December Must List

From tailgating at the Alexis to drawing jams at the Gage Academy. Here are our picks for the top to-do’s for December

Create Fearlessly
Gage Academy Drawing Jam
Feeling artsy? The Gage Academy of Art is holding its ninth annual Drawing Jam, a lively event that welcomes all comers and even provides free art supplies. More than 50 models—including a few “stars of Seattle”—will hold very still as you capture their essence. Drawing rooms are organized by age—adults will have the chance to draw nudes, for example, whereas kids will be presented with an appropriately clothed Father Christmas. Ready, set, draw! 12/6. 10 a.m.–10 p.m. $10 adults; teens and younger free. Gage Academy, 1501 10th Ave. E; 206.323.4243; gageacademy.org/drawingjam.

Live Vicariously
The Metropolitan Opera on local movie Screens
Experiencing opera at the Met might be a lifelong dream, but who can afford the airfare to New York? Save your money and see the spectacle at the movies instead. The Met is broadcasting several live performances in HDTV at area theaters, including Pacific Place and Bella Botega. This month see a new production of Jules Massenet’s Thaïs, the racy tale of a monk hell-bent on converting a hottie, starring aria goddess Renée Fleming in the title role. 12/20. Times and prices vary. See Web site for venue information and other performances through May. 800.638.6737; metoperafamily.org/hdlive.

Give Generously
TisBest Philanthropy Gift Cards
’Tis the season to be jolly, and nothing makes you feel jollier than giving to a worthy cause. Now a Seattle-based company, TisBest Philanthropy, is making it easy. Here’s how it works: The gift giver buys an electronic gift card on the Web site for whatever amount they choose; TisBest e-mails that card to the giftee. The giftee then goes to the Web site and directs the amount stipulated on the card to the charity of their choice (among the 200 in partnership with TisBest). Et voilà! No trees wasted, a gift anyone can use, and everybody receives comfort and joy. tisbest.org.

Cheer Tirelessly
Tailgate parties at the Alexis Hotel’s Bookstore bar
At press time, things weren’t looking too promising for our Seahawks, which is all the more reason to watch this month’s games at a safe remove. The Bookstore bar is obliging, offering a “Tailgate” event every Sunday the ’Hawks hit the gridiron. Burgers, brats, bloody Marys and beers—only $5 each—should help further losses go down a little easier. (If that doesn’t work, you can take a book from the shelves and read instead.) 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m. The Bookstore, Alexis Hotel, 1007 First Ave.; 206.624.3646; librarybistro.com.

Indulge Richly
The New Four Seasons Hotel
The much-anticipated Four Seasons Hotel (which opened last month) presents a problem: How to decide which way to pamper yourself? A swim in the rooftop pool? A visit to the 6,000-square-foot (!) spa? Or a meal at the ART Restaurant and Lounge, headed by acclaimed chef Kerry Sear (of Cascadia fame)? Rats. Looks like you’ll have to extend your stay. Rates vary. Four Seasons Hotel, 99 Union St.; 206.749.7000; fourseasons.com/seattle.