Thursday, Aug. 22
Vintage Night Market from 4 to 10 p.m. at Bow Market, 1 Bow Market Way, Union Square, Somerville. Free. More than 30 top vintage vendors in clothing, home décor, bar ware, art, jewelry, accessories, antiques and upcycled fashion, plus food and beverage specials. Information is here.
Rollerama DJ Nights from 5 to 8 p.m. at Rollerama at Kendall Common, Broadway and Third Street, Kendall Square, Cambridge (continues on select Thursdays and Fridays through September). Free. Dance or skate for free to weekly DJ sets from DJ Collective Spin The Bottle; tonight features Radjoy and Stealth Mode. Information is here.
Summer Concert Series: Trinity Mei performs from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Palmer and John F. Kennedy streets, Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. An indie folk/pop singer-songwriter from the mountains of Arizona. Co-sponsored by Club Passim and the Berklee College of Music. Information is here.
Dog Days of Summer Yappy Hour from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the lower courtyard of The Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free, but register. Your furry friends enjoy special treats and activities while you enjoy wines, local beers, frozen drinks and food from Taqueria El Barrio for purchase. Plus, free giveaway drawings with rotating prizes. Information is here.
Dancing Outdoors: Beginner Bollywood from 6 to 7 p.m. at Riverside Press Park, 2 Blackstone St., Riverside, Cambridge. Free. Learn choreography to a high-energy Bollywood song with instructor Swati Tiwari of Boston Bollywood as part of a series of summer park events sponsored by The Dance Complex and the City of Cambridge. Information is here.
Salsa in the Park from 6 to 9 p.m. at Henri A. Termeer Square, 300 Athenaeum St., Kendall Square, Cambridge. Free and all ages and abilities. “Animaciones” (choreographed group dances/follow-alongs) from MetaMovements artist collective members from Cuba, Dominican Republic and the United States, plus social dancing, a music corner, dance lessons by Masacote and Silent Rhythms (in American Sign Language), a beer garden with snacks and more. Information is here.
Friends of Porter Square Books Author Reading at 7 p.m. at Porter Square Books, 25 White St., Porter Square, Cambridge. Free, but register. This reading by local authors to celebrate the book shop’s 20 year anniversary features Christopher Castellani, Allegra Goodman, Michelle Hoover and Virginia Pye. Information is here.
Comedian Vanessa Gonzalez at 7 p.m. at The Rockwell, 255 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $20 to $25 and 18-plus. The Texas native who’s been on Comedy Central, HBO and Netflix shares stories about growing up in a border town, issues with parents and more. Information is here.
Jesselyn Cook reads from “The Quiet Damage: QAnon and the Destruction of the American Family” at 7 p.m. at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Massachusetts Ave., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. Through the stories of five families, the investigative reporter and 2025 Nieman Fellow at Harvard looks into the psychology of how and why ordinary people become vulnerable to outrageous falsehoods promising order, purpose and control. She’s joined by Gina Smith, the investigations editor for McClatchy’s South Carolina newspapers and also a Nieman Fellow. Information is here.
Burnout Syndromes performs at 7 p.m. at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville. $26.50. This three-piece Japanese band formed in Osaka in 2005 have produced two albums and were part of the original soundtrack of the anime “Haikyu!!” in its second season. Information is here.
Grant Peeples at 7 p.m. at The Burren, 247 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $17 to $20 and all ages. The self-described “tree-hugger that watches Nascar” performs ax-sharp socio-politico tunes with raucous humor, compassion and a critical eye on American culture and identity. Information is here.
Evening yoga outdoors at the CPL from 7 to 8 p.m. Joan Lorentz Park at 449 Broadway, Mid-Cambridge (in front of the Cambridge Main Library). Free. Shayla Tate of M.U.D.D. Flower Yoga leads. Bring a mat and whatever items your practice requires. Information is here.
Poetry Open Mic Night from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Somerville Public Library, 79 Highland Ave., Central Hill. Free. Bring and read your own poetry or a work by another poet. Information is here.
