It’s the Fourth of July weekend and events around Seattle are sparser than usual. Enjoy the sunshine (as I will most definitely be doing), but when you crave some variation, head to one of these events. I’m particularly excited about the Mayoral Movies Series this weekend at the Northwest Film Forum.
Independence Day Community Picnic
Cal Anderson Park, Thurs. 7/4 at 11 a.m., FREE
Now in its 11th year, this picnic kicks off with yoga in the park at 11. Then, from noon to two — or until they run out — organizers will be serving up beef hot dogs (or Field Roast!). Making this event even better: the root beer garden, Pet/Human Look-alike Contest and the Hive Five Pie-eating smackdown.
How To Make Money Selling Drugs
Northwest Film Forum, through Thurs., 7/4 at 8 p.m., $10
This is the final night to catch this film, which is shocking to many, satirical to some and eye-opening to all. How To Make Money Selling Drugs explores the drug industry from every angle, delivering up interviews with prison inmates, drug dealers and celebrities such as 50 Cent, Susan Sarandon and The Wire producer David Simon. In the end, the creators let the audience decide whether to “use [their film] as a ‘cookbook,’ idiot’s guide, bizarre satire or frightening exposé.”
To Kill A Mockingbird,
Mayoral Movies Series, Northwest Film Forum, Fri. 7/5 at 8 p.m., $10 ($30 for entire series)
This collection of quasi political films — both fictional and documentary — was curated and will be introduced by Seattle's current mayoral candidates. The series kicks off on Friday with incumbent Mike McGinn introducing his pick, To Kill A Mockingbird, an obvious choice, perhaps, but a wonderful classic featuring Gregory Peck at his peak. The series runs through the 8th and includes The Rise and Fall of America’s Most Notorious Mayor (introduced by Peter Steinbrueck) and The Wind That Shakes the Barley (from Ed Murray). The complete lineup is here. Come show your support, learn about Seattle's mayoral candidates or simply appreciate this unique event, which bridges art and politics on a very human, yet intellectual level, which strikes me as distinctively Seattle.
Coyle’s Bakeshop
The Book Larder, Saturday 7/6 at 9 a.m.
Rachel Coyle of the Book Larder community cookbook store has started showcasing her baking talents with a pop-up bakery one Saturday a month. That Saturday is here and if the pictures from last month’s bakeshop launch are any indication, Coyle will have a whole smorgasbord of creations to choose from, including an olive oil bundt cake with bing cherries, cardamom and orange zest. Make an occasion of it, but get there early.
BOAT at the Comet
Comet Tavern, Saturday 7/6
Seattle indie rock band BOAT has been turning out consistently great records since 2006, much to the delight of its faithful local fan base. BOAT's new album Pretend To Be Brave is out and the Comet show is one of very few live performances currently scheduled to support the launch. The band's music manages to be both dark and energizing, equally excellent for listening alone at home or live in a crowd. Think a bit Built to Spill, performed by guys that look like (and could very well be) the ones next door.
Joe Hill
Central Library, Tuesday 7/9 at 7 p.m., FREE
Part of the Clarion West Writers Workshop, horror fiction and graphic novelist Joe Hill will be at Seattle Public Library reading from his newest horror book NOS4A2. I have to admit that while my rampant reading has not often led me into the horror genre, Hill’s work is truly enticing. He is the author of two other novels, along with a collection of short stories and a comic book series. He’s also Stephen King’s son (full name: Joe Hillstrom King) so it all makes sense.
What are you doing this weekend? Let us know in the comments area below. And if you hear of any interesting – under $15 - events in or around our grand city, please email editor@crosscut.com.
