WWJD in Salt Lake? Dine, drink, & play.

Remember to update your bookmarks

2011-03-02T09:30:00.000-08:00

The new & improved WWJDinSLC experience is at http://www.wwjdinslc.com/. Remember to change your bookmarks, and let your friends know there is a new single-source for the best Salt Lake fun and events. Full calendar, weekly essentials blog, submit your questions, and keep up with the hottest place to cure boredom.

It's the place to find things to do in Salt Lake!

New Around the SL,UT available

2011-01-14T10:18:00.000-08:00

Hey! We've moved this party over to WWJDinSLC.com. Come check out all the new features, sleek design, and the new home for this holy savior.

Thanks for reading, following, and spreading the word. It's now even easier to tell everyone about WWJDinSLC. Update your bookmarks and subscriptions to the new site. So much will be added this year.

New Around the SL,UT: http://bit.ly/e2mXGx

Around the SL,UT January 7

2011-01-07T11:24:00.000-08:00

The new year is off and running, and this savior is always on the hunt for all the best events, ideas, and entertainment in our beloved Salt Lake, UT (the SL,UT). Below are some great musical acts you should see, ideas to keep warm & happy, and tips on great drinks.

Music - Chill out Friday night at The Bayou (645s State) while listening to The Daniel Day Trio. Saturday, head up to Park City to see Crash Test Dummies in what is sure to be an amazing show at The Eccles Center, 7:30pm (tickets from $18). Tuesday, Dashboard Confessional, Lady Danville, and Chris Conley are at In The Venue (7pm $28). Thursday, two great bands at Piper Down: at 9pm General Harrison, followed by Fauna. Next Saturday, Guster is at In The Venue (8pm $30).

Get off the couch - It's easy to fall into your routine after a hard day of work, and head straight for the couch. But you need to smile, you need to move, socialize, and have fun. Here's an idea: dance! Even if you've never danced before, here's your chance to learn something new and it's guaranteed the rush of adrenaline will put you in a cheerful mood. Samba Fogo has dance classes every Thursday night at 6:30pm for only $12 for a drop-in. It's a workout, a way to meet new people, learn something new, and warm you up on a cold day. If you're into percussion, take their beginners Brazillian drum class Saturdays at 12:30pm. Only $8, instruments provided. Classes are at 2191 south 300 west.

Coffee - Everyone should understand the beautiful complexities of quality coffee. caffe d'bolla is hosting a Coffee Tasting Class on Thursday, January 20, 7pm. This class explores the regional differences between farm specific coffees. The basics of coffee chemistry responsible for the enticing flavors and aromatics will be highlighted as well. Different coffees will be featured each class. Register now, seats are filling fast ($15).

Drinks:
Friday: $3 kamikazes $2 PBR tall $2 Corona at Area 51 (451s 400w)
Saturday: $2.50 pints, $3 whiskey & Cuervo at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Sunday: 99c beers & shots at Tony's (3165s 1300e)
Monday: $1 PBRs $2 shots at Bar Deluxe (666s State)
Tuesday: $4 Patron $3 Tecates at Sandbar (122w Pierpont)
Wednesday: $2 cocktails at Cheers to You (315s Main)
Thursday: $3 well drinks at Lumpy's Downtown (145w Pierpont Ave)

It's still in development, but I'll let you in on a preview of the new WWJDinSLC.com. See the full calendar of events, my favorite spots to eat, and the future home of this blog. Leave a comment, and let me know what else you'd like to see in the site. Bookmark it, tell your friends, & let's make 2011 the year Salt Lake really gets out and plays!

Around the SL,UT Jan 1, 2011

2011-01-01T11:51:00.000-08:00

Happy hangover day everyone. Going to do things a little differently. Many of us probably spent way too much partying the New Year in, so here is a week full of cheap & free activities to kick-off 2011.

Tonight, Jan 1, see celebrity impersonator Jason Cozmo at Piper Down. Jason is a crowd favorite who puts on a great show, & it's free (9pm).

Sunday night, Mo's Neighborhood Pub is the place to be for a free night of uncensored local comedy. See many of the award-winning, best comics in Utah absolutely free (10pm).

Monday is free movie night at Brewvies, and this week it's Steve Carrell in The 40 Year Old Virgin. Liter mugs of Budweiser & Bud Light are $3, movie starts at 9:30.

Tuesday, get your poker face ready and head to The Green Pig for Texas Hold-Em. $2.50 domestic pints while you try to bluff your way to the top.

Wednesday, January 5th: Join KRCL at their Night Out at Squatter's Brew Pub for live music, pizza & beer for only $5. This after-work event is 5:30-7:30. Come meet new people and help to build a happy hour community in downtown. After wrapping up there, grab your new or old friends and head to Piper Down for some free pub quiz action. Every Wednesday, Piper Down hosts the biggest and best pub quiz in Utah. It's a great night of prizes, music, and teamwork in a welcoming environment that anyone can join. Quiz starts at 7:30pm.

Drinks!
Saturday: $3 Sex on the beach, $2 PBR at Area 51 (451s 400w)
Sunday: $3 Jager shots at Burt's Tiki Lounge (726s State)
Monday: $1 PBR $2 shots at Bar Deluxe (666s State)
Tuesday: $3 Tanqueray Martini at Brewvies (677s 200w)
Wednesday: $2 pints free pool at Liquid Joe's (1249e 3300s)
Thursday: $3 well drinks at Lumpy's Downtown (145w Pierpont Ave)

New Year's Eve 2010

2010-12-31T11:06:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve is a time to celebrate, enjoy the company of others, and send 2010 off in style. Most clubs will be having live music, DJs, and toasts. Be aware that many clubs will be charging a cover tonight, and may be busier than usual. That doesn't mean you should hide away at home, just be prepared. Pick your favorite clubs, and call ahead to find out what they're doing, or see a few hand-picked suggestions below.

Spend the day downtown for EVE, with live music indoors and outdoors at The Salt Palace, Charlie Chaplin films at The Broadway Centre, Laughing Stock Improv comedy at The OBT, and more all included in your $10 admission. Tonight, see local bands including The Devil Whale, Cub Country, Libbie Linton, and more. Snowboard and skiers will be performing tricks on the 3-story slope built for the event. Fireworks and countdown will take place, & there are alcohol sales at The Salt Palace.

Piper Down is having a 4-course champagne dinner for those who reserve a $25/person table. $10 general admission without a reservation, and champagne toast for everyone at midnight. Live music from JJ's Soul Funkshun. Formal wear is encouraged.

Ring in a metal New Year at Club Vegas with Better Life Band, The Street, Heartbreak Hangover, Supersofar. Doors open at 8pm, admission is only $5.

If you want to laugh away 2010, join John Moyer at Wiseguys Trolley Square for shows at 7:30pm & 10pm. Tickets are only $12.

The Hotel, Elevate, and The Sandbar are having their annual Pierpoint Block Party. Your $15 admission gets you into all three clubs all night. They will have DJ's, $1000s in prizes, and gift bags for the first 100 to arrive. Big balloon drops at each club.

Head to Area 51 for a Masquerade Dance Party. Buy your mask at Mask Costumes at 718 east 3900 south, or buy one at the door. Admission is $10.

The Complex Legends party is open to 16+, an all night dance party with DJs from around the globe. Full bar for those 21+, $40 admission.

For the grown-ups, High Road For Human Rights is hosting ARTini 2010, an evening of food, festivities, and dancing in support of grassroots action. Evening includes live music, hors d'oeuvres, an open bar, and a silent art auction with dozens of original pieces of artwork. Taking place at the State Fairground Grand Building, this upscale party includes food from Red Iguana, Rubio's, Tony Caputo's Market & Deli, Gastronomy, Vinto, Wild Grape Bistro, and Whole Foods Market. Admission from $50, reserved tables from $80.

Whatever you do, be responsible, drive safely, and have fun. This is a night for celebration, not drama. Be happy and meet new people, and whatever you do, don't be reckless. There's no shame in calling a cab, and you can send the receipt to Robert J. Debry to get reimbursed for the ride! Put these numbers in your phone now:
City Cab: (801) 887-7830
Ute Cab: (801) 359-7788
Yellow Cab: (801) 521-2100

Happy New Year to all my SL,UTs! Great things are in the works for next year. Including a move to the new WWJDinSLC.com. Keep an eye out, and tell your friends.

Around the SL,UT December 24, 2010

2010-12-24T09:56:00.000-08:00

It's holiday time, and this will be a very light post as many entertainers will be vacationing. But despite the closures, there's still plenty to do.

Get in the Christmas mood with It's a Wonderful Life at Broadway Center Christmas Eve at 3pm and Christmas Day at 7:30pm. Both screenings are free, so arrive early.

After some family time, get your Christmas drinks at Piper Down (open at 4pm), Lumpy's Downtown (opens at 5pm), Johnny's On Second, or for the ultimate Christmas fetish celebration, dress up as a naughty elf, bad Santa, or Mrs. Claus' sister and head to Area 51 for the Christmas Fetish Ball (doors open at 8pm).

There's a British Invasion coming to Park City. Beginning Sunday, Dec 26 through January 2 the Egyptian Theatre will be home to a trio of tribute bands. Satisfaction, a Rolling Stones tribute; Zoso, the ultimate Led Zeppelin tribute; and Imagine, who recreate the Beatles. Tickets are $25 advance, $30 at the door. See the site for a complete schedule to live the 60s and 70s.

Plan ahead and buy your tickets to the New Year's event EVE. Tickets available at Fresh Market and Maverik stores. EVE is a 3-day celebration at The Salt Palace and several other venues. Live music, film, action sports, improv theatre, laser shows and more. Your $10/day admission also includes free admission on TRAX, so regardless of your entertainment choices, you'll have a ride to get around safely. Check out EVEslc.com for the full schedule.

Drinks
Friday: $3 shots at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Saturday: $3 vodka Red Bull at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Sunday: $3 Jager shots at Burt's Tiki Lounge (726s State)
Monday: $2 cocktails at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)
Tuesday: $3 vodka Red Bull & $1 PBR at Bar Deluxe (668s State)
Wednesday: $2 cocktails at Cheers To You (315s Main)
Thursday: $3 well drinks at Lumpy's Downtown (145w Pierpont)

Around the SL,UT December 17, 2010

2010-12-17T10:06:00.000-08:00

We're in full holiday mode, which usually means performers are staying close to home, and everyone's in a mad shopping frenzy. But that doesn't mean your only entertainment is people-watching the crazies at shopping malls and discount stores. There's plenty to do in the coming week.

Christmas Jam at One Mind Studio. Bands including Opal Hill Drive, Heartbreak Hangover, Werewolf Afro, and more will be performing Christmas songs. Two shows, 2pm and 7pm. (216 west Paxton Ave, $7 adults, $4 children under 12)

Pick your Santa pub crawl this weekend. Friday night holds two separate SantaCons, one starts at Lumpy's Downtown at 7pm. The other will begin at O'Shucks around 6pm. Then there is a Santa Party Bus beginning at South Shore Bar & Grill 9pm on Saturday, Dec 18. $20 gets you on the bus for a pub crawl to 7 bars. Also on Saturday, a Park City pub crawl beginning at Wasatch Brew Pub at 6pm.

Short on cash, but still want to get your drink on? Come out to the ever-growing nights of Geeks Who Drink. It's a quiz game, free to play, and full of prizes. Free drinks, and plenty of white-elephant gifts. Tuesday night quizzes at A Bar Named Sue and The Huddle, Wednesday at Piper Down, and Thursday at Lumpy's Downtown. Now in Park City on Thursdays, at The Skyline Bar in the Yarrow Hotel. Top prizes up to $50 bar tabs for knowing random facts, music, and pop-culture.

Holiday movies: Get in the holiday spirits with some free movies, just like Santa would do. Bad Santa at Brewvies Monday, Dec 20 9:30pm. On Christmas Eve, see the classic It's a Wonderful Life at Broadway Centre 3pm, also showing Christmas day at 7pm.

Music: Friday, Low plays Kilby Court with Charlie Parr (7pm $17). Swagger at Piper Down, Saturday (9pm $5). Sunday, The Orbit Group at A Bar Named Sue (9pm). Secondhand Serenade is at The Complex Tuesday at 7pm ($22). Cool upcoming alt/folk band The Terks at Urban Lounge Wednesday night with Junior Giant (9pm $7). Thursday, Roots Rawka's Reggae Christmas Special at The Woodshed (9pm).

Comedy: Cody Eden headlines Wiseguys Trolley Square Friday and Saturday, 7:30 & 10pm each night ($10). Friday night, the 2nd Annual Sketchophrenia Christmas Special at Mo's Neighborhood Grill with Christopher Stephenson and Toy Soup 10pm ($5, 2 for $8 with ugly sweaters). Wednesday, Dec 22 is comedy at Burt's Tiki Lounge with Bobbie Alvey, Christopher Stephenson, Levi Rounds, and Braxton McCoy (9pm $5).

Drinks:
Friday: $3 shots at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Saturday: $3 steins at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)
Sunday: $2 mimosas and Bloody Marys at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Monday: $4 PBR + shot at Burt's Tiki Lounge (726s State)
Tuesday: $3 Redbull vodka & $1 PBR at Bar Deluxe (668s State)
Wednesday: $2 pints at Liquid Joe's (1249e 3300s)
Thursday: $3 Patron at Tony's (3165s 1300e)

Around the SL,UT December 10, 2010

2010-12-10T10:04:00.000-08:00

Who says SLC isn't unique and exciting? Tonight, Club Edge is putting on a Winter Anime Fashion Show. A runway show themed with anime-style fashion, and a performance by Hoopologists (9pm, $5 tickets, $10 suggested donation). Benefits the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind.

OK Go, Innerparty System, Middle Class Rut, and Brogan Kelby are playing at The Complex for only $9.60. Get tickets at the door, or any Graywhale Music location.

Music: See Daniel Day Trio (Jazz extraordinaires) with Nightweats at Urban Lounge tonight (9pm $5).
Mason Jones & The Get Togethers (Indie/rock) play Urban Lounge Saturday (9pm $6).
Sunday, Jeffree Star (electronic/pop) is at The Complex with Abandon All Ships and It Boys (6:30pm $17).
Monday, Family Force 5 performs their energetic Christmas Pageant show at In The Venue (6:30pm $16).
Local band, Say Hi To Skyline is at Kilby Court Tuesday, Dec 14 (7pm $6).
Sweatshop Union (rap) plays Kilby Court (7pm $12) and Urban Lounge (9pm $12) Wednesday night.
Thursday is a big lineup at Kilby Court: Discourse, Blackhounds, King Niko, Mason Jones & The Get Togethers, All Things Glowing Brightly, Damir Hara (6pm $7).

Theatre: Pioneer Theatre presents Irving Berlin's White Christmas nightly until December 23 at 7:30pm Monday-Thursday, 8pm Friday & Saturday, 2pm matinees on Saturdays, and a noon show on Christmas Eve. Tickets from $35.
The Off Broadway Theatre shows their original production, Miracle on Third & Main Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Monday until December 27 (no shows Dec 24 or 25). Tickets from $8.

Film: Tonight, Exit Through the Gift Shop is a film about street art, directed by Banksy. It's showing at the Salt Lake Art Center free at 7pm.
Saturday morning it's the annual Wassail & Waffles screening of A Muppet Christmas Carol at Broadway Centre. A free screening at 10am, so arrive early.
Monday, Brewvies is showing the classic, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation free at 9:30pm.

Drinks:
Friday: $3 vodka Redbulls at Burt's Tiki Lounge (726s State)
Saturday: $4 microbrew steins at The Fox Hole (8657s Highland Dr)
Sunday: $1 mimosas at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)
Monday: $1 PBR & $2 shots at Bar Deluxe (666s State)
Tuesday: $1 drafts, $2 pizza slices, $3 Jameson at The Hotel (155w 200s)
Wednesday: $2 cocktails at Cheers to You (315s Main)
Thursday: $3 microbrew pints at The Green Pig (31e 400s)

Around the SL,UT December 3, 2010

2010-12-03T10:48:00.000-08:00

Tonight at 6pm, Zion's Children of Haiti is holding a fundraiser: Music for Les Enfants. The show will feature Na Drua, The Craving, Leikafekt, and Paul Jacobsen and The Madison Arm. Come to The Masonic Temple at 650 east South Temple, tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids 12 and under. All proceeds go to sponsoring education for students in Haiti.

Incredible Christmas show happening Saturday night at the Post Theater at the UofU. Fictionist, Paul Jacobsen and the Madison Arm, and Libbie Linton will be performing Christmas classics, original compositions, and some of their non-holiday songs. Tickets are $10 at the door, $4 for kids 12 and under, and $25 for a family up to five. Email or text (801-609-8325) your name and number of tickets to get advanced ticket prices. Show begins at 7:30pm, Saturday, December 4.

Celebrate a great day in history. Repeal Day at Gracie's is a 30s-style party with dancing and swinging with the Red Hot Rock Club. Dress up in your 30s attire, and come join the party. Starts at 6pm, and no cover.

12 comics, one stage, and they're all going to tell Santa exactly what they think of him Thursday night at Club DJ's. It's the Roast of Santa to benefit the Utah Food Bank. Bring a $2 donation, or a non-perishable food item for admission, and see what everyone has to say about ol' Saint Nick. This is an uncensored, 21+ show.

Music: KRCL's Polar Jubilee is Friday, Dec 3, featuring Spell Talk, Mad Max & The Wildtones, and many more at Salt Lake Hardware Building 7pm $30. The Humpty Dance boys are in Ogden Saturday, Digital Underground at Teazers 8pm $15. Sunday, Black Angels, Spell Talk, and Holy Water Buffalo at Urban Lounge 9pm $14. Monday, Tame Impala, White Dwarves, and Star Deaths at Urban Lounge 9pm $12. Wednesday, Bret Michaels at The Depot 8:30pm $40. Also on Wednesday, Steven Page of BnL at Elevate 6pm, free with donation to Toys for Tots. Next Friday, Allred, New City Skyline, Tessa Barton at The Rail 7pm $15.

Film: Tower Theatre is screening the Marx Brothers classic, Duck Soup, Monday (free 7pm). Exit Through the Gift Shop, directed by Banksy, is a look at the street art scene; free screening at Salt Lake Art Center Friday, December 10. Get in the holiday spirit with Scrooged at Brewvies, Monday night 9:30pm (free). The Muppet Christmas Carol at Broadway Centre, Saturday, Dec 11 (free 10am).

Drinks:
Friday: 13 different shots $3 each at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Saturday: $3 vodka Red Bull, $2 Modelo, $2 Red Stripe at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Sunday: $1 mimosas, $3 steins at Piper Down (1492s State)
Monday: $2.50-3.50 mugs at Cheers to You (315s Main)
Tuesday: $3 Tanqueray martinis at Brewvies (677s 200w)
Wednesday: $6 pitchers, $2 pints, $5 AMFs & Long Islands at Area 51 (451s 400w)
Thursday: $3 steins at Johnny's on Second (165e 200s)

Around the SL,UT November 19

2010-11-19T10:10:00.000-08:00

Our Utah Grizzlies are in action tonight (Friday, Nov 19) and all seats are only $5 if you bring a receipt from Maverik Country Stores. Then Saturday night is the annual Teddy Bear toss. Bring a teddy bear to donate, and toss it on the ice after the game.

It is a holiday week, so there will be a few closures on your regular bar plans. Geeks Who Drink will still happen Tuesdays at A Bar Named Sue & The Huddle at 8pm, Wednesday at Piper Down 7pm, but no quiz on Thursday. Tuesday, November 30 at The Huddle will be a special fundraiser quiz for Camp Kostopulos. Your donation of $10 gets you into the quiz, and in the running to win cash prizes, and many other special prizes.

While many places will be closed Thursday, Piper Down is throwing a "Fight the Tryptophan Party." Yes, Piper is open Thanksgiving Day and serving food, drinks, and has a Johnny Cash tribute band at 9pm. Enjoy $7 Heavenly Spaghetti plates, and $3.50 shots of Turkey & Red Bull.

Ever wondered what a bunch of uncensored comics would say if they had a chance to roast Santa? The K-Town Roast of Santa Clause is December 9 at Club DJ's. It will be a benefit for the Utah Food Bank. Mark your calendars now.

Music: Friday, Nov 19 Hillstomp at Piper Down (9pm $5).
Saturday there's a reason to head to Provo to see Shark Speed, Cory Mon & T.S.G., Sunflow, Matt Ben Jackson at Velour (8pm $5).
Sunday, Margot & The Nuclear So and So's with Jookabox, Burnt Ones at Urban Lounge (9pm $10).
Monday, Nov 22 The Birthday Massacre, Black Veil Brides, Dommin, Aural Vampire at In The Venue (6:30pm $15).
Tuesday, Nov 23 Indie-punk band Bear Hands plays Kilby Court (7pm $10).
Wednesday, Royal Bliss, Spencer Nielsen Band, and The CJB play a pre-Thanksgiving show at The Depot (9pm $20).

Saturday, Nov 27 is Kilt Night at Piper Down. Swagger, Heathen Highlanders, and Scottish Highland Dancers. Wear a kilt and you don't pay a cover.

Tickets on sale now: Tame Impala 12/6 at Urban Lounge; Bret Michaels 12/8 at The Depot; Dashboard Confessional 1/11 at In The Venue; Guster 1/15 at In The Venue; Interpol 2/7 at In The Venue; My Chemical Romance 4/8 at In The Venue on sale Saturday 11/20;

Theatre: Miracle on Third & Main opens Nov 25 at The Off Broadway Theatre. This satirical spin on the holiday classic shows Friday, Saturday, and Monday nights until December 27.
See Wizard of Oz at Kingsbury Hall Friday, Dec 3, and Sat Dec 4.

Drinks:
Friday: $2 Corona, $3 1800 shots at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Saturday: $3 Sex on the Beach, $2 PBR pints at Area 51 (451s 400w)
Sunday: $3 Bloody Mary at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Monday: $2.50-3.50 mugs at Cheers To You (315s Main)
Tuesday: $4 Long Islands at Burt's Tiki Lounge (726s State)
Wednesday: $2 Sessions at Maggie McGees (6253s Highland)
Thursday: $3.50 shots of Turkey & Red Bull at Piper Down (1492 s State)

Around the SL,UT November 12, 2010

2010-11-12T09:23:00.000-08:00

The Visual Art Institute is holding an opening reception for a new exhibit titled Oh Nancy. It is a multi-faceted exhibition, telling a mythical and satirical story of America. There will be a mix-tape dance party-fundraiser. Admission is free, and you can make donations online or at the show, 1838 south 1500 east. (Saturday, Nov. 13 6-10pm).

Dubbing themselves "hobo cabaret," the Yard Dogs Road Show will be entertainment unlike anything you've seen. A blend of rock and variety show, you'll not want to miss this. They're performing at The State Room Sunday, Nov. 14 (8pm $20).

The University of Utah Department of Physics and Astronomy is hosting free public star parties every Wednesday. The observatory is east of Kingsbury Hall, and is outdoors, so dress accordingly. Personal telescopes and binoculars are welcome, parking is free after 6pm in the parking lots next to the South Physics Building.

97.5 The Blaze presents the Rock & Roll Wine Experience Thursday, November 18 at The Tavernacle. It's a wine tasting event with appetizers, prizes, rock & roll, and dueling pianos. Call for reservations, they are filling up fast.

Who Likes Short Shorts is a new film festival dedicated to local producers and the art of short films. The inaugural screenings will be Thursday, Nov. 18 at 7 & 9pm, admission is $8 (cash only).

Music: Hey Monday plays Avalon Theater with Cartel, The Ready Set, This Century, and We Are The In Crowd this Saturday, Nov 13 (6:30pm $15).
Monday, Nov 15 at The State Room, see MarchFourth, the big-marching band sensation (8pm $20).
Tuesday, Filter rocks The Complex (8pm $20).
Sara Bareilles at In The Venue, Wednesday, Nov 17 (7pm $20).
Thursday, Mac Lethal is playing two shows. An all-ages show at Kilby Court with F. Stokes, Burnell Washburn, and Dope Thought (7pm $8). Then a 21+ at Urban Lounge with F. Stokes and Dean Risko (9pm $10).
Spoek Mathambo at W Lounge Friday, Nov 19 (9pm $8).
Tickets on sale: Cameron Rafati 1/7. Guster 1/15. Interpol, School of Seven Bells 2/7 (on sale Sat, Nov 13). Ke$ha 2/18.

