Brian Feulner for The Boston Globe

Vegetable tacos at Rosa Mexicano, located on the waterfront in Boston.

Are you suddenly craving spicy food, salty drinks, and guacamole? That's because it's the beginning of May, and Cinco de Mayo is around the corner. Don't just limit your Mexican-themed celebrations to Sunday. Here are our weekend Cinco de Mayo picks. Arriba!

CINCO DE MUSTACHE
Music, margaritas, and ... mustaches? OK! Head to Davis Square's iconic Rosebud bar and restaurant to listen to four local bands sharing tunes. Don't forget your 'staches -- the best ones get a prize. Portions of the proceeds will be donated to the MSPCA. Saturday, May 4, at 9 p.m., $8, 381 Summer St., Somerville, 617-440-6284, www.rosebudbarandgrill.com

CINCO DE MAYO PATRON DINNER
Why not celebrate Cinco de Mayo early? Even ... two days early? Venture out to Boston's waterfront for some sun and Mexican grub. Del Frisco's will pair Patron Tequila with a six-course dinner on Friday. Dinner starts early, so you'll have plenty of time to venture to TeMexCal or Rosa Mexicano for margaritas. Friday, May 3 at 6:30 p.m., $95, 250 Northern Ave., Boston, www.delfriscos.com

DRINKO DE MAYO
Sing along with dueling pianos at Howl at the Moon, where along with live music, attendees will be able to enjoy $5 margaritas or $20 mega margaritas (they are 86 ounces. You might want to share that one). Sunday, May 5 at noon, Howl at the Moon, 184 High St., Boston, www.howlatthemoon.com

FIESTA AT VIRA
Sipping while shopping: Charles Street's Vira Boutique is serving margaritas on Sunday for anyone who stops by. If the drinks put you in the mood to shop, the boutique is offering 10 percent off during the event. Cheers! Sunday, May 5 from 1-5 p.m., 107 Charles St., Boston, 617-367-0305, www.shopvira.com

MI CASA BEE CASA
Is the thought of margaritas alone not cutting it for your Cinco de Mayo celebration? The Beehive in the South End will have mariachi bands playing music from south of the border. There is no cover charge, but be sure to make reservations ahead of time. 6:30 p.m.-12 a.m., The Beehive, 541 Tremont St., Boston, 617-423-0069, www.beehiveboston.com

PUB CRAWLS
Why just limit the fun to one spot? Bar hop to different venues that will partake in Cinco de Mayo festivities. Kitty O'Sheas is starting a bar crawl at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 4, and at The Bell in Hand, starting at 12:30 p.m. For more information on Boston pub crawls, visit this website. Times and dates vary.

Want more ideas? Check out more of our Cinco de Mayo listings in Boston and beyond. Also, don't forget to check out our guide to the area's margaritas.

We have a big weekend ahead of us: The Kentucky Derby, Cinco de Mayo, and the opening day of SoWa are all happening this first weekend of May. Along with our weekly chat of what's going on this weekend, we will also have our cocktail blogger Josh Childs joining us to give us tips for mixing your own mint juleps or blending margaritas for the weekend.

Join us at 11 a.m. Thursday to discuss all things to do (and drink).

From left: The cast of "Punk Rock" (Joel W. Benjamin); Mudflat pottery sale (Monica Ripley): Stefanie Powers in "Looped" (Ian Ibbetson)

Making plans? Short on ideas? No worries. See Milva DiDomizio and June Wulff's picks for the top things to do around the Hub this weekend.

