Advance Notice: Discount Tix for October's Wrathskellar

A few of my pix from last year.

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FRI 10/5 (thru SUN 10/28)

8pm
"The Wrathskellar"
at Davis Square Theater, 255 Elm St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$11.25 or $16.50 Goldstar price / $25 door or $27 advance

At last year's Wrathskellar, an empty storefront was transformed into a pseudo-Brechtian tavern setting for a well-paced, funny, and sexy theater experience. Now they're settling into the theater below the Burren where adult beverages will be available.

Far from being a cheesy attempt to scare folks around Halloween, it's just a darker than average burlesque during the season with morbid humor.

While the program changes slightly from year to year, pay attention from the beginning and you might pick up clues for the narrative that emerges throughout the show.

While it's slightly above the usual 'cheap thrill', consider it the "Goldstar Pick o' the Week". You have to sign up, but it's not more offensive than any other emails. (See a recent preamble for my usual Goldstar disclaimer.)

They have discounted tickets for:

FRI 10/5, SAT 10/6, SUN 10/7,
THUR 10/11, FRI 10/12, SAT 10/13, SUN 10/14,
THUR 10/18, FRI 10/19, SUN 10/21,
and THUR 10/25.

I meant to post this earlier, but the cheapest offers are available for:
SUN 10/7, THUR 10/11, SUN 10/14, and SUN 10/21 -- if you act quickly.

15 Cheap Thrills for the Weekend

Until Thursday cheapness is posted, here are some of the 'best bets' for the Tax-Free Weekend (synopsis and the fine print).

If you've noticed a white-haired dude taking pictures at a show, that was probably Bob Colby who is having a birthday bash at TT the Bears on SUN 8/12 with 11 hours of bands for more than $10.

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FRI 8/10

5pm to 8pm
Second Fridays
at MIT Museum, 265 Mass Ave, Cambridge (near Central Sq)
FREE

There are many cool things in the museum, and why not see it for free? Tonight's bonus: "Fun with slide rules" (Really!)

FRI 8/10 (thru SUN 8/19)

7pm
Jean Renoir’s "Grand Illusion": 75th Anniversary Restoration
at Harvard Film Archive, 24 Quincy St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
$9 / $7 Non-Harvard students, senior citizens

A beautiful film about nationalism and socio-economic class is going look more beautiful than ever.

It plays at various times through Monday, then next Friday through Sunday.

(Yes, it's a French black & white film with subtitles.)

FRI 8/10

7pm to 9pm
"Street Diamonds": Opening Reception
at Fourth Wall Project, 132 Brookline Ave, Boston (Fenway)
FREE / 21+

Feat: Chris Piascik, Nineta, Silas Finch, Alphabet Soup, Repeat Press, Jeremy Packer, Heather McGrath, Muro-Buro, Mitch Weiss, James Mustin, Paper Fortress, Ryan Lombardi, Josh Lafayette, Tony Luong, April Clay, Goldenstash, Dan McCarthy, Robert Maloney, The !nd!v!duals w/ Silver Oris

The theme of the multi-artist, multimedia exhibit is diamonds (natural and metaphorical).

"Opening is sponsored by PBR."

FRI 8/10

8:30pm
The Wandas, St. Helena, Oranjuly, The Laughing Heart Band
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 advance / $12 day of show / 18+

Since the advance tickets are $10, it's still qualifies as a 'cheap thrill'. It's worth a trip to the Middle East's upstairs ticket office for wall-to-wall catchy rock.

FRI 8/10

10:30pm
Holiday Mountain
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5-ish / 21+

I didn't pay enough attention to Holiday Mountain's fun weirdness, and now they're moving to Austin soon.

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SAT 8/11

9am to 6:30pm
Cambridge Discovery Days 2012: "Power & Politics"
at Various Locations in Cambridge
Most FREE

More history infotainment than you can stand that's described in short and long PDF files.

SAT 8/11

1pm
"Where’s Waldo?" Crawl
start at Paddy O's, 33 Union St, Boston (near Faneuil Hall)
$5 / 21+

Get out your red-striped shirt & cap, and you will still blend in with this crowd.

RSVP is suggested.

SAT 8/11

6pm to 10pm
Hungry Tiger Street Food Festival
at Union Sq Plaza, Somerville (nexus of Somerville Ave, Washington St, Bow St)
FREE

Rain Date -- SUN 8/12

There is a more than a boat load of international eats in Union Square who will set up around the plaza with live music and other entertainment.

SAT 8/11

9pm
HR (from Bad Brains), Ska-Prest, Super Ska, DJ Ford E. Buxworth
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 / 21+

His current stuff is more reggae than punk these days, and supporting the lead singer from Bad Brains is the karmically correct thing.

