Karen Beaudoin finds things for you to do in Portland that are FREE (or so darn cheap they're almost free).
August 17, 2009
Summer won't last forever
Already we've passed the halfway point of August, which means the falling leaves and morning chills are soon to follow. But don't give up on summer just yet. You still have a handful of pre-Labor Day evenings to enjoy so get out there and get it done.
In the spirit of "summer won't be here forever," isn't it time you get yourself some outdoor music by the waterside? Monday's a great day to do it 'cause the mobs of later-in-the-week people won't have gotten themselves over the previous weekend yet and they'll probably be heading home early. Tonight at Portland Lobster Company it's Joe Farren al fresco from 6-9 pm. Since the music's free, maybe you can afford to chase it with a cup 'o chowdah.
There's more free music to be had at Flask Lounge on Spring Street, but it may not be of the caliber of Joe's. It's open mic night at Flask and the wanna-bees will be coming out of the woodwork round about 8 pm.
Finally tonight, in keeping with the musical theme, head up the hill to North Star for tunes from Christian Cuff and Ben Burgess. They'll be playing at 7 pm and all you have to do to get in is pony up a donation.
The ladies are the stars for the next two nights with plenty of Ladies Night action going on. So ladies, all the ladies, how about spending your Tuesday at the Big Easy, where Kenya Hall and Lana Eddy will be playing at 9 pm? There's a cover, but it's cheap. How cheap? Call 775-2266 to get the word.
At RiRa, it's pub quiz night, which might as well be called ladies night, too. You gals know you're smarter than all the boys so get over there and show off a little at 8 pm.
If you'd rather spend your evening in a cool, dark place, safe from the heat and humidity, don't forget that it's $5 movie night at the Nick. Take your pick between Funny People (6:30 & 9:25 pm), The Ugly Truth (7:15 & 9:50 pm) and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (6:20 & 9:30 pm). Whaddaya mean you don't like Harry? You're just jealous 'cause he can do magic.
Wednesday has more for the ladies. Check out Mr. Goodbar in OOB where chickies get 1/2 off anything and there's free pool.
Another option for the gals is Bernie's Beach Club, also in OOB, where Ladies Night has DJ Jim Casey on the patio, where there's never a cover. Add to that the $1 drafts from 2-8 pm everyday and you're in for a pretty great eve.
And finally tonight, how about some karaoke with DJ Johnny Red downstairs at Asylum. There's never a cover, whether you're a guy or a gal, and there are 8,000 titles to choose from. Bet you'll find some Michael Jackson for sure.
Thursday is already Aug. 20. Can you believe that? If you're gonna make something of yourself this summer you have no more time to waste. Get you 15 Minutes of Fame at Port City's Front Lounge tonight starting at 8 pm. Bring your iPod and spin all your fav tunes (but please, please leave the Miley Cyrus music at home). You hit the stage starting at 8 pm and there's no cover.
If you already know no one else will appreciate your taste in music, just steer clear of the amateur DJs and head over to Brian Boru instead. During happy hour you can partake of some Magic Hat #9s for just $3. If you hear any Miley mixed in with the Irish tunes just get up and walk out.
Finally tonight, how about some entertainment that's beyond description. No, really. It's the Band Beyond Description at the Big Easy. They'll be playing at 10 pm and you can figure out if the name fits after you pay 5 bucks to get it.
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