FRIDAY

IN THE LOOP During post-production of the 1965 film "Die, Die, My Darling," actress Tallulah Bankhead tussled with the line, "And so Patricia, as I was telling you, that deluded rector has in literal effect closed the church to me." The incident is the basis for the play "Looped." Stefanie Powers (who co-starred with Bankhead in "Die, Die, My Darling") portrays her in the comedy's national tour. Fri 8 p.m., Sat 2 and 8 p.m., Sun 1 and 5 p.m. $35-$95. Emerson Majestic Theatre, 219 Tremont St., Boston. 617-824-8000, www.aestages.org

FIVE EASY PIECES This group does things in fives. Returning from a five-year break, the Paris Combo quintet fronted by Belle du Berry is back with a new studio album, its fifth, titled (can you guess?) "Five." The chanson tradition of French cabaret is given a tip of the beret and a "jazzy, sexy" twist with nods to Gypsy music, Spanish and Italian melodies, American jazz, and Django Reinhardt. May 3, 8 p.m. $28-$37. Berklee Performance Center, 136 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. 617-876-4275, www.worldmusic.org

TOUGH QUESTIONS What drives a teenager to violence? British playwright Simon Stephens looks at possible root causes in "Punk Rock." The play (which is not a musical) follows a group of seniors at a British Secondary School. Stephens, a teacher himself, was inspired to write it after the shootings at Columbine High School. May 3-25. Wed-Thurs 7:30 p.m., Fri 8 p.m., Sat 4 and 8 p.m., Sun 4 p.m. $30, $25 advance, $20 seniors and students. Wednesday shows pay-what-you-can, $7 minimum. Plaza Black Box Theatre, Boston Center for the Arts, Tremont St., Boston. 617-933-8600, www.bostontheatrescene.com

POTS FOR SALE The annual Mudflat Open Studio and Pottery Sale features functional and sculptural works by 80 artists. Go on Sunday afternoon (1-3 p.m.) for free hands-on clay time for the whole family. The sale takes place during Somerville Open Studios weekend. May 3, reception, 6-10 p.m. May 4-5, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free admission. Mudflat, 81 Broadway, Somerville. 617-628-0589, www.mudflat.org (For information on Somerville Open Studios go to www.somervilleopenstudios.org)

SATURDAY

A HILL OF BEANTOWN The stories of Beacon Hill's Federal-era residents aren't all about wealth and good times. Get the scoop on Saturday's Beacon Hill Walking Tour which begins with a walk through the Otis House and continues through the streets of the hilly neighborhood. May 4, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $12 (registration recommended). Otis House, 141 Cambridge St., Boston. 617-994-5920, www.historicnewengland.org

GET "Don't tell me I can't break the law/Cause the law has broken me." That line from the title track of "Get Up!" is all you need to get up and over to the Orpheum for An Evening of the Blues Featuring Ben Harper and Charlie Musselwhite. The mix of blues, gospel, roots, and R&B is handled by Harper's vocals and guitar, and Musselwhite's harmonica. May 4, 7:30 p.m. $39.50-$79.50. Orpheum Theatre, 1 Hamilton Pl., Boston. 800-745-3000, www.livenation.com

CONVENE AND CONTEMPLATE Special guests Danny Glover, Henry Louis Gates Jr., and author Edwidge Danticat convene for the Underground Railway Theater performance of "Roots of Liberty: The Haitian Revolution and the American Civil War." And what better venue than the Tremont Temple where the Emancipation Proclamation was read in 1863. May 4, 5 p.m. Free (RSVP required). Tremont Temple, 88 Tremont St., Boston. www.freedomrising2013.com

SUNDAY

MEXICAN HAT DANCE Sombreros are optional but having a good time is required at Cinco de Mayo at the Beehive. Chef Rebecca Newell will whip up Mexican-inspired dishes, and the nine-piece Mariachi International will whip up music. May 5, 6:30 p.m.- midnight (dinner 5:30 p.m.- 1 a.m.). No cover (reservations recommended). The Beehive, 541 Tremont St., Boston. 617-423-0069, www.beehiveboston.com

WILD MUSIC Israeli DJ Borgore described his work in an interview with spinner.com: "My music sounds like commercial American hip-hop and death metal being played through various farm animals." He shares a night with DJ Carnage and Voltran. May 5, 10 p.m. $30. 21+. Prime, 295 Franklin St., Boston. www.facebook.com/nvconcepts

Eric Levin/Elevin Studios

Did you know May is National Burger Month? To celebrate, The Place is offering their signature Angus Burger for a buck on Thursdays. The quarter-pounder, which comes with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles, is part of a new culinary program focusing on fresh ingredients. A visit also allows you to check out the skull-laced wallpaper, black jewel-toned chandeliers, and other highlights of the locale's recent renovations. Thursdays in May, 4-8 p.m. The Place, 2 Broad St., Boston. 617-523-2081, www.theplaceboston.com

Jeff Haynes/Reuters

I'll Have Another with jockey Mario Gutierrez (center) at the 138th Kentucky Derby.