What? Were you going see the Sublime tribute band at Church?

SAT 8/11

11:15pm to 6am
Annual Boston by Bike at Night
Start at Trinity Church, about 600 Bolyston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

Riding around town all night in a giant posse is probably more awesome than running the marathon. The adventure likely begins at 11:45pm, but get there early to fill out a liability waiver and general organization.

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SUN 8/12

10am to 5pm
Annual Chinatown August Moon Festival
around Beach St, Harrison Ave, Tyler St, Boston (Chinatown)
FREE

Dim sum places will be more crowded than usual, but there's entertainment in the streets. Maybe you can snack on a mooncakes -- it's a Moon Festival thing.

SUN 8/12

2:30pm to 5:30pm
Dr. Sketchy's: Burlesque Drawing Class
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$8 / 18+

Model: Ludella Hahn

Drawing in a bar is less creepy when the subject knows it's happening in a casual art-fun happening. Grab something to draw with, and the bar will gladly sell you beverages.

SUN 8/12

3:30pm to 8pm
India Day Celebration
at Hatch Shell, Storrow Dr, Boston (Charles River Esplanade)
FREE

It's the 65th anniversary of India's independence, so you could join the local celebration of food, music, dance, vendors, etc.

SUN 8/12

6pm
Berklee Summer in the City: Kina Zore
at Allerton Overlook, about 142 Pond Ave, Brookline (near Brookline Village)
FREE

Hey, how often do you hear an Afro-pop band in the Emerald Necklace.

SUN 8/12

7pm
"Passion Play"
at Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$10 standing room

The 3 acts aren't really different productions of the Jesus story, but the play happens while people at different times and places are going to perform it.

Playwright Sarah Ruhl and her plays receive frequent accolades.

TUES 8/14: RSVP for a Free Sapporo (or more)

6:30pm to 8:30pm
Stuff Magazine Cocktail Caravan
at The Granary Tavern, 170 Milk St, Boston (Financial District)
FREE w/ RSVP / 21+

I've had mixed experiences at Stuff parties, but I lean towards stopping in for a couple free drinks if it's not far out of your way.


By no means am I complaining, but the wait to get into these things followed by the mad crush at the bar almost -- almost -- doesn't seem to be worth it.

Even if Sapporo isn't one of your top-5 brews, it is definitely one of the top-5 Japanese beers that you could name off the top of your head.

There is a good chance that you haven't been inside the Granary Tavern (next to Jose McIntyre's) that opened in June.

There is also a good chance of complimentary appetizers carried around the room on trays.

The RSVP (+1 is available) may get you on their mailing list, so you can see all of the Stuff offers firsthand.

SAT 7/14: Water Gun Battle

Friday's cheapness is below. Check the CTB calendar for the upcoming week.

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SAT 7/14

2pm
Water Gun 2012: "See Something, Spray Something"
Location: To be announced at Midnight
FREE w/ RSVP

It looks like it's not too late to register for Banditos Misteriosos' 5th annual Water Gun Fight.

There is a different theme every year, and participants will be split up according to the 4 main colors of the MBTA: Red Line, Green Line, Orange Line, and Blue Line.

Hundreds usually show up at the location the Banditos will send you. It's usually at a location where water is available for refills, but they say it's not at the Esplanade.

In the past, some of the suggested supplies have included:

- A water gun of your choice (some bring more than one).
- At least 2 FILLED two-liter bottles
- A back-pack to hold water bottles
- Clothing in the color of your train line

"Bonus points will be awarded to participants who dress up in T-related costumes (points will be distributed in the form of water)."

Why not cool off with a giant crowd of strangers dousing you in good clean fun?

Remember to NOT be an asshole to people that aren't participating.

[Facebook]

Goldstar Pick o' the Week: Bastille Day Party

(Original photo from Wikipedia)

After our Independence Day, we can celebrate the beginning of the French Revolution -- 13 years after 1776.

There are plenty of free/cheap French events this weekend such as...

THUR 7/12:

At the Beehive's Bastille Day Fete, you can party with a gypsy-jazz band and what I assume to be a DJ.

SAT 7/14:

The Occupy Boston movement is seizing the symbolism with an art fair at Spontaneous Celebrations that moves to Southwest Corridor Park for picnicking, protesting, performances and assembly.

The French Consulate is hosting a 21+ 'official party' at the Cyclorama for dancing with a French DJ (and maybe projections of Jerry Lewis movies).

We don't know the exact cover charge, however the annual Bastille Day A-Go-Go at Precinct is a fun night of NOLA-style R&B and will include a homage to Serge Gainsbourg this year.

