Boston - May 07, 2009

The Weekend Guide

What to Do This Weekend

Sights, smells, and (new) shoes.

SNIFF
Lilac Sunday at The Arnold Arboretum
What: Pack a picnic and take Mom to tour the collection of pretty purple petals.
Why: It’s the least you can do.
When: Dawn to dusk. Refreshments, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 125 Arborway (617-524-1718).

SHOP
Viola Warehouse Sale
What: Up to 80 percent off shoes, handbags, and accessories from luxe labels like Sigerson Morrison, Missoni, and Tory Burch.
Why: It’s worth stepping on the gas.
When: Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Wenham Museum, 132 Main St., Wenham. Info at 978-468-1775.

TASTE
Boston Bakes for Breast Cancer
What: More than 170 local restos and bakeries sell specialty desserts for this weeklong fund-raiser.
Why: One hundred percent of sales from these specific sweets go to Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
When: Thru Sun.
Where: Locations at bostonbakesforbreastcancer.org.

BUY
Melt Bath and Skin Care
What: The Colorado-based label opens its fragrant first shop in the Commonwealth.
Why: Rocky Mountain high.
When: Mon.-Sat., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: 305 Harvard St., Brookline (617-391-9890).

PLAN AHEAD
Taste of Beacon Hill
What: Sample culinary creations from 25 of the area’s favorite chefs, listen to Soul Clap spin dance music, and shop the silent auction. (But get tickets now before they sell out.)
Why: The Hill never falls flat.
When: May 12. Tues., 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Where: The Liberty Hotel, 215 Charles St. Tickets online at beaconhillbusinessassociation.org.