The Kentucky Derby may be taking place May 4 in Louisville, Ky., but that shouldn't stop you from having some fun in the Boston area. Grab your big hats, your seersucker attire, and your southern charm this Saturday to cheer on thoroughbreds with mint juleps in hand.

DARRYL'S CORNER BAR
Bourbon wings? Cucumber sandwiches? Yes, please. There will also be mint juleps available, of course. If you have a big hat you're especially proud of, hit up this South End spot -- four judges will choose a winner in their Derby Day Hat Contest. 2-6 p.m., 604 Columbus Ave., Boston, 617-536-1100, www.darrylscornerbarboston.com

LINCOLN TAVERN
Venture to this Southie hot spot for more than a watch party: a silent auction, door prizes, and a best dressed competition will also be a part of the restaurant's Kentucky Derby party. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Boston Cares. $25, 3-7:30 p.m., Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant, 425 W. Broadway, Boston, www.lincolnsouthboston.com

SCHOLARS
Enjoy this second annual watch party with complimentary appetizers at this spacious nightlife spot. Proceeds will benefit Good Sports, a nonprofit to help youth sports programs. $20, 3-7 p.m., Scholars, 25 School St., Boston, 617-248-0025, www.scholarsbostonbistro.com

SUFFOLK DOWNS
East Boston's racetrack will be holding its very own viewing party Saturday. Live music, a large viewing screen, and opportunities to place wagers will all be at hand. In addition, "Boston Strong" merchandise to support The One Fund will be on sale. 2 p.m., Suffolk Downs, 111 Waldemar Ave, Boston, 617-567-3900, www.suffolkdowns.com

TOWNE
Dress in your best derby attire for this Back Bay establishment's "Thoroughbreds and Redheads Kentucky Derby Party." The best dressed have a chance to win prizes. Maker's Mark cocktails will be available, as well as complimentary hors d'oeuvres. 4 p.m., 900 Boylston St., Boston, www.towneboston.com

WEST END JOHNNIE'S
Located near the TD Garden, this spot has ample televisions located throughout the bar area for your viewing pleasure. Here's another bonus: traditional mint juleps will also be available. 3 p.m., West End Johnnie's, 138 Portland St., Boston, 617-227-1588, www.westendjohnnies.com

Russ Mezikofsky

Towne is one of the Boylston Street restaurants re-opening today

Several restaurants have been closed since the Boston Marathon bombings. Here's a list of some of today's re-openings. Head to Back Bay to enjoy a meal, and free parking courtesy of the city.

Back Bay Social Club, 867 Boylston St., Boston. bar opening at 4 p.m., kitchen at 5 p.m. www.backbaysocialclub.com

Towne Stove and Spirits, 900 Boylston St., Boston. Opened at noon. www.towneboston.com

L'Espalier, 774 Boylston St., Boston. Opens at 5:30 p.m. www.lespalier.com

The Capital Grille, 900 Boylston St., Boston. Opened at 11:30 a.m. today. www.thecapitalgrille.com

Pat Greenhouse, Globe Staff

Boylston Street, Boston

We've been Boston Strong, now it's time to be Boylston Strong. That means heading to the Back Bay to enjoy and support the area's restaurants and businesses. Courtesy of Mayor Menino, you'll get a free pass for parking. The mayor's office sent out a press release this afternoon quoting the mayor: “As of today, these businesses that have been off limits since Marathon Monday are open and are looking forward to receiving and serving their customers once again. To support the efforts of our local businesses through the end of the weekend, the City of Boston is offering free parking at meters on Boylston Street and throughout the entire Back Bay.” That includes all Boylston Street meters, meters on Back Bay streets between Arlington Street and Mass. Ave., and meters adjacent to the Public Garden.

