There are lots of fun events this weekend, so gear up and cheer up—it’s Friday!
1. Celebrate girl power worldwide with the screening of Girl Rising
Where: The State Theater 609 Congress St.
When: Friday from 7:30- 9:30 pm
Cost: Free
CIEE, the international exchange fortress (have you seen that building?!) is celebrating International Day of the Girl with a screening of the film Girl Rising at the State Theater. From their event page: “Girl Rising is the story of perseverance, grit, determination, and positive social change. It offers a simple, yet powerful, message: educate girls and you will change the world.” The film’s trailer is so rich in color with powerful images of young girls overcoming hardship, I’d highly recommend watching it if you’re on the fence about this event. Tickets are free and available through Eventbrite.
2. Get to know your neighbors with the East Bayside Block Party
Where: East Bayside Neighborhood
When: Saturday from 12:00 to 4:00 pm
Cost: Free to hang out, various wares and food for sale
If you haven’t heard, East Bayside is a neighborhood on the move. New businesses are opening left and right and a community of producers is quickly forming. These organizations are combining forces to host a fun block party for the whole family this Saturday. Their Facebook event page boasts free activities for all ages, in addition to food trucks, vendors, and live music. Notable happenings are a free introductory Aikido class from 12-1 pm with Aikido Maine, music by Spencer Albee at Bunker Brewery around 2 pm, and the new tasting room at Urban Farm Fermentory. For more information, make sure you check out the event’s Facebook page.
3. Update your wardrobe with SWAPmaine at the Space Gallery
Where: Space Gallery 538 Congress St.
When: Pre-drop off 8-10 am, Swap time 10-1 pm
Cost: $5 with clothing donation, $10 without, free if you drop off clothes between 8-10 am
It happens to everyone. You buy an article of clothing that you are so in love with, it actually elevates your mood when you wear it. Sadly, over time you fall out of love with this once cherished possession and it winds up hanging, untouched, in your closet.
SWAPmaine has the perfect solution. Give back to your community, and freshen your look with this clothing swap supporting Goodwill Industries of Northern New England. Bring your unwanted clothing and accessories to exchange for some new (to you) threads from fellow Portlanders. Left over clothing will be donated to Goodwill, so be philanthropic and leave with less than you came with. This is for both ladies and gentlemen. Check out Space Gallery’s event page for more info.
4. Dance like nobody’s Instagramming it with Dance Night at Slainte (21+)
Where: Slainte Wine Bar & Lounge 24 Preble St.
When: Saturday 10pm-1am
Cost: “never a cover”
Portland’s such a stellar restaurant and bar town, but when do you get a chance to just let it all go and dance, I mean really just get down? Not often enough, you say? Well here’s your chance. DJs Marieke Vi and Tremendous Cream are spinning soul, garage, and pop for your booty shaking delight. Whether you know everyone there or no one, both are conducive to letting loose and getting down.
5. Be a vinyl purist with Classic Album Sunday at Empire
Where: Empire (upstairs) 575 Congress St.
When: Sunday at 5:30 pm
Cost: $5
Once a month at Empire, Dispatch Magazine presents a classic album played in its entirety. People keep talking to a minimum and just sit back and enjoy the music. This is a rare jewel of events. This month’s album is Jimmy Hendrix’ Electric Ladyland. Even if you’re a die-hard Hendrix fan, you’ve probably never experienced his music quite like this. The classic vinyl combined with “an audiophile quality hi-fi stereo system” (sounds fancy) are sure to give you goose bumps while you re-energize a lost pastime.