SUN 7/15:

Almost every year, there's a street festival with food and music in Harvard Square.

If you want to party a la Francaise on Friday, I suggest the Bastille Day bash that the the French Cultural Center has presented for almost 40 years.

Admission is slightly over $10, but this is an event I've been wanting to list for a long time. The folks at Goldstar are offering a good discount, so I'm bending my rules. They offer various 50% (or more) discounts to a variety of events like theater, comedy, music, etc -- even paintball.

Yes, you have to register. And they send emails on a regular basis -- but you can read/delete them as you like. I suggest reading them more often than not, because some early-bird discounts provide almost free admission.

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FRI 7/13

6pm to 11pm
Bastille Day Party
at Marlborough Street, between Berkeley & Clarendon St, Boston (Back Bay)
$18 Goldstar price (vs $32 advance or $35 door)

Feat: Diblo Dibala & Sarazino

Despite a plethora of Bastille Day festivities (that may be disproportionate compared to the local French population), the French Cultural Center's annual fete feels like the most authentic.

You don't need to speak the language of love, but don't be surprised if may think you're wandered into Canadian territory when it's really a picturesque section of Back Bay blocked off for an evening of music, dancing, food, and drink.

The main event is the music that is Francophonic yet thankfully far from cheesy French pop.

Master guitarist Diblo Dibala leads a Congolese dance band that ensures a good time every night based on this video. Sarazino is a funky little multi-genre project of a globe-hopping Algerian who currently hangs his hat in Ecuador. Most of the lyrics are in French too, but I heard a little Spanish and English as well.

Based on the end time, these bands will probably start around 8:30pm or 9pm.

Beer, wine, and French food will be for sale. You'll have a few extra bucks in your pocket if you get your tix in advance.

If nothing above tickles your fancy, McSweeney's has some great tips for a home Bastille Day party.

THUR 7/12: Volunteers Needed for Annual Lantern Festival

Annual Lantern Festival
at Lake Hibiscus, Forest Hills Cemetery, 95 Forest Hills Ave, Jamaica Plain

Volunteer shifts:
5pm to 7:30pm - OR - 7pm to 9pm

The Annual Lantern Festival is one of the beautiful events every year, and it would be a real shame if there was any reason why they couldn't continue.

I got an email saying they still need volunteers, so just passing it on:

The Trust still needs volunteers to help run the 14th annual Lantern Festival on Thursday, July 12th.

You will be selling shades, passing out programs, handing out lantern bases and generally helping make this enormous community event a success. There are two shifts: 5-7:30pm and 7-9pm.

For your help, you will receive free parking and a free lantern.

If you're interested, send an email and let them know which shift you would prefer.

The rain date is THUR 7/19.

Keep the shortcut from the Forest Hills T in mind.



HEY:

I meant to include that the Boston Derby Dames are looking for volunteers -- no experience necessary -- to assist on SAT 7/14 at 3:15pm. Get in touch with Pepper.

And it's a fun time for $14...

7/3 & 7/4: Fireworks, The Pops

It's a milestone year for Boston due the bicentennial of the War of 1812, since the USS Constitution became known as "Old Ironsides" 200 years ago this month. (So you can remind people about that when you're at a cookout.)

Besides this stuff, there is other cheap fun today. (Stay tuned.)

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TUES 7/3 & WED 7/4

Various Times
Independence Day Fireworks, Etc
at Boston and Various Locations
FREE

Of course, showering the Boston sky above the Charles River is the big kahuna on 7/4 with the Dropkick Murphys and Jennifer Hudson joining the Boston Pops.

Last week, I mentioned the Commonwealth PDF list along with some towns relatively near Boston.

When I checked the specific locations, I noticed that some of dates didn't match the MA list. Whoops! I believe this information is more accurate:

TUES 7/3

Andover, North Andover, Lincoln PDF, Fitchburg, Foxborough, Stoughton, Gloucester, Haverhill, Needham, Nahant, Newton, Waltham, Weymouth, Winthrop

WED 7/4

Beverly, Marblehead, Salem, Wakefield (at least 3 of these 4 can be seen from the Salem-Beverly bridge), Lowell, Brockton (multiple days)

If you are interested in other locales, I'd suggest the WBZ list then confirm it anyway.

The Globe has their Independence Day section that also has an option where to find fireworks.

