TUES 4/4: Free Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Today

I may get this blog going again soon, but let's enjoy some enjoy ice cream today...

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Noon to 8pm
Free Cone Day
at participating Ben & Jerry's stores
FREE

On a dreary day, a free ice cream can lift the spirits. We might even want a pick-me-up on a sunny day.

I have seen long lines in past years when the weather has been crappy, so be ready to delay your gratification for a few minutes.

It's one per customer, although I know a guy who visited more than one location in a day... (Harvard Sq, Newbury St, Natick, etc -- it can be done.)

Exposing new flavors is one of the reasons for Free Cone Day, so I might as well share them: Cocoa Loco, Frozen Flakes, Fruit Loot, Truffle Kerfuffle, and Chocolate Cherry Garcia (Chocolate Ice Cream with Cherries & Fudge Flakes)...


(And don't worry about Ben & Jerry when chowing down on your cone -- they sold to a giant conglomerate years ago.)

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...

8/23: Free Burger & Shake at City Hall Plaza, ICYMI

At least Thursday cheapness should be on the calendar with a full post forthcoming.

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THUR 8/23

11am to 4pm
"Ultimate Baconator Challenge"
at City Hall Plaza, Boston (Govt Center)
FREE

Wow, I think I scooped the whole town on this one! (WCVB posted it hours after I mentioned it yesterday morning.)

I should have spread the word days ago, but my initial and subsequent searches for a relevant webpage were fruitless.

Through my correspondence with the PR lady, I'm confident this is really happening. If it doesn't, the citizens of Boston should protest Wendy's until they give all of us some free food. Yes, I plan to check this out with my own eyes.

Do you know why bacon has been a virtually omnipresent ingredient over the past few years? Because it smells and tastes great!

Yes, fast food is bad for you. Nine out of ten things you enjoy are bad for you, so abuse in moderation and get over it.

Maybe the 'bacon-themed challenges' will get the cholesterol deposits pumping through your system like your blood used to...

I'll share some of the release with you:

Wendy’s Baconator is putting his offspring, Son of Baconator, to the test to see if he can earn his “strips” by touring America to find a league of Baconator Approved fans through the Ultimate Baconator Challenge.

The mobile will make its way across the nation, stopping in 20 towns big and small [...] to put consumers to the test with bacon-themed challenges and give away more than 30,000 free Sons of Baconator.

At every stop along the tour, bacon aficionados can take the Ultimate Baconator Challenge, enjoy a free Son of Baconator with a Wendy’s Frosty, and receive gift cards, bacon-themed T-shirts and merchandise (while supplies last).

I haven't had a Son of Baconator yet, but it should be tasty.

To paraphrase my brother, "Two's company, free's a crowd." So get there early.

8/18 & 8/19: "Woodstock" on Boston Common

More Saturday cheapness is coming, but this extravaganza seemed to deserve its own post.

I don't have time to fix the columns...

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SAT 8/18 and SUN 8/19

Noon to 10pm
"Woodstock 4"
at Boston Common, Boston
Four stages:

-- near Soldiers and Sailors Monument
-- Founders Stage, Beacon Street side, North-West
-- Cross Paths, Beacon Street side, North-East
-- near State House

FREE

Usually these Woodstock/Weirdstock events is at the Cambridge YMCA with 20+ bands, so things have gotten really out of control for the 4th annual event.

With so many performers doing 15 minutes right after each other at 4 locations on the Common, it's probably going to feel disorganized.

Maybe it'll feel like the original Woodstock with a lot of unkempt hipsters dancing all over the lawn. It might even rain like 1969...

The idea is for everyone to have a typical busking set-up, and there should be no breaks in between. I'm listing the schedule, but it won't be exact. Some of the spaces are blank on the schedule, and some are listed for longer sets.

The crowd's positive vibrations can make this kind of thing special, so let's shoot for more Woodstock '69 than '99.

The schedule is hopefully current; I've added links to the bands that I recognize and/or like.

Good times to go today: Noon-ish (Cotton Candy, Little War Twins, The Diamond Mines, School for Robots, Lowman) or 3pm-ish (Onslo, Jesse Kaminsky / Steve Norton, Happy Lives) or later in the evening.