Soul Speak: “When Black Men Breathe,” a special dialogue at 7:30 p.m. in the blue wing at the Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston, on the Cambridge border. Free with preregistration and 18-plus. Evan Auguste of The University of Massachusetts at Boston talks with: The Black Joy Initiative’s Thaddeus Miles; Enodi founder Michael Rain; Roxbury-bred artist and 14-year co-host of the open mic “If You Can Feel It, You Can Speak It” D. Ruff; and local psychology student Matthew Sebowa. Presented by ReRooted Productions. Information is here.
Tall Poppy String Band at 8 p.m. at Club Passim, 47 Palmer St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $18 to $20. A fiddler, guitarist and banjoist make up this new old-time trio who draw from the deep well of American string band music with playful curiosity. Information is here.
Outdoor Movie Night from 8 to 10 p.m. at Gilman Park, 350 Medford St., Gilman Square, Somerville. Free and ages 10-plus. The final film in the series screening cult sci-fi on 16 millimeter is 1994’s “Time Chasers.” Information is here.
Friday, Aug. 23
Mindful yoga outdoors from 10 to 11 a.m. at Timothy J. Toomey Park, Third and Roger streets, East Cambridge. Free. During this Cambridge Plays event, an instructor from The Embody School leads participants through slow, mindful yoga. Bring a mat or towel, sunscreen and water. Information is here.
“Krishna in Pahari Painting of India” seminar from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Art Study Center (fourth floor) at the Harvard Art Museums, 32 Quincy St., near Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free, but register. As a lead-up to Krishna’s birth celebration Monday, curatorial fellow Janet O’Brien presents illustrated episodes from his life created in the 18th and 19th centuries. Information is here.
MIT Public Art Tour: West Campus from 12:15 to 1 p.m. at the main entrance of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge. Free, but register. The MIT List Visual Arts Center leads a walking tour featuring artworks by renowned contemporary artists Beverly Pepper, Jaume Plensa and Matthew Ritchie. Information is here.
Deep Dive Tour: Poetry Experience from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Longfellow House and the Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site, 105 Brattle St., West Cambridge. Free. Park rangers explore some of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s best works in the home that inspired him. Information is here.
Somergloom at 6 p.m. at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville (and continues Aug. 24). $35.02 or $57.68 for a two-day pass, and 21-plus. Two-day festival presented by Once Somerville and Treebeard Media that showcases the richness and diversity of the heavy music scene, from haunting dark folk to harrowing doom metal. Tonight’s lineup features Big Brave, Spiritual Poison, Final Gasp and at least three other bands, as well as vendors selling art, clothes and records. Tomorrow’s got Royal Thunder, Black Pyramid, Girih, The Infinity Ring and more. Information is here.
Dancing on the Row: Latin Dance Series from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on the green space near Smoke Shop BBQ at 325 Assembly Row, Assembly Square East, Somerville. Free. Learn choreographed group dances and follow-alongs from MetaMovements, plus dance lessons by Masacote and Silent Rhythms (in American Sign Language), social dancing to DJ music and snacks from Somerville’s Tribos Peri Peri. Information is here.
“Let’s Misbehave”: A New Queer Play at 6:30 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge (and continuing through Aug. 25). $25 to $65. Written by Lawrence Gullo, this new jazz-age romantic comedy set in 1930s London centers queer and trans partygoers and includes a countess, an anarchist, an aristocrat, a flapper fashionista and a trombone-playing vicar among its cast of characters. Information is here.
Brassterisk and Markologic: An Evening of Music and Merriment from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at Lilypad, 1353 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge. $10. Information is here. A six-piece Nola-second-line style band that plays funky hip-hop crossovers and “pop music detritus of the last few decades,” plus a musical artist who seems heavily inspired by absurd (and even obscene) stand-up comedy. Information is here.
Vida Mia Milonga from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at Dance Union, 16 Bow St., Somerville. $15 to $35 (cash or Venmo). This night of milonga dancing by Tango Affair includes a lesson in the first hour. Guest DJ: David Chester. Information is here.
Camberville Somerchoir presents Rachmaninoff’s “All Night Vigil” at 8 p.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 838 Massachusetts Ave., Riverside near Central Square, Cambridge. Free. Sergei Rachmaninoff’s 15-movement piece for a 12-part choir is followed by two pieces by Boston-area composers: Jacob Druckman’s “Corinna Goes a Maying” and Rebecca Sacks’ “Tree Soldier.” Holly Druckman and Lorraine Fitzmaurice co-direct. Information is here.