"Pornocchio" (Michael von Redlich); "Art in Bloom" (Museum of Fine Arts); Sheepshearing Festival (Bruce S. Allen)

Making plans? Short on ideas? No worries. See Milva DiDomizio and June Wulff's picks for the top things to do around the Hub this weekend.

FRIDAY

LANDRY LAND When Ryan Landry and his Gold Dust Orphans get their hands on a movie, TV show, book, or fairytale, they twist, pummel, stomp, and puree it to perfection. You can imagine what you're in store for at "Pornocchio." The adult parody features a talking cricket with a conservative leaning, a puppeteer who stops taking his meds, and plenty of song and dance. April 26-27, 8 p.m. April 28, 5 p.m. Through May 26. $35, $45 (for mature audiences). Machine, 1254 Boylston St., Boston. 800-838-3006, www.brownpapertickets.com/event/363193

HIGH-FLYING IMAGINATION Wagner's 1841 version of "The Flying Dutchman" was set in Scotland and is musically different from his later, more commonly performed edition. It's the former you'll see when Boston Lyric Opera presents this story about the claustrophobic Senta who creates the Dutchman. April 26, 7:30 p.m. April 28, 3 p.m. Through May 5; lectures one hour before curtain. $30 and up (recommended for mature audiences). Citi Performing Arts Center Shubert Theatre, 265 Tremont St., Boston. 866-348-9738, www.blo.org

OFF THE WALLS The boy character in "Drawin' on the Walls" paints, and his pictures come magically to life. F.U.D.G.E. Theatre Company presents the premiere of Chris Guin’s musical about the boy, and the girl and two grown-ups who help him. April 26-27 and May 2-4, 8 p.m. April 28, 2 p.m. $26, $21 students and seniors. Boston Playwrights’ Theatre, 949 Comm. Ave., Boston. 617-945-0773, fudgetheatre.com

MODEL DJ Before he turned to turntables, Swedish DJ Adrian Lux had a career as a fashion model. The man who gave you the 2010 single "Teenage Crime" and was nominated for a Grammy in 2011 will be spinning at The Estate. April 26, 10:30 p.m.-2 a.m. 21+. The Estate, 1 Boylston Pl., Boston. 617-351-7000, www.theestateboston.com

SATURDAY

SHEAR AND SHEAR ALIKE Springtime is haircut time for the sheep (plus a llama and some alpacas) at Gore Place. Watch them get sheared at the 26th annual Sheepshearing Festival that also features an 18th-century militia encampment, herding dog demonstrations, wagon rides, crafters in period dress, a craft fair, hands-on activities, and performances by Lindsay and Her Puppet Pals, Morris dancers, the Moody Street String Band, and Merrimack Valley Bluegrass. April 27, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $15, under 13 free, children must be accompanied by adult. No pets. Rain or shine. Gore Place, 52 Gore St., Waltham. 781-894-2798, www.goreplace.org

FLOWER GIRLS John Singer Sargent's painting "The Daughters of Edward Darley Boit" will be given the floral treatment, along with 50 other MFA gems, at Art in Bloom. Almost 70 arrangements by garden clubs and designers are accompanied by tours, lectures, and floral demonstrations. Reservations are required for "Elegant Tea" (daily 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. $30, $10 under 13). April 27-29, 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m. $25, $23 students and seniors, $10 ages 7-17, free under 7 (and ages 7-17 weekends and weekdays after 3 p.m.). Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston. 617-267-9300, www.mfa.org/artinbloom

SUNDAY

THE COOK-OFF The winner of "The Right Stuff" gets a financial reward and fame. Two students from Boston's Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts compete for the $1,000 tuition money and a chance to have their dishes and name on menus at all five Salvatore's Restaurants. The students will prepare a three-course meal and you will vote along with celebrity and industry judges. April 28, 6:30 p.m. $45. Salvatore’s Restaurant, 225 Northern Ave., Boston. 617-737-5454, www.therightstuff.eventbrite.com