Somewhere in the Common, Vic Rawlings is probably going to play experimental cello for 4 hours and Jacob Mashak will perform John Cage's 4'33" consecutively 100 times.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * SATURDAY * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

STATE HOUSE Noon -- Cotton Candy 12:15 -- We Love You 12:30 -- Retribution Body 12:45 -- Richochet 1pm -- Panterrified 1:15pm -- Plake 1:30 -- Vanzetti 1:45 -- Dom LaColla 2:00 -- Adam Able 2:15 -- A.W.M.A.A 2:30 -- Filthiest Nation 2:45 -- Ray Brown 3:00 -- Onslo 3:15 -- Baylies Band 3:30 -- Orion Russell 3:45 -- Olde Men on Acid 4:00 -- Nathan Ventura 4:15 -- Codeine Schoolboy 4:30 -- Dois Apsaras 4:45 -- NATURALMAGIC 5:00 -- Slothrust 5:15 -- combman 5:30 -- Abortus Fever 5:45 -- Sun Castle 6:00 -- The Great Valley 6:15 -- Zach Phillips 6:30 -- Happy Jawbone 6:45 -- The Over Easies 7:00 -- "Special Guest" 7:15 -- nue collective 7:30 -- Eat Cloud 7:45 -- (New England) Patriots 8:00 -- Middle Kingdom 8:15 -- Not Art 8:30 -- Metal Tiger 8:45 -- Shane Hall 9:00 -- Hunnie Bunnies 9:15 -- Anus Morissette 9:30 -- :| kREW 9:45 -- Vehement Caress

CROSS PATHS Noon -- MBTA 12:15 -- In tub tune pump tropicamide 12:30 -- Little War Twins 12:45 -- Fifth Nation 1:00 -- Jeff Balter / Valerie Thompson 1:15 -- The Diamond Mines 1:30 -- Low Charge 1:45 -- Most Bitter 2:00 -- Uncle Awesome 2:15 -- Triode 2:30 -- Limbs Bin 2:45 -- Valerie Kuehne 3:00 -- Olivia 3:15 -- Ethan T. Parcel 3:30 -- Prince Romney Brass Trio 3:45 -- White Savages 4:00 -- Bruise Breakdown 4:15 -- N JETTY M 4:30 -- Prehistoric Horse 4:45 -- Peaceman and the Firedancers 5:00 -- Jack & Yoda 5:15 -- Banjo Assault 5:30 -- Joey Molinaro 5:45 -- The Lilt 6:00 -- Western Education 6:15 -- Tendrills 6:30 -- Of The Sun 6:45 -- Degan 7:00 -- B Law 7:15 -- Eskimeaux 7:30 -- ACLU Benefit 7:45 -- Brad Henkel 8:00 -- Buckminster 8:15 -- Friendship Ceremonies 8:30 -- Sam Sowyrda 8:45 -- Gmackrr 9:00 -- Ben Hersey 9:15 -- id m theft able 9:30 -- Crank Sturgeon 9:45 -- Andrea Pensado

FOUNDERS PLAQUE Noon -- Bodydrama 12:15 -- Gordon Marshall 12:30 -- One Armed Mist 12:45 -- Libras of Sound 1:00 -- School for Robots 1:15 -- Huge Bird 1:30 -- The Nimbleines 1:45 -- Walter Noons 2:00 -- Silas Lang 2:15 -- Nick Janowicz 2:30 -- Stainless 2:45 -- Make It Up 3:00 -- Huge Face 3:15 -- Don's Monkey 3:30 -- No Mayo 3:45 -- Andrew Mello 4:00 -- Cuddle Formation 4:15 -- Little Spoon 4:30 -- Cinnamon Phase 4:45 -- Bright Red Reason 5:00 -- Mixed Feelings 5:15 -- Joaquin Goldstein 5:30 -- Brendan Attridge 5:45 -- Brooke Pridemore 6:00 -- Meaner Pencil 6:15 -- Howdy, Cindy 6:30 -- Tuck Son 6:45 -- Landis Zehrung 7:00 -- Birdorgan 7:15 -- Walter Wright 7:30 -- Liz Roncka 7:45 -- Black Wampum 8:00 -- Harry & The Potters 8:15 -- Harry & The Potters 8:30 -- Ryan Krause 8:45 -- Illlich 9:00 -- Mia Friedman 9:15 -- Elijah Wyman 9:30 -- Hello Shark 9:45 -- Omnivore