F*ck the DJ with the Femmes at 8 p.m. at Somerville Theatre’s Crystal Ballroom, 55 Davis Square. $20 to $25. A queer song-along dance party with live music by The Femmes Band, go-go dancers and burlesque performances from FemMenThem. Information is here.
Annie & The Fur Trappers performs for Boston Swing Central from 8 to 11:45 p.m. at Q Ballroom, 26 New St., Fresh Pond, Cambridge. $13 to $20. A band originally from St. Louis, Missouri, that’s dedicated to preserving and performing music from the 1920s and 1930s with instruments ranging from trombone and banjo to washboard plays live for this social partner dance that includes a lesson for beginners in the first hour. No partner required; no street shoes allowed. Information is here.
Automatique Brit and Indie Dance Party from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. at ManRay, 40 Prospect St., Central Square, Cambridge. $12 to $15 and 19-plus. Britpop favorites, international indie jams, dance rock and electro at a monthly dance party. Information is here.
Saturday, Aug. 24
Port Community Pride Day from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Clement Morgan Park, 60 Columbia St., The Port, Cambridge (rain date: Sept. 7). Free. This annual celebration hosted by the Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House begins with a basketball tournament and peace walk and continues with food, outdoor activities, entertainment, live music, city resources and more. Information is here. Information is here.
Dancing Outdoors: Folk Dance with Andy Taylor from 10 to 11 a.m. at Joan Lorentz Park at 449 Broadway, Mid-Cambridge (in front of the Cambridge Main Library). Free. Dances from all over the world that everyone can join – circle dances, solo dances and more, no experience required. Part of a series of summer park events sponsored by The Dance Complex and Cambridge Public Library. Information is here.
Tai Chi Under a Tree from 10 to 11 a.m. at Cambridge Common, near Harvard Square. Free. Explore qigong warmups and the elements of tai chi with Ellen DeGenova during this Cambridge Plays event. No experience necessary; a seated option is available. Information is here.
Gardening Workshop with Green City Growers from 10:30 a.m. to noon on the lawn of the Somerville Public Library, 79 Highland Ave., Central Hill. Free, but register. Join this hands-on class to learn when and what to plant and how to bring in a great harvest. Information is here.
Pedal Power: Celebrating Community Through Biking from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston, on the Cambridge border. Free with exhibit halls admission and all ages. Resource fair of biking organizations plus presentations showing how bicycling and pedestrian infrastructure can build community, improve personal health and address the climate crisis. Information is here.
Gilman Park Marketplace and Winter Hill Brewing beer garden from noon to 8 p.m. at 358 Medford St., Gilman Square, Somerville. Free. Makers, artisans and vintage vendors until 6 p.m., with local brews for another two hours. Performances by Emperor Norton’s Stationary Marching Band at 2 p.m. and contemporary vocalist and songwriter Cassie Kollman and friends at 4 p.m. Information is here.
Circus Extravaganza from noon to late night at Bow Market, 1 Bow Market Way, Union Square, Somerville. Free to $40. Watch performances on the Cyr Wheel and Lyra Aerial Hoop plus antics by clowns, balloon artists and jugglers as you snarf animal crackers, hot dogs, popcorn and cotton candy. Upstairs at 6:30 p.m. a ticketed 21-plus event features circus acts, burlesque, comedy, poetry, music and more. Information is here.
Cambridge Sings! Barbershop South of Porter Square from 1 to 2 p.m. in front of Nomad, 1771 Massachusetts Ave., Porter Square, Cambridge. Free. Members of the Greater Boston Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society demonstrate the distinct four-part harmony of this classic singing style and invite others to join in during this Cambridge Plays event. Information is here.
Jael Whitney Brothers’ “Pixels of Somerville” exhibition opening reception from 2 to 4 p.m. at Gallery@SPL in the Somerville Public Library, 79 Highland Ave., Central Hill. Free. A member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and a local resident, Brothers creates art by glitching photographs of areas around Somerville and the Greater Boston area into new digital landscapes. The show runs through September. Information is here.
Summer Saturday Movie Night: “Wish” at 4 p.m. at Urban Park Roof Garden atop the Kendall Center Green Garage at 90 Broadway, Kendall Square. Free. A DJ set kicks off this family-friendly screening of last year’s Walt Disney animated musical, which starts at 6 p.m. Complimentary snacks while supplies last. Bring a blanket! Information is here.