Comedy: Rachel Feinstein, of Last Comic Standing and Comedy Central fame, performs at The Bay Friday, Nov 12 (7:30pm $10). Marcus is releasing his new DVD & CD at a free performance Sunday, Nov 14 at Wiseguys Trolley Square (8pm).

Free movies: Monday, Nov 15 see True Romance at Brewvies (9:30pm). The City Library is showing The Lottery on Tuesday, the story about education reform in Harlem (8pm). Wednesday, the critically acclaimed Out In The Silence at Westminster College with director Dean Hamer (8pm).

Drinks - the spots to get your cheap drinks that don't suck around the SL,UT.
Friday: $2.50 microbrew pints at The Fox Hole II (8657 s Highland Dr)
Saturday: $3 steins at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)
Sunday: $1 mimosas, $3 steins at Piper Down (1492s State)
Monday: $4 PBR + any well shot at Burt's Tiki Lounge (726s State)
Tuesday: $5 long islands, $4.50 Appleton & Coke at Oscar's (8136 s State)
Wednesday: $2 cocktails at Cheers to You (315s Main)
Thursday: $3 microbrew pints at The Green Pig (31e 400s)

Around the SL,UT November 5

2010-11-05T11:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Guy Fawkes day! Here are a few of the events lighting the SLC on fire this week.

There's a new club in town, what used to be The Trapp Door is now Studio 27. Tonight, they start a new variety show called the Sunset Lounge. Every Friday from 5-9pm they will have a cocktail lounge with drink specials, light h'orderves and some varying live entertainment from Vegas style drag impersonators to aerial dancers. Only a $5 cover, and is the perfect way to unwind after the hard week. If you want something different than the typical club scene, this is your chance. Head over and support them.

This weekend is the Salty Horror Film Festival, a new event that will help put Salt Lake on the map for horror enthusiasts. Screenings will be at Tower Theater throughout the day Friday-Sunday, other events will be held at The Salt Lake Library and several other venues. Films are $10 each, check out the complete schedule and special deals on their site.

One night only, Pauly Shore is at Wiseguys Ogden, Friday, Nov 5. Shows at 7:30pm & 10pm, tickets are $25.

Tuesday, November 9 is the Geeks Who Drink South Park Quiz at A Bar Named Sue. $5 entry per player, first prize wins $200 or more!

Music: Kate Nash and Peggy Sue at In The Venue Friday (6:30pm $10).
Saturday, the full Doomtree family will be at Kilby Court, including POS, Dessa, SIMS, Cecil Otter, Paper Tiger, Mike Mictlan, and Lazerbeak. It will be a night of hip-hop variety from many of the scene's top performers (6pm $8).
Sunday, Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsen is at Kilby Court with The Lonely Forest and Young Yet Brilliant Sleuths (6:30pm $12).
Ghostface Killah at Urban Lounge Monday with Sheek Louch (of The Lox) and Frank Dukes (9pm $20).
Tuesday, we have Reel Big Fish with The Aquabats at In The Venue (6:30pm $22.50), get your tickets from TicketCake before it sells out.
Two Cow Garage is a very cool alternative/rock band from Columbus, Ohio. They're playing Burt's Tiki Lounge with Michael Dean Damron and Triggers and Slips Wednesday, Nov 10 (9pm $8).
Thursday, Nov 11 The Hold Steady is at In The Venue with Company of Thieves and Junior Giant (7pm $20).
Coming soon: Rock legends Bad Religion Friday, Nov 12. Local accoustic singer/songwriter Whitney Blayne Saturday, Nov 13. Lifehouse November 15.

Comedy: The newest addition to the local comedy scene is Tuesday night at The Complex (536w 100s). Opens with local headliners Josh Gret, Clint McKell, Aaron Burrell, John Hilder & Blake Bard, then followed by open mic. Admission is free (8pm).
K-Town Komedy is Thursday, Nov 11 at Club DJ's, featuring Black Bard, Mike Flocco, Braxton McCoy, and hosted by Steve McInelly (8pm $2).

Theatre: It's the last weekend to see Bram Stoker's Dracula at Pioneer Theatre Company. Shows Friday and Saturday night, and a Saturday matinee, tickets from $24.
For the kids, Leona Wagner Black Box presents Seussical Jr. November 11-13. Based on many Dr. Seuss favorites, the show is only $2.50 per person. Get tickets at the theatre box office or ArtTix.
Just announced, next year Cirque Du Soleil presents Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour. Book your tickets now.

Drinks:
Friday: $2 Corona & $3 1800 shots at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Saturday: $3 Sex on the Beach $2 PBR pints at Area 51 (451s 400w)
Sunday: 99 cent beers & shots at Tony's (3165s 1300e)
Monday: $2.50-3.50 mugs at Cheers To You (315s Main)
Tuesday: $2 pints at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Wednesday: $2 Sessions at Maggie McGees (6253s Highland)
Thursday: $3 whiskey sour at Club Vegas (445s 400w)

Around the SL,UT October 29

2010-10-29T10:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween to all my SL,UTs. If you haven't checked out the Halloween events guide for SLC, now's the time to make sure you have the best holiday possible. Below are a few more events for this coming week.

Most bars are having some sort of Halloween celebrations this weekend, here are a few highlights. The Depot/ZHT Zoo Bash is Saturday night. Halloween costume contest for cash prizes, DJ D-Miles $10 cover.
Harry-O's annual Thriller party, Saturday night $10 cover, costume contest, and DJs.

What would Halloween be without a visit to Area 51? They have an entire weekend of Haunted events. Friday night is the Black & Orange Ball featuring remixes of hellaciously danceable tunes all night ($7 for 18-20, $5 for 21+). Saturday: Halloween Fetish Ball, dress in your sexiest Halloween costume (doors at 8pm $10). Sunday: Halloween Night Bash & Costume Contest, prizes for the sexiest, funniest, and scariest costumes (doors 8pm $10). Great drink specials and Halloween drinks each night.

Crawl-O-Ween pub crawl Saturday night at Trolley Square Amphitheater. Groups leave at 5, 6:30, & 8pm ($10 gets you a T-shirt & drink specials at all bars). Costumes encouraged.

Piper Down has a costume contest for the best dressed, least dressed, and cross dressed Saturday night. Then, Sunday night Spookey-Okee, prizes for those who sing in character.

Music: Friday, head to Fat's Grill to see a new upcoming band, General Harrison with Mother of Pearl (9pm $5).
Arsenic Addiction plays Club Vegas Saturday night with Meat, Incidious, and Freedom Before Dying (8pm $7).
Sunday, see Oceana and My Epic at Kilby Court (6pm $10).
Monday: Breathe Owl Breathe, one of the most unique bands I've seen in the past year returns to Kilby Court, with my favorite band in the SL,UT: Paul Jacobsen & The Madison Arm (7pm $8)
Tuesday: Rock the vote! with Neon Trees at SLCC Lifetime Activities Center, Redwood campus (8pm $15).
Tim Kasher plays Urban Lounge Wednesday with Darren Hanlon, and Colors (9pm $12).
The Devil Whale, The Head and the Heart, and Spell Talk are at Urban Lounge Thursday, Nov 4 (9pm $6).

Comedy: Andy Andrist (former writer of The Man Show), with Christopher Stephenson and Levi Rounds Thursday, Nov 4 at Bar Deluxe (8pm $8).
Geeks Who Drink presents Screw Your Quiz, I'm Going Home. This South Park Quiz is for a first place cash prize at A Bar Named Sue, Tuesday, Nov 9 ($5 entry per player, 7:30pm).

Drinks!
Friday: $3 shots at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Saturday: $2 PBR pints, $3 Sex on the beach shooters at Area 51 (451s 400w)
Sunday: $1 drafts at The Tavernacle (201e 300s)
Monday: $2 cocktails at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)
Tuesday: $3 martinis & shots at Habits (832e 3900s)
Wednesday: $2 pints at Liquid Joe's (1249e 3300s)
Thursday: $3 microbrew steins at The Green Pig (31e 400s)

Local Business Highlight: Nightmare on 13th

2010-10-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

I'm a big fan of Halloween and horror, and look forward to the haunting season. I love watching the scary movies, but haunted houses are what I really look forward to. After visiting several (and even working in a couple), Nightmare on 13th really stood out as a favorite.

Despite the long lines, there is entertainment throughout the several queue areas. The energy is quite high, and you don't feel like you're in an endless wait. A lot of the entertainment comes from watching others get scared by the actors roaming outside, and the scare cameras inside the haunt that are broadcast in the inside waiting room.

After getting a souvenir picture of your group, you're sent off to explore the haunt, which takes you through exquisite set designs and mind-bending rooms. The first attraction inside is the Nightmare Theater, with a series of animatronics and special effects that get you in the mood for fear. Think the action is all up on the stage? Think again, they bring the effects to you up close and personal. This relatively low-key area of the haunt still manages to get a good scare on the crowd.

The experience lasts about an hour, but honestly felt a bit longer. The set designs, animatronics, and other special effects such as dropping floors were very well designed, and flawlessly executed. I definitely recommend making this part of your Halloween celebrations.

Admission is $20, but be sure to visit the website and join the email list for $5 off.

Nightmare on 13th Haunted House
300 west 1300 south
Salt Lake City
801-467-8100

Around the SL,UT October 22

2010-10-22T11:20:00.000-07:00

Our Utah Grizzlies are back in action, with the first home games of the season Friday & Saturday, Oct 22-23. Whether you're a die-hard hockey fan, or have never gotten into the game, you should check out a game this season. Tickets start at $9, and the action is hot.

X96 is presenting a Dusk 'til dawn Halloween film festival tonight at ~~Tower Theatre~~ (UPDATE! Originally planned for Tower, but now at The Broadway!). Beginning with The Exorcist at 11pm, followed by Dead Alive, Evil Dead 2, and if you're still awake around 5am it finishes with the original Halloween. Admission is only $10 for the entire overnight event. Grab your coffee and an early nap, funny things happen when you watch horror movies drowsy.

Film, dance, fashion, art, and magic come together for An October Evening at The Masonic Temple. This Halloween variety show of the arts is only $10 (7:30pm, Friday, Oct 22).

Epic Brewing has teamed up with the Salt Lake Bike Collective to hold a fundraiser Saturday, Oct 23. It kicks off with an easy ride from Epic to Liberty Park and back. Then enjoy beer samples, great local food, and music while helping to raise funds for the Bike Collective ($10, 1-8pm).

Men's roller derby has officially arrived, as our Uinta Madness are having their first home bout against Arizona's Dry Heat Militia, Saturday, Oct 23 (7pm $12) at the Derby Warehouse (1415 south 700 west). If you thought the girls hit hard, just wait until you see the guys on wheels.

Brewvies is in the Halloween spirit, with several free screenings of horror classics. Monday, Oct 25 it's Shaun of the Dead at 10pm. Wednesday, Silence of the Lambs at 8pm. Thursday, Porn Star Zombies and Cemetery Man at 8pm (double feature).

Tower Theatre is showing Rocky Horror Picture Show beginning Thursday, Oct 28. Thurs 10pm, Fri 8pm & midnight, Sat 8pm & midnight, and Sunday at 10pm. Tickets are $10, prop kits are $3 at the theater. Outside props will not be allowed.

Music: Friday, Oct 22: Sigur Ros frontman, Jonsi is in town, performing at The Complex (7pm $23). Also in town, Sleigh Bells at Urban Lounge (9pm $12).
Saturday, Oct 23: Hillbilly rockers, Old Death Whisper at Piper Down (9pm). Over at Kilby Court, The Henry Clay People (7pm $10).
Sunday, Oct 24: The Apples in Stereo at The State Room with Fol Chen (8pm $18).
Monday, Oct 25: Cool, eclectic music from Of Montreal at In The Venue (7pm $20).
Tuesday, Oct 26: Get in the Halloween mood with Horrorpops at The Avalon (7pm $13).
Wednesday, Oct 27: Nathan Spenser and The Low Keys at Bar Deluxe (8pm $5).
Thursday, Oct 28: Death metal bands, Suffocation, The Faceless, Through the Eyes of the Dead, Decrepit Birth, Fleshgod Apocalypse at The Complex (6:30pm $20).

Comedy: John Hilder has a free show at A Bar Named Sue, Sunday, Oct 24 at 9pm. Geeks Who Drink is always good for some laughs, and your chance to win a lot of free drinks. 4 chances to play each week, Tuesday at A Bar Named Sue (7:30pm), and The Huddle (8pm); Wednesday at Piper Down (7:30pm); and Thursday at Lumpy's Downtown (8pm). Always fun and all quizzes except special events are free.

Speaking of special event quizzes, the next theme quiz is November 9 at A Bar Named Sue. It's an all South Park Quiz, buy-in for $5 per person, and 1st place gets a cash prize. The winners of the Simpsons quiz won $300, so get this on your calendar and start watching South Park to prepare.

Theatre: Pioneer Theatre Company presents Bram Stoker's Dracula from Oct 22-Nov 6. 8pm Friday & Saturdays, 7:30pm Monday-Thursday, 1:30pm Saturday matinees. Tickets are from $28-42. It's also the final week for Thriller at Kingsbury Hall, this annual dance tradition shows nightly at 7:30pm, tickets from $20.

Drinks!
Friday: $3 Carolina Sweet Tea at The Tavernacle (201e 300s)
Saturday: $3 vodka Red Bull, $2 Red Stripe or Modelo at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Sunday: 99c beer & shots, karaoke at Tony's (3165s 1300e)
Monday: $4 PBR + any well shot at Burt's Tiki Lounge (726s State)
Tuesday: $2 pints (including micros) at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Wednesday: $2 Corona, tequila, Jim Beam, $3 Jager at Jackalope (372s State)
Thursday: $3 steins, $2 whiskey at Johnny's on Second (165e 200s)

Around the SL,UT October 15, 2010

2010-10-15T11:42:00.000-07:00

American Fork is the place to be Saturday, as ForkFest will be rocking their small city from noon until 11pm. Great local bands will be playing at American Fork Ampitheater (851e 700n American Fork), such as Fictionist, Shark Speed, Future of the Ghost, Paul Jacobsen & The Madison Arm, Michael Gross & The Statuettes, and many more. Admission is free. (Only downside, this is a no-alcohol event.)

It's the championship bout of the season for the Salt City Derby Girls this Saturday, Oct 15 (6pm $16). Leave it to Cleavers will attempt to extend their championship to a third year as they battle the Death Dealers.

Of course, we have so many great Halloween attractions happening around Salt Lake, check out the full guide here. Next Friday, Oct 22 is An October Evening at the Masonic Temple. A variety of entertainment for only $10 at the door.

Music: Utah's favorite Irish bands, Swagger, is playing at Piper Down Friday (9:30pm).
Broke City is saying "goodbye for now" and playing their last show for a while. They're with Better Life Band, Gavin Castleton, ECS, and The Last Look at Club Vegas Saturday, Oct 16 (8pm $5).
Sunday night, Carol Cleveland Sings is in town and playing Kilby Court with Roar, Miles Biddulph, and Mitch Parker (7pm $6).
The Legendary Pink Dots play The Complex Monday, Oct 17 (7pm $15).
Blitzen Trapper, Fruit Bats, Pearly Gate Music at Urban Lounge Tuesday, Oct 18 (9pm $12).
For the polar opposite of that show, head to the Maverik Center for Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax playing a show straight out of the 80s (7pm $41.95).
Pierced Arrows at Urban Lounge Wednesday, Oct 19 (9pm $6).

Theatre: SLCC's Grand Theatre presents Oliver! Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30pm (2pm matinees also on Saturday) through Oct 23. Tickets from $10+.

Comedy: A few of Oregon's finest comics are in town this weekend. Whitney Streed, Shane Torres, and Jimmy Newstetter are doing a show at Mo's Neighborhood Grill Saturday, Oct 16 (10pm $5) hosted by Cody Eden and featuring Arty Award winner Levi Rounds. Sunday, Oct 17 they perform at A Bar Named Sue with Cody Eden & Arthur Carter (9pm free).

Drinks!
Friday: 13 different shots $3 each at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)

Saturday: $3 Sex on the beach at Area 51 (451s 400w)

Sunday: $1 cover, $2 cocktails at Urban Lounge (241s 500e)

Monday: $2 cocktails at Johnny's on Second (165e 200s)

Tuesday: $1 beer at Maggie McGees (6253s Highland)

Wednesday: $2 pints at Liquid Joe's (1249e 3300s) / $2 cocktails at Cheers to You (315s Main)

Thursday: $3 microbrew pints at The Green Pig (31e 400s)

Make someone's day, share this with your Salt Lake friends and help them avoid another boring night at home.

Around the SL,UT October 8, 2010

2010-10-08T10:16:00.000-07:00

It's getting cold outside, but the SL,UT is always hot with things to do. Including a whole heap of Halloween activities! Check out the fun things to do in Salt Lake right here.

This weekend is Anime Banzai, Utah's animation convention. Admission is from $15/day, to $35 for the full weekend (Fri-Sun). Includes panels, art displays and sales, and of course, video game competitions.

The Downtown Farmer's Market may be winding down, but a Dutch Oven Cook-Off will be heating it up this Saturday. Think you've got the best dutch-oven recipe? Check out the rules and plan on showing up with all your gear & ingredients to Pioneer Park between 6am-8am to take on the competition. The event is free, but they do ask for a fully-refundable deposit. Judging is at noon.

Clark Planetarium has brought back Laser Floyd for October. Each Friday and Saturday this month, at 11pm, see Pink Floyd The Wall come to life in the dome theater with a spectacular laser light show. Tickets are $8.

Tower Theatre is showing Army of Darkness Friday & Saturday at 11pm, & Sunday at noon for $5. Brewvies is showing From Dusk Til Dawn free Monday, Oct 11 at 9:30pm.

Theatre: Vox Lumiere presents Phantom of the Opera at Kingsbury Hall 7:30pm Friday, Oct 8. Described as silent film + rock concert, this isn't your typical performance. Tickets are $34.50.
Odyssey Dance co's annual tradition, Thriller, opens Wednesday, October 13, and The Off Broadway Theatre's Y-Light is showing each weekend until October 30. See more Halloween theatre and events here.

Comedy: Sketchophrenia is at it again! Two shows Friday, Oct 8 in which they will show off their improv skills with suggestions from the audience, and delight you with their comedy (8 & 10:30pm $12). See the City Weekly Arty Award winning comic, Levi Rounds at A Bar Named Sue Sunday, Oct 10 (9pm free).

Music: Potcheen is at Piper Down Friday, Oct 8 (9pm $5).
Cooler World Music Festival is a free event at Liberty Park Saturday, Oct 9 from 1-7pm featuring Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Insatiable, Muscle Hawk, Rumba Libre, and more.
Rapper, Pigeon John plays Urban Lounge Sunday, Oct 10 (9pm $10).
Ra Ra Riot is at In The Venue Tuesday, Oct 12 (6:30pm $15.50).
Kid Theodore, Drew Andrews & The Special Cities, James Tautkus at Kilby Court Tuesday, Oct 12 (6pm $7).
Widespread Panic at The Rail Wednesday, Oct 13 (7pm $37).
Social Distortion at Saltair Thursday, Oct 14 (7pm $25).
Slayer, Megadeth, & Anthrax at The Maverik Center Tuesday, Oct 19.

Next weekend, be sure to head to The Salt Palace Saturday, Oct 16 for the Salt City Derby Girls League Championship game. Bout begins at 6pm, tickets are $12 in advance from The Bayou, or $16 at the door.

It's time to get WWJDinSLC into every household in Utah! Tell your friends how you know about all the great things happening in our valley.

Halloween activities in SLC, 2010

2010-10-08T09:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween to the SLC! It's time to get in the haunting mood, and here are the events and venues to get your fear-on.

Tower of Terror Film Festival. Every Friday and Saturday at 11pm and Sun at noon, Tower Theater is showing classic horror movies for only $5! Don't miss your favorite horror titles on 35mm for only $5!
This year's scream-filled lineup includes:
10/8-10/10 Army of Darkness
10/15-10/17 The Blair Witch Project (including a FREE 9pm screening on Fri 10/15 with a Skype intro from the directors!)
10/23 Dusk Till Dawn Horr-or-thon. See an array of horror classics, slasher films and monster movies in this all night long marathon including The Exorcist, Halloween, Dead Alive, Evil Dead 2, & more. Tickets are $10 for an all-night film fest.
10/28-10/31 Rocky Horror Picture Show (w/ live stage act; tickets are $10 and on sale now at the Tower).

Zombie Marathons Yes, plural. Night of the Running Dead is October 9, 2pm. It is a 5K race where the survivors get a 1 minute head-start before the zombie racers are unleashed. Event is at This is the Place State Park, and complete with food, and live music. October 30 is the Provo Halloween Half Marathon beginning at the Alpine Loop. Critical Masquerade is not a formal race, but a bicycling event for zombies, ghosts, vampires, and all other spooky characters. Grab your bike, costume, and meet at Gallivan Plaza October 29, 5:30pm.

Special Events
Witchstock is Saturday, October 23 on Ogden's Historic 25th Street. This street festival includes haunted vendors, dance lessons, and much more. Open from 3-10pm.

Enchanted Evenings at Hogle Zoo are a special after-hours tour of the zoo with haunted tour guides. Tours are Thursday-Saturday October 21-23, and 28-30. $10 admission, tours begin promptly at 7:30pm.

2nd annual Not So Silent Fright Night will be October 29. It is a charitable benefit costume party. Keep the date open, and RSVP on Facebook for notification of the event location.

The Canyons is holding their first annual Halloween Spooktacular at The Grand Summit Hotel Saturday, October 30. This formal Halloween dance party runs from 8-midnight. Tickets are $50 per couple, or $29 for individuals, which include two drink tickets, and child-care for 2 kids (additional kids $5 each). Lodging packages are available from $159 (including tickets to the dance).

Fear Fest at The Haunted Ben Lomand Hotel is another formal costume party for those kids over 21. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door.

Haunted Houses
Castle of Chaos
3300 south West Temple
Open 7-10pm Sunday-Thursday (closed Mondays), 7-midnight Friday and Saturday. Called "one of the scariest Halloween attractions" by the Travel Channel
$18. Save by buying admission to Castle of Chaos & Nighmare Mansion for only $27.

Nightmare Mansion
5600 south Redwood Road
Open 7:30-10 Monday-Thursday, 7:30-midnight Friday & Saturday. Almost entirely rebuilt for this year, this haunted house contains four haunts with increasing intensity. Go all the way for the full experience.
$18. Save by buying admission to Castle of Chaos & Nighmare Mansion for only $27.

Nightmare on 13th
1300 south 300 west
Open 7:30-11 Monday-Thursday, 7:30-midnight Friday & Saturday. One of Utah's longest running, and most technologically advanced haunts. $20 per person.

Haunted Village
2601 Sunnyside Ave - This is the Place Heritage Park
Open October 8-30 (closed Sunday). Wear comfortable shoes and dress warmly for this family friendly haunt. $15 per person.

Haunted Forest
7:30-10pm weekdays. 7:30-midnight Friday-Saturday, closed Sunday. An outdoor haunt with thorny underbrush, warped trees, and caverns.

Haunted Hollow
1900 west 1550 south, Ogden.7:30-10pm Wednesday-Thursday. 7:30-midnight Friday-Saturday. An outdoor haunt that takes over an hour to walk through.

Frightmares at Lagoon
I-15 exit 325, Farmington
Open 5pm Fridays. Saturdays & Sundays 11am. Several haunted houses throughout the park, most rides open. $42.95

Asylum 49
140 east 200 south, Tooele.
Tuesday-Thursday 7-10pm, Friday & Saturday 7-midnight. A haunt in the old Tooele hospital. What patients still reside as ghosts? $16 per person.

