July 26, 2009

Got lobsters? Or milk? Get 'em this week

And don't think I'm gonna let you just sit home in front of the tube on Monday, cause of course I do have a few suggestions for you.

If you happen to be on stayca this week how about taking a drive to York, where you can see some great sights like Nubble Light and great beaches. You can also hit up the York Hannaford while you're there for the Organic and Natural event from noon-4 pm. Sample items from several vendors, which are, shockingly, all organic and natural - and free.

If you'd rather beach it closer to Portland how about Willard Beach in SoPo. Wait until the dogs depart, then take your lunch and beach chair over to the parking area at SMCC. You can hang and watch the sailboats or trek over to the old forts just around the corner. You're also darned close to Bug Light Park, where you can stroll around on the water's edge and take in the gorgeous views that are Portland.

If you miss out on the York Organic and Natural there's another one on Tuesday, same time but different place. This one's in Saco.

The evening's musical options start off at 6 pm when Ryan Halliburton plays his weekly Tuesday show at Portland Lobster Company. Grab a seat and a low-priced draft and battle the heat and humidity right next to Portland Harbor.

The Gazebo Concert Series continues in Gorham tonight with the Delta Knights. They'll be playing their brand of rock 'n roll from 6:30-8 so bring a blanket or a chair. The listening is free.

And if you'd rather fight the heat and humidity with AC, check out the Maine Slam Team from Port Veritas as they host a spoken word night at North Star Music Cafe. Open mic signups start at 7 pm. Expect to hand over a donation between $2 and $5.

Wednesday's a day to get out of town. If we can believe the weathermen, it's gonna be hot. So how about heading for Rockland and the Maine Lobster Festival. There will be races, a parade, crafts, music, entertainment and food. And you will kick yourself until next year if you miss the Maine Sea Goddess pageant.

Back home in Portland there's a free medicinal tea program planned at the Tate House Museum from 1-3 pm. Ann Miles will lead the way. Call 774-6177 if you want more details.

On the Western Prom tonight there's a duo that shouldn't be missed. The latest to take the makeshift stage for the Sunset Folk Series will be Sara Cox and Nate Schrock. The free tunes begin at 7:30 pm.

There's also music to be enjoyed in Yarmouth as the Summer Arts program gets rolling. Pan Fried Steel will play a 6:15 pm show at Royal River Park. Don't bother bringing any dough; all you need is a chair or blanket.

Finally tonight, another indoor option for all of you who melt when the temps rise over 80 degrees. Again you should head up to North Star for your entertainment. Tonight it's improv comedy with The Escapists and the admission is just $5.

Here comes Thursday, and Friday's suddenly within reach. Outdoor music is on the agenda, but first we've got to get you that milk - or, more specifically, a milk mustache. The Got Milk Mustache Tour will be hitting Tommy's Park in Portland from 11 am-2 pm so take a long lunch and pose for a photo. You can enjoy some icy cold milk or a freshly made Soothie Smoothie. Also on hand will be the Wellness Oasis, with chair massages and health screenings by a registered dietician. The whole experience is free, free, free. What better way to get ready for the weekend?

And now the music: This week you've got options.

1. Alive at Five from 5-8 pm at Monument Square with must-see performers All The Real Girls and The Leftovers. Sign up for the MaineToday.com Weekender newsletter and you could with a guitar signed by the bands.

2. Biddeford's kicking off its outdoor music events with Mirror Image at Shevenel Park on Main Street. They're fans of the hits from the '80s, '90s and today and they'll be making you dance from 5-7 pm. Admission to the show is free and beer will be provided by Run of the Mill. Get yourself some suds for just $2.

3. What's better than jazz happy hour? Jazz happy hour outdoors. That's what's happening at Zackery's Restaurant and Lounge today from 4:30-7:30 pm. There's no cover and no minimum and they'll even treat you to free apps. Sounds like a pretty good deal.