do something :: weekend july 23 - 25

looking for something to do with the family or friends or even by yourself?  check out some of the things going on around town this weekend.

07.23
a good friend of ours brought our attention to zerolandfill.  this awesome organization collects unused/unneeded samples from architects and interior designers and holds one day events during a specific time of the year (called harvests) for artists, educators, crafters, and other creative people in the community to come and gather the materials collected for their own personal use. their first harvest will be today (friday) from 12-3 p.m. at 3631 perkins ave., cleveland, oh.  i have yet to check this out, but would love to one of these times.  there is a huge assortment of samples from fabric to tiles...all for free.  if you can get down there, i would highly recommend taking the time today to stop by.

the irish cultural festival starts today and will run through sunday.  i'm not irish (obviously), but you don't have to be to appreciate their culture.  the festival schedule looks packed from a variety of irish musicians, pipe bands, irish dancing (i love watching this) and even a native irish dog show.  the children's area will be offering opportunities for kids to learn irish dance, hear stories and a little petting zoo just to name a few.  admission is $10, children 10 and under are free.

7.24
it's time for another walk all over waterloo event going on saturday starting at 4 p.m.  this time, they will also be holding a classic car show (1st ever) at ss&w boardwalk.  a family-friendly puppet show put on by picklefight puppets will be going on at 7:30 p.m. at star pop, and of course live music including scoliosis jones (a little plug for my main man) who are going on at 8 p.m. at blue arrow records.  shops on the street will be open including salty not sweet (shameless, shameless, i know), this way out vintage (this place is cool if you like vintage clothing and items), and the arts collinwood cafe.  if you've never been to waterloo arts district why not explore the are during this event?

scoliosis jones

if you like hot dogs then you might consider entering in a hot dog eating contest at the happy dog.  the contest starts at 5 p.m., and entries for the competition costs $20.  proceeds go to benefit the bridge avenue school, "a small private christian middle school...that serves previously unsuccessful students.  the school focuses on reading, math and science foundation building for students who have struggled in these areas." eat a hot dog for the kids!

7.25
a swing dance lesson for $5 will be going on from 12-3 p.m. at the beachland ballroom, taught by valerie salstrom of get hep swing.  if you've always wanted to learn how to swing dance but not sure if you want to commit your time and money to full-on lessons, this is the perfect way for you to get a preview of what to expect.  i remember doing something similar back in seattle at the century ballroom.  it was great fun!

and if you're planning to attend the sunday swing session at the beachland, why not have brunch beforehand?  the beachland tavern will be holding their usual rockin' sunday brunch from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. with a live dj spinning (kid and adult friendly) music while you enjoy your food.  yummy, yummy in my tummy!

happy weekend.  whether you're taking it slow with a relaxing visit at the beach or planning on spending all day at the irish festival, make sure to get out of the house and do something!