erin Payne, Cape Fear Literacy Council’s director of fund development.

Tickets are $30 each in advance, and a limited number may be sold at the door for $40, depending on availability. Organizers are reminding patrons know that the event is just two hours long and advising them to arrive on time to fully enjoy the many offerings. Click here for tickets and more information.

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