The spirit of the season lives on with Sips and Surprises, a festive community White Elephant gift exchange happening at The Butterfly Bar @ The VORTEX and open to all who love a good laugh, a warm drink, and a little holiday mischief.
Guests are invited to gather, sip, and swap during an evening designed to turn unwanted gifts into unexpected treasures. Sign-in runs from 7:30–8:15 PM, with the gift exchange beginning immediately afterward and continuing until everyone who signs up has had a turn.
To keep spirits bright (and warm), the bar will be serving seasonal favorites all night long, including hot mulled wine, hot cocoa, and hot cider—perfect companions for a cozy, laughter-filled evening. Our bartenders will happily spike these for you, and our full bar and winter cocktail and mocktail menus are available for you to enjoy.
This is a classic White Elephant exchange with a community twist, and re-gifting is highly encouraged. That sweater you’ll never wear? The gadget you already own? The candle that somehow smells like “mystery”? Bring it along. Your trash is someone else’s treasure, and half the fun is seeing where it ends up.
As an added bonus, attendees will have a chance to win a raffle prize: a 2026 Skipper Membership from The VORTEX in Austin, TX, a beloved local staple and supporter of community arts and culture. This snags you unlimited theatre tickets for 2026, plus discounts at The Butterfly Bar and Patrizi’s. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!
Whether you’re coming for the drinks, the gifts, or the sheer joy of holiday absurdity, Sips and Surprises promises a night of warmth, whimsy, and good cheer.
So grab a gift you don’t want, bring your holiday spirit, and get ready to sip, swap, and be surprised. 🎁🍷
Also check out other Arts events in Austin, Theatre events in Austin.