Bragg about it Political activism through music is the specialty of English musician Billy Bragg, and "Tooth & Nail" is the latest release by the folk, punk rock, and protest music maker. Bragg welcomes Kim Churchill as his special guest. April 28, 7 p.m. $34.50-$39.50. Berklee Performance Center, 136 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. 617-747-2261, www.berklee.edu/bpc

Egg in a jar: potato puree, hen-of-the-woods mushrooms, duck eggs, and crisp duck skin at West Bridge in Cambridge.

It's time for that one last meal with the family in the Boston area. Are you given the responsibility of finding the restaurant for graduation dinner, which means find a reservation, accommodating large groups, and above all, hoping everyone will be pleased? Here are some ideas for celebrating the big occasion.

LARGE GROUP: Cinquecento
Of course every aunt, uncle, niece, or nephew will want to be a part of the celebration. Cinquecento is a spacious Italian restaurant with fancy decor and an impressive menu. You can also make reservations online. 500 Harrison St., Boston, 617-338-9500, www.cinquecentoboston.com

TRENDY: West Bridge
Egg in a jar. Yes, they have a dish that involves an egg. In a jar. If you have people to impress, the unique dishes and the easy location (there is even a parking garage near by) makes this spot a crowd-pleaser. And another bonus: There is a wine bar, a brewery, and an Irish pub steps away. Reservations can be made through Open Table. 1 Kendall Sq., Cambridge, 617-945-0221, www.westbridgerestaurant.com

PRETTY: Island Creek Oyster
People who visit Boston often think seafood. Avoid the names we all know and try this spot. Not only does the restaurant have a central location in Boston, the decor makes it one of the most beautiful venues in the city. If someone in your party isn't in the mood for a fancy dish, don't worry, fish and chips are also on the menu. 500 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-532-5300, www.islandcreekoysterbar.com

PIZZA FANS: Area Four
Have picky eaters in your group? Well, who doesn't love pizza? Here's a bonus: You'll be able to order some pies away from the cramped North End and in a tech-y neighborhood. Grads, you may end up getting a job in Kendall Square, so why not start by getting a meal in your possible future 'hood? Area Four takes reservations, but requires a credit card number. Large groups welcome. 500 Technology Sq., Cambridge, 617-758-4444, www.areafour.com

LAID BACK: Publick House
Do you have beer fans in your family? Ok, maybe mac 'n cheese enthusiasts? Although the Publick House is known for its impressive beer list and gothic furnishings, the cuisine is some of the best comfort food you'll find in Boston. Note: They don't take reservations. 1648 Beacon St., Brookline, 617-277-2880. Visit their Facebook page for more information.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH: Elephant Walk
For those of you graduating from Cambridge schools, move away from the direct vicinity of Harvard Square and venture down Massachusetts Avenue for some Cambodian and French cuisine. If you have people who are vegetarian or gluten-free, there are plenty of options available. You can make reservations here. 2067 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, 617-492-6900, www.elephantwalk.com

In the wake of last week's events, many Bostonians have put together benefits, tributes, and more events to help those affected by the Boston bombings. Here is a transcript of the chat.

In the face of this tragedy, we know many of you are looking for ways you can donate, help, and support the victims and the city affected by the two explosions that hit Boston's Back Bay on Marathon Monday. Here, you will find event listings, local vigils, and other events you can take join in the upcoming weeks.

Keep up with even more listings and tweet at us if you hear of anything else at @bostoncalendar or @swatigauri, or email me at swatisharma@boston.com

The number of events are astonishing and the goodwill we see is uplifting.

