Raise a glass.

TOAST
Brunch Bubbly Bar at Avila
What: Knock back $5 glasses of champagne cocktails (Black Velvet, French 75, Kir Royale) while digging into high-noon eats like lobster mac ’n’ cheese and egg pizza with mozzarella and Niman Ranch bacon.
Why: Postflute fun, mosey over to the South End for the last day of Open Studios.
When: Sun., 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: 1 Charles St. S., Theater District (617-267-4810).

SOAK UP
So You Want to Be a Writer Roundtable Discussion
What: Grub Street artistic director Chris Castellani moderates a breezy talk with three fellow instructors — and published authors — offering pragmatic advice on life as a scribe.
Why: You’re a write honorable lady.
When: Tues., 7 p.m.
Where: Porter Square Books, 25 White St. (617-491-2220).

SHOP
Bask Sale
What: Soft knitwear at up to 65 percent off to keep you cozy despite the fall chill.
Why: If that doesn’t warm you enough, try Winery Insider’s libations at up to 60 percent off.
When: The leaves begin to turn.
Where: Online at swirl.com.

DINE
Ten Tables Cambridge Cheese Dinner
What: Chef David Punch devises a four-course spread ($58, includes wine pairings) incorporating small-batch delicacies from 140-year-old Vermont creamery Consider Bardwell Farm.
Why: Cheese makes everything better.
When: Wed., 5:30-10 p.m.
Where: 5 Craigie Cir. Reservations (required) to 617-576-5444.

PLAN
Harvest on the Harbor
What: Start making room for Portland’s annual three-day food fest, complete with cooking demos, artisan samplings, waterside wine tastings, and a lobster showdown.
Why: Splurge on a weekend (rates start at $392/night) at nearby Inn by the Sea; its Harvest-inspired Pumpkin Package includes a gourmand gourd meal.
When: Oct. 21-23.
Where: Info online at harvestontheharbor.com. Tickets ($35-$65) online at arestravel.com.

Photo: Jonathan Spencer / Courtesy of Avila