9/2: Three for free

Pinching pennies? Chic but cheap? We understand. Here are three free events this week for your going out pleasure.

Wednesday, September 3

- Let's Soul Touch @ Middlesex Lounge: Or, let's not, and say we did. Whether you know Isaac Hayes best from his so-smooth "Shaft" days or as the Chef on "South Park," this funky soul night is a fitting tribute to the late legend's life and work. Get down with your bad self. 9 p.m.

Saturday, September 6

- Banjo & Fiddle Contest @ Boarding House Park: Talk about a pickin' party. You'll hear dixie, ragtime, and bluegrass music streaming from Lowell's Boarding House Park all day as musicians of all ages from as far away as Quebec and North Carolina compete for prizes. Do-si-doing is highly encouraged. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sunday, September 7

- Swiss Beach Day @ Weeks Footbridge: When a coworker mentioned this event, we thought she said Swizz Beats, as in the producer integral to Beyonce's "Check On It." Why exactly had the New York hip-hop heavyweight chosen the Charles River bank as a stage? Moving on. This event is actually sponsored by Boston's Consulate of Switzerland and Charles River Conservancy, and asks attendees to imagine a swimmable Charles River. The Swiss love their urban swimming holes and want to spread the word via free refreshments, exhibits, and games. 2-5 p.m.

["I came from Alabama, with a banjo on my knee" — something tells me we wouldn't win the contest with that song / Credit: Scott Dorrance]

More? How about an all-American performance by the Boston Landmarks Orchestra? Or free flicks at the Chinatown Gate? See all free events this week.