Here are a few highlights:

APRIL 30, May 7
Brewed for Boston Nights at Harpoon
Enjoy a pint of Harpoon, but for a cause: during their extended hours on three Tuesdays, from 6-9 p.m., all sales of Harpoon pints and pretzels will be donated to The One Fund Boston, which was announced by Mayor Thomas Menino and Governor Deval Patrick to support victims and families affected by the bombings. Harpoon Brewery Beer Hall, 306 Northern Ave., Boston, www.harpoonbrewery.com

APRIL 27, 28
The One Fund Boston Fundraiser at The Urban Art Bar
Paint and socialize at South Boston's art bar and support The One Fund Boston. $35, April 27 at 7 p.m., April 28 at 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Urban Art Bar, 163 Old Colony Ave., Boston. Buy tickets here.

Additional resources:

• More event listings


• Events beyond Boston

As temperatures start to increase, so do cravings for ice cream. Go ahead and indulge at Baskin-Robbins Guest Appreciation Days, offering deals on a wide selection of flavors including Jamoca, Rocky Road, Cherries Jubilee, and Daiquiri Ice. While you're enjoying your sweet deal, don't forget to participate in the Scoops for Charity initiative to benefit non-profit organizations supporting the hungry, safety, and children's health. April 23-25. $1-$3 for signature menu items. Participating shops at 1 Broadway, Cambridge and 1 Bow St., Cambridge. Also in Belmont, Lexington, Harvard, and Raynham. www.BaskinRobbins.com

Looking for plans? Short on ideas? Chat with Boston.com's Swati Sharma about what to do this weekend.

Michele McDonald for The Boston Globe

Peter DiMuro works with students in advance of this weekend's performances

Art can bring healing, and after the events of this week the Boston Conservatory invites area residents to Reflections: Love, Loss, and Living. The show, featuring works from the school's dance, music, and theater divisions, touches on themes of loss, grief, resilience, hope, and community, and showcases a commissioned work by choreographer Peter DiMuro. According to conservatory president Richard Ortner, "We believe that this show in particular can help people in the Boston community begin to process the tremendous loss we've all felt for the past couple of days."

Thurs-Sat, 8 p.m. Sat, 2 p.m. Free, call for reservations. 617-912-9222. Boston Conservatory Theater, 31 Hemenway St., Boston. www.bostonconservatory.edu

Left to right: Jane Monheit, Hugh Masekela (Brett Rubin), Paula Poundstone

Making plans? Short on ideas? No worries. See Milva DiDomizio and June Wulff's picks for the top things to do around the Hub this weekend.

FRIDAY

HEART AND ALL Jazz and show tunes were music staples in the Long Island home of a young Jane Monheit. According to the jazz vocalist "I might hear Ella singing 'People Will Say We're in Love' and I'd hear the original cast recording from 'Oklahoma.' I'd hear Miles play 'If I Were a Bell,' then I'd hear the 'Guys and Dolls' version, I had it all." See how it all plays out when Monheit croons with her trio which includes drummer hubby, Rick Montalbano. "The Heart of the Matter" is her latest release. April 19-20, 8 and 10 p.m. $40. Scullers Jazz Club at the DoubleTree Guest Suites, 400 Soldiers Road, Boston. 617-562-4111, www.scullersjazz.com

DON'T WAIT For us, NPR's "Wait Wait…Don't Tell Me" is a Paula Poundstone picnic full of spice, grit, meat, and pot luck. The Sudbury native who peppers it all with irreverence and salt brings a feast to the Wilbur. April 19, 7:30 p.m. $22-$35. Wilbur Theatre, 246 Tremont St., Boston. 800-745-3000, www.thewilbur.com

SPRING SPRUCING Now that we're out of hibernation, it's time to spruce up our homes, offices, and selves. You have help from 200 artists at Craftboston Spring presented by the Society of Arts & Crafts. Emerging artists from schools and universities will display their ceramics, wearables, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, wood, and more. April 19-20, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. April 21, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $15, $13 seniors, $12 students, free under 13 (valid throughout weekend). Seaport World Trade Center, 200 Seaport Blvd., Boston. 617-266-1810, www.craftboston.org

