The third annual Psychedelic Holiday Freak Out — born on Capitol Hill and putting the holy Christ that’s loud back into Christmas since 2013 — returns to the neighborhood this weekend after a year abroad in Ballard.

Strung across three days and three venues, the 2015 edition mostly lives up to the festival’s original character with an overtly local focus, a relatively low price of entry, and, for certain, an unconventional calendar slot.

Merry Xmas.

For another alternative to the typical holiday gathering, don’t forget about the Capitol Hill Community Council’s second annual Winter Celebration at Vermillion Thursday night. There will be music and treats — plus movers and shakers to meet.

Tradition? Nine years of celebration is worth noting. The BottleNeck Lounge is hosting yet another Holiday Happy Hour all long Friday night.

Meanwhile, there’s still plenty of time to find gifts for the folks you love and even the ones you only kind of like at local merchants. Check out Shop the Hill for lots of gift ideas and holiday markets.

For more things to do on and around Capitol Hill or to add your own, check out the CHS Calendar.

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