Get behind the wheel.

PARTY
Heath Ceramics’s Akio Nukaga Opening Reception
What: The Japanese master potter arrives stateside to celebrate his first-ever NorCal show and Heath’s new shop in the Mission.
Why: Enjoy bites from Peko-Peko and Japanese beers during the first two hours of the opening party. Stop by the next afternoon to see the maestro at work on the wheel.
When: Opening party, Sat., 5-9 p.m. Wheel demonstration, Sun., 2 p.m.
Where: Heath San Francisco Factory & Showroom, 2900 18th St., at Florida St. (415-361-5552).

SHOP
Affordable Fine Art Sale
What: Forty Bay Area artists present a wide range of work (charcoal drawings, prints, collages) all under $50.
Why: One hundred percent goes directly to the artists, and proceeds from any donated works benefit The Sanctuary, an emergency shelter for homeless adults.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: The Eric Quezada Center for Culture & Politics, 518 Valencia St., at 16th St.

EXPLORE
Hayes Valley
What: A small but mighty hood on the cultural cross section. Wander up Octavia, across Oak, and everywhere in between to scour boutiques for one-of-a-kind finds, feast on some of the best meals in the city, and sweat it all off at top-notch workout facilities.
Why: Make it a pictureworthy weekend with our Deal for 60 percent off Underglass Framing.
When: You want a different type of Mission.
Where: Available at dailycandy.com.

EAT
Bastille Day at RN74
What: French independence meets American bargain hunting — oysters, pastries, and truffled popcorn are all $1.
Why: Wear Parisian attire (holler at that striped boatneck tee) for a free cocktail and a chance to win dinner for two or a bottle of vin.
When: Fri., 3-10 p.m.
Where: 301 Mission St., at Beale St. (415-543-7474).

CUESA’s Summer Celebration
What: Chefs from 42 of SF’s best restaurants (Starbelly, Tacolicious, Fatted Calf, Quince) present their creations in support of the center’s education programs, such as free cooking demonstrations, the Schoolyard to Market program, and sustainability scholarships for farmers.
Why: A whole-beast carving station, live music, photo booth, and sips from local wineries and breweries.
When: Sun., 6-9 p.m.
Where: Ferry Building, 1 Ferry Bldg., at The Embarcadero (415-983-8030). Tickets ($133) at eventbrite.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Heath Ceramics