The Howler Family has a lot of holiday traditions. Some wholesome, some indulgent, all cherished. As we wind down the year, we’re serving up a handful of our seasonal favorites: the music we’re playing, the treats we make, the Christmas dives we’re haunting, and the drinks we maybe shouldn’t love as much as we do. Pull up a chair, pour something warm, and dig in.
Music
Our friends, Futurebirds, dropped by Howler Hacienda this month to sprinkle a little Christmas magic on all of us. They recorded a soulful reprise of “Christmas Must Be Tonight” by The Band. Turn this one up while you’re decking the proverbial halls.
Recipe
Nothing cuts through holiday chaos and the in-laws bullshit like a steaming mug of mulled cider. Jordan’s version smells like Christmas and hits like a warm seasonal hug for your frazzled nerves. Make a batch for your next gathering or just to have on hand as your personal escape. escape the holiday hustle and bustle.
Ingredients:
Tools you’ll need: Cheesecloth, kitchen string, a large pot, mugs
Directions:
Wrap cloves, allspice, ginger, cinnamon, and peppercorns in cheesecloth and tie with string. Combine cider, cranberry juice, brown sugar, and spice bag in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes.
Add 1 oz bourbon to each mug, fill with hot cider, and finish with nutmeg + a cinnamon stick. Proceed to sip triumphantly.
Recipe
A pie so good it won the family Thanksgiving bake-off two years in a row! This southern classic is simple, decadent, and always gets demolished. It was passed down from a family friend 22 years ago and has been a classic every year since (but Killian added the bourbon in recent years).
Ingredients:
Directions:
Pro tip: You’ll have enough to make two pies. Buy an extra pie crust and freeze one for later!
Destination
If Santa ditched the North Pole and opened a dive bar, it would look a lot like Donn’s Depot in December. Imagine a hazy, western-leaning Christmas fever dream. That’s the vibe. We’ve been celebrating the holidays there as a team for years for good reason.
Music
It wouldn’t be the Howlerdays without a seasonal playlist curated exclusively by our maestro-in-chief, Andy Stepanian! Dial up Howlerdays are Here Again! while you light it up this holiday.