SOLDIERS AND SAILORS MONUMENT Noon -- Christopher Strunk 12:15 -- 12:30 -- Sisters of The Moon 12:45 -- 1:00 -- Lowman 1:15 -- Adrian Sympson 1:30 -- Paul Lew 1:45 -- Matt Ress 2:00 -- Miss Olivia Kennett 2:15 -- Jason Belcher 2:30 -- Adventures of Boxhead 2:45 -- Jesse Kaminsky / Steve Norton 3:00 -- Timworld 3:15 -- Slim & Silver 3:30 -- Happy Lives 3:45 -- Munson 4:00 -- Colin and The Semicolons 4:15 -- Speaker For The Dead 4:30 -- Lung Pit 4:45 -- Rainbow Road 5:00 -- Rhythmic Cypher 5:15 -- Rhythmic Cypher 5:30 -- Eddy Luis Martinez IV 5:45 -- Glenn Furman 6:00 -- Erich Haygun 6:15 -- Jared Paul 6:30 -- Cauzamos and The Family Band 6:45 -- Lemon Kid 7:00 -- The Eskalators 7:15 -- The Wicked Hanging Chads 7:30 -- The Wicked Hanging Chads 7:45 -- The Wicked Hanging Chads 8:00 -- Little Emperor 8:15 -- Ray Brown 8:30 -- Dinnersss 8:45 -- Streight Angular 9:00 -- Hyena 9:15 -- Many Mansions 9:30 -- Casey Rocheteau 9:45 -- Michael Collins

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * SUNDAY * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

STATE HOUSE Noon -- Anthro Rex 12:15 -- Ben Hersey 12:30 -- 12:45 -- Zympht 1:00 -- Yop 40 1:15 -- Amygdala 1:30 -- Warped Forest 1:45 -- Mountainshark 2:00 -- Sam Gas Can 2:15 -- Junko Fujiwara 2:30 -- East Cackalack Ascetic Death Marching Band 2:45 -- Empty Phrases 3:00 -- Mutual Benefit 3:15 -- Big Waves of Pretty 3:30 -- Something About Horses 3:45 -- Hands and Knees 4:00 -- The Full Moon 4:15 -- Spiceraq Group 4:30 -- BATHAUS + Zilla 4:45 -- Uncle Tone 5:00 -- KC Solaris 5:15 -- Turtlecat Symphony 5:30 -- Con Tex 5:45 -- Greg Mullen & His Cosmic American Band 6:00 -- James Irwin 6:15 -- Hot Tub Panorama 6:30 -- Morgan Evans Weiler 6:45 -- Gang Clan Mafia 7:00 -- Taylor Richardson 7:15 -- Cave Bears 7:30 -- Abortus Fever 7:45 -- Ghost In Salad 8:00 -- Eggs, Eggs 8:15 -- BFPSP 8:30 -- Sweatshop 8:45 -- Blue Dress 9:00 -- Sophie Dickinson 9:15 -- Zookeepers 9:30 -- The Needy Visions 9:45 -- Guerilla Toss

