Last NYE, instead of chilling at home or bar hopping, I opted for a show at @ardmoremusichall and saw @lowcutconnie. Being surrounded by music, counting down together, and cheers’ing while signing Auld Lang Syne was a memory I won’t forget. So, this week’s Jawn Jams is a special edition, highlighting a few jams to check out on NYE if that feels right. No jawns this week, but plenty more to come in 2025!

@ardmoremusichall is doing another NYE show this year, featuring (a personal fav) punk band @themenzingers (also playing Dec. 30). If you’ve never seen them live, you’re in for a hell of a show.

@ortliebsphilly is hosting a NYE Extravaganza from 8p-2a featuring @ridofmeband, @mywifesanangel and @sunbursterpa, with DJ sets by @bornlosersrecords throughout.

Electronic jamband @lotusinstagram will be vibing at @uniontransfer for those looking for a psychedelic escape.

Philly’s own @snacktime will be ringing in the New Year at @bbowlphilly.

And celebrate Zoo Year’s Eve with @toomanyzooz at @worldcafelive.

No matter what you’re doing, stay safe and party responsibly. Cheers to more jams and jawns in the New Year!

‘Tis the week before Christmas and Hanukkah and we’ve got some final musical treats of the year on the lineup.

Electronica singer/songwriter @chee.k.y plays Wednesday Dec. 18 at @johnnybrendas. The venue itself has a great bar and food menu, but if you’re in the mood for a pre-show cocktail, @nextofkinphl is a must.

If punk is more your thing, @deathtotheangies, @sloptart.xoxo, @happytimenj, and @mulesofthecellar play @kungfunecktie_bar Thursday Dec. 19. If you can grab a res at @pizzeriabeddiaphilly before the show you’ll be in for a delicious treat, or @bottlebareast for a chiller vibe.

And wrapping up the week, @mtjoyband frontman @mattquinnmj will be at @uniontransfer Friday Dec. 20. Grab a beer before the show at @lovecitybrewing or head to the venue at doors open to grab something at their back bar.

Since shows tend to slow down the week of Christmas, we’ll be taking next week off. But don’t worry, Jawn Jams returns the following week to highlight the best NYE shows in the area. 

With just a few weeks before the New Year, the lineup this week features jams to escape blissfully into the music. Is there a better way to gear up for the end of the year?

Ethereal genre-fluid artsy @sukiwaterhouse is performing Dec. 10 at @franklinmusichall. Warm up for an emotional night just a few blocks away at @poisonheartbar.

Philly local @wax_jaw will be jamming Dec. 12 at @undrgroundarts. The energy levels will be high, and if you want to keep going post-show, @the_trestle_inn is always a good time.

Following the release of their first album in 26 years, @thejesuslizardofficial is coming through Philly Dec. 13 at @uniontransfer. Often dubbed “Noise rock” they have a sound uniquely theirs. If you’re looking for a bite or drink first, @prohibition_taproom is as classic as the band itself.

I always know the Christmas season has begun when I catch “All I want for Christmas is You” on the radio. Queen of Christmas herself @mariahcarey is touring through Philly Dec. 3 at @wellsfargocenter. If you really want to lean into the Christmas spirit and are taking the BSL down, hop off at Tasker Morris to check out @themiracleonsouth13thstreet before heading into the show. And if you’re driving, just pack a snack board to enjoy from the car pre show.

Alt rock band giant @tmbgofficial play Dec. 5 & 6 at @uniontransfer. If around early, grab happy hour (4-6) at @lachinescaphl. Retro vibes and great cocktails + snacks.

Fellow Jersey natives, ska punk group @smanifesto takes the stage Dec. 7 at @franklinmusichall. Grab a pint and some wings at @yardsbrew beforehand (for the DDs—Yards has parking). Or, you want to take a stroll before the show instead and Mariah wasn’t quite your vibe but you still want to get into the Christmas spirit, head to the light show at @franklinsquarephilly.