Support a good cause and drink free at Steuben's and Oak at Fourteenth

About this time of year, we throw moderation out the window, racking up the bills during holiday shopping and then alleviating our holiday-related stress with plenty of indulgent food and drinks. We're pretty shameless about sidling up to the buffet at every party we're invited to, going back for second desserts and liberally refilling our glasses with plenty of spiked punch.

And our consciences are going to feel even less guilty about imbibing at a couple of parties, where reveling is encouraged in exchange for a little generosity of spirit.

On Monday, December 6 at 8 p.m., the Colorado Bartenders' Guild will hold its sixth annual holiday toy drive at Oak at 14th in Boulder, 1400 Pearl Street.

"It's a fun event every year," says Bryan Dayton, president of the Colorado Bartenders' Guild. "And we've got some great bartenders joining us this year."

The guild is bringing on mixology heavyweights Steve Olson, Andy Seymour and Leo DeGroff, all of whom have amassed serious national spirits reputations, to craft drinks alongside Colorado bartenders at the party, which will benefit the Salvation Army (they'll be donating their tips, too).

You'll be privy to a free cocktail for each toy you donate. And lest you worry about consuming too much alcohol on an empty stomach, rest assured that Oak is also serving up complimentary food. Come dressed to impress, because prizes will be given for the best and worst holiday get-up. For more information, dial 303-444-3622.

And one week later, you can drink free again.

On Monday, December 13, Steuben's, 523 East 17th Avenue, will host Tiki Time with Santa, a party that also benefits the Salvation Army. Bring unwrapped gifts to the bar from 9 p.m to 2 a.m., and each toy you donate will earn you two free drink tickets. That means you could get pretty lit for helping a few families have a nice Christmas. Tips given to the bartenders at Tiki Time with Santa will also go to the Salvation Army. For more information, call 303-830-1001.

It's enough to make you feel warm and toasty -- and not just from the alcohol. Cheers.