Christmas Day for some is a day to welcome Santa’s gifts and be merry with hot chocolate and fruitcake. For others, it’s a day to avoid Uncle Steve’s weird questions or your cousin’s bad choice to propose that morning to the sketchy chick everyone pretends to like. Or for some, it’s a holiday that’s not celebrated at all. That said, there is no greater equalizer than the mighty beverage, and for that we have plenty of places available to imbibe (and grab a bite), with or without family, on Christmas Day in Charm City.

Eichenkranz: This German food serving spot is open every Christmas from 8:30 AM–9 PM and is as happy to serve some schnitzel as it is a bottle of beer. If you’re looking for a spot to hide where your family will never find you, this is exactly where you should be. (611 S Fagley St.; 410-563-7577)

Cat’s Eye Pub: This popular waterfront joint is open 365 days a year with music every single one of those days. We can’t think of a better way to spend the holiday, if not with family, than with downing some of the brews on tap at this Fell’s Point mainstay. (1730 Thames St.; 410-276-9866)

Apropoe’s: This spot at the Waterfront Marriott will be open and ready to serve their regular menu as well as the kicked up bar offerings with a brand new whiskey program. Christmas just got a little brighter. (700 Aliceanna St.; 410-895-1879)

Wit & Wisdom: You can always stop by the bar here for warm or chilled top notch libations (we particularly adore the hot buttered rum as well as their whiskey cocktails), but if you want to nosh a bit they have that too. Don’t want to prepare breakfast for the whole crew? Pop into W&W for a happening holiday spread including eggs, a yogurt parfait bar, local smoked salmon and fresh pastries, as well as coffee and juice, from 8 AM until 11 AM for $55 for adults and $25 for children.

Later in the day, reserve a table for a three-course meal prepared by Chef Zack Mills including quail, short ribs and a wild mushroom veloute from 2 PM until 8 PM for $79 for adults ($35 optional wine pairing) and $45 for children. (200 International Dri.; 410-576-5800)

The Prime Rib at Maryland Live! Casino: Perhaps Santa will drop some presents to you via the slot machines! Or just go and dine at this top notch spot where you can enjoy a special three-course “Christmas Holiday Menu,” which features seasonal dishes and starts with a glass of Roederer Brut Champagne at $85 per person. Make reservations by calling 443-445-2970 or online at www.marylandlivecasino.com. Dress code applies. (7002 Arundel Mills Cir.; 443-445-2970)

Live! Buffet at Maryland Casino: For a less costly casino option, the multi-station Live! Buffet will feature a “Winter-fest” Christmas Buffet from 5–10 PM. Dishes include carved roast turkey, carved pork loin, decorated gingerbread cookies, fruit pies, cobblers and buche de noel for $17.99 per person (plus tax and gratuity). We particularly are digging on the 50% off bottle of Domaine Ste. Michelle Sparkling Brut.  (7002 Arundel Mills Cir.; 443-445-2955)

Sotto Sopra: One of the best Italian spots in Baltimore, there are few better places to grab a top notch glass of wine and delectable Italian cuisine. (405 N Charles St.; 410-625-0534)

Horseshoe Casino: From Jack Binion’s Steakhouse to Guy Fieri’s new spot, there are a plethora of options to fulfill your dining needs while imbibing a bit, either at the restaurants or after hitting the games. (1525 Russell St.; 844-777-SHOE [7463])

La Tasca: Offering tapas and paella right at the Inner Harbor, this spot has its regular menu on from 11AM–6 PM on Christmas day. We highly recommend their sangria. You’re welcome. (201 E Pratt St.; 410-209-2562)

La Tavola: Open from 11:30 AM–9:30 PM on Christmas, this classy Little Italy spot is ready to serve its high quality dishes for the holiday. We particularly love their linguine with white truffles, but if you’re looking for drinks only, their wine and beer lists will not disappoint. (248 Albemarle St.; 410-685-1859)

M&S Grill: This Inner Harbor mainstay is a perfect place for lower dollar offerings than its sister restaurant, and the same goes for drinks. Pop in for their regular menu, or just sit and have some cold ones on the chilly holiday afternoon. (201 E Pratt St.; 410-547-9333)

McCormick and Schmick’s: Fancy shmancy it is, but don’t be intimidated. You can eat your weight in high quality seafood here, or just indulge in some drinks at the bar. (711 Eastern Ave.; 410-234-1300)

Regi’s American Bistro: This Fed Hill favorite has plenty of drinks to die for, so feel free to drown your Christmas woes, or celebrate the happy holiday with some beverages. If you’re looking for food, they have a special three-course menu including the likes of free range turkey, local baked ham, Australian lamb chops and side dishes that are also “to die for.” (1002 Light St.; 410-539-7344)

Keep in mind that many of your favorite places may be open around town in the evening, too, after the staff has had the chance to spend time with family. After all, one of the charming parts of Charm City is its ability to serve that which makes us all so charming! Cheers, and happy holidays!