The Weekender: February 6 to 9

Lily P’s opened in Cambridge last December, and as well as its unique pressurized fried chicken, it features live music and other activities. Photo courtesy of AGL&CO for Lily P’s

Eat, shop, go

Punxsutawney Phil failed to see his shadow on Groundhog Day, February 2, which should mean that we will have an early spring this year. That does not hold true for this weekend—we’re supposed to get pummeled by a wintry mix. So bundle up while you indulge in some fried chicken at a new Cambridge restaurant, get a jump-start on your Valentine’s Day shopping, and veg out at a sci-fi film festival.

Lily P’s

Lily P’s is not your typical fried chicken restaurant. Opened in Cambridge’s Kendall Square last December, Chris Parsons’ latest culinary endeavor specializes in chicken marinated in buttermilk before being fried in a pressure cooker. Besides its (pressurized) fried chicken, which shines both on its own and in unique sandwiches, the new digs also has a raw bar, salads, and freshly spun ice cream. Live music, darts, and other activities make for a vibrant scene. 

Lily P’s, 50 Binney St., Cambridge, is open from 11 am to 11 pm Monday through Saturday. Find menus and more information here.

Beacon Hill Chocolates

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, Beacon Hill Chocolates is a good place to stock up early on sweets for your sweet. The shop sells unique handcrafted chocolates from South America, Europe, and the United States. Try one of the truffles, which come in flavors like blood orange, mint, lemon, and even bacon. If you’re looking for an over-the-top gift, you can customize your gift box with any image. 

Beacon Hill Chocolates, 91 Charles St., Boston, is open 11 am to 7 pm Monday to Saturday, and 11 am to 5:30 pm Sunday.

Boston Science Fiction Film Festival

If Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker got you into the sci-fit spirit, you can get your fill at the Somerville Theatre, as it hosts the 45th annual Boston Science Fiction Film Festival, February 7 through 17. This year, look for 32 international features, 66 shorts, panels and workshops, and visits from directors. The 11-day festival finishes with a 24-hour marathon screening of sci-fi classics like SpaceBalls, The Fly, and Fiend without a Face. Not all festival events are held at the Somerville Theatre.

The Boston Science Fiction Film Festival is February 7 to 17. Find the complete schedule and purchase tickets here and find more information here; individual screenings start at $15. The festival events are held at multiple locations.

Lunar New Year Celebration

This is your final weekend to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Head to Faneuil Hall for a free celebration of the Year of the Rat, which includes red lantern crafts and creating a personal card to hang on the Lunar New Year affirmation board. 

The Faneuil Hall Lunar New Year celebration is being held through February 10 at the Faneuil Marketplace South Market building, So. Market St., Boston.   

Parsons Dance Winter Dance Fest

New York City–based contemporary performance company Parsons Dance puts on its annual winter dance festival on Saturday, February 8, at the Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre. Since it was founded by artistic director David Parsons (described by the New York Times as “one of the great movers of modern dance”) and Tony Award–winning designer Howell Binkley in 1985, Parsons Dance is known for its vibrant and dynamic performances in over 400 cities and 30 countries. 

Parsons Dance Winter Dance Fest is Saturday, February 8, at 8 pm, at the Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre, 219 Tremont St., Boston. Tickets start at $40; purchase tickets here.