Holiday Cupcake Swap; Rainbow Lodge Patio Party

DOWNTOWN — They say it's better to give than receive, but in reality it's all about the trade. Bring a dozen cupcakes (six to share and six to exchange) to Cafe Luz on Wednesday 6pm-8pm for an icing capped take on the holiday cookie swap. Eggnog and hot cocoa with scratch-made marshmallows will be provided. [Facebook]

TIMBERGROVE — Rainbow Lodge's monthly patio wine tasting is Wednesday 5:30pm-7:30pm. For $29, taste four Oregon wines paired with snacks including smoked pork with spoonbread and crab cakes. Rest easy 55-degree fearing Houstonians, if weather proves inhospitable the festivities will be moved inside to the bar. [Twitter]

GALLERIA — This one really works better for the unemployed, but Valentino Vin Bar is hosting Progressive Happy Hour as part of their 12 Days of Holiday Decadence on Thursday 2pm-6pm. From 2pm-2:59pm, call drinks are only $2 and so on. [Facebook]

MIDTOWN — 13 Celsius is throwing their annual wholesale market this Saturday 1pm-7pm. Stock up on majorly discounted wines, sample bottles from various vendors and pick up some snacks from Monica Pope's Green Plum, the Houston Dairymaids and Brown Paper Chocolate. [Facebook]