April 17, 2008

The Weekend Guide

What to Do This Weekend

Spring has sprung.

BUY
The Brelli
What: Super-light, ecofriendly umbrella made from bamboo and biodegradable plastic.
Why: Take the world by storm.
When: You seek cover.
Where: Online at thebrelli.com.

HEAR
Rock and Ride Earth Day Benefit Concert
What: Brian Mazzaferri, Breakers Broken, Packy Lundholm, and The Johns play a fund-raising gig for the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation.
Why: Turn this mutha Earth out.
When: Sun. Doors at 7 p.m.; show, 8 p.m.
Where: Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee Ave., at North Ave. (773-489-3160).

COMMUTE
Shoreline Water Taxis
What: Boat company kicks off the season with free rides between Sears Tower/Union Station and the Michigan Avenue Bridge.
Why: Dock and roll.
When: Thru Apr. 25. Mon.-Fri., 7-9:30 a.m. & 4-6:30 p.m.
Where: Board taxis at 200 S. Wacker Dr., at the Chicago River; 401 N. Michigan Ave., at the Chicago River (312-222-9328).

SEE
Schadenfreude Rent Party
What: Chicago comedy ensemble regroups for a performance tour of neighborhood bars.
Why: They’re stark-raving schad.
When: Thru May 24. Sat., 9 p.m.
Where: Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley Ave., at McLean Ave. (773-576-6070). Other locations at schadenfreude.net.

EAT
Park 52
What: Jerry Kleiner’s just-opened Hyde Park resto serves American bistro fare and eclectic cocktails.
Why: The South Side can dish it.
When: Sun.-Thurs., 5-10 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 5-11 p.m.
Where: 5201 S. Harper Ave., at 52nd St. (773-241-5200).