Does the the lack of rare mushroom-based events really ruffle your feathers? Or, should we say, truffle your feathers? Not to worry, our fungi-loving friends, for Kevin Ascolese, chef at Princi Italia, has created three Alba truffle delivery systems in the form of wood fired chanterelle flatbread, tortellini fonduta and rock shrimp English pea risotto. Each dish will be available for purchase through December 24.
What it be: Alba White Truffle Festival
When it do: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Thursday, December 9 - Thursday, December 24
Where dat is: 5959 Royal Lane
*****
Unleash your inner Dowager Countess of Grantham at The Dallas Arboretum. The arboretum is hosting a special three-course holiday tea every day from now through January 3. Guests will enjoy a first course of roasted chestnut soup with cheese wafer, assorted tea sandwiches and a dessert course. To attend the tea, you must be 13 years or older (because nothing spoils a good tea like a small child). Prices are $47 (tea only) and $57 (tea and champagne) and include parking and admission to the garden. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 214-515-6511 or by visiting the website.
What it be: Holiday Tea
When it do: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, December 10 - Sunday, January 3
Where dat is: 8525 Garland Road
*****
This holiday season, The Rosewood Crescent's pastry chef is holding adult gingerbread house classes. What makes the gingerbread houses "adult," you ask? Tiny candy-cane stripper poles. Crack pipes made out of Necco wafers. 401K paperwork fashioned from sugargum paste and tears. Or, you know, they could just be regular, nice gingerbread houses except made by adults instead of dirty, sticky children. Classes are $125 for singles or $155 for couples and include candy to share, hors d'oeuvres and one glass of wine or beer. Call 214-871-3211 or email [email protected] for reservations.
What it be: Adult Gingerbread House Classes
When it do: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, December 10
Where dat is: 500 Crescent Court
*****
At the Chocolate and Art Show there will be chocolate (duh), art (also duh), naked people, music, more naked people and, oh yeah, did we mention naked people? Peruse art from over a hundred Texas artists while you ogle the models doing nude body painting and eat free chocolate in The Lofty Space. Because sometimes multitasking is fun. Tickets are $15 in advance or at the door.
What it be: Chocolate and Art Show
When it do: 8 p.m. Thursday, December 10
Where dat is: 816 Montgomery St.
*****
First came The Shed and now comes The Market. This indoor component of the Dallas Farmers Market is now home to local food artisans, cafes and organic produce vendors. Meet the people behind the food at this Friday's soft opening. Food samples and drinks will be provided. Participating vendors include La Ventana, Rex’s Seafood & Market, Stocks & Bondy, Palmieri Café and Nammi Coolhaus.
What it be: The Market Grand Opening
When it do: 10 a.m. Friday, December 11
Where dat is: 1010 S. Pearl Expressway
*****
How many tacos do you have to eat before you see Jesus? Find out at R Taco's taco eating contest. It's free to compete, and winners will receive free tacos for one year. That's a lot of picadillo, bro.
What it be: Taco Eating Contest
When it do: 1 p.m. registration; 2 p.m. competition Saturday, December 12
Where dat is: 3604 Oak Lawn Ave.
*****
Lakewood Brewing Co. is debuting their 2015 Bourbon Barrel Temptress in style. This ticketed event is not open to the public and two afternoon entry times have already sold out, so if you want to be one of the first to try this 11.3 percent ABV barrel aged beauty you'll have to act fast. At last check, there were still tickets available for the 4 and 6 p.m. entries. A $20 ticket includes a souvenir 2015 BBT snifter and three 8 oz pours.
What it be: Bourbon Barrel Temptress Release Party
When it do: 4 and 6 p.m. Saturday, December 12
Where dat is: 2302 Executive Drive
*****