TUES 7/3 & WED 7/4

Tuesday:

8:20pm to 10pm
Boston Pops Pre-Concert
at Hatch Shell, Charles River Esplanade, Storrow Dr, Boston
FREE

Wednesday:

8pm to 11pm
Boston Pops Independence Day Concert & Fireworks
at Hatch Shell, Charles River Esplanade, Storrow Dr, Boston
FREE

From my experience, tonight's rehearsal concert is reasonably crowded (see some photos below). Although there are no fireworks, the Dropkick Murphys and Jennifer Hudson will still perform like it's the Fourth.

The prime seating in the "Oval" will open at 6pm tonight (and 9am on Wednesday). Even though you can't see the fireworks when you're seated so close to the stage, people will race like maniacs on the morning of 7/4. Read the FAQ's to prepare yourself.

The space along the Esplanade will fill up slightly less quickly, and there should be more day picnic space on the Memorial Drive side of the Charles.

Since you have the opportunity you should stand there at least once in your life and see one of the best annual pyrotechnic shows in person at least once in your life. No matter how big the TV is, it cannot do justice to the real thing.

The later you go, the more crowded it will be. The first time I went, the Longfellow Bridge was open to spectators and 7pm was a really long time to wait. The last time I went, we strolled to the Mass Ave Bridge area about 10pm and still found a good view.

The music? At least the Dropkick Murphys are going to play at some point.

The scene from July 3, 2009:

6/28 to 7/5: Harborfest, Navy Week, Tall Ships

More cheap fun is forthcoming, but I felt like giving my angle on a couple of the big Boston events.

I didn't mention it below, but I've observed that bars around Faneuil Hall were teeming with sailors (men & women) during previous Navy Weeks.

It also looks like tonight's free beer & nosh (with RSVP) at the Tavern in Allston still has room...

Shhh!: There's a hot tip for checking out the USS Constitution on Wednesday 7/4 in the comments. (Thanks, aek!)

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THUR 6/28 thru WED 7/4

Various Times
Boston Harborfest
at City Hall Plaza and other spots around Boston
Many under $10 or FREE

It's a good week to have visitors in town. They have plenty to see and do after walking the Freedom Trail (which is a great way to see historical highlights and demonstrate that Boston is a walking town).

The majority of this historical/cultural infotainment (tours, presentations, reenactments, etc) are probably more interesting to visitors than residents, but it doesn't hurt to see something new/old in your town.

For example, non-politicians can get a tour of the State House on the weekdays (6/28, 6/29, 7/2, 7/3) from 10am to 3:30pm that probably start on the half-hour. If you make a reservation (617-727-3676), 45-minute tours of the grounds will begin at noon from 6/29 to 7/1.

The average Bostonian does benefit by the increase in free samples and entertainment as they walk through Government Center and Faneuil Hall. If you can stand listening to Mayor Mumbles -- or can time it right -- you could grab a piece of cake at today's opening ceremony at Faneuil Hall (scheduled from noon to 12:30pm).

Most of the cheap/free stufff on weekdays occur during the day, and many of the offerings repeat over the week around the downtown and surrounding areas.

Of course there's a lot to see on the weekends and Independence Day. On 7/4, one could hang out at Castle Island to see the USS Constition, tour Fort Independence, and have a carton of fried clams from Sully's. Take a look and see if anything piques your interest...

SAT 6/30 thru THUR 7/5

Various Times
Boston Navy Week
at Various Locations
FREE

Various Times
OpSail Tall Ships 2012
at Various Locations
FREE

As we celebrate the bicentennial of the War of 1812, we're reminded that the USS Constitution earned its nickname "Old Ironsides" 200 years ago and has been afloat ever since. So Navy Week and the visit of the tall ships are really entwined as quite a few of the tall ships will be US and foreign naval ships.

The Google map is my attempt at making a helpful resource that includes locations and visiting hours. I think this is accurate based on various sources. Besides the links above, I suggest the Harborfest ship schedule, the USS Constitution Museum info, and the BostonUSA page.

While most Harborfest activities occur every year, the special occasion is the parade of nautical grace of the upcoming week. I visited the Tall Ships by the World Trade Center in 2009, and it was a wonderful experience to see how they're put together around giant masts and miles of rope.

Of course, the Constitution's annual turnaround in the Harbor on Independence Day is special sight even though the old gal gets a lot of help these days. Besides touring the ships around the Harbor, there are other cool things to see.

Teams of sailors from international crews challenge each other in a tug-of-war tournament at City Hall Plaza on SAT 6/30 from 4:30pm to 6pm.

The Leap Frogs are parachuting onto Puopolo Park (North End) at 10am and Boston Common at 2pm on 7/2 & 7/3, then landing at the Seaport's Fan Pier at noon on 7/4. That's also around the time that the Blue Angels and other planes are flying over Boston.