Lazarus Maze
600 Exchange Road, Ogden.
Wednesday & Thursday 7:30-10pm, Friday & Saturday 7:30-midnight. $10 per person.

Ghost Tours
300 south 500 west
Tuesday through Saturday in October, several tours beginning at 6pm (see site for schedule). Hop on a tour-bus with a professional storyteller who will guide you through the haunted spots of Salt Lake City. Call for reservations 801-529-4497 $18
Also in Ogden, north of the Union Station. Call 801-604-1218 for Ogden reservations.

Theatre
Thriller by Odyssey Dance Company. An annual tradition, a horror-themed dance performance with spooky costumes and music. Runs October 13-30 at Kingsbury Hall, tickets are $40. They will also be performing around the state, see the complete schedule for details.

Bram Stoker's Dracula at Pioneer Theatre. October 22-November 6, see the classic tale of Count Dracula. Showtimes Monday-Saturday, tickets from $24-42.

Hunt Mysteries Murder Mystery Dinner are putting on shows in Sandy, Ogden, & Layton throughout the month. Shows start at $15, see their website for a complete schedule of shows.

Haunted Symphony: Enjoy the Utah Symphony playing a night of creepy music at Abravanel Hall, Tuesday, October 26. Tickets start at $8 and costumes are highly recommended.

Y-Light is The Off Broadway Theatre's Halloween production this year. It is a parody of Twilight, with a Utah twist. See the vampires of BYU in their teenage angst rivalry against the werewolves of the U. Tickets are $16, shows are Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays at 7:30pm through October 30.

An October Evening at The Masonic Temple will be a night of film, dance, magic, and more October 22. Tickets from $10.

Freaky Fridays at Wheeler Farm. Song and dance performances each Friday in October at 7, 8, & 9pm. $2 per person, or $6 per family.

There's even more happening in Salt Lake for Halloween. If you have any other events you want to let the SLC valley know about for this haunting season (or any other time) leave a comment, email, catch me on Twitter, or Facebook.

Around the SL,UT October 1, 2010

2010-10-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

Get in the Halloween mood at Tower Theater with their screening of The Shining (11pm $5). Brewvies is showing Zombieland Monday night free at 9:30pm. Also, keep an eye on Castle of Chaos & Nightmare Mansion, who are giving away a ticket each day to Facebook fans.

There's a film festival for the bicycling fans this weekend. The Bicycle Film Festival is happening Friday and Saturday at Post Theater (245 South Fort Douglas Blvd., Building 636) Friday & Saturday. Tickets are $9.99 per film, or $27 for all five screenings.

The BBoy Federation is putting on a breakdance competition Saturday night at The Utah Arts Alliance (2191s 300w). 9 dance crews are battling their way towards the finals in this tournament, come enjoy the beats and marvel at the dance skills (6pm $5).

To get your laughs: Levi Rounds hosts a unique show, Controlled Heckling at Bar Deluxe. He will put a mic out in the crowd and encourage clever heckling, but be prepared to be destroyed by this master of the insults. Also performing are Christopher Stephenson & Arthur Carter (8pm $5). Thursday, September 7 is K-Town Komedy featuring Steve McInnelly, Braxton McCoy, Melissa Merlot, and John Hilder at Club DJ's (5400s Bangerter Hwy, 8pm $2).

In music this week: Blue October is in town with The Parlotones at In The Venue (7pm $25). UB40 is at The Depot Saturday night (9pm $45). Matt Hires plays a free show at Graywhale University location 2pm, then a full show at Kilby Court with Cameras Don't Lie (6:30pm $10). Rob Zombie & Alice Cooper bring their face-melting Halloween show to Usana Monday night (6pm $25+). The Melvins and Totimoshi are at In The Venue Monday (7:30pm $13). Tuesday brings us Amberlin, Civil Twilight, and Crash Kings at The Complex (7pm $15). The Eels play In The Venue Wednesday (8pm $22). Next Friday, Long Distance Operator, King Niko, Ghetto Tea Party and This Passing Moment play a special price show at Liquid Joes, 9pm $4 per group of any size.

Next Saturday, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Insatiable, Muscle Hawk, and Rumba Libre are playing a free show at Liberty Park 1-7pm. The Cooler World music festival is 6 hours of live music, beer, wine, and great food will be available.

There are many Halloween, zombie, and other horror themed events coming soon, and you can read all about them here soon. Be sure to tell your friends, family, and complete strangers that WWJDinSLC is the source for all your entertainment needs!

Around the SL,UT September 24, 2010

2010-09-24T12:11:00.000-07:00

Dance all night, laugh with the liberals, catch some free movies, geek out with Dr. Horrible, Buffy, and the rest of the Whedonverse, and enjoy some great live music. It's all happening Around the SL,UT.

No matter what time it is, you can head to the Salt Lake Art Center this weekend to see and participate in 48 hours of dancing and music. Dark Horse/Fallen Shadows opens at 6pm Friday night, and runs through Sunday at 6pm. There will be main performances at 9pm Friday and Saturday night, and audience members are invited to join in or just watch through this 2-day performance. DJ Jesse Walker (resident at W Lounge) will be providing the music throughout the event.

The city is filled with liberals this weekend, and you can join them. Drinking Liberally is having their national convention in SLC, and their fundraiser party is Saturday, Sept 25 from 7-10pm. Comedy/improv troupe Christopher Stephenson and Toy Soup will perform, tickets are only $15. Event will include activities, prizes for "Most Utahish" and much more. At The Warehouse, 1130 south Richards Street (between Main & West Temple).

Free movies at Brewvies this week: Monday at 10pm they're showing American History X. Wednesday at 8pm, City Weekly's Film night is Better Off Dead.

Pub quizzes just keep growing! Can't make a Tuesday or Wednesday night, or just can't get enough action and need another night. Geeks Who Drink is now adding a Thursday night quiz at Lumpy's Downtown. The downstairs room will be all about quizzing, with plenty of space to stretch out, and limited interruptions from non-players. Get your friends together, or just show up to meet new people. I'll be on-hand to emcee and provide the entertainment. Spread the word! Geeks Who Drink quizzes are fun, free, and the questions are a wide-range of topics to make it accessible to anyone (geek cred not required).
Don't forget that this Tuesday, Sept. 28 is the Whedonverse Quiz at The Huddle. $5 entry per player, cash prize! RSVP and find SLC teammates on Facebook.

In music this week, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony is playing at In The Venue tonight (Friday, 7pm $23.50). Synthpop group Starfucker is playing two shows Friday, 7pm at Kilby Court, & 9pm at Urban Lounge, tickets are $12 for each show.
Saturday night, 30 Seconds to Mars, Neon Trees, and New Politics play Brent Brown Ballpark (Orem, UVU campus) as part of MTV's Campus Invasion tour. Doors open at 5pm, tickets are $26.
Band of Horses are at In The Venue Tuesday, Sept 28 with Admiral Radley and Darker My Love (7pm $28).
The Mmmm Bop boys of 90s group Hanson are all grown up and in town next week. They're performing at The Depot Thursday, Sept. 30, tickets are $25.

Keep an eye on the daily updates via Twitter or Facebook, and be sure to get your friends out for some fun around Salt Lake City.

Around the SL,UT September 17, 2010

2010-09-17T12:57:00.000-07:00

We've got laughs, screams, secret parties with the action sports elite, dining specials and more happening Around SL,UT this week.

Two great comedians are performing this weekend. Bobcat Goldthwait (yes, the funny voice guy from Police Academy) is at Wiseguys West Valley performing two shows Friday and two shows Saturday night. He is much funnier than anything you've ever seen him in, and tickets are only $20. At Wiseguys Trolley Square, we have John Moyer (writer of Mobsters & Mormons) performing Friday and Saturday night. Tickets to John Moyer are only $10 at the door, shows are 8 & 10pm.

The haunting season has begun, tonight is the opening of Nightmare Mansion in Taylorsville (5576 south Redwood Road), which was IN This Week's favorite haunt of last season. It's been entirely rebuilt for a whole new experience. Doors open at 7:30pm. Check out a limited time deal for a combination admission with Castle of Chaos for only $17.

If you're the type of person who wakes up early, there's a very cool event for you. Red Butte Garden has classic Greek Theater Saturday and Sunday morning. Admission is $13 for general admission, $10 for UofU faculty & staff $7 for garden members and students. Shows begin at 9am.

Saturday night, The Grand Theater (SLCC South City Campus) will be filled with laughter from the Battle of the Improvs. Improv troupes around Utah will face off against each other to win the honor of being the best. Admission is $10, show begins at 7:30pm.

Dine O Round begins today (Friday, September 17). Many downtown restaurants will be offering special fixed price menus for $5 and $10 lunches, $15 and $30 dinners. There are 43 participating restaurants, and this is always a great way to get to know new dining spots.

The Dew Tour wraps up Sunday, but there will be a VIP Dew Tour after-party at Pierpont Place Saturday night at 9pm. Featuring live DJ sets by Hollywood Holt, Flash & Flare, and other surprise special guests. Other entertainment includes tricked out Toyota cars outfitted with classic 80s Atari games in the trunk. If the stellar line-up and general revelry aren’t enough incentive to get you downtown, there’s a bonus: this year, for the first time, Toyota is offering everyone who attends a chance to win a new Toyota Prius. Partygoers can sign up at the venue or obtain a download card at the event and enter to win online with a special code. All you need to do is RSVP here.

The State Fair ends Sunday, so if you haven't had your fix of corn dogs, funnel cakes, farm animals, and carnival rides, get out there this weekend.

The glam-rock legends, KISS, are in town next Wednesday. They're performing at Rio Tinto Stadium, with tickets beginning at $30.

Then we have the French sensation, Phoenix, at In The Venue Thursday, September 23. Even if you don't know their name, you know their music, and you can't help but jump up and dance when you hear it. Tickets are $31, and will be worth every penny.

Next Saturday, September 25, Salt City Derby Girls return to the Salt Palace. Salt City Shakers will be taking on Junction City, then the Bomber Babes will battle Sisters of No Mercy. $12 in advance at The Bayou, $16 at the door.

Castle of Chaos/Nightmare Mansion discount

2010-09-15T09:57:00.000-07:00

The haunt season is upon us, & I have a special deal on VIP admission to Castle of Chaos & Nightmare Mansion.

Admission to both haunted houses, plus free VIP upgrade. $50 value only $17 right now.

Only available for a limited time, they're selling out fast. Valid for the 2010 season.

Around the SL,UT September 10, 2010

2010-09-10T08:44:00.000-07:00

It's the big festival weekend! Whether you like Greek dancing, fried food & farm animals, theatre, or beer, there's a festival this weekend for you!

The Page-to-Stage Festival is happening now, Thursday-Saturdays until September 25, there will be short plays and variety acts from 13 local playwrights, and 8 local theater companies. There is a selection of short plays and adaptations of Aesop's Fables, as well as performances from the After Dark Cabaret. Tickets for the shows are $15. There will also be free staged readings and theatre workshops each Saturday.

City Weekly's Utah Beer Festival is Saturday, September 11. Buy tickets today for $25, or $35 at the gate. Your admission includes beer! Designated drivers get in for $5. Taste beer from all the local brewers, enjoy live music, and great local beer-friendly food from 1-6pm at Washington Square (city-county building).

The Salt Lake Greek Festival is now open through Sunday, September 12. Festival is open from 11am-11pm Friday & Saturday, 11am-8pm Sunday. There will be music, lots of dancing, cooking demonstrations, and of course plenty of handmade Greek Food. Admission is only $3. Take TRAX to the Old Greek Town stop for a stress-free visit.

Saturday is also Pagan Pride Day, and you can join like-minded pagans (or if you're just pagan-curious) at Murray Park from 11am-6pm. Admission is a non-perishable food donation for the Utah Food Bank. Enjoy entertainment, workshops, and more.

Of course, you know the State Fair is happening now through September 19.

In comedy, we have our own Marcus performing 4 shows at Wiseguys Trolley Square. All-new material, and he is recording this new set as a CD. Shows are 7:30pm & 10pm Friday & Saturday, admission is $20. Jay Mohr is in town performing at Wiseguys West Valley 7:30 & 10pm Friday & Saturday ($30).

Monday night at Brewvies, the free movie is Leon: The Professional. Show starts at 9:30pm, this is an incredible movie.

Tuesday, check out Titus Andronicus, and Free Energy at Kilby Court. Show is at 7pm, $14. Great upcoming indie band with a bit of a punk flair.

Modern English is bringing our memories of the 80s to Urban Lounge. The iconic band is back on the road and tickets are only $25. Doors open at 9pm.

Thursday, JJ Grey & Mofro, Cory Mon, and The Starlight Gospel at The State Room 8pm $20. Great lineup of soul music.

The Dew Action Sports tour is in town September 16-19. Skateboard, BMX, FMX, and live music at the Energy Solutions Arena. Tickets from $15-100, see a full schedule here.

Next Friday, Piper Down is holding their annual Halfway to St. Paddy's Day party. U2 cover band, Rattle & Hum, and The Heathen Highlanders will take the stage to celebrate.

Coming up next Saturday: The Utah Battle of the Improvs. A trophy will be given to the best local improv troupe, and you can enjoy the show for only $10. Doors open at 7pm, first performance begins at 7:30pm at The Grand Theatre (SLCC south city campus, 1575 s State).

Remember that you can see all upcoming events in the calendar (click on the event listings in the right column) and you can see what's happening right now each day on this site.

Around the SL,UT September 3

2010-09-03T10:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day weekend everyone, & big congratulations to our Utes for their first win of the season! It's a busy weekend with a lot of unique variety, so let's dive right in.

Antelope Island Stampede begins Friday at 5pm, and is open daily through Sunday. It features hot air balloons, kite demonstrations, sky divers, live music, activities, and more. Admission is $10 per carload (which is only $1 more than a typical fee to go to Antelope Island), bring your own chairs, coolers, and enjoy the sites and entertainment.

Midway and Heber are also hopping this old-world events weekend, with Midway Swiss Days Friday & Saturday and Soldier Hollow Classic sheep dog championships Friday through Monday.

In the club and music scene, The Bay is holding a 90s dance party Friday night which will be headlined by none other than Vanilla Ice ($15 9pm). Or you can rock out with locals Royal Bliss and Darling Don't Jump at Liquid Joe's (10pm $10).

Saturday night, we have Russian metal group Mumiy Troll at Urban Lounge (9pm $12), or head over to W Lounge to say a sad farewell to Danny Dance (no cover if you arrive before 10:30pm). In his far-too-short time here in Salt Lake, Danny has helped keep this city dancing, and has left a lasting legacy here.

Sunday, get some cool Afro-beat and blues from Ali Baba and Adrian Orange at Kilby Court (7pm $7). Later, get your laugh on with a showcase of Salt Lake's comedy scene at Mo's Neighborhood Grill (10pm free).

Monday night, see Ryan Bingham, Crooked Still, and Sara Watkins of Nickel Creek at Deer Valley (6pm $19). Meanwhile, down in the valley, Brewvies is screening Snatch (9:30pm free), one of my all-time favorites.

Truth & Salvage Co. is at The State Room Tuesday night (8pm $15), for a night of cool roots/Americana/rock. For something heavier, head to In The Venue for Nekromantix (7pm $15). Of course, don't forget your Geeks Who Drink pub quizzes being played at The Huddle and A Bar Named Sue, where you can win your bar tab by knowing random facts.

Wednesday, Tower Theater is holding a free screening of the Japanese animation film My Neighbor Totoro (7pm free). The very cool string metal band, Judgement Day is at Urban Lounge with Cornered By Zombies (9pm, cover likely $8-10). Geeks Who Drink is at Piper Down, beginning at 7:30pm.

Thursday night begins the Utah State Fair, and Greek Fest (at 300 west 300 south). Feed your craving for funnel cake at the Fair, which runs through September 19 ($9 adults, $4 opening day). Or stuff yourself with gyros and dolmathes at Greek Fest which runs from September 9-12 ($3 admission).

Coming up: The City Weekly Beef Fest at Washington Square next Saturday, September 11. The Dew Tour brings the top skaters, BMX, and FMX stars September 16-19. Greek Theater September 18, 19, 25, and 26 at Red Butte Garden. Utah Battle of the Improv Stars September 18 at The Grand Theater. Phoenix is at In The Venue September 23.

Thanks for reading, and please spread the good word. Ask your friends, What Would Jesus Do in Salt Lake City.

Around the SL,UT August 27, 2010

2010-08-27T13:01:00.000-07:00

Friday, Aug 27:

Eddie Murphy's arguably funny, right? Here's something not everyone knows, his big brother Charlie is even funnier and in Salt Lake this weekend. See Charlie Murphy at Wiseguys Trolley Square 7:30pm & 10pm Friday and Saturday night. Tickets are $25.

Short on cash? Catch a movie. For a free movie, and great date night, head to Pioneer Park for the final summer rock documentary, All Tomorrow's Parties. Featuring bands like Animal Collective, Belle & Sebastian, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Portishead, and many more, the film is a look at a cult music festival. Booths open at 8pm, movie begins at dusk. Or head to Tower Theater for a weekend with John Hughes. Friday at 11pm (or Saturday at noon) see the classic Ferris Bueller's Day Off for only $5. Saturday at 11pm (and Sunday at noon) they are showing The Breakfast Club.

Saturday, Aug 28:

Wake up and head to the Downtown Farmers Market for a Eat Local Challenge Kick-Off. Enjoy a buffet style brunch and learn about the history and guidelines for the local vendors at the Farmers Market. Only $5 per person, and be sure to register now.

Enjoy some great local music Saturday night at Bar Deluxe. Long Distance Operator, Velvetones, and Candy's Riverhorse will begin rocking you just after 8pm. $5 cover.

Sunday, Aug 29:

Oktoberfest continues each weekend at Snowbird until Oct 10. Great local beers, German food, music, dancing, and activities from noon to 6pm.

The Geek Show Podcast is hosting their audience participation double-feature this Sunday. See Back to the Future and Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure free, and add your own MST3K style commentary as you laugh along with the films and the audience. Brewvies, 5pm. Psychedelic rock takes over Urban Lounge Sunday night with The Growlers, Spell Talk, and Tiny Lights playing at 9pm. Tickets are $7.

Monday, Aug 30:

Mo's Neighborhood Grill has a Poetry Slam at 8pm. Bring your own prose to read, or just come to cheer on the participants and enjoy their lyrical (or disastrous) poetry. Admission is $5. Or, head over to Brewvies at 9:30pm to see Orgazmo. This is a free movie, so arrive early to get a seat. The tale of a mormon missionary who winds up in the porn industry to make enough money to pay for his upcoming wedding. Written and directed by Trey Parker and Matt Stone (South Park).

Tuesday, Aug 31:

You probably know about John Mayer and Owl City at Usana Ampitheater, and The Black Crowes at The Depot, but if you're looking for another option for Tuesday night, check out your local pub quizzes. Tuesday night Geeks Who Drink quizzes are held at A Bar Named Sue and The Huddle at 8pm. They're free to play, so there's nothing to lose. Don't worry, you don't need to be a geek or a drunk, everyone's welcome to play.

Wednesday, Sep 1:

Of course, Wednesday is Geeks Who Drink at Piper Down. The original, and biggest Wednesday night party begins at 7:30 (but arrive early) with a relaxed, comical, and high-energy pub quiz followed by karaoke.

Thursday, Sep 2:

Tickets are still available to see Vampire Weekend and Beach House at In The Venue. Show starts at 7:30pm, $28.50 advance tickets, $32.50 at the door (if available). Also in town Thursday night: UB40. They're playing The Depot at 9:30pm, tickets are $40.

Coming soon: Vanilla Ice is at The Bay next Friday, Greek Fest is September 9-12, Utah State Fair September 9-19, and keep your eyes here to find even more happening around Salt Lake.

The authoritative source for all things to do in Salt Lake City.

Around the SL,UT August 20, 2010

2010-08-20T14:10:00.000-07:00

Tonight, one of my favorite local bands is playing a free concert in Sugarhouse. Fictionist is at the Hidden Hollow concert series with Libby Linton at 6pm. If you're not sure where this is, go to the Whole Foods in Sugarhouse, and follow the creek east. Later, Fictionist heads to Urban Lounge to play a set with Bramble and Boots to the Moon (9pm, $5).

Like the farmers market, local chefs, fresh food, and caring about the environment? Visit the Farm to Table Tour at the Downtown Farmers Market Saturday morning from 8:30am-1pm. Local chefs will be serving up creations from local farmers, there will be a free herb cart, and more.

Big show at Thanksgiving Point tomorrow: Candlelight Serenade features Chris Carrabba (from Dashboard Confessional),Third Eye Blind, Relient K, Neon Trees, Vedera, Priscilla Ahn, Allie Moss, Fictionist & more. Tickets are $40, show is from 11am-midnight and benefits Child Rescue Association.

For a taste of the unusual, head to The Gateway tomorrow at 1pm to see Pogopalooza. This is a pogo-stick championship event where masters of the pogo compete for world titles.

Oktoberfest kicks off this weekend at Snowbird. Noon to 6pm each Saturday & Sunday for the next month and a half. Great beers, live music, dancing, and more fun up in the mountain.

The Salt City Derby Girls are celebrating their Birthday Ball at South Shore Saturday night, 8pm. Entry is only $3, and trust me, these girls know how to throw a party.

Head to Kilby Court Monday night for a great lineup. The Molten Snowman Project is a progressive rock band with a unique and eclectic sound that combines funk, guitar-rock, and alternative. They're playing with Oh God - You Caught Me Off Guard and Fair Enough. Admission is only $6, show starts at 7pm.

Wednesday night we have Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, and more hip-hop stars for U92's Summer Jam. Show's at Gallivan Center, begins at 5pm, and tickets are $25.

Next weekend: Charlie Murphy (of The Chappelle Show) is headlining Wiseguys Trolley Square. There are 4 shows scheduled, 7:30pm & 10pm Friday and Saturday night, August 27-28. Tickets are $25.

Geeks Who Drink just announced the next special event/theme quiz: Masters of the Whedonverse! Quiz takes place September 28th, 8pm. $5 entry, which means we'll have a cash prize for first place of $200-400! Tell your friends, fellow Whedonites, fanboys & fangirls! Let's make the Salt Lake quiz the biggest in the country!
Of course, don't forget your weekly Geeks Who Drink quizzes which are free to play, and come with plenty of great prizes every night.
A Bar Named Sue: Tuesday 8pm
The Huddle: Tuesday 8pm
Piper Down: Wednesday 7:30pm

Sharing is divine, and makes Salt Lake awesome! If you ever hear someone say there's nothing happening in SL,UT, tell them about WWJDinSLC.

Toyota Farm to Table Tour

2010-08-17T11:31:00.000-07:00

The Toyota Farm to Table Tour announced the line-up of Salt Lake City area chefs who will be treating visitors at the Salt Lake City Downtown Farmers Market on August 21 with bite-sized complimentary treats featuring farm-fresh ingredients as part of this year’s national summer tour.

At each stop on the tour, up to 12 of the area’s top chefs and farmers will be paired together to highlight the best of each market’s fresh offerings. The chefs will prepare bite-sized tastings for visitors to sample that highlight their partner farm’s ingredients while guests will have the opportunity to learn more about each market, the specialty farmers, the notable chefs, and ways to eat and shop more locally.

The Toyota Farm to Table Tour will be at the Salt Lake City Downtown Farmers Market located in Historic Pioneer Park in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City on August 21 from 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

“The Downtown Farmers Market is committed to environmental and economic sustainability. Eating local is an integral part of these efforts and Toyota’s Farm to Table Tour is a great way for our visitors to learn more about local farmers and while enjoying tasty samples from talented local chefs,” said Kim Angeli-Selin, Market Manager. “We’re truly honored to host the Toyota Farm to Table Tour this year and showcase the great food available right here in Salt Lake City.”

