Lawmakers have until Saturday to pass the remaining nine appropriations bills for the year. The current continuing resolution expires this weekend. All signs are that passing the appropriations package won’t be a problem, but Congress could still be in session the following week if it cannot come to terms on a series of must-pass extenders.

MONDAY

Start With a Bang

The House Rules Committee will meet in the evening to approve a rule on the GOP’s package of extenders. The measure would renew things such as the payroll tax cut, but it includes some poison pills for Democrats such as approving an oil pipeline the White House had delayed.

WEDNESDAY

Like Father

Tagg Romney, son of Mitt and fellow manager of wealth, will be the guest of honor at a fundraiser for his dad’s presidential campaign. The event will be held at the K Street Lounge.

Would You Rather…

Attend the holiday party of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association or the one thrown by the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America?  The second one runs an hour later.

THURSDAY

Last Stop Before Iowa

The Republican presidential contenders, who have faced off in all manner of debate settings, will meet for what might be the last time before the first votes are cast in the nomination process. The Fox News debate in Sioux City, Iowa, comes a little less than three weeks before the state caucuses on Jan. 3. 

FRIDAY

Assuming This Is Real

Editors of the Onion, the satirical news website (and paper) will be at the National Press Club to discuss “the most important stories of 2011.” Tickets must be purchased to attend.