The sailors in Charlestown perform "Early 19th Century Gun Drills" at least once a day from 6/28 to 7/3 with the US Coast Guard Silent Drill Team showing their modern tricks on 7/2 (3:30pm).

The open ship schedule is probably something like this. A matrix might have been a better format...

Fish Pier
SAT 6/30 -- 4pm to 10pm
SUN 7/1 -- Noon to 10pm
MON 7/2 -- 4pm to 10pm
TUES 7/3 -- 4pm to 10pm
WED 7/4 -- Noon to 10pm
THUR 7/5 -- 4pm to 10pm

Black Falcon Cruise Terminal
SAT 6/30 -- Noon to 8pm
SUN 7/1 -- Noon to 8pm
MON 7/2 -- 4pm to 8pm
TUES 7/3 -- 4pm to 8pm
WED 7/4 -- Noon to 8pm
THUR 7/5 -- 4pm to 8pm

North Jetty, Seaport
SAT 6/30 -- Noon to 4pm
SUN 7/1 -- Noon to 6pm
MON 7/2 -- Noon to 6pm
TUES 7/3 -- Noon to 6pm

Charlestown Navy Yard
THUR 6/28 to THUR 7/5 -- 10am to 6pm

SHIPS:
USS Constitution -- 6/28 & 6/29 only
USCGC Barque Eagle -- 6/28 thru 7/3
HMCS Goose Bay (Canada), HMCS Moncton (Canada) -- 7/1 & 7/2 only

US Coast Guard Station
SAT 6/30 -- Noon to 4pm
SUN 7/1 -- Noon to 4pm

Some other things to consider: Visitors to ships should plan on wearing comfortable clothes and shoes. The ships are not handicapped accessible. US naval ships will have security checks similar to most airports (and photography is permitted).

Fireworks on 6/28, 7/3 & 7/4

As we celebrate the bicentennial of the War of 1812, it was a battle around Chesapeake Bay where Francis Scott Key saw the bombs bursting in air.

Honestly, fireworks on any day is fine with me. Since my town of Somerville is starting on Thursday night, one doesn't have to wait until the nation's birthday for the pyrotechnics.

As usual, the Commonwealth has compiled a PDF list of towns' displays in chronological order.

The Globe has their Independence Day section that also has an option where to find fireworks.

Of course, showering the Boston sky above the Charles River is the big kahuna on 7/4 with the Dropkick Murphys and Jennifer Hudson joining the Boston Pops -- I assume separately.

Update: I initially used the MA list, and the towns had different dates.
Some of the other towns inside Route 128 (or thereabouts) lighting up the same night include:

Beverly, Marblehead, Salem, Wakefield (at least 3 of these 4 can be seen from the Salem-Beverly bridge), Lowell, and Brockton

On Wednesday 7/3, some locales prematurely launching in Eastern MA include:

Andover, North Andover, Lincoln, Fitchburg, Foxborough, Stoughton, Gloucester, Haverhill, Needham, Nahant, Newton, Waltham, Weymouth, and even Winthrop

BTW:

Cheapness through Saturday is on the calendar.

Although the free/$7 tickets to "Roller Disco the Musical!" that I mentioned last week are no longer available, Goldstar still has discounted tickets for the shows that start thie Wednesday and Thursday.

Goldstar Pick o' the Week: "Roller Disco the Musical!"

(Original photo from Wikipedia)

WED 6/27 & THUR 6/28 (thru THUR 8/30)

8pm
"Roller Disco the Musical!"
at Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$7 or $16.50 Goldstar price (vs $25)

It's no contest for the Goldstar Pick o' the Week. Today's email featured this event that will run on Wednesdays and Thursdays from next week through Thursday 8/30.

Putting aside the good buzz I've been hearing, I would be hooked by their tag line:

The unauthorized parody of "Roller Boogie", the classic film that Inspired a generation... For like five minutes.

Who cares that nobody remembers the campy 1979 film when we have a brand new 3-act musical where all of the performers are on roller-skates for the whole production!

Even if the story is vaguely faithful to the original, it's going to ridiculous fun. And you know the camp quotient is going to be turned up by the sheer equation of "roller boogie" + "The 70s".

I read that the actors weren't asked about their skating abilities until after the auditions, so keep in mind that some of them are just acting like they know how to roller-skate.

There is a limited amount of the cheapest tickets ("Free" plus service fee), but it doesn't hurt to save a few bucks with the $12.50 tix. Goldstar offers discounts on a variety of events.

As far as one can tell from the trailer, there was no dialogue in the source material. Gotta love the latitude for parody! (Yep, the roller princess is the kid from "The Exorcist".)