Dream Role Players present Shakespeare’s “Richard III” at 5 p.m. at Raymond Park, 106 Raymond St., Neighborhood 9, Cambridge (and continuing Aug. 25 and two more dates through Sept. 1). Free. The outdoors Shakespeare troupe performs the Bard’s tragic history play during this glorious summer. Information is here.
Sunset Sound Meditation from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in Hazel Dell (off Central Avenue) at Mount Auburn Cemetery, 580 Mount Auburn St., West Cambridge (rain location: Story Chapel). $15 to $20. Sound healing practitioner Marlene Boyette leads an outdoor meditation that weaves together the sounds, vibrations and energy of the natural surroundings with a variety of instruments (including deeply resonant crystal and metal singing bowls and chimes). Bring a yoga mat, blanket or towel, a journal and writing utensil. Information is here.
Somergloom (continued) at 6 p.m. at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville. $35.02 and 21-plus. Information is here.
“Let’s Misbehave”: A New Queer Play (continued) from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge. $25 to $65. Information is here.
Fourth Annual Ifeanyi Menkiti Memorial Reading from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, 113 Brattle St., West Cambridge. $10, but registration is required. This reading honors the late owner of the Grolier Poetry Book Shop, Wellesley philosophy professor and Nigerian-born poet Ifeanyi Menkiti. Also via Zoom. Information is here.
The Popp Boutique Comedy Show from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at Popp Boutique, 301 Massachusetts Ave., The Port, Cambridge. $15. Laugh among “beautiful artwork, handcrafted scented goods, crystals, body oils and more” at this Black-owned business that once a month becomes a comedy venue. Tonight’s local lineup: Jen Howell, Carolina Montesquieu, B. William Brooks, Caroline Moore, Dimetrius “Big D” Hullum and Cameron Morton. Hosted by Chef Phil. Information is here.
Fruitstand presents “Brats vs. Twinks” from 9:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. at a Cambridge or Somerville location revealed with your RSVP. $10 and 21-plus. Be your authentic self at this highly curated queer dance party where DJ Frazzo spins the club classics from Charli XCX, Troye Sivan, Shygirl and more. Information is here.
Sunday, Aug. 25
Somerville Flea from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 56 Holland St., Davis Square, Somerville (and every Sunday through October). Free. This vintage and artisan flea market includes a farm stand. Information is here.
Summer Foraging Class from 11 a.m. to noon at Somerville Community Growing Center, 22 Vinal Ave., near Union Square, Somerville. Free. Sage McTaggart’s class focuses on seasonal local invasives and sustainable practices. Bring a spoon and a mug! Information is here.
Yoga with Barre & Soul from 11 a.m. to noon at the upper courtyard of The Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free, but register. All-levels Vinyasa yoga with Cassidy D. Bring your own mat. Information is here.
Black-owned businesses pop-up market from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Palmer Street between Brattle and Church streets, Harvard Square, Cambridge (and every Sunday through Oct. 27). Free. Support local Black entrepreneurs by shopping for fashion, vegan treats, fine art, bags, jewelry, artisan soaps, sauces, dog treats and accessories. Information is here.
Free Store from noon to 2 p.m. at the Cambridge Community Center, 5 Callender St., Riverside. Free. Cambridge’s Recycling Advisory Committee invites you to drop off usable clothing, household goods and other items you no longer need (no furniture or junk, please) and “shop” for items you do need. Information is here.
Everybody Gotta Eat barbecue cookout from noon to 6 p.m. at Greene-Rose Heritage Park, 155 Harvard St., The Port, Cambridge. Free entry. A community cookout and vendor fair organized by Everybody Gotta Eat showcases various food and retail businesses. Part of the City of Cambridge’s National Black Business Month. Information is here.
Persistent Fools perform from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Lilypad, 1353 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge. $5. Long-form improvised music and evolving soundscapes by Zack Facco (woodwinds), Stephen Whitney (percussion), Tim Wolf (drums and percussion), David Brancazio (melodica), Jon Glancy, Max Ridley (bass) and Isao (guitar). Information is here.
