'Paris' lights up Vinings

Everybody’s workin’ for the weekend and nothing says TGIF like hanging out on a patio with friends after the workweek winds down. The last installment of the Leinenkugel Acoustic Patio series happens Friday night. Sip cold beverages on the patio from 5:30 to 8 p.m. with some work pals, while enjoying the live acoustic music. Bargain $2.50 pints of Leinenkugel Summer Shandy will be on hand (a side note: in England, a “shandy” is a refreshing concoction of lemonade and draft beer, but Leinenkugel has ingeniously bottled it) as well as a complimentary taco bar.  

If it’s been a blue moon since you’ve trekked up the charmingly crooked steps to the the now-nonsmoking establishment will always welcome you back with open arms. Known for its quaint, clubby atmosphere and almost speakeasy ambiance, this well-kept secret is always a blast. On Friday, musician Paris Luna will be onstage with her band beginning at 8 p.m. to weave her magic on the audience. Not to be confused in any way with the other young lady with the same moniker, this Paris is a young singer/songwriter with impressive pipes and a melodic, shimmery way with a tune. The band’s sound is a fusion of country and rock, featuring drummer Kane Russell, (formerly played with The Zac Brown Band) guitarist Michael Harris, and multi-instrumentalist Heather Russell. No cover charge.

Nowhere is it written that a free, family-friendly event must feature singing puppets or inflatable bouncy castles. In fact, we would equally recommend this evening for the child-free. Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre welcomes you to the third show in the free Candlelite Concert series on Saturday featuring “alterna-grass” band Roxie Watson. For the unaware, this soulful five-piece band plays a hybrid of bluegrass, country, western and blues,” with splashes of soul, zydeco and Hee Haw.” Rumor has it that when you hear Roxie Watson’s music, you “may spontaneously break into a two-step, hanker after an old flame, or simply relish the sweetness of a summer rain.” The amphitheater gates open at 7 p.m. and music begins at 8. Picnic baskets and beverages are permitted and food is also available for sale. Tables are available for $50, but the general seating area and the lawn are free.