DM Blog

Well, Durham has never seen it before because Fullsteam and Haymaker just thought it up this year.

"I really had fun working with Haymaker," says Sean Lilly Wilson, Fullsteam's "Chief Executive Optimist" and emcee of the show. "They've just got this great spirit and energy and positive attitude about them that they're just taking Durham by storm."

Billed as an "exuberant and absurd holiday party," A Very Merry Durham is certain to impress with a plethora of talent and eccentricity that can only be found in the Bull City. From comedy to contortionists, baton twirlers to magicians, the live Variety Hour runs from 7:30-8:30pm and features acts selected through an open audition process.

"The whole theme is that the holidays can be so stressful and busy and this is just a time to be a little silly and revel in the frivolity of it all," Sean says. "All that we're trying to do here is have fun with lots of laughter. I think we could use more of that during the holidays."

The Variety Hour closes with a holiday surprise (Sean hints there might be a little Christmas magic falling from the sky) followed by DJ Riah spinning groovy funk and soul music.

First Frost, Fullsteam's latest creation, will also be launched at the party. The nine percent ABV persimmon winter ale will be on draft and for sale by the bottle. Food trunks galore, including OnlyBurger, Klausie's Pizza and Chirba Chirba Dumpling will be present for those who would like some grub to go along with their drink.

The Fullsteam festivities are free, but a donation of an unwrapped, store-bought present for Toys for Tots (requested $10 minimum value) is suggested.

"I think that it will be a fun annual tradition and we plan on doing it as long as we possibly can," Sean says. "And you can say you went to the first one."

Yes, he means you. So be sure to get to the party early, as craft activities provided by The Scrap Exchange, live art by Adam Peele, and performances by various local artists and musicians kick off the festivities at 6:14pm on the dot, as per Fullsteam's traditional, quirky start time. Plus, the Holiday Gorilla will be available for photos until 7:30pm. And who would want to miss the Holiday Gorilla?