Tasting Table Chicago 12/20/12

Weekend Menu

Through Friday, 12/21 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Free

Haute and Cold

Finish your holiday shopping at the Chicago French Market, which transforms for a short time into a traditional Marche de Noel. Vendors will display one-of-a-kind holiday finds, children's toys and French holiday fare, in addition to the regular market offerings (Pastoral and Wisma are especially good sources of gift fodder). Chicago French Market, 131 N. Clinton St.;=20 312-575-0306 or frenchmarketchicago.com

Friday, 12/21 6 p.m., Free

Last Call

The Mayan calendar ends on 12/21, and if the apocalypse is at hand, you may as well go out buzzed. Stone Brewing and Jerry's have you covered with an evening of selected craft beers, including an assortment of Vertical Epic Ales and a red-wine-barrel-aged brew. Jerry's Wicker Park, 1938 W. Division St.; 773-235-1006 or jerryssandwiches.com 

Saturday, 12/22 11 a.m., $10

Jingle Bell Hops

Want to start your Saturday with beer? Get in line a bit early; only the first 60 people are admitted for this North Side brewery's weekly tour, the last before Christmas. If you don't make the cut, grab a consolation pint in the recently opened tap room, which features a rotating collection of 10 brews. Half Acre Beer Company, 4257 N. Lincoln Ave.; 773-248-4038 or halfacrebeer.com