Boston - December 11, 2008

The Weekend Guide

What to Do This Weekend

Smile like you mean it.

HEAR
Abbie Barrett
What: Lovely homegrown songstress plays a free show with tracks off her first solo album, Dying Day.
Why: It’s yours for a song.
When: Sat., 7 p.m.
Where: Toad, 1912 Massachusetts Ave., Porter Square (617-497-4950).

SHOP
Buon Natale Holiday Shopping Stroll
What: North End shops like Red M Studio, Acquire, and Twilight offer discounts and holiday treats.
Why: Walk the walk.
When: Fri., 7-11 p.m.
Where: Participating stores at northendboston.com. Info at 617-557-4359.

JUDGE
Bacardi Rum Cake Competition
What: Taste winning recipes from four finalists and help celebrity judges pick the winner.
Why: There’s booze in every bite.
When: Sat., 1-3 p.m.
Where: Prudential Center, 800 Boylston St., Back Bay. Info at bacardirumcake@wheretoeatboston.com.

DO
Artful Holidays at the Gardner Museum
What: Check out the museum’s decked halls while sipping on The Balthazaar, a St.-Germain and champagne cocktail.
Why: Be artsy fartsy.
When: Sat., 7-9:30 p.m.
Where: 280 The Fenway, Fenway. R.S.V.P. to 617-391-3949.

BIKE
Ciclismo Classico’s Jingle Ride
What: Warm up with a winter ride from Arlington to town and back; your $20 donation goes to Cycle Kids.
Why: Just what are you pedaling?
When: Sun., 10:30 a.m.
Where: Jam ’n Java, 594 Massachusetts Ave., Arlington Center. Info at 781-646-3377.