Look Forward to a Weekend of Chili, Concerts and Comedians

We’ve reached the dog days of summer, where hiding in the cool of your house trumps any outdoor trip. This weekend, though, we’re encouraging you to brave the heat and participate in some outdoor activities in your area. If you just so happen to be allergic to the sun, we’ve got some nightly and air-conditioned activities, too.

This weekend, Aug. 5-7, get out of the barracks and visit some neighboring cities for a chili cook-off, a Shakespearean experience and a dance concert like none other. Head down to Carlsbad for an orchid auction and a hilarious comedian at a local barbecue joint.

Travel a little north to San Clemente for an unforgettable book signing by an author helping to explain the reasons of war. Laguna has an ongoing sawdust festival that is a great activity for the whole family and the perfect way to spend a warm weekend.

Click on the links for more details.

BEST BETS CLOSE TO HOME

• When/where: , 1800 Ord Way, Oceanside, noon-5 p.m. Saturday.
• Why go: Down a brewski, taste some chili and cast a vote at this chili cook-off.
• Price: Free.

• When/where: , 217 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside, 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.
• Why go: The Independent Players perform one of Shakespeare’s most evil plays, Macbeth.
• Price: $15.

• When/where: MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Dr., Oceanside, 7:30 p.m. Friday.
• Why go: It’s like the So You Think You Can Dance of Oceanside. MiraCosta College’s Summer Dance Explosion showcases student and faculty member talent.
• Price: $8.

• When/where: , 6955 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, 8:30 p.m. Friday.
• Why go: Comedian Geoff Keith is in town, headlining the night’s comedy show.
• Price: $10.

• When/where: Women’s Club of Carlsbad, 3320 Monroe St., Carlsbad, 11 a.m. Saturday.
• Why go: Bid on some gorgeous orchids or just take be nosy and look at the posies.
• Price: Free.

BEST BETS, A LITTLE FARTHER OUT

• When/where: Del Mar Fairgrounds at Seaside Stage, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, following the race Friday and Saturday.
• Why go: See The Bravery rock out Friday, and alternative rock phenom Weezer will keep you happy on Saturday.
• Price: The concert is free if you paid race admission; otherwise the cost is $20. Beer tasting is $15.

• When/where: Mathom House Books, 83 Via Pico Plaza, San Clemente, 5-7 p.m. Friday.
• Why go: Dan Caldwell, author of Vortex of Conflict, will be signing his book, which is a guide for anyone looking to understand the whats, whys and hows of our war with Iraq and Afghanistan.
• Price: Free.

• When/where: 935 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
• Why go: Laguna’s Sawdust Art Festival offers entertainment, food, and a live auction on Sunday.
• Price: $3.25-$7.75.