CROSS PATHS Noon -- Streight Angular 12:15 -- The IOA http://www.facebook.com/ioaioaioa 12:30 -- Moniker 12:45 -- The Difference Engine 1:00 -- Goodman Brown 1:15 -- Make It Up 1:30 -- Mammox 1:45 -- bathroomspace 2:00 -- A Campbell Payne 2:15 -- War and Terror 2:30 -- 2:45 -- 3:00 -- The Nimbleines 3:15 -- Doug Linse 3:30 -- Valentin Prince 3:45 -- Sodafrog 4:00 -- So Sol 4:15 -- Scott Mizrachi 4:30 -- Personal Finance 4:45 -- Slow Horse and The Night Owls 5:00 -- Hunnabee & The Sandy Tar Boys 5:15 -- Matt Alvis 5:30 -- The Debate 5:45 -- L.R.A.D 6:00 -- Becoming Animals 6:15 -- Mia Lee 6:30 -- The Craters 6:45 -- 27 Prophets 7:00 -- WhistleJacket 7:15 -- Obsidian Helix 7:30 -- Michael Bloom 7:45 -- Lady Pilot 8:00 -- Cinder Track 8:15 -- Kellzo 8:30 -- Greg Sun 8:45 -- Foom 9:00 -- Marty Barrett 9:15 -- Arkm Foam 9:30 -- Preggy Peggy & The Lazy Babymakers 9:45 -- Xiphoid Dementia

FOUNDERS PLAQUE Noon -- Forbes Graham 12:15 -- Skinny Vinny 12:30 -- Mr. Transylvania 12:45 -- Sara June 1:00 -- Michael Rosenstein 1:15 -- Yesterday's Jam 1:30 -- The Fucktrots 1:45 -- Ryan Beke 2:00 -- Brendan Lawlor 2:15 -- Mobtet 2:30 -- Daniel Harris 2:45 -- 3:00 -- International Flute Army 3:15 -- Steve Norton 3:30 -- EUU 3:45 -- Smarty 4:00 -- ZEBU / NO SOUND 4:15 -- Huge Face 4:30 -- Tud 4:45 -- Michael Richarde 5:00 -- Samuel Holland 5:15 -- Hypnic Jerk 5:30 -- WOOLFMAYN 5:45 -- heavy fragile 6:00 -- Bradley Bailey 6:15 -- Judas Broos 6:30 -- Max Jeffers 6:45 -- Chris Wilson 7:00 -- Underwater Bear Ballet 7:15 -- Sister Mary 7:30 -- Steve Arceri 7:45 -- Kal Marks 8:00 -- Matt Altieri 8:15 -- verbing noun 8:30 -- Arvid Noe 8:45 -- Olden Yolk 9pm -- Ronnie Nordac 9:15 -- Saralee 9:30 -- Camp Hope 9:45 -- Rick Berlin

SOLDIERS AND SAILORS MONUMENT Noon -- Pancho, Moon, North & Sun 12:15 -- Gypsy Joint 12:30 -- Tony Gwynn Stefani 12:45 -- Crashing Cars 1:00 -- Cancer Killing Gemini 1:15 -- Abram Taber 1:30 -- The Rupert Selection 1:45 -- Rusty Things 2:00 -- The Wicked 2:15 -- Chris Kazarian 2:30 -- Fixtures 2:45 -- Charlotte Huffman 3:00 -- Manaia (Jen Strickland) 3:15 -- Moonbeam Fellowship 3:30 -- Bucky Fereke 3:45 -- Jeremy Quick Trio 4:00 -- Chris Cretella 4:15 -- Broken Bottle Boys 4:30 -- Spelt Melk 4:45 -- Jesse and The Hogg Brothers 5:00 -- Deth West 5:15 -- Uniami as Ether 5 Star Dome 5:30 -- Jesse Gallagher 5:45 -- Forest Wizard 6:00 -- Planets Around The Sun 6:15 -- Quilt 6:30 -- Sun Castle 6:45 -- Dark Rodeo 7:00 -- Michael Maloney 7:15 -- Time Solo 7:30 -- Chris North 7:45 -- Tounge Oven 8:00 -- Frozen Corn 8:15 -- Hurricanes of Love 8:30 -- Pelvis McGillicuddy 8:45 -- Soft White Three Way 9:00 -- Pancho The Kidd 9:15 -- Beau Alessi 9:30 -- Rayvon Browne 9:45 -- Gracious Calamity

SAT 8/11: Late Cheapness

The evening cheapness from today's earlier post is included.

It's still possible to learn about Cambridge history or drink with Waldos, if you're so inspired...

