Crying Eagle has three planned events to help make Christmas, New Year’s merry and bright
Published 11:43 am Friday, December 22, 2023
Crying Eagle Brewery, 1165 E. McNeese St., has three fun-filled, festive events lined up for the final weeks of 2023: Winter Family Fun Fest, ‘Friendsmas Party’ and the New Year’s Eve Bash.
For those at Crying Eagle, annual holiday events help foster a sense of community and celebrate the holiday spirit. This is a practice that is at the “heart of Crying Eagle’s culture,” said Amber Jay, general manager, Crying Eagle Brewery.
“Our brewery has always aimed to create a welcoming space where people come together, not just for great beer but for memorable experiences and connections.”
The goal of every event at Crying Eagle – merry or mundane – is to nurture warmth, belonging and celebration in the residents of Southwest Louisiana.
“It’s about creating a tapestry of memories that reflect the diversity and spirit of the season for everyone who walks through our doors. Whether it’s the joy on a child’s face at the Family Fun Fest, the camaraderie of friends at the Friendsmas Party, or the excitement of ringing in the New Year together, these events embody the essence of the holidays – bringing people together.”
The slate of celebrations offer an opportunity to celebrate for every age group. Jay explained that they are motivated by family values to create experiences for everyone, “because fostering connections across generations is essential to building a vibrant and united community.”
All three events are free and open to the public.
Winter Family Fun Fest
The first of the trio of events kicks off on Saturday, Dec. 23 with the Winter Family Fun Fest. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., families of all ages are encouraged to come together to embrace the holiday spirit with activities, craft, treats and one-on-one moments with cherished holiday characters.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will make their way down from the North Pole to take timeless photos with SWLA families. The Grinch will tag along to sing along to holiday songs during Kids Karaoke.
Face painting and holiday crafts -painting, holiday ornament making – will be set up to let kids’ “imaginations soar with artists expressions” through festive creative outlets.
Guests will also have the chance to warm up with a custom hot chocolate from the “deliciously decadent” loaded hot chocolate bar.
Jay said in a release that the Crying Eagle team is excited to join the community for a “day of pure holiday delight.”
“This event is our way of bringing everyone together to celebrate the joy of the season in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.”
‘Friendsmas Party’
From 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 23, Crying Eagle will turn into a “hub of holiday merriment and camaraderie” for the annual “Friendsmas Party.” The event serves as a chance for friends to come together to celebrate the “laughter, joy and delightful moments” that the holiday season has to offer.
To get the party started, there will be a variety of exclusive drink specials crafted by the Crying Eagle team, including flagship beers, selections from the Winter Cocktail list and the special – and discounted – “Grinch” shot.
At 7 p.m, Zachery O’Quinn and The Sabine Turnaround will take the stage to keep the energy high and jolly. Jay told The American Press that the band’s “vibrant energy and versatile musical style” will only enhance the atmosphere of the event.
“Their charismatic stage presence and ability to interact with the crowd align perfectly with the lively, social nature of a ‘Friendsmas’ party. We wanted an act that could not only provide great music but also create an atmosphere where friends could come together, laugh, dance, and make memories.”
Festive attire is encouraged.
New Year’s Eve Bash
Crying Eagle will ring in 2024 with the annual New Year’s Eve Bash, from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 31.
Celebrants can expect drink specials, live music and “pure celebration.” Gino V will kick off the night, and will be followed by DJ Hot Willz. At midnight, complimentary champagne will be passed out for a New Year’s Eve toast at midnight.
Upstairs VIP seating options are available. A table for six can be reserved for $150. This includes two bottles of champagne, hors d-oeuvres and access to the private bar and bathrooms. Individual entry is $25.