Deep Dive Tour: Queer History at 2:30 p.m. at Longfellow House and the Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site, 105 Brattle St., West Cambridge (and every Sunday through Oct. 28). Free. A weekly tour about the queer past through three generations of Longfellows and changing cultural understandings of queer relationships and identities. Information is here.
“Let’s Misbehave”: A New Queer Play (continued) from 2:30 to 5 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge. $25 to $65. Information is here.
Poets Kymm Coveney and J. Kates read at 3 p.m. on the East Lawn at Longfellow House and the Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site, 105 Brattle St., West Cambridge (held indoors in case of rain). Free. The Boston-born Coveney’s lived in Spain since 1982 and has work appearing in The Georgia Review this fall plus in 2026 a translation of novelist Mónica Ojeda’s poetry collection called “History of Milk.” A former president of the American Literary Translators Association, Kates has translated 12 books of Russian and French poetry and co-translated six books of Latin American and Spanish poetry. Information is here.
Ben Greene reads from “My Child Is Trans, Now What?” from 3 to 5 p.m. at Porter Square Books, 25 White St., Porter Square, Cambridge. Free. The transgender advocate and educator’s judgment-free guide is for millennial parents to members of older generations who may not have had previous positive exposure to the trans community. As part of the bookstore’s “Be the Change” event, 20 percent of sales throughout the store during the two-hour talk benefits Greater Boston PFLAG. Information is here.
Raha Duo’s “Swirl” album release concert at 4 p.m. at the Multicultural Arts Center, 41 Second St., East Cambridge. $9. Amelia Hollander Ames (viola) and Elaine Rombola Aveni (piano) celebrate their debut album “Swirl”by performing “cosmic tunes by seasoned composers with strong ties to Boston.” Information is here.
Spoken word and poetry open mic from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Somerville Community Growing Center, 22 Vinal Ave., near Union Square, Somerville. Free. Come listen or take the stage and showcase your writing in front of a supportive audience. Information is here.
Dream Role Players present Shakespeare’s “Richard III” (continued) at 5 p.m. at Raymond Park, 106 Raymond St., Neighborhood 9, Cambridge. Free. Information is here.
Bachata by the River from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Mass Audubon Nature Center at Magazine Beach, 668 Memorial Drive, Cambridgeport. Free and adults only. An introductory class on this easy-to-learn partner dance, applicable to many music genres, followed by dancing. No need to bring a partner. Information is here.
Monday, Aug. 26
Deep Dive Tour: Washington Reexamined at 12:30 p.m. at Longfellow House and the Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site, 105 Brattle St., West Cambridge (and every Monday through Oct. 28). Free. This weekly tour explores George Washington’s legacy and the lives of enslaved and free people at his headquarters. Information is here.
Tai Chi outdoors from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on the lawn at the Somerville Public Library East Branch, 115 Broadway. Free. Certified Tai Chi instructor Ya-Li Ho leads a class for all ages and experience levels. Information is here.
Chess hour at 6 p.m. at Cambridge Library’s Boudreau Branch, 245 Concord Ave., Observatory Hill in Neighborhood 9, Cambridge (and continuing every other Monday). Free. Players of all skill levels and ages welcome. Chess sets provided, or bring your own. Information is here.
Creativity Collective art and craft meetup from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Somerville Public Library, 79 Highland Ave., Central Hill (and the last Monday of every month). Free, but register. Social learning or quiet work for those who draw, paint, sculpt, knit, crochet, sew, make paper crafts or fabric art. Light refreshments served. Information is here.
Little Indian Productions presents A Night of Story in Three Parts at 7 p.m. at Club Passim, 47 Palmer St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $15 to $20. Dan Dahari, the Natick-raised adopted Mexican/Navajo son of an Israeli falafel entrepreneur and an American Jewish “overbearing mother,” presents an evening with guest storytellers, music and a story slam open mic. Information is here.
Magic Hour Hobby Photography from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Gilman Pop-up Park, 350 Medford St., Gilman Square, Somerville. Free and all ages. Meet and connect with fellow hobby enthusiasts: bring your favorite camera and items or props related to your hobby (collections, creations, gear, etc.) and photograph them in the park’s stunning evening light. Information is here.
