TUES 8/16: National Rum Day -- in Cambridge

6pm to 8pm
National Rum Day: Tasting Pop-Up
at Zinc Apartments Outdoor Terrace, 22 Water St, Cambridge (near Lechmere)
FREE w/ RSVP / 21+

You can celebrate National Rum Day anywhere, nowhere, or in your kitchen; however there is a nearby spot where it won't cost you anything.

The beautiful thing about this sampling is that the all of these rums were distilled within Route 128 with the furthest site being about 80 miles away.

When celebrating Rum Day, it's worth noting that Boston had a rich rum history before the Civil War (i.e. part of the slave economy), but don't let history ruin every rum & cola or mojito.

Much like everything else made, bought, or sold in America before 1860; many people suffered while others partied. Perhaps we should appreciate that we have made progress in the last 150 years -- AND that local jobs are being created (with wages) by getting sloshed on locavore liquor.

It sounds like 5 local rums will be available at the top of the apartment building. Who knows how many people live in this building, but most will probably try to muscle in.

Reserve your spot and taste spirits from Privateer (Ipswich, MA), GrandTen Distilling (Boston, MA), Deacon Giles Distillery (Salem, MA), Short Path Distillery (Everett, MA), and New England Sweetwater Farm & Distillery (Winchester, NH).

Extra points for anyone who says "Happy Rumadan" to a stranger on the terrace...

PS: The CTB Calendar is currently updated through Friday...

WED 7/11: Free Mini-Slurpees

Cheapness through next week is on the CTB calendar.

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11am to 7pm
7.11-ounce Slurpees
at participating 7-Eleven stores
FREE

Put the 40-oz. Super Big Gulp down! You don't really need more than 7.11 ounces of cold, sweet, strangely-colored slush.

There is still enough fluid for a brain freeze...

While it won't be the hottest day of the month, it's okay to treat yourself.

It's easy to do. Walk into any 7-Eleven, fill up the tiny cup (while supplies last), and thank the cashier on your way out.

If you happen to buy something, get a receipt if you want to go to Six Flags New England tonight. Show that receipt from today and you can get in for $7.11 after 7:11pm.

WED 5/23: Another Free Slurpee Day

Cheapness through Saturday is on the CTB calendar.

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WED 5/23

11am to 7pm
"SlurpFree" Day
at participating 7-Eleven stores
FREE

They usually wait until the calendar matches their name (7-11), but 7-Eleven wants to let you know about their new reduced-calorie slurpees.

Sugar-free mango is being unveiled this month and will be followed by sugar-free strawberry banana in July and sugar-free cherry limeade in August.

So walk into any 7-Eleven and grab a 7.11 oz cup (while supplies last) and try the new flavor or one of the full-strength sugar brain-freeze bombs. (Don't forget to greet and thank the cashier.)

What makes it sweet without sugar -- who knows? A large conglomerate wouldn't put something else equally unhealthy in there? Of course not!!!

On the other hand, life is short. A tiny slurp isn't the worst thing you can do..

It might even enhance your attitude on a cloudy day.

MON 2/13: RSVP to Jameson Tasting

FYI: Plenty o' Monday cheapness on the calendar.

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MON 2/13

9pm
"Jameson Signature Event"
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
FREE w/ RSVP

There was no webpage I could find, but I got the info from a reliable source. What I didn't get was lots of details, but I've been to this type of event.

They usually start you off with a glass of whiskey, then an 'ambassador' will tell you about the Jameson history and how awesome their spirits are.

Three or four different whiskeys might be tasted. Or they may share a few mixed drinks that are great with Irish whiskey.

St. Paddy's Day is around the corner, and there is more to Irish party time than Guinness.

Send an email, and they may have space...

SAT 12/10: Want a Free Sailor Jerry Tattoo?

Noon to 9pm
Sailor Jerry Tattoo
at Regeneration Tattoo, 155 Harvard Ave, Allston
FREE

RSVP suggested (probably to schedule a time)

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A little birdie-daddy told me about an opportunity for free ink, so I had to pass it on.

Many years ago my skin-art friends schooled me that Sailor Jerry was the original tattoo auteur. (Or tatteur?)

The man is gone, but his art lives on in people's hearts and other body parts. We also have a bunch of photos.

Based on the RSVP email, this is a promotion for the eponymous rum. Does it matter? It's a free tat...

