The Weekender

I take back my earlier proclamation that Spring has sprung. We’re back to blustery, wet and cold days. Hopefully that will change. But the weather hasn’t stopped Astoria from heating up.

Of special note this weekend are 2 parades in Manhattan; one of which hits close to home. Saturday is the Tartan Day Parade. Its the largest Scottish celebration in Manhattan and one of the largest Scottish parades in the world. Catch the pipers and drummers strut their stuff down 6th avenue.
And in case you haven’t noticed that a lot more Greek flags have sprung up recently it’s time for the76th annual Greek Independence Day Parade on Sunday. This year’s parade is dedicated to religious freedom. It will also be the first time it is broadcast on television. Catch it on FOX 5 or My9 from 1-3:30pm with hosts from channel 5 news, Rosanna Scotto, Ernie Anastos and Nick Gregory. “The parade commemorates the 186th anniversary of Greek Independence from Turkish Ottoman rule, tyranny and oppression and honors the Greek forefathers who valiantly sacrificed their lives to preserve the ideals of freedom, democracy, and independence. The celebration brings together thousands of Greek-Americans; Philhellenes, civic, religious and political organizations; members of the Greek Orthodox Church, American and Greek government officials on Fifth Avenue to honor Greek independence. All Hellenes and Philhellenes are encouraged to attend the Parade, which showcases the culture and legacy of Greece: a celebration of Greek Independence, culture, family and heritage.” (taken from Hellenic News of America).

Friday night you can stay home and begin the mourning process of the end of Stargate SG-1 (oh, say it really isn’t so! But it is ). Or you can check out Hell Gate Social’s Naughty little evening. At 9pm they host Erotic Consultant Wazina Bibi for Sex Toys, Tips, Erotic Education with Dj Qi spinning her usual unusual mix of electro, alternative rock, 80's & funk-soul Additionally you can pop into Waltz-Astoria to enjoy and acoustic set by Shelly Bhushan. Shelly blends every corner of the pop music scene funk, rock, blues, r&b and jazz, in addition to drawing from her Texas roots to develop a sound that is authentic, original, and alive, and transcends genre definition. Show’s on at 9, $5 cover and $7 drink minimum.

Saturday, after trying to see if Scotsmen really do wear anything under their kilts, rock out at Waltz. Warren Zimmel and the Zen Roses tear it up. They even say “Make sure you get here early, don't say we didn't tell you!” The usual bat time and bat cover.
Afterwards join Astoria’s DJ Lo-Fi spinning the hot beats at Hell Gate Social.
Also earlier on Saturday, Candy Plum is having a trunk show for designer Mary Ann McMahon from 1-3:30.

Sunday, test your trivia skills at the Irish Rover Pub Quiz. Or have drinks with “the family” Tony Soprano’s family that is. Hell Gate Social is airing the second episode of the final season, complete with Sicilian Pizza and $2 Sicilian Kiss shots (amaretto and so-co)

Make it a great one folks!
I’ll be apartment hunting all weekend. Hopefully we find our new home. Wish us luck!