As much a seasonal tradition as jolly bearded fat men, trees covered in sparkly balls and red cups at Starbucks is the annual Christmas Ale tapping at Barley’s Brewing Company, which is taking place this Friday for the 22nd consecutive year.

“We first tapped our Christmas Ale to celebrate our first anniversary in November of 1993,” said Angelo Signorino, Barley’s brewmaster. “We’ve had Mayor Lashutka; Earl Bruce; Andyman, before his tragic death; and Jeni Britton Bauer, who made Christmas Ale ice cream from which we donated the proceeds to Andyman’s CD101 For the Kids fundraiser, all tap Christmas ale in previous years.”

Signorino said Barley’s Christmas Ale is of medium-strength for the style and is essentially a moderately spiced Pale Ale.

“It’s unique in that like almost all our beers, it’s brewed entirely with British malt,” said Signorino. ” While hops aren’t a featured ingredient, we brew it with spicy German Hallertau. The special ingredients are evident — honey, orange zest, ginger and cinnamon — but don’t overwhelm the rich malt character.

Barley’s has tapped Lesley James from CD102.5 to MC this year’s event, and the Columbus Crew’s Frankie Hejduk to be the guest tapper. Local alternative tock band The Resisters will perform at the tapping.

“It’s fun because for one night, Barley’s becomes one big party space, with music, friends, energy, and Christmas Ale,” said General Manager Jason Fabian.

How much fun? Well…

“I know of at least one ‘Christmas Ale Baby,'” said Signorino.

Barley’s will tap their Christmas Ale Friday, November 6 at 7pm.