Don't expect to get your whole back covered, but you could walk out with a tiny lady on your arm -- an arm that perhaps only needed to pass a gratuity and lift a shot of rum.

If they do give you a free tattoo and maybe some Sailor Jerry rum, I imagine a tip would be a decent thing to do...

9/29: Free Cup of Coffee at 7-Eleven

7am to 11am
CofFREE Day
at participating 7-Eleven locations
FREE coffee/cappuccino/latte

Believe it or not, Thursday is National Coffee Day.

Almost every coffee drinker around here either sides with Dunks or Starbucks.

I occasionally run into a Honey Dew lover or someone who prefers Marylou's. McDonalds sells Newman's coffee, and I enjoy their New England commercials.

Thankfully there are plenty of independent coffee shops around. Keep an eye out -- or look here or here.

The only place I've heard about that's giving away a free cup of dark, magical wake-up juice is 7-Eleven.

As long as they have medium-size cups, you can get a FREE hot coffee or cappuccino or latte.

There are about 200 locations participating in New England. (I assume that's all of them...)

While 7-Eleven probably isn't the first choice for most people, maybe you should take that free cup of joe and close your eyes. Taste it objectively to see if you'd pay for it.

Don't they deserve the chance to win your business?

At least think of it as a nice try...

PS: Thursday & Friday cheapness can be found on the calendar.

TUES 9/13: RSVP for Free Drinks

6pm to 8pm
Stuff Boston YOP: "Fall Fashion Issue"

at North 26, The Millennium Hotel, 26 North St, Boston (Faneuil Hall /Haymarket)

FREE w/ RSVP / 21+

Some may know it as the Year of the Rabbit; Stuff magazine claims it's the Year of the Party.

By my unofficial count, they've hosted much more than one party per month.

There are certainly worse post-work drink options than free drinks (probably gin-based cocktails at this mixer) and appetizers.

Do you have to care about Fall Fashion? Of course not.

Sure... You have to RSVP, and the wait at the bar is often maddeningly long. I don't go out of my way to attend these things, but it's usually a "net positive" experience.

In an improvement to past years, you can RSVP for a "+1".

SUN 7/3: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

In full picnic season, it may be good to know how to open a wine bottle without a corkscrew.

I've seen a few techniques, and this seems a good one.

FRI 4/22: Bring Mug, Free Coffee or Tea

If you work downtown, there's also a free daytime concert on the Greenway -- and more Friday cheapness on the calendar.

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All Day
Earth Day Travel Cup Coffee (or Tea) Deal
at any Starbucks locations
FREE w/ your own mug

Yeah, it's Earth Day and lines will probably be longer at Starbucks shops in North America.

It seemingly doesn't matter the size or shape. If you don't use one of their paper cups, Starbucks will put coffee or tea in it for free.

As they say, "Your choice of brew, hot or iced".

You can buy one of theirs at a 20% discount. (Or maybe CVS might have a cheaper one?)

Since I don't usually go there, Starbucks will give you a 10-cent discount any day of the year for bringing your own mug...

SAT 4/9: RSVP for Vodka & Dance

FYI: Friday cheapness is on the calendar, and I hope to have some kind of post up later...

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SAT 4/9

9pm
Stuff Boston: Sexiest Issue Party
at Royale, 279 Tremont St, Boston (Theatre District)
FREE w/ RSVP / 21+

Since I'm not a dance-club guy, I would only consider going if I was doing something else nearby and wanted to have a free Chambord-flavored vodka drink (complimentary cocktails from 9pm to 10pm).

I've already slogged through the line into a Stuff magazine party this year AND waited a long time at the bar before one of several overworked bartenders gave me a martini.

Is it worth it? I didn't go out of my way to attend, and I chatted with a few familiar faces.

Those who like to dance can stay for free...

Beware about going to the Royale website. I'm getting a weird redirect at the moment.

The Pint is Sometimes Mightier...

...Than the keyboard.

I thought I might just go for a few pints and be a good boy last night.

Well, I'm not a good boy.

I think it's better to realize that I won't have another Saturday post up in the near future, so the one below will have to do.

I realized that I didn't mention the Brickbottom and Joy Street Open Studios (near Union Square) were happening today and tomorrow.

I'll rally with Sunday cheapness soon. (There is surprisingly quite a few choices for a Sunday.)

Cheers!

