As the flowers start to sprout and the sun shines a little brighter, we’re gearing up for a weekend filled with laughter, music, and intergalactic adventures. From the grand opening of Botanically Curious to tribute shows honoring legends like Talking Heads and James Taylor, plus a Star Trek party that’s out of this world, this weekend truly has it all!
Here’s The Weekend Guide for Friday, April 5th – Sunday, April 7th, 2024
Friday the 5th
Countdown to First Contact: A Star Trek Dance Party with Burlesque, Drag & GoGo | Geno’s Rock Club | :00 PM Doors
Earth will have its First Contact with alien visitors, setting the course for world peace and galaxy exploration, so we can boldly go where no one has gone before! Don your Star Trek/sci-fi costumes and join for a celebration of this historic future event! Burlesque and Drag performances start at 10 PM with GoGo dancing throughout the night. Performances by: La Petite Mystique, Clamz! Kasino, Riot Romero, Fantasia Knight, Luna Lee. This is a fundraising event. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a local middle school’s Lego Robotics Club, which engages students in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) while also promoting creativity and collaborative competition. Lego donations also accepted! Bring your new or gently used Lego pieces and kits. Cash at the door $10 / $12 after 9:30 PM.
The Neverending Story (Atreyu and the Great Quest) | Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine | Multiple Dates & Times
Hop aboard for an awe-inspiring classic adventure as young hero Bastian enters a curiously magical book and discovers the courage within himself. With captivating characters like Falkor the Luck Dragon, the Childlike Empress, and Atreyu, theatre-goers journey along as Bastian and Atreyu as they confront the menacing Nothing, and learn the power of imagination and the importance of believing in one’s own story. This thrilling play celebrates the boundless depths of imagination and the transformative power of storytelling and reminds us that our own journeys have the ability to shape the world around us. Get ready to be transported to a realm where dreams come alive and embrace the magic that lies within “Neverending Story (Atreyu and the Great Quest).” Tickets.
Pop-Up Exhibition Opening: Maya Tihtiyas Attean | 33 By Hand | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Step into the vibrant world of Wabanaki artist Maya Tihtiyas Attean during the First Friday Art Walk at 33 by Hand. Hailing from the Penobscot Reservation, Maya’s art reflects her rich ancestry, resilience, and cultural heritage. Through her captivating photography, she intertwines techniques from multiple cultures, offering a unique perspective bridging two worlds. Maya’s journey from reservation life to urban living infuses her work with depth and insight, showcased in her recent collection. Join for an evening of art appreciation accompanied by the melodic tunes of Yung Abner, and immerse yourself in Maya’s compelling storytelling through imagery.
Botanically Curious Grand Opening x First Friday Art Walk & Herbalist Social | Botanically Curious | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Celebrate the grand opening of Botanically Curious’ Apothecary shop during the First Friday Art Walk & Herbalist Social! Enjoy art, herbs, and wellness as you explore the shop, sip on mocktails, and learn about Botanically Curious’ services and membership opportunities. Meet local makers and artists, including this month’s featured artist ARDA Creative, and indulge in IM injections by Rose Aesthetic Medicine. It’s an evening of creativity and community not to be missed!
Continental Shakedown | Andy’s Old Port Pub | 8:00 PM
Get ready to rock out with Continental Shakedown this Friday at Andy’s Old Port Pub! Hailing from central Maine, this power trio delivers electrifying blues-rock jams that will have you grooving all night long.
Saturday the 6th
POSTPONED TO A LATER DATE: Great Wave Sushi Pop-Up | Highroller Lobster Co. | 12:00PM
POSTPONED TO A LATER DATE
It is time to start manifesting spring with the start of Highroller Lobster Co.’s annual Pop-Up series. This Saturday starting at noon they’ve got Great Wave Sushi BACK in the building to finesse some of the most beautiful and creative sushi combos you’ll ever see. To match the intensity of last year’s sushi burger, Chef Alex has brought the glorious Sushi Hot Dog to the table. A tempura fried roll full of local crab, avocado, and cucumbers has been dusted with Hot Cheetos and sliced right open to be a vessel for only the freshest spicy tuna.
Annual Spring Market | GooeyGump Designs | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Repeats Saturday)
Come usher in the season of renewal and color with the freshest home and garden decor, prizes and refreshments while you shop! This is one of those “grab the girls and the biggest SUV” kind of weekends that you won’t want to miss. As always GooeyGump Designs makes special orders for the best and newest inventory and save them for their seasonal market debut. Think: outdoor garden flare you won’t find anywhere else, colorful wearable accessories, florals up the wazoo, new furniture, and of course all things home and gift. Free to attend, generous parking.