It may have been selective amnesia, but I kept forgetting that I saw that people can get their first 2 draught beers for FREE today at Olde Magoun's Saloon. (Many drinkers don't need this incentive to show up...)

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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

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The restaurants of Union Square span the culinary globe from India through Latin America and the good ol' USA. Taking inspiration from Asian night markets, many local eateries are offering street food option sin the plaza.

Of course there will be local artisans/craftspeople along with performances such as fire dancers and martial artists, which looked pretty cool last year.

SAT 8/11 (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

One usually falters when trying to convince someone about the greatness of a movie, but this is one of the masterpieces. Besides being the foundation of every prisoner-of-war movie of the last 75 years, there's a story that examines class issues and nationalism. It wouldn't happen in modern war, but analogies still apply today in other ways.

As I read about movie projectionists in the Phoenix recently, the HFA is one of the best rooms in ton to see a pristine, restored version.

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

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

SAT 8/11

8pm
"Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy": Screening
at Room 100, Bldg 26, 60 Vassar St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

Speaking as someone who paid to watch it last year, I'm not sorry I didn't wait for the free screening. It was really good.

It might be helpful to know the story beforehand, because the opening 15 minutes or so are a bit vague. However the film encapsulates the story rather well despite the time limits not shared by a novel or mini-series.

SAT 8/11 (and SUN 8/12)

8pm
Shakespeare on the Common: "Coriolanus"
at Parkman Bandstand, about 165 Tremont St, Boston (Boston Common / Tremont St Side)
FREE

Sunday -- 7pm

Again let's hope it doesn't rain, because tonight and tomorrow are your last chances to see this production.

In its 17th year, Shakespeare on the Common is perennially one of the best cheap thrills you'll find in Boston. Sure... New York has 'Shakespeare in the Park', but not every town has professional actors bringing the Bard to life outside where anyone can walk up and get cultured.

The story in "Coriolanus", a play set in Rome and written 400 years ago, might be familiar to the contemporary audience: People rioting in the street, because resources are being withheld from the masses. Those in power think they don't deserve it, and the main character has a special disdain for the common person although he's encouraged to run for office.

Although last year's film may have earned some accessibility for the play, it's long been said to be one the lesser works of Shakespeare. Like the movie, the sets probably won't look like Rome; there will also be some fight scenes.

Despite my indifference to the selection, I will still list the play every night, because 1) you might like it anyway and 2) this is an annual gift to the residents (and visitors).

"May not be appropriate for all ages. Parental discretion is advised."

Show up early for musical performances from 6:20 to 7pm for jazz-rock from Ro Sham Beaux.

SAT 8/11

8pm
40 Oz To Freedom, Blue Light Bandits
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10

(Advance tix available until 7pm.)

It's true I've generally ignored when Badfish, the regional Sublime tribute band, has come through town. As much as I love Sublime, I didn't want to encourage a tribute although other people love it. (Maybe it was more than $10.)

San Diego-based 40 Oz To Freedom tries to sound closer to the original with extended jam sections, which some people may prefer. The folky soul-pop of Blue Light Bandits should warm things up nicely.

SAT 8/11

9pm
HR / Human Rights w/ Scotch Bonnets, Ska-Prest, Super Ska, DJ Ford E. Buxworth
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 / 21+

Some folks may be into seeing the Sublime tribute on the other side of the river. Of course, the real Sublime would probably try to get out of their gig to see the lead singer of Bad Brains.

I'm a little confused at this point, but his backing band will be the all-female reggae outfit The Scotch Bonnets -- or he will be guesting with them. Either way, it should be really damn cool. Some our local ska/reggae stalwarts are providing support for a skunking good time.

SAT 8/11

9pm
The Barley Hoppers, Lynnette & the Longshots, DJ Easy Ed’s Record Hop
at The Midway Cafe, 3496 Washington St, Jamaica Plain
$7

The Midway is better than most venue to sub as a country/rockabilly honky-tonk in the Boston area. Besides hosting a bunch of gigs like this, it could be a funky version of a roadside joint if you squint your eyes a bit.