DRINK TO SPRING An international smorgasbord of beer is brewing at the Spring Beer Fest. Pick up a passport that'll take you to tastings of beers from around the world. Events also feature music and a sushi rolling/sake class. Go back the next day for the Spring Wine Fest and a trip around the wine world. Beer fest: April 19, 5-7:30 p.m., 8-11 p.m. $59, sushi class extra. Wine fest: April 20, noon-2:30 p.m., 3-6 p.m., 7-10 p.m. 21+. Cyclorama, Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont St., Boston. www.bostoneventguide.com

SATURDAY

COMIXOLOGY Now is the time to show the world your superhero or other comic book self. Boston Comic Con invites attendees to enter the cosplay contest dressed as their faves from the world of comics, video games, and cartoons. The comic book show welcomes creators George Perez (Superman), Carlos Pacheco (X-Men), Mike Mignola (Hellboy), Amanda Conner (Silk Spectre), Mark Bagley (Fantastic Four), and Bill Willingham (Fables). April 20, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. April 21 until 5 p.m. $25, $40 (both days). Hynes Convention Center, 900 Boylston St., Boston. www.bostoncomiccon.com

COLOMBIA, THE GEM Sofia Vergara from "Modern Family" isn't the only performer to bring Colombia to the limelight. Another ambassador is Ballet Folklorico Juvenil Colombiano, a troupe that presents "Passport to Colombia" to spread the word about Colombia's history, cultural regions, native costumes, music, and dances. April 20, 5 p.m. $25. John Hancock Hall, 180 Berkeley St., Boston. 617-974-6213, www.eventbrite.com/event/1446345057

POSTPONED: FASHIONABLE NIGHT OUT Nightlife meets fashion when New York party diva Susanne Bartsch visits Boston. The talent roster for the multi-stage party/pop-up concert includes Amanda Lepore, the Zand Collective, Joey Arias, Jonte Moaning, and JbDubs. In case you're wondering what to wear, here's some advice from Blackbook Magazine: "At her parties, you are best off wearing a vintage corset, face paint, a headpiece, a cat suit, anything by Thierry Mugler, Alexander Mcqueen, or Vivienne Westwood, or barely anything at all." Event has been postponed until May 11. Revere Hotel, 200 Stuart St., Boston. 617-482-1800, www.reverehotel.com

SUNDAY

BLAZING AND GRAZING "Grazin' in the Grass" moved Hugh Masekela into the international arena and earned the trumpet player a Grammy nomination. Last year, almost 45 years later, the South African native has released "Playing @ Work." April 21, 7:30 p.m. $28-$37. Berklee Performance Center, 136 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. 617-876-4275, www.worldmusic.org

ETCH A SKETCH Pablo Picasso charged a woman a lot of money for a few requested scribbles on a napkin at a Paris cafe. When the woman asked why he quoted such a high price, ther artist told her that it took him a lifetime to be able to make the sketch. Support Boston art students at "Picasso's Napkin Pop Up Gallery" where you can buy sketches from tomorrow's Picassos. April 21, 2-6 p.m. Free admission, pieces start at $30. John Harvard's, 33 Dunster St., Cambridge. 617-899-1289, www.picassosnapkin.com

(Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff)

Local rock group Mean Creek (pictured) is one of a handful of bands slated to perform at an impromptu benefit tonight at TT the Bear's Place in Cambridge. One-hundred percent of the donations will go to Massachusetts General Hospital on behalf of victims of Monday's Boston Marathon bombings.

By Matt Juul, Boston.com Correspondent

Showing their support for the victims of Monday’s Boston Marathon bombings, bands and artists from the city’s music scene will join forces at TT The Bear’s Place for a benefit concert in Cambridge on Tuesday.

The venue will host the 18+ concert, with doors opening at 8 p.m. Organizers of the event ask that people “pay what you can” as 100 percent of the donations will be given to Massachusetts General Hospital.

Musical acts set to perform include Mean Creek, The Field Effect, Endation, Dan Nicklin of Oldjack, Cameron Keiber, and more. More information about the event can be found on Facebook.