SAT 6/16: Walk for Charity (and Free Food)

10:30am tp 6pm
6th Annual Anna's Walqueria
from Anna's Taqueria, 1412 Beacon St, Brookline (near Coolidge Corner)
to Anna's Taqueria, 242 Cambridge St, Boston (Beacon Hill/MGH)
to Anna's Taqueria, 84 Mass Ave, Cambridge (MIT campus)
to Anna's Taqueria, 822 Somerville Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
to Anna's Taqueria, 236A Elm St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
to Anna's Taqueria, 446 Harvard St, Brookline (near Coolidge Corner)
FREE

Of the potential activities for the weekend, you might want some time to think about this one. Boston's favorite burrito chain wants you to help them give money to The Home For Little Wanderers.

They'll give $5 for everyone who shows up tomorrow morning and $5 more for every other location you visit with the crowd. Your incentive is free food and drink at each stop as well as raising funds that don't come out of your pocket. (It is okay to leave tips for the workers serving you along the way.)

It's a nice twist on the corporate donation if you think about it. They want to give money to charity, and they want their patrons to help.

It is going to be a walk, but the loop is about 13 miles. There's a burrito at the beginning and snacks (chips/salsa/guac, taco/small cheese quesadilla) until you get another burrito at the 6th stop along with a coupon for a free burrito. Can you eat Mexican food all day and walk half of a marathon?

Even for orphans...?

It would be nice to let them know you're coming on Facebook.

Goldstar Pick o' the Week: Interactive Fun

(Original photo from Wikipedia)

Welcome to the 2nd weekly installment for Goldstar -- the site that usually offers about 50% off -- sometimes more -- various performances like theater, comedy, music, etc.

There is a fee, but you're still ahead of the game. (And you can handle emails about future events.) I have used their service, so I know it works.

Some admission prices even drop below the CTB $10 threshold thanks to the service, although stuff such as Cirque du Soleil still costs a bit more.

Since it's Father's Day this weekend, I thought I'd point out a couple things that might be something to do with (or without) dads.

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Friday, Saturday, Sunday Evenings through SUN 12/23

8pm
5 Wits: "Espionage" or "20,000 Leagues"
at Patriot Place, 202 Patriot Pl, Foxboro (near Gillette Stadium)
$9 Goldstar price (vs $18)

For 45 to 60 minutes, your group will go on an interactive adventure that requires more brain than brawn. Groups go through different rooms and work together to solve a set of challenges.

Intended for the 20-something crowd, some people think it's fun for younger people. I think solving puzzles as if being a spy or taking a ride on Captain Nemo's submarine is fun for anyone with an imaginative spirit.

The term 'evening' means after 6pm to me, so I assume the offer applies to times when there may not be a bunch of kids overwhelming your experience...

I wish these interactive adventures were still located near Fenway, but Patriot Place is a dad-friendly place with some shops offering Fathers Day specials.

Also:

There's a old-school song/comedy/dance show at the Regent Theatre on 6/17 (2pm). I couldn't find any recordings or videos, so it's a crapshoot. However if your father is interested in something like a blend of "Tom Jones, Robert Goulet and Sinatra", he may not have high expectations for entertainment. Tickets are available as low as $4.75.


This is where one might say, "Support of our sponsors is appreciated."

Goldstar Pick o' the Week: Laugh for Less

(Original photo from Wikipedia)

The Goldstar folks reached out to me about sharing their event offers, which are about 50% off the full price -- or more on occasion. There is a fee, but you're still ahead of the game. I have used their service, so I know it works.

They offer various discounts to various performances like theater, comedy, music, etc. Yeah, you'll get emails on a regular basis. I'm sure you're dealing with other sites that email you too. (I'm about to restart the weekly e-list to subscribers.)

FYI: I will get compensated if people sign up, but I do believe in the service to save money. Expect to see a weekly Goldstar post and maybe a few events interspersed when relevant.

As I looked the the current available events that fall under the CTB $10 threshold, and I decided to highlight some comedy club offers:

Thursdays 6/7 to 6/28

8pm
"Nostalg-sick"
at Improv Asylum, 216 Hanover St. Boston (North End)
$10 Goldstar price (vs $20)

In a mix of sketch and improv, the cast riffs on the good/bad ol' days of the 90's. The show:

...combines Improv Asylum's signature audience-inspired improvisation with written sketches and songs to deliver a night of laughs that will make you appreciate both the '90s and today (much like a soft rock classic radio station).

Improv can be hit or miss, but Improv Asylum has been more hit than miss in my experience. It's also helps if you're ready to laugh. Yes, they serve drinks that you can bring into the performance area.