Capoeira class from 7 to 8 p.m. at Dance Union, 16 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville (and every Monday). First class free, $15 thereafter. Learn a new workout based on the dynamic Afro-Brazilian art form that combines dance, music and martial arts. Information is here.
Tuesday, Aug. 27
Boudreau Mystery Book Group from noon to 1 p.m. at Cambridge Library’s Boudreau Branch, 245 Concord Ave., Observatory Hill in Neighborhood 9. Free. This month’s title: “The Cold Dish” by Craig Johnson. Information is here.
Summer in the City Concert Series: Axel & Lolo perform from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Urban Park Roof Garden at Kendall Center, 325 Main St., Kendall Square, Cambridge. Free. The best friend, folk-pop duo incorporate imaginative storytelling and vibrant expression into songs about friendship and this strangely beautiful universe. Co-sponsored with Berklee School of Music. Information is here.
Harvard Square Book Circle from 6 to 8 p.m. at Faro Café, 5 Arrow St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. For Harvard Book Store’s monthly book discussion group, Faro Café extends its hours (and espresso-making). This time: “Parable of the Sower” by Octavia E. Butler. Information is here.
“Have You Read This?” Classics Book Club at 6:30 p.m. at Pandemonium Books & Games, 4 Pleasant St., Central Square, Cambridge. $10 with the book and registration required. This time, discuss “The Martian Chronicles” by Ray Bradbury, about a strange and breathtaking world where humans do not belong. Information is here.
Weekly bike ride from Davis Square from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. meeting in front of the Boston Burger Co., 37 Davis Square (and every Tuesday). Free. All are welcome (including beginners and e-bikes) to join this casual ride taking a variety of routes, including the Minuteman Trail, Fresh Pond, Charlestown, biking to downtown and more. Information is here.
Knitting group from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Cambridge Public Library’s Boudreau Branch, 245 Concord Ave. Observatory Hill in Neighborhood 9. Free. Bring yarn and needles and find out what fellow knitters are up to. Information is here.
Wendy Wunder reads from “Mysterious Ways” at 7 p.m. at Porter Square Books, 25 White St., Porter Square, Cambridge. Free, but register. The Boston author of “The Museum of Intangible Things” discusses her comic coming-of-age novel about an omniscient teenage girl who grapples with knowing too much. Author Betty Cayouette, the creator of @bettysbooklist, joins. Information is here.
A Capella groups Elevate and The Eight Tracks at 7 p.m. at The Burren, 247 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $15 to $20 and all ages. Two New England vocal bands: one creates “dynamic, sophisticated and enduring” music and the other creates unique sounds from well-known songs from the ’60s through today. Information is here.
Daniel J. Levitin reads from “I Heard There Was a Secret Chord: Music as Medicine” at 7 p.m. in the blue wing at the Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston, on the Cambridge border. $30 with book and 18-plus. The award-winning musician, McGill University neuroscientist and bestselling author researches fundamental questions in auditory memory, musical structure and the neuroanatomy and neurochemistry of musical experience. Information is here.
The Moth story slam at 7:30 p.m. at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville. $15. This monthly open-mic storytelling competition is open to anyone who can share a five-minute tale on the night’s theme – this time, “Comebacks,” about “rising from the ashes, a return to form or a totally new you. Emerging victorious after trailing behind. From has been to has it all.” Information is here.
Bluesy (Fusey) Tuesy Social Dance from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the New England Science Fiction Association clubhouse at 504 Medford St., Magoun Square, Somerville (and every Tuesday). $5 to $25. Tonight, Balter Dance hosts (with Omari as DJ) this weekly partner blues dance event that includes a lesson for beginners in the first hour, relocated (for now) from the closed Democracy Center in Harvard Square. No partner required. Information is here.
Laugh Giraffe Comedy Show at 8 p.m. at Union Tavern, 345 Somerville Ave., Union Square, Somerville (and every Tuesday). Free, but reserve your space. Stand-up comedy showcase. Information is here.
Wednesday, Aug. 28
Resources Matchmaker Event for Small Businesses from 9 a.m. to noon at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge. Free, but register. Discover everything available to fuel the growth of your small business at this city-sponsored networking event with local Small Business Administration–approved lenders and small-business resource providers. Information is here.