By Erica Thompson, Boston.com Correspondent

Even in the midst of tragedy, Boston's “dirty water” spirit lives on. Local restaurants have opened their doors to medical and law enforcement personnel in need of a bite to eat while helping the city recover from the bombings at the Boston Marathon. Below is a list of participating venues and their specials.

The Grand Canal Boston
57 Canal St Boston
(617) 523-1112

The restaurant will offer free appetizers to all first responders until the end of April.

Estelle’s Southern Cuisine
782 Tremont St., Boston
(857) 250-2999

The South End restaurant is offering burgers to uniformed first responders.

Legal Sea Foods’ Park Square
26 Park Plaza, Boston
(617) 426-4444

This location offers complimentary all-you-can-eat clam chowder for all Emergency Personnel (BPD, BFD) and Local, State, and Federal Authorities. Orders will also be available ASAP for take-out for those with a badge.

Craft Beer Cellar
51 Leonard St., Belmont
(617) 932-1885

The local brewery will donate the money raised from their fundraiser on April 16 to the victims and their families.

Fire + Ice Boston
205 Berkeley St., Boston
(617) 482-3473

The Back Bay restaurant tweeted, “Complimentary meals to all first responders, emergency and law enforcement in our bar beginning at 12pm! Enter Park sq. building on st james,” on April 16.

Mass Ave Tavern
94 Massachusetts Ave.
(617) 927-4900

“Boston is a strong, resilient town; so are its people,” reads the sign outside the local joint. The restaurant is offering 50% off food for all marathon participants, and free meals to all emergency personnel.

Parlor Sports
1 Beacon St., Somerville
(617) 576-0231

The pub pledged to donate 100 percent of sales on April 16 to the victims and their families. However, because of the ongoing investigation at Copley Plaza, the following restaurants will remain closed until further notice.

Legal Sea Foods (Copley Square & Prudential Center)
Poe’s Kitchen at the Rattlesnake
Towne Stove and Spirits

FULL ENTRY

David L. Ryan, Globe Staff

A scene from last year's open house

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED. NEW DATE TBA

One and and all are invited to step through the gates of Boston's beloved ballpark for the Annual Fenway Park Open House. Check out the home and away clubhouses, get autographs of Red Sox alumni, see the dugouts and batting cages, take a stroll around the warning track, look inside the Green Monster scoreboard, and meet Wally the Green Monster. Don't forget to have a hot dog -- discounted concessions will be available at this family event. April 17, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Rain or shine. Fenway Park, Boston. www.redsox.com/openhouse

Wendy Maeda / Globe Staff

This post is part of a daily series giving you tips and recommendations on what to do in the Boston area.

CARBO LOAD AT TOWNE
If you're running the marathon (or not, we won't tell), you've trained enough. Don't save the pasta indulgence for Sunday-- Towne will be offering four days of Italian entrees. Our pick? the ricotta and lemon ravioli. Starts at 5:30 pm., 900 Boylston Street, Boston, 617-247-0400, www.townboston.com. For more pre-marathon meal deals, check out our round up.

2013 BEER SUMMIT
Craft beer lovers, rejoice! For $42, taste over 60 brewers from Boston and around the world. Mingle with fellow enthusiasts or meet the brewers themselves. Our picks: see what Backlash, Opa Opa, and Berkshire Brewing have on tap. The Park Plaza Castle, 130 Columbus Ave, www.beersummit.com

MASQUERADE BALL
The 11th anniversary of the Boston Young Professionals Association has a theme you won't want to miss. (It's called "night circus." How cool is that?) Wear your best black, white, and red, and get there on time-- the first 200 people will recieve a complimentary masquerade mask. 7-10 p.m., $15-90, The Estate, 1 Boylston Pl., Boston, www.bostonypa.com

The weekend before the marathon brings ample opportunities to carbo load (whether you're running or not). You may also need to freshen up on your Boston knowledge-- along with pasta, the marathon brings a flow of tourists to the Hub. Let's make sure to be well prepared.