The Barley Hoppers nail the sound of the early rockabilly trio just a short evolutionary step past country/western, and their repertoire is filled with classics and forgotten chestnuts. I suspect Lynnette & the Longshots will sound much like Lynette's old band, The Stumbleweeds.

As DJ Easy Ed has said, he'll be "spinning records (suitable for dancing, drinking, or both -- simultaneously)."

SAT 8/11

10:30pm
Hands & Knees, Vulcans, Summer Cult
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5-ish / 21+

The punky, twang-alicious indie-rock of Hands & Knees is a wonderful sound that has originated in the Boston area. They'd be superstars if I ruled the world. Keep listening because one song can reveal only a bit about H&K.

Alt-country and folk-rock dudes from PA (Vulcans) and upstate NY (Summer Cult) round out the night.

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

Think of it as a fun, zero-emission sightseeing adventure around town. The ride usually attracts well over 100 bicyclists to roam the the streets of Boston until dawn. The route changes every year, but it’s about 30 miles of riding with occasional stops that could take you through Cambridge, Charlestown, as far down as JP, or even towards Brookline.

It will end up at Christopher Columbus Park in North End, and it would be nice to bring something for a potluck breakfast.

The rules of the road are generally followed, but do you think any cars are going to screw around with a massive bicycle gang? Some requirements/recommendations I've seen in the past:

* You should bring a bike with lights, and you should wear something reflective.
* It’s strongly suggested that you bring a spare inner tube for your bike.
* Helmets are recommended.
* Commemorative t-shirts will be available (probably $15ish).

The ride starts to leave around 11:45pm, but it’s a good idea to get there early.

FYI: Here’s the MBTA policy on bikes.

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.

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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.

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...

Free "Fourth of July" Decoration Printables

I saw a slideshow where they linked to various sites with free printable decorations.

Since I hate subjecting people to these often shameless excuses to increase website statistics, I picked the best ones to share.

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"America Banner" (seen above):
Who needs ribbon like the photo? Any kind of tape, tacks, clips, etc should do the trick.

The anagram generator didn't come up with anything pithy, but you can add more A,M,E,R,I,C's then see what you want to spell out.

"Bunting & Toothpicks":
If you do have string and/or toothpicks, a set of ambiguous red/blue patterns are available.

.
.
.
"Tags, Signs, and Party Circles":
These are just a part of a whole plan to decorate on a budget which includes a zip file with 3 PDFS.

They contain 12 circles (3 of each), 8 labels, and 2 'signs' -- my image is not to scale.
.
"Plethora of Printables":
Use them however you'd like, although these are meant to be tags, straw flags, labels, mini notecards, and a party banner. While the top of the page tells you to email Brandi to get all 8 files, it looks like there are individual download links for all of them.
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"Candy Wrappings":
For the more ambitious 'party patriot', there are a few applications for these printable-foldables.

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).

WED 6/20: Free Hats in Copley Sq

Probably in different styles than the above...

Other cheap fun on the calendar.

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WED 6/20

Noon
Hat Day in the Sun
at Copley Square, about 600 Boylston St, Boston
FREE

The first day of Summer announces the season with a scorcher, and you could use a hat.

The Headwear Association is giving away 200 hats that will likely conform to their parameters for optimal sun protection:

* hats with a brim between 2½ and 5 inches
* curved hats that follow the contour of the head and neck
* hats with opaque materials to absorb more ultraviolet rays

Remember that the sun may shine even on days when we don't slather ourselves with sunscreen. The beauty of this freebie is that it could last you for years and might become your favorite hat.

Bottom line: Why not protect your head?

Thanks to Julia B. for the heads-up!

(Unfortunately I didn't find any free ice cream today...)

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.

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.

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.

SAT 5/5: Tango By Moonlight (thru October)

7:30pm to 11pm
Tango By Moonlight
at Weeks Memorial Footbridge, Memorial Dr & DeWolfe St, Harvard Sq
FREE

I'm surprised there haven't been other mentions of the season debut of moonlight dancing on the bridge. I wish I had been more ahead of it, but they'll be out there every time the moon is full, at least, through October.

As usual, they'll start with brief tango lesson for the first 15 minutes or so, then you can try for as long as you like until the tango stymies you and dancing and sway in your own style.