The Salt Lake City Downtown Farmers Market will feature twelve noted and award-winning local chefs, including:

Ian Brandt of Sage’s Café and Vertical Diner

Justin Shifflett of Metropolitan

Brian Edwards of The Alta Club

Sam Greeno of Donovan’s Steak & Chop House

Josh Wong of J. Wong’s Asian Bistro

Jerry Liedtke of Tin Angel Café

Jason Holzworth and Frody Volgger of Vienna Bistro

Sebastian Lizarzaburu of Copper Canyon Grill

Fred Moesinger of Café Molise

Kenneth Crandall of Spencer’s

Guests will have the opportunity to select complimentary potted culinary herbs from the Highlander Hybrid Mobile Garden as well as enter for a chance to win a culinary trip to Santa Barbara for a special cooking and farmers market tour. At the Highlander Hybrid Mobile Garden, a Mobile Garden Herb Specialist will be on-hand to pot the plants for visitors and answer general questions about gardening. All herb plants are sourced from local vendors at the market.

Market visitors will also have the chance to take a ride in a 2010 Prius, Highlander Hybrid, Camry Hybrid or the Prius Plug-in Hybrid set to launch in 2012 and take home a John Boos cutting board as a memento of the experience. In support of all the benefits the markets offer their communities, Toyota will also make a financial donation to the market. Throughout the tour Toyota has committed to using eco-friendly materials and will be purchasing carbon credits through TerraPass to offset the impact of the tour’s carbon footprint.

New to the tour this year, in a further effort to support famers markets across the entire country, Toyota is also providing financial support to the Farmers Market Coalition, a national non-profit dedicated to strengthening farmers markets that serve as community assets while providing real income opportunities for farmers.

Around the SL,UT August 13, 2010

2010-08-13T09:15:00.000-07:00

It is the day immortalized in horror tales. The unlucky day. So celebrate it the way it's intended. Castle of Chaos is open for one special night, only $13 admission. Come see the new attraction and get a taste of the upcoming Halloween season. Afterwards, keep the fear going all night and head over to Tower Theatre to watch the original Friday the 13th at 11pm, $5. If you haven't had enough terror, tomorrow night is Zombie Prom at Ogden Union Station. 7-10pm, tickets are $15 at the door.

For a great weekend of film, check out the Salt Lake City Film Festival.

In comedy this weekend, we've got Rob Schneider at Wiseguys West Valley, and Brian Posehn at Wiseguys Trolley Square. Each performing 4 shows, Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm & 10pm. Rob Schneider tickets are $30, Brian Posehn tickets are $20.

Craft Lake City is this Saturday, August 14th. Gallivan Ave will be filled with 130 local craft vendors. Admission is free, there will be live music throughout the fest, which runs from 2-9pm.

The Candy Cabinet Cabaret has a great Saturday night party planned at In The Venue. Spectacular Spectacular! is a Moulin Rouge themed dance and music party. Show begins at 7pm, tickets are $24.50 at the door.

Local comedian, Marcus, is doing one show Sunday night at Wiseguys Trolley Square. 7pm, $20 to see one our own rising stars.

You may not have a real time machine, but travel to Usana Ampitheater this Monday and it will take you back to the 80s. See Scorpions, Tesla, and Jackyl at 6:30pm. Three classic metal bands, tickets start at $29.

Free movie at Brewvies Monday night is David Lynch's Lost Highway. Show starts at 10pm.

Geeks Who Drink at A Bar Named Sue has moved to Tuesdays, so each Tuesday night you have two locations to choose. A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland Dr) and The Huddle (2400e Ft. Union). Quiz begins at 8pm sharp.

Speaking of quizzes, this Wednesday, August 18th is the Yellow Fever Quiz at Piper Down. This is a special event, all rounds will be Simpson-themed, and first place will win a minimum of $200 cash. Yes cash! The stuff that can be exchanged for goods and services. This quiz has a $5 entry fee per player, up to 6 players per team. Arrive early, the first question will begin at 7:30pm, and you wouldn't want to miss out on the big cash prize and Simpsons fun. RSVP on the Facebook page, and share this with your friends. Assemble your Simpsons dream team and enjoy a night of laughs and mmmmm... beeeeeerr...

Tickets are on sale now for Smashing Pumpkins, September 17 at In The Venue, $40.50.

Other upcoming events:
Toy Soup featuring Christopher Stephenson & Jimmie Morgan at Mo's Neighborhood Grill Aug 26. Show starts 9pm, admission is $10.
Vampire Weekend at In The Venue Sept. 2.
Vanilla Ice at The Bay Sept. 3.
Phoenix at The Rail Sept. 23.
The Eels at The Complex Oct. 6.
Social Distortion at The Complex Oct. 14.

Around the SL,UT August 6, 2010

2010-08-06T13:29:00.000-07:00

Going to mix things up and try a bit of a different format for Around the SL,UT. Let me know what you think. Better than the old format? Like a feature of the previous posts? Want more frequent blog updates? Leave a comment, or hit me up on Facebook.

Friday must be film-day, because there's a lot going down tonight. Malcolm McDowell is hosting a screening of The Clockwork Orange at Murray Theater, tickets are $40. If free and outdoors is more your liking, the Rock Docs series continues tonight at Pioneer Park with Soul Power, a documentary on the legendary soul music concert staged in Kinshasa, Zaire in 1974. Featuring James Brown, B.B. King, Sister Sledge, and more. Birthquake will be playing live before the show. This weekend's midnight movie at Tower Theater is the bizarre George Lucas classic, THX-1138 will show Friday & Saturday at 11pm, Saturday & Sunday at noon. Tickets are $5

If you dare to be up before sunrise Saturday, look out to Sandy and you will see the Sandy Balloon Festival, as the sky will be filled with hot-air balloons launching from Storm Mountain Park (11400 south 1000 east). Launch will be between 6:30-8am.

The Van's Warped Tour begins at 11am at the State Fair Grounds and features dozens of punk and alternative bands for only $35 at the door. See Dropkick Murphys, Hey Monday, Pennywise, Reel Big Fish, and many more bands.

Want something a little more mellow? Way Out West Music Fest is at Snowbasin (Ogden) Saturday and Sunday, acts beginning around noon each day featuring bluegrass and country music. $65 per day, or $100 for both days. Short on cash? Head to The Canyons Resort in Park City to see Cracker, free at 7pm.

Halloween is creeping up on us, and this Sunday is the 3rd Annual Zombie Walk. Beginning at city hall, 400 south 200 east, zombies will lurch through the streets of Salt Lake from 7-8pm. Dress up and join the march, or stand by to get pictures and possibly become victim to the horde. Next weekend is filled with more zombie action, Castle of Chaos haunted house is open Friday the 13th from 7pm to midnight, admission is only $13. Saturday the 14th is Zombie Prom at Ogden's Union Station 7pm. Tickets are available online, $10 adults and $5 for kids.

Monday night, Brewvies is showing Amelie free at 10pm.

Tuesday, we have ska legends, The English Beat is at The Depot 8pm, only $20. Or head over to Library Square to see local rockers Fox Van Cleef and Bluebird Radio for a free show at 7pm.

Wednesday, The Temper Trap and Butterfly Bones play The Depot, and tickets are only $5 right now (though convenience fees and service charges will make it slightly more).

Thursday, August 12, the Salt Lake City Film Festival begins with Cleanflix at Broadway Centre, 7:30pm, $10. Check out more info and schedule here.

Next week: Primus & Gogol Bordello at The Rail, Jack Johnson at Usana Ampitheater, Craft Lake City market at Gallivan Ave, Marcus at Wiseguys Trolley Square, and be sure to mark August 18th on your calendar for the big Simpsons Quiz at Piper Down! First place team wins at least $200 cash prize!

Salt Lake City Film Festival Aug 12-15

2010-08-02T09:24:00.000-07:00

There won't be crowds of tourists, not likely to have big celebrity sightings, and that means you can actually get a chance to see incredible independent film in a more relaxed, calm environment. The Salt Lake City Film Festival is August 12-15 and will feature 10 documentaries, 9 narratives, and 22 short films over 4 days.

The film lineup includes the documentary Cleanflix, about the Utah video chains who started editing major Hollywood films without the filmmakers' permission. "Outraged over the unauthorized editing of their work, prominent filmmakers began to speak out, thrusting the two groups into an intense legal, theoretical, and moral battle that would last six years before coming to a shocking conclusion." This has been a widely popular film in past festivals and screenings, and will likely sell out soon.

Other documentaries include Sons of Perdition, the story of young men banished from their polygamous families who must learn to live in a whole new world; World's Largest, about the whimsical and often bizarre attempts of small towns across America to attract tourists, and American Jihadist which tells the story of religious radicalism.

Comedies include: Machotaildrop, about a boy who achieves his goal of working for the greatest skateboard company, only to discover the dark underbelly. The Yankles, where an ex-con baseball player can only find the most unusual team to play for. One Too Many Mornings, about two friends who are becoming too old to be coming of age. Artois the Goat, about the hunt for love and the ultimate cheese.

Other highlights include the thrillers, Crawler, about a terrifying bulldozer with a hatred for the human race, and Director's Cut, an Australian black comedy/horror about a deranged director trying to film his first movie.

See the Salt Lake City Film Festival website for a full schedule and to purchase advance tickets. Screenings will take place at Tower Theater, Post Theater (on UofU campus), and Brewvies. Most tickets are $5, and some screenings of the more popular films will be $10. This may be your only chance to see many of these films on the big screen.

Come out and support one of the newest events to our local arts and film scene.

Around the SL,UT July 30

2010-07-30T14:27:00.000-07:00

Laughs, music from down under, get Irish, crops are in at the farmer's market, and more. Here are some highlights of the coming week around Salt Lake.

You may not know him by name, but you have seen David Koechner in Anchorman, Talladega Nights, Waiting, and more. He's at Wiseguys West Valley City Friday and Saturday, four shows, 8 and 10pm each night. Admission is $20.

Friday night, head over to Pioneer Park for the opening night of the summer rock docs series. Under the Great White Northern Lights, a film about The White Stripes will be showing at dusk. For the full schedule of these rock documentaries, see my summer festivals post.

It's a very Irish weekend, beginning with The California Celts playing Friday and Saturday night at Piper Down. No cover if you arrive before 9pm. While you're there, pick up tickets for the Irish Music Festival, Sunday at Deer Valley. Young Dubliners, Swagger, Wailing O'Sheas, California Celts, Slaymaker Hill and more. The festival is from noon to 8pm, featuring food, dancing, and games. $15 adults, and $5 kids.

It's harvest time, which means the Downtown Farmers Market is now open Tuesdays in addition to the Saturday morning market. An all-produce market at Pioneer Park from 4-8pm through October 12.

More and more of Salt Lake is playing Geeks Who Drink each week, but I know there are more people who need to come out and enjoy. Read Alicia Greenleigh's article in the Salt Lake Tribune, it will help you get to know the game, and show that you don't need to be a "geek" to play. Also, be sure to put August 18 in your calendar, which is the big Simpsons quiz. A whole night of Simpsons questions, and cash prizes. $5 per person to enter, up to 6 people per team, and be there early to guarantee you can play.

Russian rock group Mumiy Troll is in town Wednesday night, August 4. Tickets are only $16, they'll be playing around 10pm.

Get out, enjoy the city, and share this with your friends. Help everyone in Salt Lake (the SL,UT) experience something new.

Around the SL,UT July 23

2010-07-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

Isn't it time to head out to the ball game? Our Salt Lake Bees are home and tickets begin as low as $8. Games begin nightly at 7:30pm for the next week. Fireworks after the game Friday and Saturday night, or spend the afternoon at the stadium Sunday when the game begins at 2:30pm.

Utah's own Neon Trees are in Provo tonight (Friday) at Velour 7:30pm. Paper Tongues, Civil Twilight, and Pacific Hurt will be opening for them, and tickets are only $15.

Sunday, Reggae on the Mountain takes over the Gallivan Center (yes, even while the main stage is under construction). From noon to 10pm, many reggae acts will take the stage, including Don Carlos, Dub Tonic Kru, Codi Jordan Band, and more. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the gate.

Or, come out to Brewvies for the free Geekshow Podcast movie night. They will be showing Jaws and Piranha, beginning at 5pm. It's an audience participation movie, so prepare your wittiest riffs and laugh along with the crowd.

The Ataris are at Kilby Court with Gasoline Heart and American Attic Monday, July 26 7pm. If the name doesn't ring a bell, they're the ones who do the killer remake of The Boys of Summer. Tickets only $14, and it's Margarita Monday up the road at Frida Bistro. Enjoy any of their incredible gourmet margaritas for only $5.

Also on Monday, Steven Fales (creator of Confessions of a Mormon Boy) returns to Salt Lake for a special musical review with Melissa Pace Tanner. Tickets for Mormon American Princess are $15, show is at The Tavernacle 7pm.

Silversun Pickups are back in town, headlining their own tour at The Rail Event Center. Show starts at 7pm, tickets $26. The Henry Clay People will be opening for them.

Wednesday, July 28 is City Weekly free movie night at Brewvies. This month, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Movie begins at 8pm, arrive early. Or, swing over to Piper Down for Geeks Who Drink, the state's most popular pub quiz, and biggest event every Wednesday night. Quiz begins at 7:30pm, hosted by yours truly, and free to play. Win prizes, up to a $50 bar tab, and enjoy a great laid-back team event.

Grab your blankets, picnic baskets, and see Goonies free outside on the state capitol lawn Thursday night. Movie begins at dusk. Alternately, for a loud, inexpensive, and wild night of music, get your tickets now for The Reverend Horton Heat for only $5! Tickets go up to $20 day of the show, so be sure to get yours now.

Beginning next Friday, Rock Docs at Pioneer Park. Next week, Under the Great Northern Lights, the story of the White Stripes. These are free movies each Friday in August.

Next Sunday, August 1, The Irish Music Festival at Deer Valley. Young Dubliners, Swagger, Wailing O'Sheas, California Celts, Slaymaker Hill. Food, dancing, and games. Tickets are $15, children only $5. Get your tickets in advance at Piper Down.

Anything you want to share with Salt Lake? Let me know. Comments are always welcome, and if you're looking to promote your event I'm always available. WWJDinSLC (at) gmail.

Around the SL,UT July 16, 2010

2010-07-16T10:05:00.000-07:00

Guy Seidel works hard to make you laugh, and avoids the cheap humor of poop jokes. He's headlining Wiseguys Trolley Square this weekend with four shows, 8 & 10pm, Friday & Saturday. Tickets are $10 at the door.

Tower Theater has a lot of great film this weekend. Friday & Saturday night the midnight movie will be The Big Lebowski. Film starts at 11pm each night, then Sunday at noon, and is only $5. On Monday, there is a documentary double-feature and Q&A with director Bob Ray. He will be showing his films, Hell on Wheels (about the resurgence of roller derby) and his newest film Total Badass, followed by a Q&A session that includes members of the Salt City Derby Girls. Only $8.50 for the double feature, begins at 7pm.

Have you ever seen 75 llamas? At a time? You probably think that is an odd question, but it is truly a sight to behold. It's the 16th Annual Llama Fest in Spanish Fork Saturday, July 17. Festival begins at 4pm, and is $3 for adults, $1 for kids. More than 4,000 attendees each year see the llama obstacle course, learn about the long-necked creature, and enjoy many other activities.

Ben Folds will be performing with the Utah Symphony in Deer Valley Saturday night. Show starts at 7:30pm, tickets are still available, beginning at $35.

Local band, The Devil Whale, is releasing a new CD at their show Sunday at Subterranean (downstairs at Slowtrain Music) 7pm. $20 admission includes their full length album on limited edition vinyl, latest CD, and much more. This is a great band, and a great deal. You need to go to Slowtrain and pre-order the LP to get your invite for this special event.

90s industrial music is alive, well, and on tour right now. The now-legendary bands, Lords of Acid and My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult are here in Salt Lake Tuesday night. 7pm at In The Venue, tickets are $20.50.

Wednesday night is the celebration of our liberation from private club laws. The 2nd annual City Weekly Pub Crawl is July 21. 10 venues, free buses, and a great way to try new places you've been curious about. Of course, one of the participating venues is Piper Down, where I will be hosting Geeks Who Drink, the most popular pub quiz in Utah. If you want to play the quiz, be to Piper Down before 7pm. It will be a packed night.

Don't forget about all the great outdoor movie and music festivals and ongoing events throughout the summer. If you're looking for great free things to do, look here and here.

Exciting upcoming events!

Malcolm McDowell is coming to Utah for a 40th anniversary screening of A Clockwork Orange 8/6. Tickets available now at 24tix.com.

The Ataris are at Kilby Court 7/26, $14.

The big All-Simpsons quiz is 8/18 at Piper Down 7pm. Entry is $5, 1st place will be over $200 for the winning team! Get your team locked in & clear your calendars for that night.

Your comments, requests, and upcoming news are always welcome. Be sure to share these messages with your friends. Every time you tell someone about WWJDinSLC, you make SLC that much cooler.

Around the SL,UT July 9

2010-07-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

I need your input. What can WWJDinSLC do that will blow your mind and make your life better? Let me know on the Facebook forum, or leave a comment here.

What is there to do this weekend? Where do I start? Laughs, charity, pub crawl, derby, Sunday brunch, music, more music, and chicken shit bingo!

Friday night comedy: Levi Rounds & Toy Soup at Mo's Neighborhood Grill (358s West Temple) 10pm. Tickets at the door $10. These guys are truly hysterical, and the show is a must-see. Come out and support your local comedy scene.

Saturday morning is packed full of events. To start the morning off, there is a benefit run at Sugarhouse Park for Haitian children. 8am-noon, there will be a 5K race, and a 1K fun run. There will be raffle prizes from eBay, Marriott, Thanksgiving Point, Slowtrain Records, Salt Lake Bees, Meditrina Restaurant, Christy Moffitt Salon, Fiddler's Elbow Sports Bar and Restaurant, and handcrafted items from Haiti.

Saturday at 12:30pm, Germany takes on Uruguay for the 3rd place World Cup title. Be at Piper Down to watch the match, then afterwards they will begin a bicycle pub crawl poker game. Attendees will be hitting five pubs around downtown, each rider will be dealt a card at each bar. The player to return to Piper Down with the best poker hand wins! Estimated take-off time will be 2pm.

Our Salt City Derby Girls are in action Saturday night with a double-header at the Salt Palace. First bout has the Shaker All-Stars against Arizona Roller Dolls. The second bout will be a clash of the titans with Leave it to Cleavers taking on Death Dealers. Both teams are undefeated this season, so this bout is critical. Tickets are $12 in advance at The Bayou, or $16 at the door.

Sunday, 12:30pm World Cup finals & brunch at Piper Down. Everyone is invited, come meet some new people and enjoy an incredible, affordable Sunday brunch.

All weekend, SLC Jazz Fest at Washington Square (400s State) $16 per day, or $30 for 3-day admission. Children 12 & under free. 4:30-11pm Friday. 3-11pm Saturday & Sunday.

Also this weekend, the Mountain Music Festival at Snowbird Friday-Sunday. Bluegrass and folk music, admission is free, and there are great lodging packages from $79 if you want to make a weekend vacation.

Dale Watson & His Texas Lone Stars performs Monday at Piper Down 9pm $7 no cover for those that arrive before 8pm. There will be chicken-shit bingo throughout the night.

If you don't have tickets to Tuesday's sold out Barenaked Ladies show, & aren't sitting on a small fortune to see Paul McCartney, you still don't need to stay home on Tuesday. The Black Arrows and The Rubes are performing a free concert at Library Square 7pm. If you want to cool off, Geeks Who Drink at The Huddle begins at 8pm & get giant $3 steins all night.

Wednesday night, Or the Whale is in town from San Francisco, playing with The High Beams & Fox Van Cleef at The Urban Lounge. Or the Whale is an alternative country band that is quickly rising to prominence around the country. Our local boys, The High Beams and Fox Van Cleef, both have a great sound that can be enjoyed by all.

There was an incredible turnout for the Twilight Concert series last night, but I can't urge people enough to take a look at the other entertainment options available. For only $10, see Teenage Bottlerocket, Banner Pilot, The Hang Ups, and The Mooks at Kilby Court. Sure, it's not free, but you'll be able to see the bands, hear them, and won't have to compete with thousands of people running into you all night.

Minus the Bear is playing In The Venue Thursday night with Everest and Mini Mansions, 8pm. Tickets are only $20. They've been all over the radio, and on Jimmy Kimmel Live.

Or if you're just looking for cheap drinks & entertainment, head over to Club DJ's for the K-Town Comedy Tour. Thursday, 8pm, only $2.John Hilder headlining! Featuring"the baby gorilla" Bacio and Braxton McCoy! Hosted by Steve McInelly!

There are always plenty of entertainment options, and the place to find them is here. Tell your friends, family, complete strangers, and random hipsters about WWJDinSLC so everyone knows the places to be (rather than all ganging up on one event every week).

Sharing not only makes you sexier, it makes you immortal.

More summer festivals in Salt Lake City

2010-07-05T08:24:00.000-07:00

There's never a shortage of fun in Salt Lake, and summertime brings many great options to enjoy great film, music, and more. Here are a few more great summer festivals going on that you can enjoy every week, absolutely free. This is part 2 of my summer festivals guide.

Snowbird Cool Air Concert Series
It's hot outside, but a short drive up to Snowbird can cool you down. Each Saturday through August 14, there is a show beginning at 6pm. The weekend of July 10-11 is the Mountain Music Festival and features several acoustic acts throughout each day. Shannon Whitworth July 17, Fictionist July 24, The Mother Hips July 31, Micky & The Motorcars August 7, Vinyl Club August 14. Admission for all these concerts is free. There are food carts around the event center, and several restaurants on the property, but for a real treat I recommend making a visit to Bohemian Brewery: 94 east 7200 south. Conveniently located off I-15 & I-215, they have great beers and incredible food.

Cary Grant movies at Gallivan Center
Gallivan Center may be mostly torn up, but that's not stopping the annual tradition of classic movies on Monday nights. This year, Cary Grant films. The films start at 9pm, bring pillows, chairs, and other things to make yourself comfortable. July 5th: An Affair to Remember. July 12th: Charade. July 19th: His Girl Friday. July 26th: Father Goose.
Less than a block away, grab a pizza at Este Pizzeria (156e 200s) to enjoy before or during the movie.

Twilight Concert Series
This concert series has been one of the most anticipated events each summer. Every Thursday from July 8-August 26, two bands take the stage for a free show. Lineup for this year: 7/8: Modest Mouse, Avi Buffalo. 7/15: Girl Talk, Memory Tapes. 7/22: Beirut, Twin Sister. 7/29: The New Pornographers, The Dodos. 8/5: Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Jamie Lidell. 8/12: Matisyahu, Karl Denson's Tiny Universe. 8/19: Big Boi, Chromeo. 8/26: She & Him, Dum Dum Girls. There are local food vendors at the show, gates open at 5pm, and show starts at 7pm.
Be sure to visit Bruges Waffles & Frites: 336 west 300 south. This is a treat unlike anything you've ever eaten, unless you've been to Belgium. Only open until 7pm on Thursday, so hit this up first and wander over to see the music.

Hidden Hollow Concert Series
Tucked away in plain sight, Hidden Hollow is right in the middle of the bustling Sugarhouse Commons shopping center. Every other Friday, there will be a free concert at 7pm. 7/9: James Shook, Colin Robison. 7/23: John Henry, Jinga Boa. 8/6: Desert Noises, The Continentals. 8/20: Libbie Linton, Fictionist. 9/3: Rakatanka, La Farsa. 9/17: Will Sartain, S.L.A.J.O. There will be BBQ available to purchase at the concert, or enjoy nearby local eats like Masala Indian Grill: 2223 south Highland Dr.

The Canyons Summer Concerts
The Canyons resort also has their free concerts beginning July 17 and running each Sautrday from 6-8:30pm until August 29. Grab your friends, some blankets, and carpool up to Park City to enjoy great bands like Cracker on August 7. 7/17: Big Light. 7/24: Big Sam's Funky Nation. 7/31: Langhorne Slim. 8/14: Railroad Earth. 8/21: Dangermuffin. 8/28: Chuck Prophet.

