Where to Eat, Shop, and Go during the Weekend of April 22 to 25

Photo by DenisTangneyJr/iStock

Eat, shop, go

It’s hard to believe that we’re about to head into our last week of classes (study days are April 30 to May 3). Pat yourself on the back for making it to the finish line of this strange, challenging year. And before you start cramming for finals, take some time this weekend to relax and catch your breath. How ’bout trying out a new chicken joint or a trip to a museum? Spring produce is in abundance, so maybe a trip to a local farmers market is just the thing. We’ve got you covered. Read on.

Underdog Hot Chicken

Underdog Hot Chicken opened in Allston back in February, and if you haven’t visited yet, we recommend doing so before the semester ends. The eatery offers three combo meals: a sandwich featuring two chicken tenders, kaleslaw, and pickles on a brioche bun; three chicken tenders, marinated and dunked in Underdog’s secret combination of spices; or three wings and three drumsticks, hand-battered and marinated. All combos are served with the restaurant’s amazing homemade sauce and come with your choice of side: french fries, kaleslaw, fried pickles, mac ’n’ cheese, or potato salad. And be sure to save room for dessert. With fried oreos on the menu, who can resist?

Underdog Hot Chicken, 160 Brighton Ave., Allston, is open daily from noon to 10:30 pm. 

The Charles River Farmers Market

Spring is an excellent time of year to experience the best in fresh local produce. You’ll find tender lettuces, crisp asparagus, fresh fish and meat, and much more at the Charles River Farmers Market in Cambridge. Vendors include Stillman Quality Meats, Valicenti Pasta Farm, Great Harvest Bread Company, Hickory Nut Farm, and more. You’ll find plenty to choose from to make an exceptional weekend lunch or dinner. 

The Charles River Farmers Market is at the corner of Elliot and Bennett Streets in Harvard Square, directly in front of the Charles Hotel. Hours: Fridays, noon to 6 pm; Sundays, 10 am to 3 pm. 

Body, Mind, Space, and Spirit: Margaret Rigg Art Collection

Looking to satisfy your art fix, but don’t have time to travel to a museum? Check out Body, Mind, Space, and Spirit, on view at the School of Theology Library daily through May 20. The show explores theological themes, such as the crucifixion and the holiness of the body seen through the lens of the Cold War and the advent of the military-industrial complex. The works are by Margaret Rigg and date to the 1950s and 1960s. During that time, the artist would travel with the artworks to schools to share with children the ways theology and art intersect. Riggs’ use of media, choice of colors, and at times harsh subject matter, reflect the turbulent times of the late ’50s and ’60s.

Body, Mind, Space, and Spirit: Margaret Rigg Art Collection is on view in the School of Theology Library main reading room, 745 Commonwealth Ave., through May 20. Admission is free. Hours: Monday to Thursday, 8 am to 8 pm; Friday, 8 am to 4 pm; Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. Closed Sunday. You can also view the exhibition virtually here.

Boston Theater Marathon XXIII: Special Zoom Edition

Love to attend the theater, but can’t because of the ongoing pandemic? Be sure to check out Boston Theater Marathon XXIII. Each day through May 28, viewers are treated to a virtual reading of a different 10-minute play written by New England playwrights. Readings begin at noon each day (except for Sunday) and are followed by Q&As. Admission is free, but audiences are encouraged to support local theater companies and the Theatre Community Benevolent Fund, which offers financial assistance to theaters and artists.

Find play schedules and information on how to register, and donate, here.  

The Science Behind Pixar, Museum of Science

Ever wonder how Pixar Animation Studios creates such breathtaking effects in hits like Toy Story and WALL-E? This new interactive show at the Museum of Science allows visitors to delve into the science, technology, engineering, and mathematical (STEM) aspects behind some of Pixar’s biggest hits. Discover how key STEM concepts inform all aspects of the production process, from the creation of key frames to the final rendering of a film. You’ll also have a chance to step into the filmmakers’ shoes by participating in screen-based activities, where you’ll rely on your own computational skills. Participate in engaging activities, hear from members of Pixar’s production teams, and get to know your favorite Pixar characters, including Buzz Lightyear, Dory, Mike and Sulley, Edna Mode, and WALL-E.

The Science Behind Pixar is on view at the Museum of Science, One Science Park, Boston. The museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Pandemic protocols require a timed ticket. Purchase online anytime or call 617-723-2500. You’ll receive a confirmation email including your QR code to be scanned at the Exhibit Halls entrance for contactless admission. Purchase tickets here. Masks and six feet of social distancing are required.