Weekend best bets: Friday, Dec. 13

It's not too early to get in the holiday spirit; honestly, we'll take any excuse to throw on a tacky sweater and drink eggnog. Here are our top picks for holiday fun this weekend:

Ugly Sweater Party — takes place at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13 at Gecko's at the Landings. This third annual party features candy-cane martinis, a gift exchange and a Nightmare Before Christmas Theme.

Sandy Claws Beach Run — takes place at 8 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14 at Siesta Key Beach. Mixing fitness with holiday celebrations never killed anyone. Kick off your Saturday with this Christmas-themed 5k and 1-mile fun run.

Atomic Holiday Bazaar — takes place from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14 and Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. This indie craft show offers a nice change of pace from the traditional.

Growler's Christmas Party — takes place at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Growler's Pub. Top off your Sunday funday with a Christmas celebration at Growler's. Staff will be tapping Chimay Tripel with some Chimay give-a-ways.

featured photo by Joe Sedik