It's a fun time with and without a partner, since you can usually find a partner or two. Perhaps the spirit will move you. I've gone several times over the years, and it's always a good time.

Date night material? Yeah, I think so.

The moon will look huge tonight, so why not...?

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.

4/28 & 4/29: Free Sails in Boston & Charlestown

Yes, there is more cheapness for the weekend, but you've got to start somewhere.

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SAT 4/28 and SUN 4/29

Noon to 3pm
Sailing Open House
at Courageous Sailing, Pier 4, Charlestown Navy Yard
FREE

1pm to 5pm
Sailing Open House
at Boston Sailing Center, Lewis Wharf, Boston (North End)
FREE

Sure, they're trying to get you interested in sailing with them -- whether you're a salty dog or landlubber or somewhere in between. It's usually a no-pressure experience, because they also know most people just want to a free ride on a boat.

As these sailing events start happening, it's good to remember to wear clothes that can get wet. Keep in mind it will feel colder on the boat.

And if you are interested in taking lessons or becoming a member, both places offer discounts on days like these.

SUN 4/22: Free Grilled Cheese!

In case you're wondering, there is other cheapness on the calendar.

It may not be a good day for a picnic or a boat ride, but have a happy Earth Day!

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SUN 4/22

1pm to 6pm
2nd Annual Free Grilled Cheese Day
at all Cheeseboy locations
FREE

It looks like a good day for a grilled cheese, there's a free one with your name on it. (It's on the melted cheese, so you can't see it.)

Swing by South Station or Prudential Center or Natick Mall or South Shore Plaza or even Providence Place for a complimentary "Cheeseboy Classic" (American cheese on Italian bread) in celebration of National Grilled Cheese Month.

Although no purchase necessary, they sell tomato soup...

THUR 4/19: Fenway Park All-Day Open House

There is cheapness through Thursday on the calendar.

It's one of those nights where Union Square is hopping with The Upper Crust rocking at one club and a rock-paper-scissors tournament at another.

While it's $12, the Rock 'n' Roll Rumble Finals ar at TT's tonight. May the best band win!

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THUR 4/19

9am to 7pm
100th Anniversary Open House
All gates at Fenway Park, 4 Yawkey Way, Boston
FREE

How many times does one walk and gawk around Fenway without worrying about getting back before the next inning begins?

For the ballpark's 100th anniversary, it's nice to see the Red Sox organization to do something for fans that might not get a chance to buy a ticket to the game.

A hundred plaques and historical markers have been placed in relevant locations for this initiative to call it a "Living Museum". Even if we think changes in the last few years may be corny, consider them as part of the bargain that saved Fenway Park from demolition.

The cool thing is that you should be able to go into places that you wouldn't normally go -- maybe not even on the usual tour.

There will be special displays and presentations throughout the day, and some former Sox players will be signing autographs. (Not sure of the time, but I saw that Oil Can Boyd will be there.)

I think it would be cool to get a good look inside the scoreboard area...

Hey, why wouldn't you go?

SAT 4/7: Pillow Fight!

Even though I'll likely spend much of tonight preparing for company, I might just procrastinate by elaborating on cheap weekend fun.

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2:55pm
Banditos Misteriosos Pillow Fight 2012
at Secret Location, to be announced at Midnight
FREE

If someone wakes you on Saturday with a swift yet soft whack on the head, it's a celebration of "International Pillow Fight Day".

Hundreds of people show up for the Banditos' semi-flash mob, and the crowd gets bigger every year.

Arrive before 3pm, and discreetly bring a pillow (un-feathered/non-painful). Wait for the horn, then have some fun bashing anyone with a pillow.

There has been a hint about the location -- that it will be easy for PAX East attendees to take a break from the virtual work for IRL gaming. (Tony Hawk's video games are non-competitive too, right?)

I can think of a couple Seaport spots off the top of my head:

Maybe everyone could fit in front of the Convention Center? I think it would be cool to do it around the ICA and the outside stairs as long everyone maintains minimal safety awareness.

Check their website or Facebook or Twitter for the actual location.