Fresh Pond Nature Walk from 10:15 to 11:30 a.m., meeting at the ranger station (under the clock tower) at 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, in West Cambridge at Fresh Pond, Cambridge. Free, but register. During this relaxing walk of Fresh Pond, ranger Tim Puopolo shares insights about what’s growing, changing and blooming in the neighborhood. The walk is on uneven terrain, down hills and over roots, not on a paved path. Information is here.
Lunchtime Concert Series: Chris Walton at noon at the Urban Park Roof Garden at Kendall Center, 325 Main St., Kendall Square, Cambridge. Free. Soul, jazz and funk convene on this Boston singer-songwriter and producer’s 2023 debut album “Ruminating Thoughts.” Co-sponsored with Club Passim. Information is here.
Uncommon Concerts: Turn It Up performs at 5 p.m. at Rollerama at Kendall Common, Broadway and Third Street, Kendall Square, Cambridge. Free. This five-piece band plays hits from the ’90s to now. Information is here.
Student Lending Art Program exhibition tour from 5 to 5:30 p.m. at List Visual Arts Center, 20 Ames St., Kendall Square, Cambridge. Free. Check out the more than 700 original works of art in the collection (on view through Sept. 16) and envy the enrolled MIT students who since 1977 have had the opportunity to borrow (via a lottery), appreciate and live with them for the academic year, for free. Information is here.
Yoga with Breathe Cambridge at 6 p.m. at the upper courtyard of The Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. All-levels Vinyasa yoga as part of the hotel’s summer fitness series. Information is here. Information is here.
Evening Family Kayaking from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Nature Center at Magazine Beach, 668 Memorial Drive, Cambridgeport. Free and families with children ages zero and up, but register. This guided ecotour by kayak welcomes paddlers of all abilities. Gear is provided, and the program begins with beginner paddler instruction. Information is here.
Yujin Han from 6 to 8 p.m. at One Reason Garden Bar, 1 Bennett St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. The Korean pianist and composer performs jazz as part of the Berklee Courtyard Series at this outdoor venue with beverages and food from Taqueria El Barrio. Information is here.
Evening Yoga in the Park from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. at Magazine Beach Park Nature Center, 668 Memorial Drive at the river end of Magazine Street, Cambridgeport. Free, but register. Enjoy nature while emphasizing breath and body. Information is here.
Strummerville Ukulele from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the café at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville, and every fourth Wednesday. Free. Amateur musicians invite you to join in as they sing and strum the hits. Information is here.
Dr. Dean-David Schillinger reads from “Telltale Hearts: A Public Health Doctor, His Patients and the Power of Story” at 7 p.m. at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Massachusetts Ave., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. The physician, scientist and public health advocate discusses how listening deeply to patients’ stories can forge unexpected connections and even help shift societal forces that shape health, disease and recovery. Dr. James Tulsky of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute joins. Information is here.
Somerville Monthly Square Dance from 7:30 to 11 p.m. at Warehouse XI, 11 Sanborn Court, Union Square, Somerville. $10 to $20 donation (cash or Venmo). A half-hour lesson followed by dancing to live music by Hell & Scissors and calling by Erica Weiss. No experience or partner required. Information is here.
Cloud Cult performs at 8 p.m. at The Sinclair, 52 Church St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $25. Known for multimedia artistry and ecological practices (they co-developed the first 100-percent postconsumer recycled CD packaging and plant trees to offset the greenhouse gases they create on tour), the independent rock band just released a 12th album, “Alchemy Creek.” Information is here.
Screening of short films about pollinators from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at the Somerville Community Growing Center, 22 Vinal Ave., near Union Square, Somerville. Free. Outdoor screenings followed by discussion. Information is here.
Bachata Room dance party from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. at La Fábrica Central, 450 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge (and every Wednesday). $15 and 18-plus (21-plus to drink). An hourlong bachata dance lesson for beginners followed by social dancing to DJ music (salsa, bachata and kizomba). No partner required, walk-ins welcome. Information is here.
Thursday, Aug. 29
Hive Safety Training from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Fab Lab of The Hive at the Cambridge Main Library, 449 Broadway, Mid-Cambridge. Free, but register. This workshop familiarizes you with The Hive makerspace and shows how to use its resources and keep safe. Completion of safety training is the entry point to using the space. Information is here.
