The Weekender: November 4 to 7

Photo courtesy iStock/DenisTangneyJr

Eat, Shop, Go

Midterms may have gotten the best of those of us who are currently panic-studying, but even procrastinators need a break. Whether that means embarking on a fall cruise around the city or supporting the live return of BU on Broadway, we suggest that you to make the time for some self-care—you deserve it.

Donut Villa Diner

If you’ve been looking for an eatery that mirrors the diner atmosphere seen in Grease, the Donut Villa Diner delivers that vibe. Next time you’re craving brunch, head over to witness—or better yet, taste—the hype, with a menu that includes classic brunch fare and dishes with a twist. Sure, you’ve had the run-of-the-mill French toast, but we recommend “The Elvis French Toast,” stuffed with peanut butter, bananas, and bacon. 

Plus, herbivores are in for a treat. There’s an entire page dedicated to plant-based bites that don’t skimp on creativity. Vegan chicken and waffles, and faux bacon, BLTs, and chicken sandwiches are all up for grabs. 

Donut Villa Diner, 20 Prospect St., Cambridge, is open Monday to Friday, from 6:30 am to 3 pm, and Saturday and Sunday, from 7 am to 3 pm. Preview the menu here.

Ritual Arts

As you walk through the doors of Ritual Arts, you’ll be greeted by the smell of burning incense, a friendly kitten, and a large parrot that often roams around. The store may be small, but it boasts a number of trinkets: candles, essential oils, jewelry, books, tapestries, and more. If you’ve been curious about the alleged healing properties of crystals and stones, there’s an abundance in different sizes, from pocket-size to those as large as your hand. If you’re looking for some life advice and guidance, tarot readings are also available. 

Ritual Arts, 153 Harvard Ave., Allston, is open from noon to 7 pm every day except Sunday, when it is open from noon to 6 pm.

On Broadway Presents Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

While we’ve had a slew of virtual performances to hold us over, live theater is officially back. Student-run BU on Broadway invites you into the world of 19th-century London with the 1979 Broadway musical Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, which was made into a 2007 movie starring Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter. If you’re still clinging to the Halloween spirit, the play is serving up ominous on a platter. Sweeney Todd dives into Victorian-era London, where a newly popular pie-making business is harboring a dark secret (and a surprising secret ingredient). 

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street runs from Thursday, November 4, to Saturday, November 6, at the Tsai Performance Center, 685 Commonwealth Ave. Tickets start at $8. Check availability and times for each performance here.

Painting and Popcorn 

We’re all guilty of unknowingly keeping our plants in the container they came in, but now it’s time to give them a proper home as they spread their roots. Spruce up your bedroom with the painted plant pots you’ll customize at the BUild Lab as the weekend kicks off. Innovate@BU and the Newbury Center are hosting the crafting event, rounded out by snacks and live music by student performers. 

Painting and Popcorn is Friday, November 5, from 4:30 to 5:30 pm, in the BUild Lab, 730 Commonwealth Ave. The event is free for students; no registration required.

Take Back the Night Rally 

In support of survivors of sexual violence at Boston University, the Take Back the Night rally aims to amplify awareness about sexual violence and its prevalence among the student body. Survivors and supporters will band together to work towards the ultimate mission of ending sexual violence in all forms. A rally, speak-out, and vigil will take place at the event organized by the Sexual Assault Response & Prevention Center (SARP).

The Take Back the Night rally is Friday, November 5, from 7 to 9 pm, at the Sexual Assault Response & Prevention Center. The event will begin outside SARP’s office, 930 Commonwealth Ave., and attendees will travel down to the George Sherman Union. Register here.

Fall Foliage Sightseeing Cruise

Take in the most iconic views of Boston’s fall foliage aboard a boat on the Charles River. During a 90-minute journey, passengers can sip complimentary apple cider while riding by Back Bay, MIT, and Harvard University. 

The Charles Riverboat Company cruises depart from CambridgeSide Mall, 100 Cambridgeside Pl., Cambridge. Tickets start at $22.50. View dates, times, and prices here.