IRVING PARK — It's officially summer and this weekend has the outdoor events to prove it.
Movies, concerts, garage sales, garden walks — by Sunday night, people will be looking forward to Monday and the chance to rest up after so much activity. Said no one ever.
The fun kicks off Friday with the North Mayfair Garage Sale, a concert at Mayfair Park and movie at Independence Park.
The garage sale runs through Sunday; hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. A map of the nearly 50 participating households — including a group sale at Gompers Park fieldhouse, 4222 W. Foster Ave. — is available here.
Bring a blanket, pack a picnic and enjoy a free outdoor concert at Mayfair Park. The Kingfish will be playing tunes from the '70s, '80s and '90s at 6:30 p.m. at 4550 W. Sunnyside Ave.
Cap off Friday at Independence Park, 3945 N. Springfield Ave., with a free screening of the comedy classic "Spaceballs" at dusk. May the Schwartz be with you.
Rise and shine at the crack of dawn on Saturday for the North Center Farmers Market, 4100 N. Damen Ave. The market runs 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. and features an array of seasonal fruits and vegetables, locally-grown meat and more.
Then mosey on over to The Residents of Irving Park's annual summer bash, 4100 N. Kedzie Ave. They'll be firing up the grill at noon, offering free hot dogs and hamburgers. The bash will feature plenty of games and entertainment for the kids, along with a pizza-eating competition for the grown-ups at 5 p.m. ($5 entry fee).
On Sunday, the Independence Park Farmers Market has its second outing of the year from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., at 3945 N. Springfield Ave. This Michelin-rated market has a little something for everyone from cupcakes to Halal lamb and everything in between. Bring along a bucket and pick up free coffee grounds as compost for your garden.
Speaking of gardens, the Northcenter Neighborhood Association is holding its annual garden walk from noon - 5 p.m. Sunday. The starting point is Bell School, 3730 N. Oakley Ave., where volunteers will be handing out maps and collecting the $5 suggested donation. A number of homes along the walk will also be providing music and refreshments.
