Unless you are a member of some mythical non-dysfunctional family unit that I am pretty sure exists only in lands of unicorns and double rainbows, I assume that you are going to need a stiff drink this holiday.
Most of us experience it year after year -- within 24 hours of the extended family arrival, we are jonesin' to get out of the house much like a chemically modified, hormone fed, cooped up Christmas roast beast. After a long-winded debate about Uncle Larry's shoulder mole and whether he should get it checked out or not, you are ready to grab the car keys to escape this family hell. True, many of our favorite haunts are closed Christmas Day, but there are many establishments that will have open doors. So grab the only reasonably-minded cousin you have and hit up one of these five spots to kick back a cold one on Saturday.
On a day of gift-giving, locals can't deny gratitude for an establishment with 19 eateries, 11 bars and a casino with 89 table games and 2,500 slot machines. Not to mention that said establishment is open every day of the year, 24 hours a day. Play a round of Blackjack, watch the football game at Hooters and/or grab a pint a Murphy's Law. This is one place where you won't be bored while escaping holiday drudgery.
Elbo Room
If there is one place in Fort Lauderdale that will never let you down, it's the iconic Elbo Room. The ocean-front bar has stood the test of time since 1938 serving cold ones alongside live music. Chances are one of your elderly family members partied here Spring Break '43. Of course, they are open Christmas Day until 2 a.m.
Flanigans
Serving 22 locations across South Florida for over 50 years, this restaurant chain is familiar with serving dejected holiday escapees. They will be open during regular operating hours and ready to serve you for Happy Hour 4 to 7 p.m. with half-priced drinks.
Ye Olde Falcon Pub
Enjoy one of the numerous draft beers at this traditional English Pub, located in Davie. The dimly lit haunt will make it easy for you to hide if anyone decides to come look for you. It will be open 5 p.m. to 4 a.m. with a 5 to 7 p.m. Happy Hour.
Dada
The unique house-turned-restaurant off Swinton Avenue in Delray Beach is having a "Crusty Xmas" party with local vaudevillan rock act -- Viva Le Vox. Enjoy FREE spiked Eggnog and Pabst Blue Ribbon beer specials from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.
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