Fête Supplies Sale and Seconds Swap | Toad & Co. | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Calling all art enthusiasts and bargain hunters! Join Fete Market at Toad&Co. Portland for a unique opportunity to shop local artist “seconds” and participate in a vibrant supply swap. Dive into a treasure trove of artistic finds as 15 local artists offer their imperfect yet charming creations at discounted prices. Bring along your old art supplies and engage in the spirited exchange of materials with fellow creatives. Here’s how it works: simply drop off your unwanted supplies in the designated area and browse through the offerings brought by others. Be thoughtful and generous in your exchanges, and revel in the joy of discovering one-of-a-kind treasures. Plus, rest assured knowing that all leftover supplies will be donated to a local art charity, supporting creativity in our community.
Casey Crawford | Empire Comedy Club | 7:00 PM
Prepare for an uproarious night of laughter with absurdist comedian Casey Crawford! Hailing from South Dakota, Casey delivers sharp, killer one-liners that offer hilarious insights into his life and travels. With TV appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live and Kevin Hart’s LOL network under his belt, Casey’s comedic prowess is undeniable. Having graced stages at renowned festivals such as Just For Laughs, Limestone, and The Boston Comedy Festival, Casey brings a wealth of experience and wit to every performance. Now residing in Boston, Casey regularly delights audiences in comedy clubs across the nation. Tickets.
Barney Martin & The Steamrollers Perform the Songs of James Taylor | The Hills Art | 7:00 PM
Coming back to The Hill Arts by popular demand, Barney Martin and The Steamrollers with special guest Andy Happel, celebrate and pay tribute to the great music of James Taylor – one of the greatest singer/songwriters and guitarist of all time. Barney is a seasoned performer whose sound will take you back to the early days of James Taylor’s career. Join for the timeless music of the 6-time Grammy award winner’s music. Barney will bring you the sound and stories of James Taylor in a refreshingly authentic way with skillful guitar playing and a natural and respectful homage to an American national treasure. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a casual James Taylor listener, this show is not-to-miss! Tickets.
This Must Be The Place: A Talking Heads Dance Party w/ Benjamin Spalding | PHOME | 8:00 PM Doors
Prepare to be transported into the funky, eclectic world of the Talking Heads! Tad Cautious, the mastermind behind The Bunny on SiriusXM and a veteran festival DJ, will spin a mix of Talking Heads classics alongside his signature blend of Swedish funk, UK jazz, and Australian R&B. Joining him is Portland’s own Benjamin Spalding, whose passion for dance music’s queer roots infuses his sets with pumping disco, 90s house, and leftfield techno. Inspired by the legendary band’s groundbreaking sound, this event celebrates the infectious energy and creativity of the Talking Heads while inviting you to dance the night away to their iconic hits. Tickets.
Sunday the 7th
Yappy Hour | Three of Strong Spirits | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Calling all dog lovers and their furry friends! Yappy Hour is back at Three of Strong Spirits, and it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a tail-wagging good time with your canine companions. Every Sunday from 12pm to 6pm, join ToSS for a special dogs-encouraged happy hour filled with discounts and treats for both you and your four-legged pals. Indulge in $2 off draft cocktails for the humans, while your furry friends enjoy FREE puptails specially crafted for them. Plus, snack on discounted treats for all, because let’s face it, good company and delicious snacks make any hour happier.
The Rainbow Beard Show | SPACE | 11:00 AM + 2:00 PM
Join at SPACE for the return of the beloved Rainbow Beard Show, brought to life by Providence artist Ricky Rainbow Beard and friends! This family-friendly extravaganza features puppets, games, stories, and songs, all centered around social-emotional themes. Designed for children 8 and under, the show offers a whimsical exploration of the human experience, blending tenderness with absurdist humor. Come be a part of this enchanting journey and experience the magic of the Rainbow Beard Show at SPACE! Tickets.
The Magic Sprout Pop-Up |Belleflower Brewing Co. | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Join at Belleflower Brewing Co. for The Magic Sprout Pop-Up! Shop for a diverse selection of plants and engage in lively conversations about gardening with The Magic Sprout. As you explore the greenery, tantalize your taste buds with delectable offerings from Great Waves Sushi. Don’t miss this chance to discover your green thumb, savor delicious bites, and connect with fellow plant enthusiasts.
For more events head to our Events Calendar here.