Rock Docs at Pioneer Park
Friday nights from July 30 through August 27 there will be a rock documentary in Pioneer Park. July 30: Under Great White Northern Lights about The White Stripes. August 6: Soul Power, about a 1974 performance of the greatest R&B acts visiting Zaire. August 13: Strange Powers: Stephin Merritt and The Magnetic Fields. August 20: Heavy Metal in Baghdad a 2006 documentary of a metal band in Iraq. (August 27 film tba).

Around the SL,UT July 2

2010-07-02T13:55:00.000-07:00

Local boys gone big-time, Royal Bliss are off the road and back in town. They're at Liquid Joe's tonight with Broke City, The Vision, and Codi Jordan. Show starts at 8pm, and admission is $10.

One of my all-time favorite movies: Rear Window is the midnight movie at Tower Theater tonight & tomorrow, with noon screenings Saturday & Sunday. The classic Hitchcock tale is only $5.

Come support KRCL and local music Saturday night at Kilby Court. It's the release party for their Weird You Out Vol. 1 collection of bands who are leading the Utah County garage band scene. The Clear Coats, Neighborhood Zero, Broken Spells, Crumpler, Big Trub, & Onan Spurtz will perform. Admission is $8 and includes a download of the album. Show starts at 7pm.

Not everyone is blowing their fireworks a day early. Sunday fireworks will happen at a few places. In Park City, you can enjoy the Park Silly market during the day, and fireworks at night. Jordan Park (International Peace Garden) is hosting the People's Market during the day, and will have a firework show in the evening. Best of all, check out our Salt Lake Bees for a Sunday evening game followed by fireworks. Tickets for Bees start at $8.

Monday night, Urban Lounge has three great local bands: Vile Blue Shades, Future of the Ghost, and Tolchock Trio at 9pm, for only $6.

Geeks Who Drink continues to grow, and they have just announced a special event for August 18. An all-Simpsons quiz! It will be different from a regular event, as there is a $5 cover which will go towards a bigger grand prize for the night. Be sure to mark your calendars, if you love The Simpsons you won't want to miss this. Of course, there are now three nights of great pub quiz action. If you haven't been, you should know:

Open to anyone, you don't need to be a geek, hold a PhD, or have super-powers to play
Big prizes for winners, and costs nothing to play. Just show up.
Quizzes are a great no-pressure social activity. You don't have to embarrass yourself like karaoke.

Monday night quiz is at A Bar Named Sue, 8pm.

Tuesday night quiz is at The Huddle, 8pm.

Wednesdays quiz is at Piper Down, 7pm (quiz starts at 7:30pm sharp, but get here early).

Thursday is the beginning of the Twilight Concert series, which is being held at Pioneer Park this year. July 8 will be Modest Mouse and Avi Buffalo. Shows start at 6pm, and are free as always. Keep an eye out for the Summer Festival part 2 blog coming in the next few days.

Next weekend we've got the Mountain Music Fest at Snowbird, Haiti's Kids 5K & fun run charity event at Sugarhouse Park, Obon Dance Festival at Salt Lake Buddhist temple, and the Salt City Derby Girls vs. Arizona Roller Dolls.

Next time someone remarks how boring Salt Lake is, or asks if there's anything to do tonight, tell them to check out WWJDinSLC, the Salt Lake guide for the rest of us.

Special deal for Saturday's Voyeur tickets!

2010-06-29T10:47:00.000-07:00

Big thanks to City Deals for securing this offer for us.

Saturday's Voyeur is the perennial celebration of all the quirks & complexities of Utah's culture. They lampoon all the current events, political mis-steps, and other such nonsense of the past year.

Available right now, exclusively here, $54 tickets for only $25.

Get yours today before they sell out.

Around the SL,UT June 25

2010-06-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

It's Arts Fest weekend, but the fun doesn't stop there. Here are a selection of the great events happening this weekend & beyond around Salt Lake, UT. It's the guide for the rest of us.

The Utah Arts Festival features over 100 visual artists, over 100 performing artists, food, beer, and wine. There are craft activities for the kids, and fun for all ages. The Festival is open through Sunday, from noon to 11pm at Library Square and Washington Square (between State St & 300e, 400s to 500s). Admission is $10, kids under 12 are free. On your way out of the fest each day you can pick up 2-for-1 passes for the next day. You can also save $2 off admission by riding your bike. There is a TRAX stop right outside the festival, so take the University line and exit at Library Station to avoid the need for a parking spot.

Friday night entertainment options are plentiful and diverse. Club Vegas has Hank III, the country metal performer who is the grandson of Hank Williams. Tickets are $16, 8pm. One of my favorite bands on heaven & earth, Paul Jacobsen & The Madison Arm are performing at Kilby Court with Jeremy Jay, and the Mighty Sequoyah. Show starts at 7pm, tickets should be around $6-7 (price was still not available).

The Salt Lake City Film Festival fundraiser is Saturday, June 26 at Kilby Court from noon-6pm. There will be food and live music. Admission is only $5, and includes great local food, and drinks. There will be raffles for a new Lovesac, and many other great prizes. Come support this great organization, and the SLC Film Fest which takes place in August.

Saturday night, hip-hop artist Heavyweight Dub Champion is playing two shows. First up at Snowbird for a free Cool-Air Concert at 6pm, and then he'll be down at The State Room with local group Afro Omega at 9pm, tickets are $15. If you're into some hard-hitting action, Wasatch Roller Derby is taking on the Slaughterhouse Derby Girls from Colorado at Taylorsville Rec Center (4948s 2700w) at 4:30pm, tickets will be $12 at the door.

Sunday night, The Daniel Day Trio will be playing at the Arts Fest. If you don't make it to the fest for any other reason, these guys are worth the trip. They play incredible instrumental jazz versions of hits from Led Zeppelin and The Beatles to Snoop Dogg and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Their show will be at 9pm.

Monday at Red Butte Garden we have JJ Grey & Mofro, Tod Snider, Great American Taxi for a very cool night of folk and alternative country. Mellow out after a Monday in the office, show starts at 7pm, tickets are $33.

Check out a great article by City Weekly's Scott Renshaw about Geeks Who Drink and the growth of pub quizzes in the SL,UT. There are now 5 quizzes at various venues, including those hosted by yours truly at The Huddle on Tuesdays, and Piper Down on Wednesdays. What better way to spend your evening than winning prizes for random knowledge?

Very cool event on Tuesday, The New Improvised Music Festival features many great jazz musicians including: John Henry, SLAJO, The Orbit Group, Joshua Payne Orchestra, Chase Baird Group, and more at Kilby Court. Doors open at 5:30pm, $6.

Wednesday night you can see the Best of the 48 hour Film Fest at The Organ Loft (3331s 150e) 6:30-10pm, tickets only $8.50. This is a showcase of films made by local filmmakers who had 48 hours to write, film, and edit an orignal short film.

The perennial lampooning of all things Utah begins June 30, Saturday's Voyeur takes the stage for another look at the comical nature of Utah culture, politics, and more. Tickets start at $44 and sell out quickly, but keep your eye on WWJDinSLC as I'll have a limited supply of tickets for only $29.99 available soon. I'll be announcing on the blog, Facebook, and Twitter as soon as they're available.

A selection of cheap drinks that don't suck. Yes, you can drink in Salt Lake!
Friday: $3 cosmos at Circle Lounge (328s State)
Saturday: $4 micro steins at The Fox Hole (7078s Redwood)
Sunday: $5 pitchers, $2 bloody Mary's at Willie's Lounge (1716s Main)
Monday: $3.50 Micro steins at Poplar Street (242s 200w)
Tuesday: $2 Corona, $3 Cuervo Silver at Green Pig (31e 400s)
Wednesday: $7 Uinta pitchers at A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland)
Thursday: $3 steins, $2 whiskey at Johnny's on Second (161e 200s)

Around the SL,UT June 18, 2010

2010-06-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

Summertime in the SL,UT is a time where the entertainment is larger than life, and what's bigger than... The Backstreet Boys? Not a joke, they're here Wednesday, June 23 at ESA. But that's not all that's happening Around the SL,UT.

In a metal mood? Fuse.tv's Slave to the Metal Music Fest is happening tonight and tomorrow at Club Vegas. Shows start at 6pm, and are $12 at the door. 14 bands will be featured each night, including Blood of Saints, Separation of Self, and much more. If that's a bit too much head-banging for you, and you'd rather buy Two Tickets to Paradise (or any quantity), Eddie Money is at the Sandy Ampitheater tonight (Friday, June 18) for $15-25.

What's better than a beer with your friends? How about a Brewfest in the beautiful setting of Snowbird! From noon-8pm there will be live music and all the Utah breweries serving up a selection of their best beers. Admission is free, samples are $1 for 3oz. There will also be food and several craft vendors.

Come down from the mountain and finish your evening with some Cake. Tickets are still available for the Saturday, June 19 Utah Arts Festival Summer Solstice Show featuring Cake. Show starts at 8pm, gates at 7pm, tickets are $35 and include 2-for-1 passes to the Arts Fest June 24-27.

The Salt Lake undead community is growing, and that means we need to organize them into a Zombie Pub Crawl. Sat, June 19th, join the zombies in a pub crawl beginning at Bayleaf Cafe (6pm), and finishing the night at Burt's Tiki Lounge for live horror-core music. Costumes highly encouraged, eating brains is optional.

A few great bands are in town for what will be incredible shows. Sunday, June 20, Cage the Elephant is at The Depot with 22-20s and Autovaughn. Tickets are only $20. Monday, June 21 we have Local H at Urban Lounge with locals I Am The Ocean. Show starts at 9pm, tickets are only $12. Then Tuesday, June 22, it's Concrete Blonde at The Depot. They're playing with killer singer/songwriter Jim Bianco, tickets are $30. Thursday, June 24, Slightly Stoopid is in town with The Expendables. Show is at The Depot, and tickets are $30.

Big thanks to City Weekly for their coverage of Geeks Who Drink this week. Check out the article, and if you haven't been out to a pub quiz, you won't believe what you're missing.

Thursday, June 24 is the opening day of the Utah Arts Fest. The 4-day fest is always a favorite for attendees, featuring arts, crafts, demonstrations, and entertainment. Poetry slams, comedy, dance, film, and live music from local and national bands. If you're an iPhone or iPad user, there's even an app for the fest.

Need bargain beers, affordable cocktails, and other cheap drinks that don't suck? Here are the weekly drink specials:
Friday: $1 cocktails at The Star Bar (268 Main St. Park City)
Saturday: $3 vodka Red Bull, $2 Red Stripe, $2 Modelo at Green Pig (31e 400s)
Sunday: $2 mimosas, $3 bloody Mary's at Poplar Street Pub (242s 200w)
Monday: $2 cocktails at Johnny's on Second (165e 200s)
Tuesday: $5 cerebral assassins at Burt's Tiki Lounge (726s State)
Wednesday: $1 sake, 2/1 sushi at Circle Lounge (328s State)
Thursday: $3 whiskey sour at Club Vegas (445 s 400w)

Keeping you in the know, curing boredom, and saving Salt Lake's reputation as a place for entertainment, great food, and nightlife. Keep the dream spreading, and help make the SLC even cooler by sharing this with friends. We've only just begun this mission.

Summer festivals and events in Salt Lake City

2010-06-16T16:26:00.000-07:00

Although mother nature has been giving us mixed signals, it is summertime. That means there are free concerts, markets, and many more outdoor events happening around our beloved SL,UT. So where are these free events happening, and what else should you do when you're in the area?

Music at Main
Tuesday nights until August 17, the Salt Lake City Main Library will have two bands at the Library Square amphitheater. Shows begin at 7pm. Many of Salt Lake's favorite local bands will be playing, including Palace of Buddies, Tolchock Trio, Fox Van Cleef, Hello Amsterdam, and more. Full lineup here.
A few great places to dine within walking distance:
Thai Lotus: 212 east 500 south. One of the best, and most affordable Thai restaurants in Utah. Open for dinner from 5-9pm.
Stoneground: 249 east 400 south. Pizza, pasta, and sandwiches. Open until 11pm.
Salt Lake Roasting Company: 320 east 400 south. Whether you want coffee, dessert, a snack, or just somewhere to hang out before or after the show. Open until midnight.

Jazz at the Olympic Legacy Plaza (Gateway)
Each Thursday there is live jazz next to the fountains in the Olympic Legacy Plaza in The Gateway. Local and national touring acts will be featured, beginning at 6:30pm. Concerts will be held until July 29th.
Of course there are many restaurants in the Gateway, but you're also a short walk away from some incredible local eats:
Caputo's Market: 314 west 300 south. Salt Lake is truly blessed to have Caputo's. A great market, and one of the best Italian restaurants in the area. Open until 9pm for dinner.
Bruges Waffles & Frites: 336 west 300 south. This is a treat unlike anything you've ever eaten, unless you've been to Belgium. Only open until 7pm on Thursday, so hit this up first and wander over to see the music.
Ekamai: 336 west 300 south. Grab your Thai to go. This small eatery serves up tasty food quickly. Perfect for a casual, on-the-go meal. Open until 9pm.

Downtown Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning at 8am, Pioneer Park is filled with local farmers and artisans. Plenty of food on site, and across the street from the previously mentioned Caputo's, Bruges, and Ekamai. Market is open from 8am-1pm.
For a great dining experience, made with ingredients bought from the Farmers Market and other local sources, visit Tin Angel Cafe at 356 west 400 south, just south of the market.

People's Market
Sunday is the day for Salt Lake City People's Market at Jordan Park (International Peace Gardens). Featuring local agriculture, artisan goods, live music, and more. Open each Sunday from 10am-3pm.
Just a mile up the road from Jordan Park you can find yourself at Red Iguana 2. Located at 866 west South Temple. Or the original Red Iguana at 736 west North Temple.

Get out and enjoy these great events every week, and remember to eat local!

Around the SL,UT June 11, 2010

2010-06-11T09:05:00.000-07:00

A little something for everyone this weekend. Want to stay cool and relax? Damn! These Heels Film Festival runs through Sunday at Tower Theatre. Enjoy some of the best LGBT films, each screening $5 (8: The Mormon Proposition sold out). Check out the full screening schedule.

Want to get medieval with the Scots? This is the weekend for the Utah Scottish Festival and Highland Games at Thanksgiving Point. Watch the feats of strength such as caber toss, browse arts and crafts, enjoy activities and food. Friday 5-10pm ($8 adults, $5 kids), Saturday 9am-10pm ($12 adults, $7 kids).

Or if the macabre is more your fancy, it's the 10th annual Dark Arts Festival at Area 51. A collection of music, dance, fashion, films, art, and more nightly Friday-Sunday. $10 Friday (doors at 8pm), $12 Saturday (doors at 5pm), $15 Sunday (doors at 8pm), or $25 for 3-day full admission. Whether you're a devoted Wiccan, or just dabbling in the darker side of entertainment, there will be plenty to see and do.

Utah's very own The Devil Whale is releasing their new CD Friday night at Kilby Court (all ages) 6:30pm, with Red Bennies, Allred, Ask For the Future, & Fictionist. Tickets are $6. Or catch them Saturday at Urban Lounge with The Future of the Ghost, & The Head and the Heart. Urban Lounge show opens at 9pm, $6.

Wake up early Saturday morning, because it's the opening day for the Downtown Farmers Market at Pioneer Park. Open at 8am, featuring local foods, entertainment, and more. While you're up, remember to get your tickets to Phoenix, which will be available at 10am from 24tix.com.

Saturday night is a double-header for the Salt City Derby Girls. First they take on FoCo Girls Gone Derby from Fort Collins, CO. The second bout will be Leave it to Cleavers trying to maintain their 2+ year undefeated streak as they take on Bomber Babes. Bout starts at 6pm, tickets $16.

Sunday, June 13 is the opening day for The People's Market at Jordan Park (International Peace Gardens). It's Salt Lake's only Sunday farmers' and craft market. Opens from 10am-3pm each Sunday through October 24.

Psychedelic/rock band The Brian Jonestown Massacre is at Urban Lounge Monday, June 14, 9pm. Tickets are $15.

Coming up next Saturday: Brewfest at Snowbird! Free admission, and $1 3 oz samplers from every major brewer in Utah. Also, don't forget, tickets are still available for Cake June 19th.

Want the best value in drinks in SLC? Here are the spots to get your cheap drinks each night.
Friday: $2.50 microbrew pints at The Fox Hole (7078s Redwood)
Saturday: 13 different shots for only $3 each at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Monday: $3 kamikazes $2 pints at The Point After (5445s 900e)
Tuesday: $3 vodka, gin, & Jim Beam drinks at The Huddle (2400e Ft. Union)
Wednesday: $2 shots of whiskey at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)
Thursday: $2.50 micro pints at The Green Pig (31e 400s)

Coming soon to WWJDinSLC: all your summer festivals, concerts, and how to best enjoy them. Keep checking back, subscribe, and tell your friends to join in the WWJDinSLC movement to best enjoy everything Salt Lake has to offer. Sharing is divine.

Around the SL,UT June 4, 2010

2010-06-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

It's Pride Weekend! Festival grounds open Saturday morning, and there will be fabulous parties and festivities all weekend, and for the best insider info, check out Princess Kennedy's Pride essentials from IN This Week.

Want to enjoy movies under the stars? As you wish. Free movies in the park Friday nights begin tonight at Liberty Park with The Princess Bride. Booths will open at 8pm, and the movie will start at dusk. Each week, a new movie, and a new park. 6/11: Star Trek at Lindsey Gardens Park. 6/18: Transformers at Jordan Park. 6/25: Three Amigos at Reservoir Park. 7/2: Field of Dreams at Constitution Park. 7/9: The Blind Side at Fairmont Park. 7/16: Napoleon Dynamite at Wasatch Hollow Park.

Ogden Bluegrass Fest is also happening this weekend at Ft. Buenaventura in Ogden. $20 admission per day, or $40 for the weekend. Don't want to drive? Take Frontrunner, and the festival will have a shuttle from the train station every time the train arrives. More info and band lineup on the website.

Salty Streets Flea Market is back at Kilby Court this Sunday, June 6. Live music, vendors, and a skate ramp from noon to 6pm, admission is only $2. Come support local artists and vendors.

The Downtown Farmers market opens 6/12, but the party begins Monday. Squatters is hosting a "Gather with the Growers" party on Monday, June 7 from 5-8pm. There will be food, entertainment, and more. Read all about it from the SLC Fresh Foods Examiner.

Geeks Who Drink is now happening three nights a week in Salt Lake! Monday nights at 8pm at A Bar Named Sue, the original Wednesday nights at Piper Down are still the biggest Wednesday night party in SLC, and now Cottonwood Heights gets their own night. Tuesday at 8pm, the live pub quiz will be at The Huddle (2400 east Ft. Union Blvd). Whether you're a sports geek, history geek, pop culture geek, or just like drinking and laughing, this night of fun & debauchery is for you.

Damn! These Heels Film Fest begins Thursday, June 10. The festival will feature some of the best LGBT films over four days, including Reed Cowan's critically aclaimed 8: The Mormon Proposition. All films will be at Tower Theater, and the full schedule is available on their website.

This Thursday, and every Thursday through July, The Gateway will have free Jazz concerts live in the Olympic Legacy Plaza. Shows run from 6:30-8:30pm and will feature local and touring bands.

Get your cheap drinks on:
Friday: 13 different shots for only $3 each at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Saturday: $2.50 Red Stripe, $4 vodka Red Bull at The Point After (5445s 900e)
Sunday: $1 mimosas at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)
Monday: $1.50 domestic pints at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Tuesday: $2 sessions, $4 flavored martinis at Gracie's (326s West Temple)
Wednesday: $2 pints at Liquid Joe's (801e 3300s)
Thursday: $3 vodka at The Tavernacle (201e 300s)

Next weekend, we've got Jerry Seinfeld, The Dark Arts Festival, The Scottish Festival & Highland Games, Roller Derby, tickets go on sale for Phoenix, and so much more. Be sure to check back for another edition of Around the SL,UT. You can also follow daily events on Twitter or Facebook.

Around the SL,UT May 28, 2010

2010-05-28T10:28:00.000-07:00

Tonight, a couple great choices in music. Local rockers Royal Bliss are about to head out on tour, but will be performing an acoustic show at A Bar Named Sue Friday, May 28. Show starts at 8pm, Spencer Nielsen and members of the Codi Jordan Band will also be performing. Only $5 at the door.

Or you could head over to Piper Down to see Celtic rockers, The Wailing O'Sheas. Show starts at 9pm, $5 cover.

It's also the kick-off weekend of Salt Lake Film Society's Summer of 35mm, the midnight movie fest that will feature classic favorites every weekend. This weekend: Repo! The Genetic Opera, tickets are $10 (selling fast). Get more info on the complete midnight movie lineup here.

Saturday brings us the Extreme Yard Sale at Pioneer Park. From 11am-3pm, households around the valley will be selling their wares in a single location. Afterwards, you can head out to Miller Motorsports Park to enjoy a taste of some previously-used rock. 80s legends show with Styx, Foreigner, and Kansas. Show begins at 6pm, tickets are $35.

Sunday is the 2nd anniversary of the Geek Show Podcast, and they will be celebrating at a free double-feature of Batman & Batman at Brewvies. First, the 1966 Adam West Batman, followed by 1989's Michael Keaton as Batman. Show starts at 5pm.

Kilby Court has a great show Monday, Eluvium, Charles Stanyan, and I Hear Sirens will put on an ambient and melodic show to finish off your Memorial Day weekend. Tickets are $10 at the door.

For a more rowdy Monday night, head to A Bar Named Sue at 8pm for Geeks Who Drink, the pub quiz taking Salt Lake by storm. 8 rounds of questions about pop culture and random knowledge could get you a big cash prize. Geeks Who Drink is also Wednesday nights at Piper Down at 7:30pm, and a third location coming soon on Tuesdays.

Pride Fest is coming next weekend, and Thursday, June 3 is the First Annual Miss City Weekly Pageant. Watch Utah's best drag queens compete for the title at Circle Lounge 9pm. Admission is $5. For all the info about the Pride Fest activities, check out Princess Kennedy's comprehensive article from In This Week.

As if there wasn't enough happening next weekend, we also have the Ogden Bluegrass & Folk Music Fest June 4-6 at Ft. Buenaventura in Ogden. $20 admission per day, or $40 for the weekend. Don't want to drive? Take Frontrunner, and the festival will have a shuttle from the train station every time the train arrives. More info and band lineup on the website.

Cheap drink spots seven days a week in Salt Lake:
Friday: $3 Carolina sweet tea at The Tavernacle (201e 300s)
Saturday: $4 microbrew steins at The Fox Hole (7078s Redwood)
Sunday:$1 drafts at Paper Moon (3737s State)
Monday: $2 cocktails at Johnny's on Second (165e 200s)
Tuesday: $2 whiskey shots at A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland)
Wednesday: $4 rum drinks at Sky Bar (600s 200w)
Thursday: $2.50 microbrew pints at Green Pig (31e 400s)

This is just a small portion of everything happening around Salt Lake, check the full calendar, follow on Twitter, or join the Facebook page to get daily updates. If this is helping you kill boredom, don't you think it would make you a savior to share with a friend? Pass this on, help everyone know what's happening Around the SL,UT.

Around the SL,UT May 21, 2010

2010-05-21T08:41:00.000-07:00

Here's a taste of what's happening in the saltiest of cities. It's another episode of Around the SL,UT, the Salt Lake events guide for the rest of us.

The Living Traditions Festival begins today, and runs daily through Sunday night. It will feature folk and ethnic arts, music, crafts, dancers, and food. Admission is free. Check the website for a full listing of the entertainment and activities schedule.

If hard-hitting sport is more your thing, the National High School & U-19 Rugby championships are at Rio Tinto Stadium Friday-Sunday. Gates open at 10am daily, admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students (with ID), and under 5 are free.

It's a night of comedy at Mo's Neighborhood Grill, Friday, 10pm. Improv group, Toy Soup is performing, along with Levi Rounds, and Christopher Stephenson. Admission is $10.

Rockfest takes over Ogden Saturday, beginning at 11am. 80s group LA Guns will be there along with Ghostowne, The Street, Supersofar, A Balance of Power, Jezus Rides a Ricksha, Ravings of a Madman, and more at Ogden Ampitheater for only $10. It's a day of hair-rock & metal.

