WEDNESDAY 16
Bitter is Better SOMArts Cultural Center, 934 Brannan, SF; (415) 863-1414, www.somarts.org. 7-9pm, free. You’ve seen the bumpy and sometimes spiky vegetables in Asian markets throughout the city and now is your chance to learn about all of their varied uses. Tonight, celebrate the under-appreciated bitter melon with the National Bitter Melon Council for an evening of endless health and culinary possibilities. Don’t let the term “bitter” discourage you – humans are the only mammals to have developed a palate for the flavor (and, quite possibly, also the emotional state of being).
Haighteration in 3D Fifty24SF Gallery, 248 Fillmore, SF; www.2011.noisepop.com. 6-10pm, free. The Haighteration blog and Noise Pop 2011 present a unique pop-up experience packed with the sights, sounds, and tastes of the ‘hood. Catch up on the latest news and check out old-timey photos, trivia, and all sorts of Lower Haight goodness. Plus, BBQ bites from Memphis Minnie’s, beer from Magnolia Pub and Brewery, music, and a few surprises to boot. If you love the Lower Haight, this is one night you won’t want to miss.
THURSDAY 17
Meet the cartoonists Cartoon Art Museum, 655 Mission, SF; (415) 227-8666, www.cartoonart.org. 7-9pm, $5 suggested donation. Meet Aaron Renier and celebrate the release of his beautifully illustrated graphic novel, The Unsinkable Walker Bean, at this special presentation and book signing. As an added treat, Jason Shiga will also be presenting his best-selling and award-winning book, Meanwhile. Although both works are “meant” for grades four through six, they can each be universally enjoyed by children and adults just the same.
The Tribes of Burning Man book launch party Project One, 251 Rhode Island, SF; Facebook: The Tribes of Burning Man book launch party7pm-1am, $5. Come celebrate the release of SFBG’s very own city editor’s long-awaited book, Steve Jones’ The Tribes of Burning Man: How an Experimental City in the Desert is Shaping the New American Counterculture, with readings, speeches, and special guests. It wouldn’t be a party without music and dancing, so expect a few local DJs hitting the decks to get you moving.
SATURDAY 19
Chinese New Year celebrationSan Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, Hyde Street Pier, SF; www.nps.gov. 9:30am-5:00pm, free. Ring in the Chinese New Year on the “high seas” – while safely docked to the Hyde Street Pier, that is – with the Maritime National Historical Park. They have a whole lot of fun activities planned, including ink block printing, origami, and other artsy and cultural fun for the whole family. Make sure to check out the schedule of events on their website so you don’t miss out on any of the festivities.
SUNDAY 20
Mixtape swap Make-out Room, 3225 22nd St., SF; (415) 647-2888, www.sfmixtapesociety.com. 4-6pm, free. Sponsored by SFMOMA and Matador Records, this month’s installment of the Mixtape Society’s music exchange should have some pretty neat swag for the participants in the lively and spirited celebration of the art of the mix. Bring your unique compilation following the theme of “guilty pleasures” on any format you choose – cassette, CD, or USB – and swap for another. For a chance to win the Judges’ Choice Award, be sure to submit a mix beforehand via the website. Good luck!
Golden Age of Soul San Francisco Main Public Library, 100 Larkin, SF; (415) 557-4400, www.sfpl.org. 2-4:30pm, free. In a town with a soul music dance party seemingly every night of the week, it would make sense that our own public library would host a film screening of rare film clips for all of you hand-clapping and hip-twisting boys and girls out there. Rock music historian Richie Unterberger will share his collection of rare celluloid footage from the 1960s and early 1970s featuring such soul masters as Nina Simone, Ray Charles, the Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and many more.
Noise Pop happy hour show Bender’s Bar, 806 South Van Ness, SF; www.2011.noisepop.com. 25pm, free. Kick off this years’ Noise Pop festival with a free matinee show featuring an eclectic mix of local acts – funk rockers-Dirty Ghosts (with beats by Aesop Rock, whose wife happens to be in the band), Harderships, featuring members of Zen Guerrilla (remember them?), and Flying V-wielding metal heads Hot Fog.
On the Cheap listings are compiled by Jackie Andrews. Submit items for the listings at listings@sfbg.com. For further information on how to submit items for the listings, see Picks.