TUES 10/19: RSVP to Smack Back the Zwack

7pm to 9pm
"Zwack The Puck"
at Game On, 82 Lansdowne St, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
FREE w/ RSVP / 21+

Based on the appearance and the descriptions I've read, Zwack is similar to a Hungarian version of Jagermeister.

You can try it and make your own opinion on Tuesday night where complimentary cocktails will be served. There's also going to be an air-hockey tournament as you're getting your Zwack on.

According to Barstool Sports, you'll want to RSVP with them to enter the tournament and get there at 6:30pm to register.

They claim that the top two players will share $1,000 in prize money (75-25 split), so it wouldn't hurt if think you have a serious chance of winning.

Otherwise, chill out with some cocktails and free food. Maybe you'll acquire your taste for it -- or maybe you'll spend the rest of your life face-making and head-shaking at the mention of this liqueur.

Note: It's likely going to be a "first-come" admission policy.

(I recommend trying palinka whenever you have a chance, so try to make friends with a Hungarian.)

8/11: Free Party or TV Preview

More Wednesday Cheapness in a little bit.

Think about these in the meantime (or check the calendar).

One of these requires an RSVP; neither has guaranteed entry.

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WED 8/11

6pm to 9pm
"Best Of El Planeta" Party
at Game On, 82 Lansdowne St, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
FREE w/RSVP

I don't often pick up "El Planeta", but that doesn't need to stop you or I to go to their "Best Of" party. There should be free appetizers and Coronas...

And why shouldn't the Phoenix's hermana publication put out its own list? Do you want to know which Central American restaurant is the favorite among the readers?

Looks like you can still RSVP...

WED 8/11

6pm
"Weeds" & "The Big C": Preview Screening
at Kendall Square Cinema, One Kendall Square, Cambridge
FREE

I don't have a link for this event, since info was passed along by email from Landmark/Kendall Square Cinema.

If you don't have Showtime, you might be bummed that you're intererested in one or both of these shows after the screening.

Or you might have an ambiguous reaction yet still enjoyed a couple hours in a theatre with a free medium popcorn and fountain drink. (Thanks, Showtime!)

They say, "Arrive early as seating is first come, first served."

The screening starts at 7pm, and they'll begin checking people in at 6pm.

6/15: Party w/ Free Rum Drinks

6pm to 8pm
Stuff's Food Issue Party
at Pairings, 50 Park Plaza, Boston
(inside Park Plaza Hotel)
FREE w/ RSVP / 21+

I will say something sincere about Stuff magazine.

You can find some good articles about food, especially if it's the long-form pieces by Louisa Kasdon, Ruth Tobias and MC Slim JB. I think they all wrote something for this issue.

If you feel like having a couple free rum cocktails (thanks to DonQ Rum), you may still be able to RSVP.

My standard Stuff Party note: Every rummy needs to RSVP individually. If you don't like the emails they may send you in the future, it's easy to click 'delete'...

I assume you'll also be able to find out what appetizers 'pair' well with rum...

Sneak Peek 5/18: Sherry Cocktail Tasting

6pm to 9pm
Secret Sherry Society
at Villa Victoria Center for the Arts, 85 W Newton St, Boston (South End)
FREE w/ RSVP

I like sherry, so I'm intrigued by the trying it in cocktail(s) form. I don't know how much of a buzz one can get from an event like this, since I usually drink it in a tiny glass when it's already deep into the night.

There should be tapas to snack as well. I like the sound of this, but it could be crowded for a "secret society".

If the website doesn't work to RSVP and you really want to go, you can try emailing Pamela with your name, age, and a friendly request.


Yes, it would be funny to print out a moustache and wear it. I might, if I go...

12/15: Two To RSVP -- Booze, SXSW Info

Before tomorrow arrives, you could RSVP for one (or both) of these events.

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TUES 12/15

9pm
Bulldog Gin Party
at District, 180 Lincoln St, Boston (Chinatown)
FREE w/ RSVP

Not much to say. Enjoy some free British gin cocktails and "hors d'oeuvres".

Even though you RSVP, it's a good idea to get there early to get in.



TUES 12/15

7pm
Rock Shop #1: "Less Rock, More Talk"
at Middle East - Downstairs, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE w/ RSVP / All Ages

For New England artists who are heading to SXSW in March, it would be a good idea to get some tips (music, business, more) from seasoned music guys who've been down there.

