Today, being Thursday, means I have already been looking forward to the weekend for a couple of days now. With so many events and activities going on during this time of year, it is always difficult to decide what to do. There is 'this' Holiday party, and 'that' holiday party, and the one of a 'friend of a friend,' and it goes on and on.

When I realized that this weekend is Arcadia Brewing Co.'s Highland Christmas: 13Th Anniversary Party, I realized other plans could be rescheduled. It's this Saturday (as in two days away). Arcadia, specializing in handcrafted British-style ales, makes one of my favorite beers, the Hopmouth Double IPA (mmmm, mmm good!). I love taking people there who've never experienced it; because it is an experience! From the second you walk in the door, you smell the hops and know you are in for a treat. The food is great too... ok... anyway... back to the Christmas event...

Tim Surprise, Arcadia Founder & President, kicks off the event at 5:00 p.m. with the 'Address to the Haggis.' The night will get interesting as Arcadia's Brew Crew & Tavern team kilt up with members of the Kalamazoo Pipe Band. You don't have to go to the hills of Scotland to hear Highland Bagpipe music and the Celtic ensemble Fonn Mor (8:00 p.m.), just head to downtown Battle Creek!

So, here's the deal. There will be a cover charge of $5 for this event; $2 from that, and $1 from every glass of beer poured, will be donated to a great cause; the Food Bank of South Central Michigan. Guests are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food items (so take a look in your cupboards and see what you can spare.)

And, to put the plaid on the kilt, or so-to-speak, Arcadia will also debut their 13th Anniversary Ale Cereal City Beer along side a delicious menu of Arcadia and Scotland's best.

So, if you can't afford a trip to Scotland this Christmas, check out Arcadia's 'Highland Christmas.' Support a great cause and hang out with new friends and old!