Find yourself with a lean wallet and a craving to do something different this weekend? One of these outings might be your ticket.
Party - and shop - like a Bohemian
What: What do Mesa couple Kristin and Dan Alber do when they finish remodeling a home (in this case a historic 1920s bungalow in Mesa's desirable Evergreen district)? The owners of eclectic downtown design house Domestic Bliss throw one heck of a gypsy-inspired party. The pair's Bohemian Bliss Soiree features live music, appetizers, libations and an affordable discounted admission if you show up dressed in your bohemian best (think a mix of woodland fairy, 1920s-era flapper and cowgirl peacock). The next day, they'll host a Vagabond Vintage Market full of uncommon goods you won't find at big-box stores or malls. Tours of the restored home are available at both events, and the outdoor boutique market coincides with MACfest, a free art fair going on Saturday just steps away on Main Street in downtown Mesa.
When: The soiree is 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday; the market is 7 a.m. to noon Saturday
Where: 767 N. Robson, Mesa
Cost: The soiree costs $15 if you go in your bohemian best; otherwise, it's $30. The market is free.
Information: (480) 733-0552 or www.bohemianblissmarket.blogspot.com
Clean comedy
What: Mesa Arts Center houses five art galleries, working artists' studios and a full menu of big-name concerts, theatrical productions and lecturers. But what you may not know is that it's also home to its own improvisational comedy company called Off the Cuff. The troupe performs its last hurrah of the season - a "best of" show - on Friday, and it's clean enough for the whole family to laugh til it hurts.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Where: Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa
Cost: $10
Information: (480) 644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com
Body heat
What: Sure you could stand outside and sweat for free anytime, but it's just not the same as striking ancient meditative poses at 103 degrees and 40 percent humidity. One of the East Valley's best known providers of Bikram yoga - the hot kind - just installed a new, state-of-the-art heating system, and it's offering free classes to celebrate. There's also a trunk show of yoga wear and healthful-lifestyle goods, with raffles and giveaways.
When: Classes are 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Saturday
Where: Bikram Yoga Tempe, 1825 E. Guadalupe Road, Tempe
Cost: Free
Information: (480) 777-0939 or www.bikramyogatempe.com
Appetizing art
What: Check out two galleries full of artwork all about food, nutrition and exercise. The 60 or so pieces, culled from ASU Art Museum's permanent collections, are curated especially for families. Text panels provide jumping off points for discussion, and interactive stations for kids give them plenty to do as they navigate through the colorful drawings, paintings, ceramics and other works.
When: The exhibit debuts 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; it will be on display through Aug. 29.
Where: ASU Art Museum, 10th Street and Mill Avenue in Tempe
Cost: Free, but be prepared to pay nominal parking fees for nearby metered or garage parking.
Information: (480) 965-2787 or asuartmuseum.asu.edu
Big Red Dog Day Afternoon
What: Kids of all ages are invited to hang out with Clifford The Big Red Dog at a combination toy store and bookstore in Ahwatukee. The furry visitor will host free activities all afternoon, including art projects, face painting and temporary tattoos, story times and a book raffle. Parents should stick around to supervise their tots and snap pictures with Clifford and the kids with their own cameras.
When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday
Where: Brilliant Sky Toys and Books, 4929 E. Chandler Blvd., Phoenix
Cost: Free
Information: (480) 785-8697
