Christmas is set to be very different this year, with lockdown rules meaning that many of us won't get the chance to socialise with returning friends and family during this season.
As well as that, restrictions around the opening of bars means that the traditional '12 pubs of Christmas' pub crawl will likely be put on hold this year.
Despite this, a new alternative to this tradition - which we're encouraging everyone to get behind - is the '12 local breweries of Christmas'.
The idea is simple, individuals source a selection of local drinks for themselves and get their friends to do the same (or even send them to their friends as a Christmas gift). Then, they set aside an evening to sample these delicious delicacies with the (virtual) company of one anyway.
This way, pub-goers can keep the spirit of the tradition alive, while managing to support some local businesses in the process.
Local breweries
Local breweries have been struggling throughout lockdown, with pub closures and new licensing laws making things particularly difficult.
Bullhouse Brew Co's William Mayne believes this idea that could increase business for bewers.
He said: "I think we're all sick of doing Zoom parties by now, but if bars continue to be shut and groups can't go out together, this is a nice way to engage with people and a unique way of doing things.
"You can light the fire, you can chat with friends on a phone or a computer, and you have a few good drinks in the proces. I think it's definitely worth while doing it.
"We do Tap Room events throughout the year, and we're contemplating doing our next one virtually. It's an alternative way of doing things, and a way of appreciating a good drink."
Strength to strength
William adds that the craft beer industry in Northern Ireland has gone from strength to strength in recent years, meaning there's plenty of great tipples on offer.
"A lot of these beers are more flavourful than anything you're likely to get from a supermarket or from a multinational brewer," he says.
"The quality of local beer in Northern Ireland has risen dramatically over the last number of years. We're able to compete with any other country in terms of the great brews we make."
Despite this, breweries are struggling more than ever to get their products out there, with fewer avenues to reach the wider market place.
He added: "We need people's help at the minute more than many industries.
"As we're part of the manufacturing industry, we haven't been able to avail of all the support that the hospitality industry and other sectors have.
"And due to Northern Ireland's ridiculous licensing laws, we can't sell beer directly to the public, so half of our root to market has been shut off with the pubs. We only have the option of selling directly if we link up with a local off license.
"We've opened up an online store during lockdown, and we've had good relationships with independent off-sales who've been able to lend us their license to facilitate that. Not all breweries have been in that position, especially smaller breweries who don't have that relationship yet. So they need support."