Rollerama DJ Nights (continued) from 5 to 8 p.m. at Rollerama at Kendall Common, Broadway and Third Street, Kendall Square, Cambridge. Free. Information is here.
Harvard Art Museums at Night from 5 to 9 p.m. in the Calderwood Courtyard at Harvard Art Museums, 32 Quincy St., near Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. During this recurring event wander exhibits, catch spotlight tours, browse the shop, enjoy sounds from DJ C-Zone and buy snacks from local vendors. Information is here.
Summer Concert Series: Makena Tate performs from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Palmer and John F. Kennedy streets, Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. The indie pop/rock singer-songwriter is heavily influenced by Fleetwood Mac and Del Water Gap and released her sophomore EP this summer. Co-sponsored by Club Passim and the Berklee College of Music. Information is here.
Dancing Outdoors: Moving to Connect from 6 to 7 p.m. at Joan Lorentz Park at 449 Broadway, Mid-Cambridge (in front of the Cambridge Main Library). Free and ages 10 to 100. Participants improvise modern and contemporary dance techniques with instructor Meghan McLyman. Part of a series of summer park events sponsored by The Dance Complex and the City of Cambridge. Information is here.
The first-ever Very Harvard Book Store Presentation Night at 7 p.m. at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Massachusetts Ave., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. Local authors present on any topic, as serious or silly as they want, for 10 minutes each. Up first are Stephanie Burt, author of “We Are Mermaids,” and Sacha Lamb, author of “When the Angels Left the Old Country.” Information is here.
Friends of Porter Square Books Author Reading: Kids/YA Edition at 7 p.m. at Porter Square Books, 25 White St., Porter Square, Cambridge. Free, but register. This reading by local children’s book authors to celebrate the book shop’s 20 year anniversary features Kylie Lee Baker, Kristin Cashore, Malinda Lo, Rebecca Mahoney, Raul the Third, Susan Tan and Sara St. Antoine. Information is here.
The Julian Gerstin Quintet from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at The Mad Monkfish, 524 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge. $20. Melodic and driving jazz-steeped original music sparkling with rhythms and instruments from the Caribbean, Eastern Europe and the Arabic world. Information is here.
Trivia Night with Climable from 7 to 9 p.m. at Patagonia, 39 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $8 and 21-plus. Compete, drink beer (New Belgium) and enjoy pizza, with all ticket costs and funds from beer sales going to the Cambridge nonprofit Climable, which works with local environmental justice communities to increase energy democracy and climate resilience. Information is here.
Blues Union August Classes: Ballroomin’ theme from 7 to 11 p.m. at Dance Union, 16 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville. $10 to $25. This month’s focus is on the blues dances that came out of ballrooms, danced to jazzy blues music. An hourlong lesson is followed by an hour to socialize, rest or practice and two hours of social dancing. Wear shoes that allow you to pivot; no need to bring a partner. Masks required. Information is here.
Fifth Business and Cat T.V. perform at 7:30 p.m. at Lilypad, 1353 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge. $5. A four-piece Boston band influenced by ’80s and ’90s college radio rock and a five-piece “spirit of punk rock” band from Lowell playing fist-pumping songs heavy on bass guitar. Information is here.
Mars Symphony at 7:30 p.m. in the Charles Hayden Planetarium at the Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston, on the Cambridge border. $20 and 18-plus. Cutting-edge research and audio bring the real sounds of Mars’ winds, dust devils and seismic rumbles, joined by orchestral melodies created from data collected from the red planet and stunning original visuals from the planetarium. Information is here.
Strawberry Guy performs at 8 p.m. at Somerville Theatre’s Crystal Ballroom, 55 Davis Square. $25 to $30. Singer-songwriter Alex Stephens describes himself as a musical landscape painter, citing Monet’s “Meadow at Giverny” and vibrant scenes in Studio Ghibli films as inspiration for his lush arrangements. Also playing: Johanna Samuels. Information is here.
Sophie Mae Wellington at 8 p.m. at Club Passim, 47 Palmer St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $18 to $20. This old-time fiddler, jazz singer and percussive dancer originally from the Shenandoah Valley sings jazz melodies and harmonies as well as flatfoots Southern Appalachian rhythms and drives tunes with her high-energy bowing. Information is here.
A stronger
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