Music marketing pros Steve Theo of Pirate! Promotion and John Hammond of Musebox are joining Kevin Hoskins, The Middle East's booking manager, for the first of what might be ongoing info sessions for local musicians.

Because I know rockers sometimes need more direction than others: When you RSVP, you should email the names of who will be attending.

9/17: RSVP for a Rum Drink (Yo-ho-ho!)

7pm to 9pm
"Cocktail Week Opening Night Party"
at M.J. O'Connor's, 27 Columbus Ave, Boston (Park Plaza)
FREE w/ RSVP

Wow, the "second annual" Cocktail Week (sponsored by Bacardi) has snuck up on us. The site has lists of 20 bars in Boston (plus others in Portland and Providence) that are offering a rum-cocktail 'n appetizer combo for $20.09.

It's probably a savings of 90 cents or less, but it might be interesting for those fruity-drink lovers meeting up with friends. (I'd suggest going to Top of the Hub or another spot where the drinks and apps might already be more than $10...)

The real cheapness is alive and well at the kickoff where you can score a couple Bacardi drinks and apps for free -- if get there before they reach capacity.

(Do you think they might actually serve Bacardi-and-cokes?)

It's a Stuff party, so every rummy needs to RSVP individually. If you don't like the emails they may send you in the future, it's easy to click 'delete'...

Cocktail Week runs from Thirsty Thursday 9/17 to Thirsty Thursday 9/24.

8/26: Free Vodka with RSVP

10pm
Absolut Boston Tasting
at District, 180 Lincoln St, Boston (Ladder District)
FREE w/ RSVP / 21+

As part of their City series, Absolut has created a Boston-inspired vodka of black tea and elderflower.

Obviously, it's a reference to the Boston Tea Party -- along with a trendy cocktail flavor (paraphrasing Absolut's marketing guy). My buddy, Rick, suggested it should be Charles-River-flavored. I would've suggested clam or roast beef.

If you wanted something disgusting yet popular, they could have taken a season's worth of Kevin Garnett's sweat and put a few drops in every bottle (with elderflower, of course).

Based on pictures, District is the kind of place that "doesn't appreciate" people like me who like to wear sneakers. Bottom line: It's fancier than where I personally like to hang out.

This event is associated with The Weekly Dig, and they suggested the possibility of "multiple tastings" in their "Daily Dig" email. So think about that...

When you RSVP, be sure to give your full name.

Advance Notice 8/13: Free Drinks 'n Stuff

9pm
"Midnight in the Garden of Agave" Party
at Jose McIntyre's, 160 Milk St, Boston (Financial District)
FREE w/ RSVP

Who knows why Sauza wants us to have Hornitos drinks on them... Maybe it seems like a good business plan after drinking lots of tequila!

I see the meeting going something like this:

Hombre #1: Can we get hula hoop dancers?
Hombre #2: Si, we can.

Hombre #1: Can we get a contortionist?
Hombre #2: Si, we can.

Hombre #1: What do you think about a tarot card reader?
Hombre #2: Eh, why not...

Hombre #1: Want another shot of Hornitos?
Hombre #2: Sure!

Hombre #1: Hey -- let's do it in Boston at a Irish-Mexican bar.
Hombre #2: Hahaha!

So what if the event is called "Midnight..." and starts at 9pm. Would you rather wait 3 hours for free tequila? BTW, there is supposed to be hula hoop dancers, a contortionist, and a tarot card reader.

It's a Stuff party, so everyone who wants to go needs to RSVP. Their emails aren't really that bad, and you might see these things before I tell you about it.

Stuff is not the greatest free magazine in the world, but they arrange parties with free drinks. I salute them. (And one-finger salute them for not letting me in once -- even though I RSVP'ed...)

7/27: Get into a Stuff Block Party?

I figured it a few days ago when I entered the Will Dailey contest then saw this Stuff invite. An email or web registration page won't suffice to get something free anymore.

You have to embarrass yourself with a silly twitter or write something like "I'M HOT" on a Facebook wall. I wish I could tell you more details about this "Hot 100" block party, but I'm just not cool enough...

(Phew! Maybe I'm feuding with the new version of Stuff[at]Night?)

Yes, I might enjoy free drinks from Stuff again, but never by writing something stupid on your wall! (...again.)

Give it a shot yourself, and you might get an invite. As of Sunday, I didn't get an email letting me know either way...