“Jingle, jingle, jingle, you can hear my sleigh bells ring. I am old Kris Kringle, now go buy all the things!”
I know, I know, that’s not how the song goes, but I’m pretty sure that’s what Kris really means. This time of year, your wallet is probably getting tapped out quicker than a keg of Melvin 2x4. So take heed: I have prepared for you a wrap-up of Bellingham's “bargain” cocktails, which might just help you keep both your sanity and your budget in check through this season of giving (a/k/a “spending”). My goal was to find quality cocktails at friendly prices. And I think I way succeeded! So whether you’re out shopping (locally, of course), meeting long-lost friends, or simply need to have a lovely bartender or server set a delicious concoction in front of you, I’ve got just the place(s).
Everyone I know loves the Temple Bar. I have been known to pen love letters to it—it’s that kind of place. Not only does it serve amazing food and inspired cocktails, but Temple Bar is kind enough to give us a real deal, just when we need it. Their happy hour is unbeatable, with a bottle of wine and a little cheese plate for $18, or a growler of Kulshan brew and a little cheese plate for $15—but how about $5 for a lovely Paloma, Whiskey Ginger, or Gin or Vodka Tonic? Unbelievable! [caption id="attachment_21524" align="aligncenter" width="400"]
$5 Paloma and a delicious snack.[/caption] My Paloma hit the spot nicely, combining tequila and grapefruit soda. Simply delicious. My mates shared in the fun with $1 off their house cocktails:
Temple Bar, 306 W. Champion St., Bellingham, WA 98225 360-676-8660 Happy Hour: 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., 7 days a week
Everyone I know also loves The Real McCoy. Last evening, we came in from the chilly pouring rain and instantly felt warmer. Brandon was behind the bar, as always, making it all look easy. [caption id="attachment_21522" align="aligncenter" width="400"]
Old Fashioned with a real maraschino cherry[/caption] We three imbibed with a few happy hour specials:
Each of Brandon’s superbly conceived and created drinks are $8 during happy hour, $9 the rest of the day. (Side note: in Seattle, they would probably be $11 or $12.) And a little bird tells me there will probably be a $7 eggnog special coming right up to warm your holidays. I'm swooning already, just imagining how delicious The Real McCoy’s eggnog will be. [caption id="attachment_21534" align="aligncenter" width="450"]
King Hops, Giant Awakening[/caption] The Real McCoy, 114 Prospect Street, Bellingham, WA 98225 360-392-8051 Happy Hour: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Wednesday – Sunday
[caption id="attachment_21536" align="aligncenter" width="400"] The Spiced and Stormy[/caption] Read all about my super-fun visit to Rock and Rye Oyster Househere. And to whet your appetite a bit more, here's a reminder of their delicious happy hour specials that are definitely priced to please:
Rock and Rye Oyster House, 1145 N. State Street, Bellingham, WA 98225 360-746-6130 Happy Hour: 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m. – close, Tuesday – Sunday
There’s more than just beer here! Archer’s is known for its huge selection of whiskies—over 130 to choose from, for all you bourbon, scotch and whiskey lovers. 
Here's what's happening in the below-street-level pub:
The Archer Ale House, 1212 10th St, Bellingham, WA 98225 360-647-7002 Happy Hour: 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Tuesday – Friday
Skylark’s bar will fix you up with a $3 well drink during happy hour. Or, get $1 off house cocktails. Popular selections include the Hershey’s Kiss martini ($7 during happy hour) and the Bloody Mary ($5 at happy hour), which you can have with house-made garlic-infused vodka for a mere dollar more. And all you mimosa lovers will love this one: Katie’s Killer Mimosa is made with champagne, orange vodka and a splash of Grand Marnier, muddled with fresh orange slices, orange juice and a dash of pineapple juice. Instead of a fancy flute, this masterpiece is served in a pint glass, and for only $7! Skylark’s, 1308 11th St, Bellingham WA 98225 360-715-3642 Happy Hour: 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. to midnight, Sunday – Thursday While I can’t say I hit every single one of these fine establishments this week (a girl's gotta eat, too!), I have been to each of them more than once over the years. Trust me when I say you—and your wallet—are in good hands, no matter where you choose to take a break this crazy season!
