Last weekend was an exciting one: On Friday, the upcoming (June 1) Seattle edition of Armchair Expert sold out at lightning-fast speed, and on Saturday Record Store Day took over countless local shops and venues. On Saturday evening, the incredible Oscar-winning, filmmaker-photographer-climber-skier Jimmy Chin delivered an inspirational talk and slideshow at the Mountaineers’ grand annual gala, held at Fremont Studios and used to raise more than $430,000 for innovation in outdoor education. (Check out other Mountaineers events here.)

On top of that—both Friday and Saturday nights—Low Cut Connie brought its upbeat rhythms and electric energy to Sunset Tavern in performances that can only be described as theatrical and captivating. Without giving too much away, we’ll just say that next you time have the chance to check out the talented rock-n-roll troupe from South Philadelphia, we advise you to do so. (One question we’re left with: How much yoga must multitalented frontman Adam Weiner practice in order to perfect such entertaining acrobatics at, on and around his piano? ) We guarantee it’s a show you won’t soon forget.

In other eye-opening, adrenaline-pumping news, Teatro ZinZanni’s new show “Love, Chaos & Dinner” runs from May 2  through June 30. Infused with the company’s signature blend of comedy, cirque and cabaret, the performance begins its limited run at the world HQ location in Woodinville before the whole production heads off to Chicago this summer.

Concerts we have our eyes on include a fantastic Barboza lineup, including Ben Kweller (April 26) and Ages and Ages (April 27). STG Presents—which recently announced the introduction of walk-through metal detectors at three of its venues plus updated bag policies—welcomes promising shows like Arlo Guthrie (April 30), Beach House (May 8 and 9), Seattle Rock Orchestra’s presentation of “The Beatles: Abbey Road & Let It Be” and “4U: The Music of Prince With Symphony” (May 20), all at The Moore Theatre.

We can’t wait for the return of the Seattle International Film Festival, the longest-running and highest-attended film festival in North America, from May 16 through June 9. For the 45th annual  festival, cinemas around Puget Sound hosting SIFF 2019 films include locations in downtown Seattle, Shoreline, Capitol Hill, Bellevue, Kirkland, Columbia City, Ballard and Queen Anne. “With a focus on engaging with communities outside the downtown core, we’ve partnered with the best venues in the area,” said SIFF Artistic Director Beth Barrett. “We want to bring the world’s stories to you, where you live and work.” Though much festival information is still forthcoming, we know that Seattle film luminary Lynn Shelton will open SIFF with IFC Films’ “Sword of Trust.” Dates to note: The full schedule will be released and tickets on sale to members May 1. Tickets become available to the general public on May 2.

We also can’t wait for the Seattle run of “Tiny Beautiful Things” from May 17 through June 23 at Seattle Rep’s Leo K. Theatre, located at Seattle Center. Based on the book by Cheryl Strayed, the production has already gotten some rave reviews, and we’re thrilled to welcome it to our town, too.

In food and beverage news, here are some some unusual temptations to enrich your spring:

Metropolitan Market has officially launched  its Best of Met program—”a can’t-miss collection of extraordinary products.” Of course you probably already know about the THE cookie, but other highlights range from the poke bar to prime rib sandwiches, fresh-stretch mozzarella and Dungeness crab cakes, to name a few.

Redhook Brewlab’s most popular beer of 2018, the El Sonido Mexican-style lager, has now joined the brewery’s year-round lineup. El Sonido boasts a unique connection to Seattle’s arts community—ranging from its name and creative design by local artist Victor Melende, to its partnership with SMASH – Seattle Musicians Access to Sustainable Healthcare. To help promote SMASH, Redhook and KEXP will host the following events featuring live music and, of course, El Sonido specials, too:

· April 17 – The Swiss in Tacoma from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. there will be a DJ in the house
· April 18 – Chop Suey in Seattle from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. with the Moondoggies (5 dollar cover)
· April 25 – The Crocodile in Seattle from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

As the perfect way to welcome summer in Seattle, Ballard’s Bastille will bring back its Rooftop Dinner Series for guests 21+. These magical summer gatherings begin in Bastille’s front bar with cocktails showcasing fresh ingredients from the rooftop garden. After a garden tour, enjoy a delicious dinner that’s held under a cabana, served family-style and paired with rotating wines. Tickets are now on sale for these flavorful and fun evenings.

You’ve got to love living in the PNW, where zany promotions like “Sunshine Burgertime” come to spots like Kidd Valley. From now until May 12, anytime the sun shines, guests score a free burger upgrade, including a choice of the following: bacon, ham, pineapple, blue cheese, jalapeno, grilled onions, spicy onions, onion straws or mushrooms. Also throughout the promotion, TGIF becomes synonymous with “Friday Fryday,” since all guests receive a free order of fries with the purchase of a burger. Simply mention that the sun is out for a free upgrade.

Apparently April 26 is National Pretzel Day (who knew?), which seems a perfect time to head over to Rhein Haus, the festive Bavarian-themed restaurant with locations in Capitol Hill, Tacoma and Leavenworth. Choose between the house-baked pretzel and famous giant pretzel, both served with delicious sauces like spicy honey mustard, emmental-beer fondue, obatzda, horseradish cream cheese and even chocolate ganache. Prost!