As we are right in the midst of the 2023 holiday season, there’s nothing like good food, drinks and Christmas music played live by a local young singer-songwriter to get you in the holiday spirit.

“Songs of the Season” with Jack Austin will take place at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at Handmap Brewing in Battle Creek.

Jack Austin is no stranger to performing. Starting out doing musicals at a young age has quickly snowballed into an impressive resume, including but not limited to singing in New York City with Broadway stars; being nominated for Pop Vocalist of the Year at the 2023 Josie Music Awards; and amassing more than 75,000 followers on TikTok.

“For as long as I can remember I had always been humming melodies I came up with in my head,” Austion said. “I write music because I find it’s the easiest way to be truthful with myself and others. Sometimes things are hard to say, so I’d rather be saying them while doing my favorite thing, singing.”

On the other hand, Handmap Brewing is no stranger to hosting live entertainment in their establishment. Chris McCleary, co-owner of the restaurant and head of Brewing Operations and Entertainment, said that they have been hosting holiday music events since the very first year that they opened.

“We really like live music and wanted to bring some great blues and jazz to Battle Creek,” McCleary said. “There are also a lot of local artists and it’s great to offer them opportunities to perform in the community, as well.  We are a brewery first and foremost and we feel, what goes better with beer but great pizza and awesome entertainment?”

Regulars at Handmap and Battle Creek residents in general will likely recognize Austin, as he has been active in the community in many different ways, including opening his own children’s theatre company Unity Theatre in summer 2023 and performing at Handmap in the past.

“Handmap Brewing was so gracious to host a viewing party and concert for the release of my song ‘Veronica’ last year, and I’m so honored that they are having me back for another concert,” Austin said. “Handmap is truly an amazing venue because it is full of heart, the owners Chris and Jennifer are so amazing, and it’s in the heart of my hometown, which makes it even more special.”

The holidays are all about nostalgia, family and chasing those cozy vibes, and this event is the perfect place to take advantage of all of those warm feelings.

“What sets us apart is our cozy vibe and that we have a focus on everyone being welcome at Handmap,” McCleary said. “At Handmap we provide a place where you can be social and meet new people settle in and become part of the family.”

Ringing in the holidays and new year with music is a longstanding tradition, with Christmas music everywhere you go and live performances popping up all around us nearly every day.

“There’s something so nostalgic and beautiful about the holidays,” Austin said. “It’s not called the most wonderful time of the year for no reason! I feel like it’s the time of the year that people come together the most; when I think of Christmas I think of time with loved ones and friends.”

When thinking of Christmas, many people reminisce about their childhood, their favorite toys, traditions and the people that make the season truly special, and how things have changed since then. Austin is no exception.

“If my younger self could look at me now he’d never believe what he’s been able to accomplish so far,” he said. “Chasing dreams is exhausting but it’s so worth the battle. It’s so easy to get caught up in the things I still want to achieve, but what I have done so far is something to be immensely proud of. Little me would be proud.”

For more information about Austin and his music, visit jackaustinmusic.com. For more information about Handmap Brewing, visit handmapbrewing.com.