How does an American Idol-style talent show work in a war-torn nation? See the stunning documentary Afghan Star at the main Salt Lake Library Sunday at 2pm. RSVP and get more info here.

This Sunday is the finale of LOST, and Big Shiny Robot is hosting a viewing on the big screen at Brewvies. Starts at 7pm, and admission is free, so arrive early. Have lunch, dinner, and a few pitchers.

There are now two days of the week to enjoy Geeks Who Drink. Monday nights at A Bar Named Sue at 8pm with Quizmaster Boba Fatt, and Wednesday at 7:30pm at Piper Down with yours truly.

The "biggest" star to come out of Last Comic Standing is in town. Ralphie May has two shows, Monday & Tuesday (May 24-25) at Wiseguys West Valley. Shows at 7pm, admission is $20. Then on Thursday and Friday, Alonzo Bodden is at Wiseguys Trolley Square at 8 & 10pm both nights. Tickets are $20.

The documentary about what is arguably the worst film ever made (and aren't we proud it was made in Utah?), Troll 2. Best Worst Movie begins showing at Tower Theatre Friday May 28th. The cast will be there to celebrate Friday & Saturday. Check the Tower Theatre website for screen times (not posted yet). Speaking of Tower, the Summer of 35mm begins next weekend. Classic and cult midnight movies every weekend. Read more about the midnight movies here.

Need a drink, and wallet's feeling light? Here is Drinking Around the SL,UT
Friday: $2 Corona $3 Cuervo Silver at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Saturday: $3 steins at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)
Sunday: $2 Bloody Mary, $3 mimosas at Gracie's (326s West Temple)
Monday: $2 Corona $2 tequila shots at Lumpy's (145w Pierpont)
Tuesday: $2 Tecates, $4 1800 Silver, $8 AYCE tacos at Sandbar (122w Pierpont)
Wednesday: $7 Uinta pitchers at A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland)
Thursday: $2 Jack Daniels, Capt Morgan at Willie's Lounge (1716s Main)

There's much more happening, check the full calendar (in the right column) for everything worth doing in Salt Lake. Be sure to share this with your friends, fans, followers, and everyone else who is looking for things to do Around the SL,UT.

Cult movies at Tower Theatre all summer

2010-05-20T10:27:00.000-07:00

Salt Lake Film Society is always bringing us the best in cinema. Thanks to them, we are able to see many movies that never get the major commercial attention they deserve. This summer, they will also entertain us with a series of classic movies we all know and love. Here is the lineup for the summer of midnight movies.

REPO! THE GENETIC OPERA (Darren Lynn Bousman 2008), May 28 & 29
$10 admission and includes live shadow cast stage-show
A worldwide epidemic encourages a biotech company to launch an organ-financing program similar in nature to a standard car loan. The repossession clause is a killer, however.

MULHOLLAND DRIVE (David Lynch 2001), June 4 & 5
After a car wreck on the winding Mulholland Drive renders a woman amnesic, she and a perky Hollywood-hopeful search for clues and answers across Los Angeles in a twisting venture beyond dreams and reality.

ZOMBIES OF MASS DESTRUCTION (Kevin Hamedani 2009), June 11 & 12
Life is wonderful for the people in the quiet, island town of Port Gamble....until a zombie virus outbreak!

PURPLE RAIN (Albert Magnoli 1984), June 18 & 19
A young man with a talent for music has begun a career with much promise. He meets an aspiring singer, Apollonia, and finds that talent alone isn't all that he needs. A complicated tale of his repeating his father's self destructive behavior, losing Apollonia to another singer (Morris Day), and his coming to grips with his own connection to other people ensues.

A CLOCKWORK ORANGE (Stanley Kubrick 1971), June 25 & 26
In future Britain, charismatic delinquent Alex DeLarge is jailed and later volunteers for an experimental aversion therapy developed by the government in an effort to solve society's crime problem... but not all goes to plan.

REAR WINDOW (Alfred Hitchcock 1954), July 2 & 3
A wheelchair bound photographer spies on his neighbors from his apartment window and becomes convinced one of them has committed murder.

FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS (Terry Gilliam 1998), July 9 & 10
An oddball journalist and his psychopathic lawyer travel to Las Vegas for a series of psychedelic escapades.

THE BIG LEBOWSKI (Joel Coen 1998), July 16 & 17
"Dude" Lebowski, mistaken for a millionaire Lebowski, seeks restitution for his ruined rug and enlists his bowling buddies to help get it.

SOME LIKE IT HOT (Billy Wilder 1959), July 23 & 24
When two musicians witness a mob hit, they flee the state in an all female band disguised as women, but further complications set in.

ALIEN (Ridley Scott 1979), July 30 & 31
A mining ship, investigating a suspected SOS, lands on a distant planet. The crew discovers some strange creatures and investigates.

THX 1138 (George Lucas 1971), August 6 & 7
Set in the 25th century, the story centers around a man and a woman who rebel against their rigidly controlled society.

FRIDAY the13th (Sean Cunningham 1980), August 13
A group of young adults discover a boarded up Camp Crystal Lake, where they soon encounter Jason Voorhees and his deadly intentions.

GONE WITH THE POPE (Duke Mitchell 2010), August 14
A renowned nightclub entertainer, singer and movie actor known as "Mr. Palm Springs," Mitchell directs and stars in GONE WITH THE POPE as an ex-con who hatches a plan to kidnap the Pope in exchange for the ransom of "a dollar from every Catholic in the world." The movie has been described as "the holy grail for lovers of B-movies" and "a true gem from the American underground."

SCARFACE (Brian De Palma 1983), August 20 & 21, In 1980 Miami, a determined Cuban immigrant takes over a drug empire while succumbing to greed.

JOHN HUGHES TRIBUTE WEEKEND August 27 & 28
FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF (Hughes 1986)
A high school wise guy is determined to have a day off from school, despite of what the principal thinks of that;
SIXTEEN CANDLES (Hughes 1984)
A young girl's "sweet sixteenth" birthday becomes anything but special as she suffers from every embarrassment possible.

All shows at 11pm Fri and Sat nights, and noon on Sat and Sun. Admission is $5 except for REPO! THE GENETIC OPERA, which is $10.

Tower Theatre - 876 east 900 south

Around the SL,UT May 14, 2010

2010-05-14T09:22:00.000-07:00

Great bands, lots of laughs, meet new people at brunch, buy or swap seedlings, and more is happening Around the SL,UT. This is the guide for the rest of us, all about Salt Lake events.

Friday, May 14 is the UTA Bike Bonanza. May is bike month, and the Bike Bonanza will have several vendors, displays, performances, and prizes. Free helmets to the first 75 kids, free water bottles, and chances to win bikes and more. It's from 4-8pm, admission is free.

A great band from Oregon is playing two shows this weekend. Floater is at The State Room Friday night, and an acoustic show Saturday, 9pm. Tickets are $15. Check them out.

The People's Market is holding a seedling swap & sale at International Peace Gardens Saturday, May 15 10am-1pm. If you have seedlings to sell, bring them along, otherwise, come to browse or buy.

Then the action turns up a notch with the Salt City Derby Girls at The Salt Palace. It's a double-header bout where you will get to see all four of the teams on the track. In the first bout, Sisters of No Mercy vs. Leave it to Cleavers, and the second bout puts Death Dealers against Bomber Babes. Tickets are $12 at SmithsTix, and $16 at the door.

It's the monthly Twitter-Brunchup Sunday May 16. This month will be at Diva's Cupcakes & Coffee. Come enjoy good food, cupcakes, and coffee while meeting some new people. RSVP here so we can save you a seat.

Comedian Jim Breuer plays Wiseguys West Valley City this Monday & Tuesday. Best known for his work on Saturday Night Live and The Chappelle Show. Tickets are $20.

Tuesday, 80s glam-rock group Ratt is playing The Depot. The show starts at 9pm, tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. The Depot will be serving dinner before the concert for an additional $19.50, make a reservation for dinner by calling 801-988-2009.

Local comedian & contestant on NBC's Last Comic Standing, Marcus, is filming a 2-hour comedy special at Kingsbury Hall Wednesday, May 19. Tickets are $20, you must arrive early. Doors open at 6pm, once they start filming at 7pm they won't be able to let anyone in.

Geeks Who Drink now has two nights a week. Monday nights at A Bar Named Sue at 8pm, and Wednesday nights at Piper Down 7:30pm. It's free to play, be sure to arrive early to get a table.

See comedian Scott Bennett at Club DJs for only $2. Show starts at 7:30pm, hosted by Steve McInnelly, and featuring Emerson Andrews and Christopher Stephenson. Club DJs has food, drink specials, and plenty of room to stretch out and laugh.

Want a cheap drink that doesn't suck? That's what Drinking Around the SL,UT is all about:
Friday: $2.50 Microbrew pints at The Fox Hole (7078s Redwood)
Saturday: $4 kamikaze at Sky Bar (200w 600s in Red Lion)
Sunday: $3 Microbrew steins at Lumpy's (145 w Pierpont)
Monday: $2 Well drinks at Sandbar (122w Pierpont)
Tuesday: $4 martinis at Gracie's (326s West Temple)
Wednesday: $2 whiskey shots at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)
Thursday: $2 microbrew pints at The Green Pig (31e 400s)

Events & cheap drinks are best when shared. It's always a good time to tell everyone about WWJDinSLC, the Jesus who loves everyone.

Este Pizza

2010-05-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

Special deal available now! 50% off a $25 gift card for Este Pizzeria. Stock up now, and save.

When you need a slice, there is one answer in SLC, and that is Este. Step right off the streets of Salt Lake and into a place that is as good as anywhere in New York City. Giant slices of thin crust, perfect for folding, and topped with the best sauces, cheeses, and toppings.

Every pizza I have had has been great, but I highly recommend the pesto pizza for a taste of something new & unusual. Also, the garlic knots ($4.50) are a must. You can order a pie, or get it by the slice. 14 inch pizzas start at $13 and are worth every penny. There are even many vegan options.

They have import and domestic bottled beer and draft beer from Uintah. Because isn't beer a necessity with a big tasty slice?

For any novices, there are a few rules you must know.

1) No pineapple

2) No ranch

3) No Red Sox attire

4) Eat it or beat it

5) The forks are for pasta, not pizza. Fold it!

Two locations for eat-in, take-out, and delivery.

Around the SL,UT May 7, 2010

2010-05-07T09:51:00.000-07:00

Dining Diversity is now on. Many of Salt Lake's independent restaurants are participating in this event from May 7th through May 23rd. 16 restaurants from Bountiful to Sandy will have special multi-course menu options for $20 or $30 per person.
Here are the participating restaurants for Dining Diversity:
Cannella's - 204 east 500 south
Citrus Grill - 2991 east 3300 south
Fresco Italian Cafe - 1513 south 1500 east
Frida Bistro - 545 west 700 south
Log Haven - 6451 east Millcreek Canyon Road
Meditrina - 1394 south West Temple
Moxi Wine Bistro - 1025 south 500 west (Bountiful)
Pago - 878 south 900 east
Sage's Cafe - 473 east 300 south
Sego Lilly Cafe - 305 north Main Street (Bountiful)
Tiburon - 8265 south 700 east
Cafe Trio Downtown - 680 south 900 east
Cafe Trio Cottonwood - 6405 south 3000 east
Vertical Diner - 2280 south West Temple
The Wild Grape Bistro - 481 east South Temple
Yamasaki - 6055 south 900 east

Aerialists, fire artists, hoop performers, stilt walkers, unicyclists, pole performers, belly dancers, live music, and DJ Danny Dance will be at The Voodoo Carnivale at Murray Theater 8pm Friday, May 7. Admission is only $6, don't miss out on this night of entertainment.

The Utah Renaissance Festival is happening this weekend and next weekend at Millcreek Hollow (just northwest of Ogden). Full contact jousting, magic, and other entertainment along with food & drink vendors, and crafts. Open from 10:00 am - 6:30 pm Friday-Sun (May 7-9, 14-16).

Saturday, May 8 is the Live Green SLC Fest. Organic local foods and beverage. Solar-powered food & beer garden. Eco-chic fashion show. Live music, auctions, kid's activities, plant sale, and much more. From 10:00am- 6pm at Library Square, admission is free.

The band who brought us the most twisted version of the Three Little Pigs is back in action, and here in Salt Lake. Green Jelly is playing Club Vegas with Nashville Pussy and Psychostick. This lineup will put on a hard, and loud show. Saturday night, 8pm, $15 advance tickets, $20 at the door.

Coheed and Cambria are at Saltair this Monday with Circa Survive. 6:30pm, $26.50.

The Heartless Bastards, Amy Cook, and Hacienda are at The State Room Tuesday, 8pm. Tickets are $17 ($14 advance).

Flobots (Handlebars) and Trouble Andrew are at Murray Theater Wednesday 7pm. Tickets are only $13.

Like every Wednesday, Piper Down will be the place to be and be seen. Geeks Who Drink has become one of the biggest parties in the state. Friends, fun, money and other prizes. Quiz starts at 7:30pm, but be sure to be there early to claim your space.

Thursday, May 13, Vincent Lords presents Dirty Little MindZzz: an adults-only X-rated comedy hypnosis show at Club DJs. Tickets are $10, show begins at 8:30pm. Vincent will put audience under his spell, and unleash their wildest dreams.

Where to drink every night? It's Drinking Around the SL,UT:
Friday: $2 Coronas, $3 kamikazes at Area 51 (451s 400w)
Saturday: $3 Steins at Johnny's on Second (165e 200s)
Sunday: $1 mimosas and free bloody Mary bar at Piper Down (1492s State)
Monday: $2 domestic beers, $3 well drinks at Sandbar (145w Pierpont)
Tuesday: $2 whiskey shots at A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland Dr.)
Wednesday: $5 pitchers, $2 Soco, $2 Stoli, $2 gin at Willie's Lounge (1716s Main)
Thursday: $2 micro pints at Green Pig (31e 400s)

Around the SL,UT April 30, 2010

2010-04-30T10:34:00.000-07:00

It's the last couple of days of Dine-O-Round, take advantage of the great dining deals happening at many downtown restaurants. Check this link for a list of participating Dine-O-Round restaurants.

Friday is the tale of two parties. On one end of the spectrum we have Piper Down celebrating it's 7th birthday with Warsaw Poland Brothers and The Heathen Highlanders. No cover, $4.50 Jameson & $3 steins all night. On the other end of the spectrum, a Halfway to Halloween Monster Ball at The Rail. Dress up, enjoy $3 brain hemorrhage shots, $3 vampires, & $3 green spider shots. At 11pm you will See Nova Starr's Platinum Pussy Review.

Saturday, May 1 is Free Comic Book Day. This day is celebrated around the world where participating comic book stores give away comic books absolutely free. Many free editions are published specifically for this event, so collectors and newbies alike can enjoy the art and storytelling of comic books. Check here for a list of participating shops in Salt Lake and Davis Counties.

Celebrate the one-year anniversary of Dance is a Feeling with DJ Danny Dance. To celebrate, he will be teaming up with Stan Zeff for an incredible night of music and dancing at W Lounge (358s West Temple) this Saturday, May 1. Starting at 9pm, $5 cover charge. RSVP and get more information here.

Sunday is the day for unique shopping, and there will be a couple of local craft markets going on. The Salty Streets Flea Market will be held at Kilby Court, it will feature crafts, vintage goods, and live music from Birthquake, Holy Water Buffalo, and DJ Chase One2 will be spinning throughout the day. Entry is $2, open from noon to 6pm. Craft Sabbath will be holding their Mother's Day Show at Nobrow Coffee from noon to 4pm. Over 20 vendors, food from City Dogs Veggie Cart, and music from Spyhop records.

Has it been a while since you visited one of Salt Lake's great museums? Next week is your chance to rectify that. Admission is free to Utah Museum of Natural History (1390e President's Cir. UofU campus) Monday, May 3, and the museum is open until 8pm. Wednesday, May 5 you can visit the Utah Museum of Fine Arts free, also on the UofU campus, 410 Campus Center Dr.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo (Wednesday, May 5) with Frida Bistro as they have the owners of Vida Tequila to discuss tequila tasting and pairing. There will be a pairing of four dishes with the three varieties from Vida Tequila. Make your reservations now, there will be a 6pm & 8:30pm seating and tables are going fast. Call 801-983-6692. Food is $60, and optional tequila tasting is $40.

For a very different Wednesday night, come to Piper Down for an evening of competition, fun, and chicken shit. First, Geeks Who Drink begins at 7:30pm (arrive early!), and it's been the place to be on Wednesdays. Immediately after the quiz, Entourage Karaoke puts you on stage to sing your heart out. Somewhere among all that excitement, they will be holding Chicken-Shit Bingo. Pick a number on the giant bingo board and hope the chicken defecates on your number first. There will be prizes all night, and plenty of fun for everyone.

Next Friday, Flogging Molly is at In The Venue! Friday, May 7 at 7:30pm, tickets are $23.50.

Get your tickets now for the Utah Arts Festival Summer Solstice Concert featuring Cake. The show is June 19 at 8pm (gates open at 7pm). Tickets are $35 (plus $3 service fee) and you receive a 2-for-1 voucher for the Utah Arts Fest.

And now, where to get your cheap-drinks on. It's Drinking Around the SL,UT:
Friday: $3 tequila sunrise at Club Vegas (445s 400w)
Saturday: $3 steins at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)
Sunday: $3 microbrew steins at Lumpy's (145w Pierpont Ave)
Monday: $3 steins, $3 jager at The Woodshed (60e 800s)
Tuesday: $3 tequila, $1.50 pints at The Point After (5445s 900e)
Wednesday: $2 Whiskey at Gino's (3556s State)
Thursday: $2 microbrew pints at The Green Pig (31e 400s)

This message will not self-destruct, so don't be shy, share it with your friends and make sure everyone knows what is happening Around the SL,UT.

Around the SL,UT April 23, 2010

2010-04-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

"Salt Lake is so boring..."?? Anyone who says this obviously isn't reading this blog, because I am having a hard time choosing what to talk about! So much happening, what will you get up to Around the SL,UT?

Friday, April 23: The legendary 80s new-wave band, Public Image Ltd. is playing The Depot at 8pm. Tickets are $32, and still available.
If you're feeling more undead than totally-80s, The Urban Lounge has you covered. Zombie Costume party tonight at 9pm, $5 cover.

Earth Day was this past Thursday, & Astronomy Day is April 24. Let's celebrate the planet! Hogle Zoo is having a Party for the Planet, opening at 10am, bring in a used cell phone to recycle & get $1 off admission. There will be live music, activities for the kids, information booths, and talk with zookeepers throughout the park.
For an interplanetary view, head to Clark Planetarium who is celebrating Astronomy Day with $1 dome shows, science demonstrations, free copies of Astronomy Magazine (while supplies last), and a chance to win a telescope!

Head to the Salt Palace Saturday night, where our Salt City Derby Girls are having a double-header bout beginning 6pm. The all-star Salt City Shakers will take on the Lava City Rollerdolls from Bend, Oregon. Afterwards, Sisters of No Mercy will battle Death Dealers. Roller derby is fast-paced action, admission is $12 in advance, $16 at the door. For ticket outlets & more information, see here.

Sunday, April 25 is the Geekshow Podcast Audience Participation Movie. It's Ape-ril, so they'll be showing Planet of the Apes & Every Which Way But Loose. Movies begin at 5pm at Brewvies (677s 200w), and it's FREE!

SLC Film Center is screening the film Pulling John, free at the Salt Lake Main Library, Monday at 7pm. This film follows local arm-wrestling legend John Brzenk and two young challengers who are pursuing his title.

Wednesday, April 28: I wish I could make this - Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels will be at Brewvies, free admission thanks to City Weekly. Show starts at 8pm.
Or you can come to the big party at Piper Down for Geeks Who Drink. Think you're not "geek" enough, smart enough, or drink enough to compete? Think again! The crowd is as diverse as the questions. Last week's questions went from cleaning products to Indian cuisine, name that WWE wrestler to name that Dude who sings like a lady. Everyone has a chance to walk away with a big $50 or $25 prize, or a sleuth of other prizes throughout the night. Every Wednesday at 7:30pm, & arrive early because it does get packed.

The powerful film about Charles Darwin, Creation, is showing at Broadway Centre Theatre for only one week. 1:05, 4:05, 7:05, 9:30 daily until Thursday, April 29.

Need to drink on a budget? Here is your guide to Drinking Around The SL,UT:
Friday: $2 Corona, $3 kamikazes at Area 51 (451s 400w)
Saturday: $3 vodka Redbull, $2 Red Stripe, $2 Modello at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Sunday: $3 mimosas & bloody Marys at Gracie's (326s West Temple)
Monday: $2 domestic pints, $3 well drinks at Sandbar (145w Pierpont)
Tuesday: $2 pints at The Sky Bar (600s 200w)
Wednesday: $5 pitchers, $2 gin at Willie's Lounge (1716s Main)
Thursday: $3 steins at Johnny's on Second (165e 200s)

Be a savior. Share the good word with your friends, family, even your grandma can find something valuable from WWJDinSLC.

Around the SL,UT April 16, 2010

2010-04-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

It's that time again, to plan our weekend and the coming week. All the essential events around Salt Lake for the week of April 16-23. The guide for the rest of us, it's Around The SL,UT.

Dine O Round begins today. Great dining specials at many of the best downtown restaurants, with fixed prices as low as $5 for a 2-course lunch, and $15 for a 3-course dinner. Check out all the participating locations.

Friday: Daniel Day Trio plays great jazz versions of popular songs. From Nine Inch Nails to Fleetwood Mac, it may take you a moment to recognize the song. I had an opportunity to listen to these guys for several hours last week, and absolutely loved every arrangement they played. They're at The Green Pig tonight, be sure to stop by and enjoy.

Saturday is Record Store Day, so wake up early and head to one of our great local music shops for live music, special releases, and great sales to celebrate the places that bring us great tunes.
Slowtrain has The Devil Whale, The Naked Eyes, The Futurists, and many more acts playing on two stages. In their Subterranean Lounge, they will also be serving great $3 local beers from Red Rock Brewing. Check out all the activities and specials here.

Saturday: Civil Twilight, from Cape Town, South Africa, is at The State Room Saturday night. Inspired by a wide range of influences from Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen, to Thom Yorke and Jeff Buckley, they have a great sound and powerful songwriting. Incredibly, tickets for the show are only $1.01. Show begins at 9pm, opening act is Reni Lane.

Sunday is a day for rest, & I can think of few other ways better than to meet up with some new friends at Lucky 13 for brunch & drinks at noon. At 2pm we'll head across the street to see our Salt Lake Bees take on Tacoma. Tickets begin at $8.

Monday: The Tavernacle is known for their great dueling piano shows, but now Monday nights are Live piano karaoke. You're the star, backed up by their pianos. Beginning at 8pm.

Tuesday: Free foreign film at the main Salt Lake Library. Timecrimes (Los Cronocrimenes) is a story of a simple man who accidentally travels back one hour, and ends up dealing with a series of catastrophic events to save himself and his wife. Film begins at 7pm, admission is free so arrive early.

Wednesday: Really, there is no better way to spend your humpday than at Piper Down where I'm hosting Geeks Who Drink, the pub quiz where everyone has a chance to take the big $50 first prize, or $25 second prize. This week we had the Budweiser Girls providing prizes for many bonus questions throughout the night. Afterwards, there's karaoke. Quiz is from 7:30pm-9:30pm, giving you all a chance to get home for bedtime.

Thursday, April 22: A special Earth Day concert at The Gallivan Center with Train, Hey Monday, and Karl Wolf. Show begins at 5:30pm, tickets are $15.

Next Friday: The 80s return triumphantly with Public Image Limited at The Depot. The band hasn't played a live show for 17 years, but now they're back together with the old favorites and new songs. Show at 8pm, tickets $32.