Also:

Hidden inside the new Central Square restaurant Moksa, there is a space for comedy and other fun (like dancing). Appearing next weekend is comedian Corey Manning (6/15 & 6/16 - $8).

6/5: See the Transit of Venus

And there is cheap fun through Monday on the calendar.

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TUES 6/5

6pm to Sunset
The Transit of Venus
at the Surface of the Sun
FREE

It all depends on how interested you are about the machinations of our solar system, but this is a cool moment that won't happen again in your lifetime*.

As planetary orbits go Earthlings saw Venus pass across the Sun in 2004, and we are going to wait 105 years before it will happen again.

It should be visible from 6pm until the sun sets. If you go to the Transit of Venus site, there are various safe viewing ideas to general information as well as a free smartphone app.

Please don't stare at the sun! If it's cloudy BU and Harvard below offer a video feed of the event. (From a satellite?)

There are a few options to see it with some professional assistance:

- #1 -

Rooftop Viewing
at Phillips Auditorium, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, 60 Garden St, Cambridge (between Porter Sq and Fresh Pond)

They say:

Attendees don't need to bring anything. We will offer filtered telescopes, solar projection, and a limited number of eclipse viewer glasses.
Parking is available at 60 Garden Street, 160 Concord Avenue, and the lot on Bond Street between Garden Street and Concord Avenue.

From personal experience, there's a lot of room on the roof even if a big crowd shows up.

- #2 -

Boston University Viewing Options
at Coit Observatory, rooftop of 725 Comm Ave, Boston
at 3 locations along Comm Ave, Boston

They say:

To enable the most people to view the transit safely, BU astronomers will staff telescopes across BU’s campus.

Underneath the observatory in Room 522, there will be astronomical smarty-pants to chat about the planets, stars, dark matter, and whatever else you like. (And this is where the video feed will be shown.)

- #3 -

Museum of Science Viewing (RSVP Required)
on the Garage Roof, 1 Science Park, Boston

Registration is FULL.

They say:

A number of telescopes will be set up[...] equipped with solar filters for safe viewing.

There are very few spots left, so hurry and RSVP!

* With advancements in science, some of us could be alive in 2117 -- if some other cataclysmic event doesn't occur first.

Friday to Sunday Calendar

Some highlights:

Tom Brady and his buddies are playing a casual game at Harvard Stadium on Friday (registration req'd)...

The Figgs are doing 2 nights of great American rock at Church ($10)...

Tijuana Sweetheart are rocking 2 farewell nights at O'Brien's ($8)...

For the 33rd year, Cambridge River Festival goes down on the Memorial Drive side of the Charles on Saturday...

Postponed: The Greenway is the site for an experimental art festival on both weekend days...

Jamaica Plain's Sunday fun-day includes the Green Roots Festival and a chili competition...

A big chunk of East Somerville's Broadway will be blocked off for music & fun on Sunday...

Anglophiles can swing by the Old State House to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee on Sunday...

5/25 to 5/28: Campfire Festival

It's a blurry image, but you get the idea...

There is cheapness through Monday on the calendar, and I have made my "Top 12 of the Weekend" list.

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FRI 5/25 (thru MON 5/28)

Various Times
"Campfire Festival"
at Club Passim, 47 Palmer St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$10 per day / $30 Weekend Pass

Friday -- 6pm
Other Days -- Noon to Midnight

For the majority of the next 4 days Passim is hosting about 100 musical folk, bluegrass, blues, and rock acts. One doesn't even have to spend 11 hours to get your money's worth.

Passim's Campfire festivals usually happen at the beginning and end of the summer season. Performers will sing some songs solo as well as join together for impromptu collaborations -- just like a... campfire sing-along!

I'm not sure if anyone can handle sitting there all 4 days, but there is wall-to-wall folk, bluegrass, blues, and rock. These people are much better than the usual crowd that trade songs around a fire pit.

The whole schedule is listed below (and I tried to fix as many bad links, including MySpace and Facebook links when practical). I'd suggest picking a section and enjoy a few hours of music like: Friday (8:15pm to close), Saturday (3:45pm to 9:30pm), Sunday (6:30pm to close), or Monday (6:45pm to close) -- or any time really.

There may be less s'mores but also fewer mosquitoes (and they serve beer and wine now)...

