‘Tis the season to appreciate the winter weather, see family and friends, and have a drink or two with coworkers at the much anticipated (though often awkward) office holiday party. Whether you are looking to gather for a casual drink or plan a private party to celebrate the season, Baltimore has plenty of great locations with superb drink specials to host your event.

Heavy Seas Ale House: The private room at Heavy Seas is perfect for holiday events, with its separate bar and welcoming, pyrate-friendly atmosphere. The quality of the food here will be quite the conversation starter; the appetizers alone would draw a crowd to your party. Not to mention the plentiful Heavy Seas draft options and beer cocktails at your fingertips (1300 Bank St.; 410-522-0850).

Frank and Nic’s: With multiple room options based on size of your party, Frank and Nic’s has private dining as well as drink packages available. This self-proclaimed “ritzy take on a sports bar” has all the drink staples accounted for in order to have a successful holiday get together. And for downtown businesses, the location just outside of Camden Yards is hard to beat (511 W. Pratt St.; 410-685-6800).

Max’s Taphouse: Depending on the culture of your office environment, you may want to consider a more laid back version to the typical holiday get-together. Max’s has private rooms available with the option to make a private beer list, and a great sound system for you to hook up your holiday playlist for some impromptu karaoke (737 S. Broadway; 410-675-6297).

Mr. Rain’s Fun House: An interesting decor is important for a holiday party backdrop to create the right atmosphere for post-work socializing. Not only is there plenty to talk about at this Federal Hill restaurant attached to the American Visionary Arts Museum, but the quality of drinks from the bar are hard to beat. This is not the place for a large office outing but is perfect  for a smaller gathering (800 Key Hwy.; 443-524-7379).

The Wine Market: Tucked alongside the dining area, the private room here makes for an excellent spot for a medium to large office gathering. With a large range of wine options and seasonal cocktails, the well is sure to not run dry at this Locust Point locale (921 E. Fort Ave.; 410-244-6166).

Photo by Danya Henninger