Attend a "Holidate with the Girls" at University Village

Blustery rain, crowds, lines, parking headaches – sure, there are plenty of things that make holiday shopping a real drag. But who says it can't be fun? Grab your girlfriends and head to University Village Dec. 5-7, from 5 to 7 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m., for a "Holidate with the Girls," a unique event designed especially for gift givers (the female ones!).

Located in a heated and festively decorated tent just east of The Ram Restaurant and Big Horn Brewery in University Village, you'll be treated to a holiday drink, appetizers, a goodie-filled gift bag and a 20 percent discount "passport" good at many Village merchants. Sip cocktails and enjoy hors d'oeuvres as you catch up with your girlfriends and plot your holiday gift purchases.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. All proceeds benefit Treehouse, a Seattle-based nonprofit organization that assists children from backgrounds of abuse and neglect. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made at www.uvillage.com.

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