Editor’s note: This week Birmingham Magazine associate editor Carla Jean Whitley takes the weekend planning reigns while Christina enjoys a vacation at an undisclosed location.
As Birmingham magazine’s official calendar editor, I always know what’s happening around town-often to the detriment of my budget! Last weekend wasn’t bad, with an emphasis on time outside and cooking with friends. Other times social- and entertainment-heavy weekends loom on the horizon; I’m saving now for all the cash I’ll drop with concerts, Artwalk and Muse of Fire scheduled for the first weekend of September!
But then there are weekends like the one ahead: plenty of activities to choose from that won’t break the bank.
Get it started early with Little Savannah’s Late Nights in Savannah. Heath Green plays tonight from 9 p.m. to midnight, and the restaurant will offer a late night menu with drink specials.
Support Birmingham talent when Grey Haven plays WorkPlay, Friday at 9 p.m. Grey Haven is a community of local musicians who collaborate on stage every other month. Tickets are $10.
On Saturday, McWane Science Center celebrates its 10-iversary with the Ultimate 10th Birthday Blast. Witness the unveiling of Linear Motion, the world’s largest interactive robotic sculpture, mounted on the building’s exterior. Nickelodeon Live will be on hand, providing live shows and slime at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets are discounted–$10 for two Adventure Hall tickets, $10 for two IMAX tickets or $10 for one combo ticket. Take the kids or revert to your own youth as the McWane brings out the child in each of us.
In the mood for a leisurely Saturday drive (and got the money to drop on gas)? Waverly beckons. The little town, located just this side of Auburn, is a haven for music and art. I think a Standard Deluxe T-shirt says it best: There ain’t much to see, but what you hear sure makes up for it. Listen for yourself as Mark Lyden, Dooley’s Blue Revue and The Figs take the stage at the High Corner Co-Op. Music begins at 5 p.m. and a $10 band donation is requested, but children accompanied by adults are free. You’ll also find art by potter Keen Zero and photographer David Parker, plus dinner from Papa D’s Super Grille. Never mind if you haven’t heard of the bands, artists or even the town-after one trip to Waverly, I fell in love. Visit standarddeluxe.com for more information.
You’ll find your favorite characters as Red Mountain Theatre Company kicks off its run of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. The show will be at the Virginia Samford Theatre from July 10 to Aug. 3, with shows at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Disney isn’t your thing? Scoot up U.S. 78 to Graysville to meet your favorite Andy Griffith characters at the city’s annual Mayberry Day. The event takes place from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and includes a parade, Mayberry squad car replicas, characters and more. You’ll find the fun at Graysville’s community center; call 674-5643 to learn more.
With so many miles to cover, I better get to planning! What’s filling your calendar this weekend?