I know what you're all waiting for, where to get your cheap drinks. The guide to Drinking Around The SL,UT.
Friday: $2.50 micro pints at The Fox Hole (7078s Redwood)
Saturday: $3 steins at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)
Sunday: $2 mimosas, $3 Bloody Mary at Poplar Street (242s 200w)
Monday: $4 Mojitos at Gracie's (326s West Temple)
Tuesday: $2 whiskey shots at A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland Dr.)
Wednesday: $2 pints at Liquid Joe's (1249e 3300s)
Thursday: $2 microbrew pints at The Green Pig (31e 400s)

Remember that sharing makes you look like a savior. Tell your friends all about WWJDinSLC so everyone can enjoy the nightlife and entertainment in Salt Lake. Hit these little buttons below to email, post to Facebook, Twitter, and more!

Around the SL,UT April 9, 2010

2010-04-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

First of all, I want to send a very sincere & humble thank you to everyone who has enjoyed this blog, the tweets & Facebook updates, and especially everyone who took the time to vote for me as Best Local to follow on Twitter in City Weekly's Best of Utah. It's great to know that people are reading & enjoying the updates on everything cool about Salt Lake. Thank you so much, & let me know if there's anything more I can do.

It's time for Utah sports to move into high gear! The Utah Blaze are back, and playing their Arena Football League games at The E-Center. Opening night is tonight, April 9 at 7pm. Tickets start at $10, & if you're not familiar, there is not a bad seat at the E-Center. It truly is a spectator sports arena that gets you close to the action. Tomorrow, April 10, is the home opener for the MLS Champions, our own Real Salt Lake takes on the Seattle Sounders. Tickets start at $15, check out their special opening day deals and ticket packages to enjoy Utah's first pro-champion team! Also, our Utah Grizzlies are in the playoffs, and have games Saturday (7pm), Sunday (4pm), and if necessary Tuesday (7pm). Tickets from $10, front-row seats against the glass are only $32, & these games are action-packed excitement. Remember to vist the Tap Room to get great Wasatch & Uinta beers for only $8.50 for a big 24 oz.

You may know him as the bongo player of The Crazy Dogggz (Flight of the Conchords), heard his voice on Aqua Teen Hunger Force or Dr. Katz Professional Therapist, or you just know that Todd Barry is one of the funniest people on the whole damn planet. He's here Monday, April 12 at Jeanne Wagner Theater. Show starts at 7pm, tickets from $22.50.

You've heard the song Fireflies, as it's become a national phenomena. He has sold out shows from California to London, now Owl City is playing Saltair on Monday, April 12. Tickets are only $18, and still available.

If neither of those Monday events do it for you, & you're craving something beyond bizarre, the SL,UT has that for you. Add hardcore metal to garage trash and you have Captured By Robots. Yes, real robots! At Burt's Tiki Lounge, 8pm, $10. You've never seen anything like this.

Tuesday, April 13 brings us a great show at Kilby Court. Megafaun performs, with Paul Jacobsen & The Madison Arm, and Breathe Owl Breathe. 8pm, & only $8.

Wednesday nights are now controlled by Geeks Who Drink. This pub quiz packed Piper Down in its first night, and the winners walked away with a $50 prize, second place got $25, and several players won great prizes from Piper Down & Geeks Who Drink. This was the biggest quiz night in the nation, so let's make it even bigger! Show everyone that Utah is the place to get drunk & have fun! This event has already become the place to be on Wednesday nights. Quiz runs from 7:30-9:30, then followed by the hottest, craziest karaoke night I've seen.

Dine-O-Round is coming! Beginning April 16, 27 of downtown's finest restaurants will be offering 3-course dinners at $15 or $30 per person, and 2-course lunches for $5 or $10. See the complete list of restaurants and their deals here.

Master illusionist, hypnotist, and one of the coolest people I've met in SLC begins his newest creation that will bend your mind and expand your imagination. Vincent Lords presents Delusional. A combination of mystic mind-games and brilliant comedy. Shows are 7 & 9pm each Saturday night beginning April 17 at the new Sleepwalkers theater inside Castle of Chaos.

Last, but not least, it's where to get your cheap drinks in Salt Lake, UT. Drinking Around the SL,UT.
Friday: $2 Corona, $3 kamikaze at Area 51 (451s 400w)
Saturday: $3 bloody Mary's, $1 mimosas at Johnny's On Second (165 e 200 s)
Sunday: $1 pints, $2 bloody Mary's, $2 mimosas at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Monday: $1.25 PBR, $1.50 kamikaze at The Jackalope (372s State)
Tuesday: $2/$3 steins at Johnny's On Second (165 e 200 s)
Wednesday: $4 Jager bombs & Beer pong tournament at Sandbar (122w Pierpont)
Thursday: $5 PBR tall boy & shot at Lumpy's Downtown (145w Pierpont)

Around the SL,UT April 2, 2010

2010-04-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

They gained fame on America's Got Talent, went on to win America's Best Dance Crew, and are on their way to superstardom with their own show at Las Vegas' MGM Grand, but you can see them for much less than the Vegas ticket price tonight at Salt Lake Community College. JabbaWockeeZ is one of the hottest acts in America and tickets are only $15 ($5 for SLCC students). This is a must-see event!
SLCC - 4600s Redwood Road

Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company performs Cabaret of Fools Saturday, April 3. This is a fundraiser to support the group's education and performances for the upcoming year. It will feature dancing, music, tarot card readings, food from The Tin Angel Cafe and Dolcetti Gelato, and surprise performances from many local entertainers. Tickets are $75 each, sure it's pricy, but goes to a great organization.
Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center - 138 w Broadway (300s)

Get psychedelic with Dead Weather and The Naked Eyes at Urban Lounge, Monday, April 5. These are the best retro 70s-sound bands, and very entertaining. Doors open at 9pm, tickets are only $10.
Urban Lounge - 241s 500e

Want to learn how to pole dance? Club Habits is having free pole dance demonstrations and instruction Tuesday night. Watch these athletic girls defy gravity.
Club Habits - 832e 3900s

It's a sensation spreading across the nation, with over 75 events in 5 states each week, Geeks Who Drink is becoming the new karaoke night. It's a pub quiz that is fun for everyone, whether you're a trivia junky or just know a thing or two about music, pop culture, science, and other random topics. (Think World Series of Pop Culture, but more laid back). Win free drinks, prizes, or just bragging rights in this great social atmosphere. The first Utah quiz begins Wednesday at 7:30pm. Free to play, bring your creativity and have fun!
Piper Down - 1492s State Street

Each year, Park City selects their official cocktail at the official Cocktail Contest. This year's event will be at Wahso Asian Grill 6:30-9:30pm, Thursday, April 8. The event is open to anyone over 21, there will be great food and drinks, and yours truly is among the judges who will select the official drink of Park City.
Wahso Asian Grill - 577 Main Street, Park City

Great upcoming events include our Utah Grizzlies heading into ECHL playoffs, Downtown SLC Dine O Round begins April 16, and the Utah Blaze are back April 9, with a special guest performer at halftime (that American Idol kid from Murray...)

last but not least, where do you get your drink on Around the SL,UT?
Friday: 13 different shots for $3 each at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Saturday: $3 vodka Redbull, $2 Red Strip, $2 Modelo at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Sunday: $3 mimosas, $3 bloody Mary's at Gracie's (326s West Temple)
Monday: $2 cocktails at Johnny's on Second (165e 200s)
Tuesday: $3 rum & Coke at Club Vegas (445s 400w)
Wednesday: $7 Uinta pitchers at A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland Dr.)
Thursday: $2 Jack Daniels or Capt Morgan at Willie's Lounge (1716s Main)

Around the SL,UT March 26, 2010

2010-03-25T22:32:00.000-07:00

Whether you want hockey or Killer Bunnies, spend money to benefit the Humane Society or a paycheck for the weasel, or you just want some cool music & cheap drinks, it's all happening this coming week Around the SL,UT.

Our Utah Grizzlies are wrapping up the season this weekend, and these last two games will determine their playoff hopes. Game time is 7:05, both Friday & Saturday night. The Hanson brothers from Slap Shot will make an appearance at Saturday's game. Tickets begin at $10.

20 years ago we knew him as the Weasel, that quirky guy from MTV who went on to make a string of iconic 90s movies. Now, Pauly Shore has left the weasel behind and will be performing at Wiseguys West Valley. Shows are Saturday night at 7 & 9pm, tickets are $20.

They may be one of the most hardcore bands in America, but Birdeater has a heart of gold. Saturday night they will play Club Vegas along with Separation of Self, I Am the Ocean, and Vinia to benefit the Humane Society. Doors at 8pm, tickets are $10.

Plan an escape to Park City for the weekend and you can see Big Head Todd & The Monsters at The Canyons Saturday night as a part of their Spring Gruv celebration. Then see Fishbone on Sunday night. Both concerts are free.

If Sunday is a day of rest, what better way to relax than acoustic night at Urban Lounge and $2 cocktails. Only $1 cover, doors open at 8pm.

Ever played the game Killer Bunnies? It's a fun strategic card game, and Game Night Games is holding a free tournament 7-9 pm Tuesday. Whether you're a new player or a seasoned bunny assassin, all are welcome to join.

Wednesday night is City Weekly free movie night, and this month the film is American Psycho. Show begins at 8pm at Brewvies, arrive early and fill up on great food and great drinks.

Thursday night, make your way out to Kearns for the K-Town Komedy show at Club DJ's. Only $2 for a night of stand-up beginning at 8pm.

April 2-3, and 9-10 Castle of Chaos opens for the third annual Spring Scream. It's a whole new haunted house, and only $10 per person. Open from 7-11pm.

Here are all your spots for Drinking Around the SL,UT:
Friday: $2 Corona, $3 kamikaze at Area 51 (451s 400w)
Saturday: $2 steins, $3 Jager shots at The Woodshed (60e 800s)
Sunday: $2 cocktails at Urban Lounge ($1 cover, 241e 500s)
Monday: $2 Domestic $3 wells at Sandbar (122w Pierpont Ave)
Tuesday: $2 pints at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Wednesday: $5 pitchers, $2 Soco, Stoli, or gin at Willie's (1716s Main)
Thursday: $1 domestic, $2 micro pints at The Green Pig (31e 400s)

To read is human, to share is divine. Please tell your friends and family about WWJDinSLC. You'll be a savior too.

Around the SL,UT March 19, 2010

2010-03-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

It's a night full of getting funky with a night of ska bands: The Braskies, Storming Stages & Stereos, Hot Air Platoon, Superhero, and Rebellious Cause at Kilby Court. Tickets are only $6, doors open at 5:30.

Repo! The Genetic Opera will play for a midnight screening at Tower Theater tonight (3/19).

Tickets on sale for Kings of Leon, Saturday 10am at SmithsTix.

It may sound like a Disney on Ice event, but this Cinderella is the 80s hair band making a triumphant return to stage. Playing The Depot, Saturday 9pm. Tickets are $35. We didn't know what we had, until it was gone, but now they're back.

Odyssey Dance Theatre is performing their annual Shut Up & Dance spring concert through 3/27. This year, a hip-hop adaptation of Romeo + Juliet in which audience members will be asked to vote whether the couple will live or die each night. Tickets are $25 & up, shows are 3/19, 3/22, 3/25, 3/27 at 8pm.

Singer/songwriter Libbie Linton is at Kilby Court Wednesday 3/24 with Armorie, Portrait of Norm, & Cody Taylor. Show starts at 7pm, tickets only $6.

Head up to The Canyons Resort next weekend for their Spring Gruv. Sign up to compete in the pond skimming competition or Canis Lupus challenge, or just come to watch the events and see free concerts. Big Head Todd & the Monsters plays 3/27 after the pond skimming. Fishbone 3/28 after the Canis Lupus. The next weekend (4/3) there will be a recreation of the 1976 Winter Games that were supposed to take place in Denver, followed by Robert Randolph & The Family Band.

Upcoming events: Great stand-up & cheap drinks will be had at the K-Town Komedy show April 1 at Club DJ's. Only $2 cover, the club is located at 3849 west 5400 south (west of Bangerter Highway). Spend your April Fool's Day with some very funny fools.

Castle of Chaos Haunted House simply cannot wait until Halloween to give you a dose of fear in their brand new show. The 3rd Annual Spring Scream takes place April 2, 3, 9, & 10th from 7-11pm. Tickets will only be $10.

And now, where to get your cheap drinks on Around the SL,UT.
Friday: $3 shots at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Saturday: $3 vodka, $2 Red Stripe, $2 Modello at The Green Pig (31e 400s)
Sunday: $3 Microbrew steins at Lumpy's Downtown (145w Pierpont Ave)
Monday: $2 domestic brews, $3 cocktails at Sandbar (122w Pierpont Ave)
Tuesday: $2 whiskey shots at A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland Dr.)
Wednesday: 2/$2 PBR & $2 Whiskey at Johnny's On Second (185e 200s)
Thursday: $4 rum drinks at Sky Bar (161w 600s in the Red Lion)

ACME Burger Co.

2010-03-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

It may have burger in the name, but this is much more than a burger joint. Their motto is "Anything but common" and it is true. Sure, there are beef burgers, even kobe beef, but you can also get duck, bison, turkey, lamb, elk, or their delicious veggie burger. Add to that, your choice of shoestring, thick-cut, or sweet potato fries. Other side options are macaroni & cheese, baked beans & bacon, battered onion rings, or zucchini sticks.

Before you get to the main meal, this is a place where you must give the appetizers a try. I can't resist the cheeseburger spring rolls, juicy and rich with flavor. Or get them in a sampler platter with skewered duck & orange plum sauce, and house-made bacon & bleu cheese potato chips. I could honestly make a meal out of this sampler plate.

Every weekend they serve an incredible brunch menu, featuring five unique styles of french toast, and several great egg dishes. The bacon & egg frittata is great, and the french toast is mouth-watering good. On top of all this, they have a full bar menu, and many great local microbrews.

One of my favorites in this fine town, and I hope it is one of yours too.

Around the SL,UT March 12, 2010

2010-03-12T10:16:00.000-08:00

The cult classic film Reefer Madness was made into a musical in 1998, and Dark Horse Company Theatre now brings the story to Park City for three weekends at The Egyptian Theater. Can one hit of cannabis change innocent Jimmy's life? Come watch the show to find out. Tickets from $18, available at Egyptian Theater Company's site. Shows at 8pm Friday & Saturday, 6pm Sunday.

Local favorites, and up-&-coming band signed by Mercury Records, Neon Trees are releasing their new album next week. But local fans can hear it first at Velour, Friday, March 12. Live performances from the band, along with Paul Jacobsen & The Madison Arm. Doors open at 8pm.
Velour (135 N University Ave, Provo)

Puppets will be taking over the Salt Lake downtown library Saturday & Sunday, as the No Strings Attached Puppet Festival is taking place. Shows, seminars, and hands-on activities are happening from 10am-6pm each day, admission is free, some seminars require registration. For full event lineup, visit the SL Library webpage. (You need to scroll down a bit to find it.)

Saturday morning is the St. Patrick's Day parade at Gateway Mall. 10am, beginning at the south end. Pull up a spot and celebrate the Irish.

Sunday is the SLC Brunchup. This month, doing things a bit differently with a traditional Asian Dim Sum at Red Maple. We'll be getting together at 11:45. Red Maple has a wine, beer, and sake, and great traditional food. RSVP here, and read my review of Red Maple here.

Monday is free movie day. Tower Theater is playing The Dreamers at 7pm. Brewvies is showing Back to the Future at 10:30pm.

Manchester Orchestra plays In The Venue with The Features, Biffy Clyro, and O'Brother. Show starts at 7pm, tickets are $14.

St. Patrick's Day is Wednesday, March 17. There are celebrations all around town with celtic rock, green beer, and Irish food o'plenty. Here are a few of the hot spots for the holiday:
Piper Down: The party begins at 10am with all-day live music from Swagger, Heathen Highlanders, and Rovin' Boozers. Their menu has many Irish favorites, and pitchers of Guinness will be flowing. $5 cover.
The Bayou: In addition to their 200+ beers and standard menu, Corned beef & cabbage will be served.
Hog Wallow: Corned beef & cabbage, Tim Wray of Fat Paw, $5 cover.
The Woodshed: Live DJ and plenty of beer & Irish whiskey options.
Johnny's on Second: $2 whiskey, 2/$2 PBR, Heathen Highlanders at 11pm.
Liquid Joe's: $2 pints, free pool, live local music. $5 cover
Green Pig: $3 Irish Whiskey, $3 Murphy pints.
Burt's Tiki Lounge: Karaoke, no cover. $3 Long Island iced tea.
Gracie's: Salt Lake Scots performing. Corned beef, hash, and lamb stew served all night.
Oscars: Green beer, corned beef & cabbage, bangers & mash, Irish carbombs, free poker.
Habits: $3 Guinness, $4 Bushmill, $4 Irish Coffee, corned beef & cabbage, Irish stew, Irish bands.
Lucky 13: $5 corned beef & cabbage, $2 Murphy's, $3 St. Patty's shots
Murphy's: $3 shots, corned beef & cabbage.
Club Allure: $5 Tullamore Dew shot & beer, $3 Guinness. Wear green and pay no cover. Hard Rockin' Johnsons performing.
The Depot: Green beer, $6 Tullamore Dew + beer, live DJ
Fiddler's Elbow: Pipers and music throughout the day, Irish food, $5 cover.

Urban Lounge: City Weekly's St. Patty's party includes Ted Dancin', visit the City Weekly table for free drinks and other prizes. $5 cover

Want to get your drink on other days of the week? That's what Drinking Around the SL,UT is for:
Friday: $2 domestic bottles, $2 Seagrams, $2 Sambucca at Willies (1716s Main)
Saturday: 13 different shots for $3 each at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)
Sunday: $2 mimosa, $3 bloody Mary at Poplar Street (242s 200w)
Monday: $2 cocktails at Johnny's On Second (185e 200s)
Tuesday: $2 Martinis at Gracie's (326s West Temple)
Wednesday: $7 Uinta pitchers at A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland Dr.)
Thursday: $2 microbrew pints at Green Pig (31e 400s)

Scaddy's - Burgers & the best corn dogs on earth

2010-03-09T09:48:00.000-08:00

Ask Wayne Scadlock what makes his restaurant unique, and he will tell you he is a Utahn, making foods that Utahn's love to eat. While most may not immediately identify what Utah cuisine is, there is a lot about our tastes that are affected by our upbringing. This is not to say Scaddy's is just for natives. It's a solid option for anyone looking to satisfy their burger cravings in a better-than-fast-food setting.

A signature Scaddyburger is 1/4 pound patty, cooked from fresh beef and juicy when served. Top with bacon, mushroom & swiss, guacamole, or hot peppers with pepper-jack cheese. They also make cheesesteaks and other sandwiches, hand-battered chicken fingers, and freshly prepared salads. To discover one of Wayne's real passions, you need to try his hand-made corndogs. His own recipe of cornbread batter, freshly dipped and prepared daily. Even the fries and onion rings are made fresh in the store.

Complete your meal with another Utah favorite: ice-cream. What would a burger be without a shake to wash it down? Root beer floats, freezes, cones, and shakes are a must, and Scaddy's does them just the way you expect. It's an overall great, family-owned, local establishment.

Scaddy's also serves a traditional breakfast menu, not your fast-food sandwiches. Swedish stuffed pancakes, french toast, and omelettes available every morning from 7am to 11am. Lunch and dinner served until 9pm daily.

Around the SL,UT March 5, 2010

2010-03-05T11:12:00.000-08:00

Here's a daily list of the best events around the city we love. The Salt Lake blog for the rest of us.

Friday: It's the final weekend of the University of Utah's presentation of The Rocky Horror Show. Not the film, the stage-show as it was originally performed. Shows are 7:30 nightly until Sunday, and a 2pm matinee on Saturday. Tickets are $13, $7 for students.
Babcock Theater
240 s 1500 e

Saturday: Start your morning at the Belly Dance Spring Festival at the State Fairgrounds. Beginning at 10am, there will be performances until 10pm. Admission is only $7, kids 5 & under free.

You can get your St. Patrick's celebration started early with Young Dubliners, Potcheen, & Swagger at The Depot. Show starts at 8pm, tickets are only $20.

Also, The Salt City Derby Girls are having a Superhero Dance Party Fundraiser at Club Edge. For more information, click here.

Last, but not least, Daniel Tosh is at Kingsbury Hall, 8pm, tickets still available.

Sunday: Mike Herrerra of MXPX is here with his new band, Tumbledown. They are an Americana-Southern Rock band and will be at Urban Lounge 9pm.

Monday: The iconic hockey-comedy classic, Slap Shot will be shown at Brewvies, free at 10:30pm. Great deals on drinks and appetizers.

80s goth band, Gene Loves Jezebel is at Club Vegas, 8pm. Tickets are $10

Tuesday: The classic Greek tale of Eurydice & Orpheus is told from the eyes of the heroin in SLCC's presentation of Eurydice. It's a story of love, death, memories, and the question of life after death. Tickets are from $8-24, and shows will be nightly at 7:30pm through March 20.

Wednesday: Electro/New Wave band, Jaguar Love is at Kilby Court with Mary May I. Tickets are $8, show at 7pm.

Thursday: Tower Theater is showing Gods & Monsters, starring Ian McKellan and Brendan Frasier, free at 7pm. Cinematographer Stephen M. Katz will be there for Q&A after the film.

For all your cheap drinks, here is Drinking Around the SL,UT:
Friday: $2 Corona & $3 kamikaze at Area 51 (451s 400w)
Saturday: $1 off all drafts at Gracie's (326s West Temple)
Sunday: $3 microbrew steins at Lumpy's (145w Pierpont)
Monday: $3.50 microbrew steins at Poplar Street (242s 200w)
Tuesday: $2 Jager Tubes & $2 domestic drafts at Oscar's (8136s State)
Wednesday: $7 Uinta pitchers at A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland Dr.)
Thursday: $3 Steins, $2.50 pizza slices at Johnny's On Second (185e 200s)

Remember, share the inside scoop with your friends. It's always a good time to talk about WWJDinSLC.

Around the SL,UT February 26, 2010

2010-02-26T09:32:00.000-08:00

It's time for another edition of the Salt Lake event blog for the rest of us. What's happening Around the SL,UT.

Friday, Feb 26, Pierpont Place is hosting a Champagne Toast & cocktail party, open at 7pm. $25 gets you in at the door, & if you're there before 8:30 your first champagne cocktail is free. There will be prizes, masseuses, karaoke, dancing, au douvres from Olive Bistro, and heaps of fun. RSVP and get more info here.
Pierpont Place - 163 w Pierpont Ave

In The Venue is hosting an all-day music festival for up-&-coming artists beginning Saturday at 10am. Admission is only $12, you will see Fatal Remedy, Sugar Stone, Deadlove, and so much more.
In The Venue - 219 s 600 w

Wasatch Roller Derby is taking on Idaho's Treasure Valley Rollergirls, Saturday at 7pm. The bout will be at The Salt Palace, and tickets will be $12 at the door. Come out & support these girls who skate for the love of the sport in one of the fastest sports in Utah.
The Salt Palace - (big building, downtown, you know where it is)

Fanfarlo is at Urban Lounge Saturday night, 9pm. This U.K. group has been touring the country and even was a musical guest on Letterman. You can see them for only $12 with supporting act April Smith and the Great Picture Show.
Urban Lounge - 241 s 500 e

Sunday brings us the Geekshow Podcast Audience Participation double-feature. Two Trek-oriented movies this month: Galaxy Quest & Free Enterprise. Admission is free, Four+ Brewing & Uinta Brewing will have special prices on their delicious brews, and the laughs will be provided by you and the audience giving these movies your relentless mocking. Think Mystery Science Theater 3000, with beer.
Brewvies - 677 s 200 w

The Foxes are coming to the America, and will only be playing two acoustic shows. One in Salt Lake, and the other in... Salt Lake! Monday, March 1, 4pm at Nobrow Coffee, and Wednesday, March 3 at Vertical Diner, 9pm. Both shows are free, come out and support a couple of great local businesses and listen to some great music.
Nobrow Coffee - 315 e 300 s
Vertical Diner - 2280 s West Temple

Ignite SLC is Thursday, March 4. Ignite is a community event with the slogan, "enlighten us, but make it quick." Presenters will discuss topics from every subject imaginable, with 20 slides that automatically forward every 15 seconds, whether the presenter is ready or not. Always entertaining, and always a great crowd. Best of all, it's free. 6pm at The State Room.
The State Room - 638 s State St

Next Saturday, March 6, is the 3rd Annual Urban Iditarod. The Iditarod is a gruelling dogsled race across the unforgiving Alaskan wilderness. It is 1150 miles long, and the record is about nine days. The Urban Iditarod will be a gruelling race around the unforgiving Salt Lake City urban landscape. It is four and a half miles long, and the record is about ten beers. Form your teams and bring your dog sled (shopping cart) to this endurance race-meets pub crawl. Racers begin at West Temple and 400s at 2pm.