FRIDAY:

6pm -- Melody Kills
6:45pm -- Meghan Yates
7:30pm -- Three Tall Pines
8:15pm -- Amy Correia, Nathan Reich, Matt Borrello, Nick Young
9:45pm -- The Suitcase Junket
10:30pm -- Rusty Belle
11:15pm -- OldJack

SATURDAY:

Noon -- Blues Ensemble
12:45pm -- Jug Band Ensemble
1:30pm -- Eric Leva
2:15pm -- Megan Lui, Francesca Blanchard, Bailey Cooke, Kat Quinn
3:45pm -- Summer of Aden
4:30pm -- Kellen Zakula
5:15pm -- Clayton Mathews
6pm -- Forrest O'Connor
6:45pm -- Jenna Lindbo, Jen Starsinic, Adrianne Lenker, Kwesi Kankam
8:15pm -- Jarrod Dickenson, Ryan Flaherty, Ryan Fitzsimmons
9:30pm -- Jake Hill, Melvern Taylor, Dietrich Strause, Connor Garvey
11pm -- The Bengsons

SUNDAY:

12:45pm -- Beth DeSombre, Rick Drost, Rick Gottlieb, Ryan Alvanos
2:15pm -- Bewilderbeast
3pm -- Oen Kennedy, Tom Smith, Kim Jennings, Levi Schmidt, Dan Cloutier
5pm -- April Bender
5:45pm -- The Pretty Darns
6:30pm -- Hannah & Maggie
7:15pm -- Hannah Sanders & Liz Simmons
8pm -- Ariel Rubin, Rhianna Larocque, Kerri Lowe
9:15pm -- The Greg Hawkes Ukulele Trio
10pm -- Dave Champagne, Lloyd Thayer, Patrick Coman, Brian Webb

MONDAY:

Noon -- Honky Tonk Ensemble
12:45pm -- Mountain Music Ensemble
1:30pm -- Andrea Belanger, Christa Gniadek, Carrie Ferguson, Kayln Rock
3pm -- Flynn Cohen's DeadString Ensemble
3:45pm -- Jake Armerding
4:30pm -- We Avalanche
5:15pm -- The Whiskey Boys
6pm -- Hannah Read Band
6:45pm -- Audrey Ryan, Alec Spiegelman, Jeremy Lyons, Jeff Conley
8:15pm -- Mike Block
9pm -- The Michael J. Epstein Memorial Library
9:45pm -- Hanneke Cassel, Rose Polenzani, Caitlin Canty
11pm -- The Grownup Noise

Have a folky good weekend!

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.

5/3: RSVP for Party & Free Drinks at Jillian's

FYI: Wednesday and Thursday cheapness is on the calendar.

If you saw the Bacon & Beer Art Show mentioned last month, there are still tickets available for 6:30pm tonight.

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THUR 5/3

7pm to 9pm
Thrillist's Ultimate Pre-Game Party
at Jillian's Polo & VIP Room, 145 Ipswich St, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
FREE w/ RSVP

I was hesitating about mentioning this thing mainly because the free drinks are based on the new Mike's On The Rocks 'long island iced tea' and 'hurricane' drinks. If I'm not a fan of the 'hard lemonade', I doubt these will be better.

However you can make your own choice. Maybe you're more interested in playing pool or ping-pong -- or an Xbox 360 competition.

4/20 to 4/22: Weekend Calendar

Lets's start the day with a list of cheap options for the next 3 days.

Let me also share my "Top 10" for the weekend (in chronological order):

FRI 4/20 (thru SUN 4/29) -- Cambridge Science Festival
at various locations

FRI 4/20 -- Dub Apocalypse, The Duppy Conquerors
at Arts at The Armory Performance Hall

FRI 4/20 -- Robbers on High Street, Future Carnivores, I Have Ears
at Radio

FRI 4/20 -- LEGACY 4/20: "The Spring Classic"
at Milky Way Lounge/Bella Luna

SAT 4/21 -- Record Store Day
at various locations

SAT 4/21 -- First Annual Boston Storytelling Festival
at Boston Public Library

SAT 4/21 -- Scissormen, Peter Parcek
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common

SUN 4/22 -- "Picnic for the Planet"
at Boston Common Frog Pond

SUN 4/22 (and next weekend) -- Sailing Open House
at Courageous Sailing

SUN 4/22 -- "Celebrating the Centennial of Fenway Park"
at JFK Library (Registration Req.)

Win 2 Tix to Boston Beer Summit on FRI 4/13

FRI 4/13

5:30pm to 9pm
Boston Beer Summit
at Park Plaza Castle, 130 Columbus Ave, Boston
$42.50 / 21+

I have attended the Boston Beer Summit several times, and it was worth the price of admission as far as my friends and I were concerned.



But why pay when you can win tickets?

You and one friend have a chance to go to the Friday night session for free with hundreds of beers from about 75 breweries.

It looks like there tickets still available for Friday and the early Saturday session (12:30pm to 4pm).