Want to know where to get your cheap drinks? Here is my guide to Drinking Around the SL,UT:
Friday: $1 drink night at The Star Bar in Park City (268 s Main);
or 13 different shots for $2 each at Lucky 13, 135w 1300s.
Saturday: $3 Vodka Red Bull, $2 Red Stripe, $2 Modello at The Green Pig 31e 400s
Sunday: $5 pitchers, $2 Bloody Mary, $2 Sambucca, & $2 Jim Beam at Willie's Lounge 1716s Main
Monday: $2 pints at The Sky Bar (inside the Red Lion) 600s 200w
Tuesday: $2 Tecate, $4 Patron at Sandbar 122w Pierpont Ave
Wednesday: $3 Long Islands at Burt's Tiki Lounge 726s State
Thursday: $3 Steins at Johnny's On Second 185e 200s

Meditrina: Small plate variety with huge tastes

2010-02-24T09:27:00.000-08:00

Let's call it love from first taste. It's how I felt when I sat down in Meditrina and had one perfectly prepared dish after another brought to me. It is a tapas restaurant, where you can enjoy a number of amazing dishes in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Of course, being a tapas restaurant means that the wine choices are as much a highlight as the food.

Here you will find curry-lime prawns, beef tenderloin carpuaccio, panko and bacon crusted pork tenderloins and so much more. Each in portions large enough to make your tastebuds dance, yet sized right so you can enjoy several dishes. One of my favorites is the patatas bravas, grilled potatoes with shallots, spicy tomato aioli, & chili oil. The menu seems filled with endless choices, each tempting you to move in permanently so you can enjoy every flavor.

Meditrina is a perfect spot for food-lovers, casual diners, and romantic dates. The small plates are perfect for sharing, allowing a couple to try four or more dishes during their visit. Then there are the desserts, which are an absolute must. Red wine-soaked Oreos topped with vanilla bean ice-cream and a port-reduction was a surprising treat (considering I don't even like Oreos).

Visit on Mondays to get $3 Sangria all day, and enjoy their $4 tapas happy hour Monday-Saturday from 5:30-6:30pm. On the second Tuesday of every month they hold a wine social with a special menu and wine pairing. Come check it out soon.

Around the SL,UT February 19, 2010

2010-02-19T07:26:00.000-08:00

Alien transvestites are invading Salt Lake, along with an original cast-member of In Living Color. Oscar-nominated short films, kung-fu classics, and 2-for-1 to see the Wizard! What more could you ask for? Daniel Tosh? We've got that too, Around the SL,UT.

It's astounding, time is fleeting. Madness takes control of the Babcock Theater for the next three weekends as they put on The Rocky Horror Show. Long before it was the Rocky Horror Picture Show, it was a live theater production. The University of Utah's Babcock Theater will put on The Rocky Horror Show from February 19-21, 25-28, and March 4-7 with nightly shows at 7:30pm, and 2pm matinees Feb 27 & Mar 6. Tickets are only $13, $10 for faculty & staff, $7 for students.

Babcock Theater

300 s 1400 e (Under Pioneer Theater)

Improv Super-Group, Toy Soup, performs tonight at 10pm. They will be on stage at Mo's Neighborhood Grill, performing stand-up, skits, and taking audience suggestions for high-powered, physical improv. Tickets are $10 at the door.

Mo's Neighborhood Grill

358 s West Temple

Saturday, Feb 20 is the City Weekly Music Awards finals. The award nominees included 30 local acts, and now the final 3 will play one killer show to determine the winner. Votes will be taken at the show only, so come cheer on your favorites. Tickets start at $10, $20 at the door. Get more info about the show here.

The Depot

400 west South Temple

Tommy Davidson is in town, playing four shows at Wiseguys West Valley. One of the original members of In Living Color, and a seasoned comedian, Tommy is sure to get you rolling in laughter. Shows are Friday & Saturday, Feb 19-20, at 7 & 9pm. $20.

Wiseguys Comedy Cafe

2194 w 3500 s

The Salt Lake Choral Artists present Beatlemania on Saturday, Feb 20. Three different groups, a concert choir of 150, a smaller chamber choir, and a women's choir, will be doing hits from the Beatles and bands influenced by the iconic pop-stars. 2pm & 7:30pm, $15.

Libby Gardner Concert Hall

1375 e Presidents Circle

Salt Lake Film Society is showing Oscar-nominated short films at Tower Theater starting this week. At 2 & 7pm nightly they are showing a selection of live shorts; and at 4:30 & 9pm there will be a program for animated shorts. Great idea for a Sunday activity.

Tower Theater

876 e 900 s

On Mondays, The Off-Broadway Theater offers tickets to their new production, The Wizard of Ahhs, at a special 2-for-1 price. Only $8 per seat to watch their comic genius, and frequent improv additions.

The OBT

272 s Main

Belgian musician Sarah Bettens (former lead singer of K's Choice) performs at The State Room, Tues, Feb 23. She is a world-renowned singer, with hits like "Not an Addict," "Believe," and "Almost Happy." Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 night of the show.

The State Room

638 s State St.

Wednesday, Feb 24, Salt Lake City Weekly presents The Last Dragon at Brewvies for their Free Movie Night. This kung-fu/comedy is a classic that is sure to draw a full crowd, so arrive early to guarantee your seat. Enjoy their 19 brews on tap and delicious food. Showtime is 8pm.

Brewvies

677 s 200 w

Next Friday, Feb 26, alternative-rock group Caroline's Spine will be rocking Club Vegas with local acts Broke City, Split Lid, and Hour 13. Show starts at 8pm & tickets are only $10.

Club Vegas

445 s 400 w

Tomorrow morning, tickets go on sale for Flogging Molly, May 7 at In The Venue; and Coheed & Cambria, May 10 at Murray Theater. Get yours at 24tix when they open sales for both shows at 10am. Also, if you haven't bought your tickets to see Daniel Tosh, what are you waiting for? He'll be at Kingsbury Hall March 6, $35.

Last, but certainly not least: Drinking around the SL,UT

Friday: $2 Corona, $3 kamikazes at Area 51 (451 s 400w)

Saturday: $3 steins at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)

Sunday: $3 steins & Jager, plus karaoke at The Woodshed (800s 60e)

Monday: $1 drafts, $2 Bacardi at Willie's Lounge (1716s Main)

Tuesday: All pints $2 (includes micros!) at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)

Wednesday: $7 Uinta pitchers at A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland Dr.)

Thursday: $2 Corona, $2 tequilla at Poplar Street Pub (242s 200w)

Remember, sharing the word of WWJDinSLC is a sure way to heaven & inner peace!

City Weekly Music Awards

2010-02-17T12:16:00.000-08:00

The top three of Utah have been chosen, and now it is time to crown the winner. City Weekly ha been showcasing several great local bands, and taking votes from the public. Now, the final three will perform one great show this Saturday at The Depot.

The finalists are:

Paul Jacobsen & The Madison Arm A folk/rock band with an incredible sound and an entertaining stage presence.

Bird Eater A blend of metal, with gritty country influences.

The Naked Eyes High-energy psychedelic rock, and a style to match.

Also a performance from The Helio Sequence. Tickets are $20, but you can get a limited number of $10 tickets from Slowtrain, 221 e 300 s. If you act fast, City Weekly is also giving away several tickets (yes, that's a link you should click to learn how to win).

Whether you're new to the local scene, or have seen any of these bands before, this is sure to be a great show. The winner will be chosen by fans at the show, so if you want to see your favorite take the prize, you need to be here.

Red Maple: Chinese 7 Days a week

2010-02-16T09:47:00.000-08:00

There's a new addition to the great selection of Asian restaurants in West Valley. Red Maple is serving up great authentic Chinese cuisine at prices that put the fast-food chains to shame. From great lunch specials, to large family dinners, and Sunday dim sum, they have it all for the casual diner to die-hard Chinese enthusiasts.

You will find all the standard fare, sweet & sour, kung pao, cashew stir-fry, and the like. You will also find a large selection of seafood including whole fish, lobster, and crab preparations. There is an endless variety of dishes to choose from, or you can dine family style with an assortment of dishes.

Looking for something different for Sunday brunch? This is your place. From 10-3 each Sunday they have a full dim sum service. Take your time and spend several hours enjoying all the tastes. Red Maple has beer, wine, and sake to accompany your meals and is open for lunch and dinner every day.

Around the SL,UT February 12, 2010

2010-02-12T07:30:00.000-08:00

Making Salt Lake a little more cool every week, here is what's happening Around the SL,UT.

Westminster College is presenting The Vagina Monologues Fri & Sat, $10. Shows are 7:30pm, tickets can be purchased at the doors, or by phone, 801-832-2457.

Jewett Center for Performing Arts (Westminster College)

1840 s 1300 e

The International Tattoo Convention opens today. 3 days of tattoo artists from around the world. Live tattooing, contests, live music, seminars, and even temporary tattoos & activities for the kids. $15 admission, or $30 for a 3-day pass.

Salt Palace

100 s West Temple

The Off-Broadway Theatre's new production, The Wizard of Ahhs, opens tonight. Showtimes are Friday, Saturday, & Monday at 7:30 pm through March 13. Tickets are $16. For those unfamiliar, The OBT puts on incredibly funny shows, often parodies of popular stories. Their players are great at improvising, and often add their own flavor in each performance.

The Off-Broadway Theatre

272 s Main

Sunday is the monthly Twitter brunch-up. Always great food, and great people just looking to socialize and meet new faces. Everyone is welcome to attend. This month brunch will be at Vertical Diner at 11:45am. RSVP here.

Vertical Diner

2280 s West Temple

Haven't made your Valentine's Day reservations yet? Perhaps the Salt Lake Restaurant Examiner has a recommendation for you. Check out romantic spots in Salt Lake, and Romance under $50.

Tuesday is Mardi Gras. If you're looking for a great place to celebrate, try The Bayou (645 s State St) or Piper Down (1492 s State St). Both are hosting parties to celebrate a night of music, drinks, and possibly a bit of debauchery.

Thursday, Feb 18, Justin Townes Earl is performing at The State Room, 8pm. Justin was recently named the Emerging Artist of the Year at the Americana Music Awards. Tickets are only $12 in advance, $15 at the door.

The State Room

638 s State St.

K-Town comedy on Thurs, Feb 18, 8pm. An evening of stand-up from several of our own locals who grew in Kearns. $2 admission and $2 shots all night.

Club DJ's

3849 w 5400 s

Even more comedy from Improv Super-Group, Toy Soup, on Friday, Feb 19, 10pm. They will be on stage at Mo's Neighborhood Grill, performing stand-up, skits, and taking audience suggestions for high-powered, physical improv. Tickets are $10 at the door.

Mo's Neighborhood Grill

358 s West Temple

Friday, Feb 19 is SLUG Magazine's 21st Birthday party. $5, 10pm. DJ Flash & Flare, Muscle Hawk, Mammoth. Fundraiser raffle for Haiti & Doctors Without Borders. SLUG is finally old enough to drink, so show up and buy them one.

Urban Lounge

241 s 500 e

Where do you get cheap drinks? Here is Drinking Around the SL,UT:

Friday: 13 different shots available for only $3 each at Lucky 13 (135w 1300s)

Saturday: $3 Vodka Red bulls at Burt's Tiki Lounge (726s State St)

Sunday: $3 steins at Johnny's On Second (165e 200s)

Monday: $3 wells, $2 domestic drafts at Sandbar (122 w Pierpont Ave)

Tuesday: $3 tequila shots and $2 Corona at Green Pig (31e 400s)

Wednesday: $3 whiskey at Poplar Street Pub (242s 200w)

Thursday: $7 Wasatch & Squatter's pitchers at A Bar Named Sue (3928s Highland Dr.)

Help build the community of cool things happening in SLC. Become a fan on Facebook, and tell your friends.

Vertical Diner: Vegetarian variety

2010-02-09T08:57:00.000-08:00

To the uninitiated, the idea of an all vegetarian diner may seem boring, but they would be very wrong. Vertical Diner has a great variety of dishes that will satisfy vegetarians and carnivores alike. Every dish is made from the finest vegetarian ingredients, many from local sources to be both environmentally friendly, as well as delicious.

The menu contains an incredible breakfast assortment of bisquits, pancakes, breakfast burritos, sausage (vegetarian, of course), and more. Each dish is vegan-friendly, and delicious enough for anyone. Vegetable burgers, and Mexican dishes are part of the variety, as well as a variety of desserts, beer, and wine. The pancakes are incredible, and the sausage is as good as any pork sausage on earth.

Best of all, it's open 7-days a week, from 10am-9pm.

Around the SL,UT February 5, 2010

2010-02-05T07:02:00.000-08:00

The City Weekly Music Awards (formerly known as the SLAMMYS) are under way now, and you can see the nominees at several venues around town. These have been selected as Salt Lake's best musicians, and all of them put on great shows. Admission is only $6.

Friday, Feb 5: Cub Country, & Bronco are at A Bar Named Sue (3928 Highland Drive). This show has no cover!

Tiny Lights, Birthquake, & Le Force at Burt's Tiki Lounge (726 s State Street).

David Williams, Atherton, Paul Jacobsen & Madison Arm, & Desert Noises at Velour (135 n University Ave, Provo)

Saturday, Feb 6: Bird Eater, & Jezus Rides a Ricksha at Club Vegas (445 s 400 w).

The Devil Whale, Desert Noises, & Michael Gross & The Statuettes at The State Room (638 s State St.).

Future of the Ghost, Aye Aye, & Laserfang at Urban Lounge (241 s 500 e)

The Wasatch Roller Derby kicks off their season Saturday, Feb 6. This is the newest roller derby league in Utah, whose focus is raising money for charity. This bout will benefit the Utah Parent Center, for parents of children with disabilities. The bout will take place at The Salt Palace, 7pm. Tickets are $10 in advance at their website or Hoppers in Midvale, $12 at the door (kids under 5, free).

The Salt Palace

100 south West Temple

Tower Theater is showing the award-winning, Chef's Special Monday, Feb 8 at 7pm. The story of a successful chef who has a seemingly perfect life, until his family shows up, making him question his values. Admission is free.

Tower Theater

876 east 900 south

Fat Tuesday is next week, and The Bayou is celebrating with live music from Blended Roots. It may not be Bourbon Street, but there will be over 200 beers to choose from, and you're more likely to leave with your dignity still in hand.

The Bayou

645 south State

The Salt Lake City International Tattoo Convention is February 12-14. Live tattooing, daily tattoo contests, live entertainment, and seminars about the tattoo industry are happening at The Salt Palace. Daily admission is $15, or $30 for a 3-day pass.

The Salt Palace

100 south West Temple

Have any electronics to dispose, and know you're not supposed to put it in the trash? There will be a special drop-off for old cell-phones, computers, TVs, and all other electronic waste at Eisenhower Junior High, Feb 8-12.

Eisenhower Junior High

4351 s Redwood Road

Where to get your cheap drinks? Drinking Around the SL,UT

Friday: $3 shots at Lucky 13, 135 w 1300 s

Saturday: $2 Smirnoff & Whiskey drinks, live music from Buddha Pie & Funk Fu

Sunday: $1 mimosas at Johnny's On Second, 165 e 200 s

Monday: $4 PBR + whiskey shot at Burt's Tiki Lounge, 726 s State

Tuesday: $2 Whiskeys at A Bar Named Sue, 3928 s Highland

Wednesday: $2 cocktails at Cheers To You, 315 s Main

Thursday: $3 vodka Red Bull at The Green Pig, 31 e 400 s

Sushi Express: Quality, casual, affordable

2010-02-01T10:27:00.000-08:00

Going out for sushi doesn't have to be a formal occasion that you save up for, and you don't have to compromise quality to save a few dollars. Sushi Express is a great option for a quick sushi lunch or casual dinner. With combinations starting at $7.95, and many rolls under $5, you can get a great meal at a low price.

The quality is great, the service is friendly, and there is a wide variety to choose from. If you have friends or family that may be squeamish about sushi, don't worry, there are many vegetarian options as well as noodle and rice dishes to choose from.

Whenever you're in the area, give it a try. They're open Monday-Friday for lunch, 11:30am-2:30pm, and dinner 4:30-9pm (open until 9:30pm Friday & Saturday).

Around the SL,UT January 29, 2010

2010-01-29T08:44:00.000-08:00

Tonight, every ticket to see our Utah Grizzlies is only $5. There are great microbrews available during the game, & it will be quite exciting. So whether you're a hockey novice, a foul-mouthed fan, or someone who has been curious to check it out, tonight is your night.

E-Center: 3200s Decker Lake Drive, West Valley City (I-215 & 3500s).

Saturday night may be worth a trip to Provo. Local band Shark Speed is releasing a new EP, and I have been enjoying it all morning. They will be at Velour, doors open at 8pm with Mathematics Et Cetera and Hello Amsterdam. Cover is $7.

Velour: 135 North University Ave, Provo

Urban Lounge will be hosting a night of Salt Lake acoustic artists for only $1 Sunday night. See many of the leading local musicians perform three-song sets. Great way to get a sampler of many artists.

Urban Lounge: 241s 500e

Tower Theater is screening Stanley Kubrick's classic, The Killing, 7pm Monday, Feb 1. A film-noire tale with a Hitchcock feel. Admission is free.

Tower Theater: 876e 900s

A full light, sound, and special effects Pink Floyd Experience is showing at Kingsbury Hall, Feb 2. 7:30pm. The live show features not only 6 talented musicians, but also a visual spectacle that should be entertaining not only for Floyd fans, but anyone with an appreciation for a great performance. Tickets from $24.50.

Kingsbury Hall: 1395 Presidents Cir, Salt Lake City (University of Utah)

The Tony Award winner, Avenue Q opens at Capitol Theater next Tuesday, and runs until Sunday February 7. The show tackles all of the issues of our society, such as racism, suicide, homosexuality, and just being a grown up with responsibilities. Tickets from $30, shows at 7:30 nightly, matinees Saturday & Sunday. Check ArtTix for exact times and dates.

Capitol Theater: 50w 200s, Salt Lake City

City Weekly kicks off their annual music awards this Wednesday at W Lounge with the DJ nominees: Loki, Juggy, Erockalypse, Flash N Flare, & Chase 1-2. Show starts at 9pm.

W Lounge: 358s West Temple, Salt Lake City

Thursday, Feb 4, Piper Down is hosting Your Band Karaoke. Sing with a live band accompanying you. Text PUB to 83043 and pay no cover.

Piper Down: 1492s State St.

Tickets are still available for Jack's Mannequin (Feb 9, $23), Vampire Weekend (Mar 18, $25.50), and Owl City (Apr 12, $18). Remember to check our Google Calendar for the most comprehensive list of shows all around Salt Lake.

and now...

Drinking Around the SL,UT

Friday: $2 Corona, $3 kamikazes at Area 51, 451s 400w

Saturday: $3 bloody mary, $3 steins & live music at Johnny's on Second, 165e 200s

Sunday: $2 Jim Beam, $2 bloody mary, $5 pitchers at Willie's Lounge, 1716s Main

Monday: $3 Blue Moon mugs at Huka Bar & Grill, 151e 6100s

Tuesday: $2 Corona, $3 Sauza at The Green Pig, 31e 400s

Wednesday: $3 Long Islands at Burt's Tiki Lounge, 726s State

Thursday: $7 Wasatch & Squatter's pitchers at A Bar Named Sue, 3928s Highland Dr.

Be a disciple, tell your friends all about WWJDinSLC and share the love with those who you love.

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Thai Spice: Ft. Union hidden gem

2010-01-26T09:20:00.000-08:00

Downtown Salt Lake has a number of good Thai places, but sometimes we need a spot in the south end of the valley, right? Thai Spice delivers the charm, ambience, and great food that you want. Conveniently located in Midvale, just minutes from Cottonwood Heights, Sandy, and Murray, it's a small gem in a quaint strip mall.

There's a great variety on the menu, salads, stir-fried rice dishes, curries, noodles, and more. Great appetizers are freshly prepared and full of flavor. A combo platter has Thai eggrolls, curry puffs, and chicken satay, a couple of each to share and enjoy for only $8.99. Moving on to the entrees, you will find very robust flavors in every dish. Each of the curries I have had have been delicious, the noodles perfectly prepared and bursting with spices, and most dishes under $10.

Casual atmosphere with a soft noise level. Perfect for casual dates before a movie at the Sandy Century 16 theater (Union Park). Also a great spot for lunch with their $5.95 lunch specials.

Around the SL,UT January 22, 2010

2010-01-22T09:24:00.000-08:00

Sundance, Outdoor Retailer's Show, & US Snowboarding Grand Prix are in town, which means the SL,UT is going to be busy. It also means there is a lot happening that we locals can take advantage of.

Want a preview of Olympic action? Head up to Park City Mountain Resort for the US Snowboarding Grand Prix. The country's best will be competing for the US halfpipe team, and you can see it free. Friday 6-8:30pm, Saturday 1-2:30pm & 6-8:30pm. Immediately after Saturday's event they will announce the team and 30 Seconds to Mars will be performing a free concert.

They're listed as one of Colorado's top bands, and have quickly become a Salt Lake favorite: Potcheen is bringing their Celtic-pirate rock back to Piper Down Friday and Saturday at 10pm. $5 cover.

Saturday is packed full of music from downtown SLC to Park City:

Joan Jett & The Blackhearts are at HarryO's. 427 Main St. Park City. 9pm $65

Ginuwine is at The Rail. 235 north 500 west SLC. 8pm $30+

Big Head Todd & The Monsters at The Depot. 400 west South Temple. 7pm $22

GZA (of WuTang Clan) at Urban Lounge. 241 south 500 east. 9pm $20

Indie/pop bands, Beach House & The Moondoggies are at The Star Bar in Park City this Sunday. 9pm $10-15.

Popular Austin band, White Denim are at Urban Lounge Tuesday, Jan 26, 9pm. NOMO, & Brazos will be opening for them. $8-10.

Brewvies will be showing one of the greatest movies of all time: Army of Darkness! Wednesday, Jan 27 at 8pm, & admission is free! Show up early & down a few pitchers while you wait, because this will be packed. First-come, first-served.

Thursday, Jan 28 we have the one & only Snoop Dogg at HarryO's (Park City), $60 9pm. Or for something local and exciting, Fictionist is having a CD release show at Kilby Court, 7pm $6.

Last, but not least...

Drinking Around the SL,UT

Friday: $1 drink night at The Star Bar, for anyone heading up to Sundance (268 Main st. Park City)

Saturday: $3 steins & Jager at The Woodshed (60 east 800 south)

Sunday: $2 Jim Beam & $5 pitchers at Willie's Lounge (1716 south Main)

Monday: $2 Cocktails at Johnny's On Second (165 east 200 south)

Tuesday: $2 Tecate, $4 Patron shots & $8 All-You-Can-Eat Tacos at Sandbar (122 west Pierpont)

Wednesday: $4 Jager Bombs at The Sandbar (122 west Pierpont Ave)

Thursday: $3 vodka at The Tavernacle (201 east 300 south)

Nonna Luccia's is affordable Italian

2010-01-19T12:09:00.000-08:00

If you would like fresh, quality Italian food, at an affordable price, you should try Nonna Luccia's located right between Midvale and Murray. The menu is simple, pick a pasta, pick a sauce, and add bread & salad if you would like. The food is much better than the heavy canned sauces at the chain restaurants. The menu may be simple, but the food is much more than you would expect. Generous portions of incredibly robust and meaty sauces is what you find here. Pasta & bread from only $6.99 makes it an affordable lunch or dinner.