Weekend Planner: Kevin Nealon, Free Beer and More

1. Free Beer’s first gig at

Kick off the St. Patrick’s Day weekend with Free Beer - the band not the suds - at the Star Lanes at the Emagine Theatres on Friday. The band will set up at the north end of the bar and will hit the stage at about 9:30 p.m., right after the dinner crowd clears out. Free Beer is calling it St. Practice Day since you will be able to try out all of the “greenery” without all the pressure of St. Patrick’s Day.  They might even surprise you with a couple of Free Beer versions of some Irish classics. No cover.

2. Irishfest at

Through March 29, Bastone's is celebrating the Irish tradition with beer deals and a special menu. Try a craft beers in a special limited edition Irishfest pint glass for $6. Keep the glass and get refills for $2 off the regular price. The  menu includes shephers's pie, poached salmon, braised lamb shanks and, of course, corned beef and cabbage. Prices range from $13.95 - $18.95.

3.

With the start of Lent comes the season of fish fries. Many churches and organizations host one and most restaurants feature some catch-of-the-day special on their menus. We found a few places where you can get your fish fry fix.

4. Kevin Nealon at the

in Ferndale on Friday at 7 p.m. Nealon sets himself apart from other comedic performers with his unique sense of humor, dry wit and likeable demeanor. Nealon is best known for his nine-year stint as a cast member of NBC’s Saturday Night Live, and has received critical acclaim for his role in the Showtime series, Weeds. Tickets are $28.

5. Brunch & Bowl at

On Sundays from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m., bring the family to Star Lanes for bowling and a brunch buffet. Cost is $14.95 for adults, $10.95 for children under 10 years old and includes three games of bowling and shoes. Beverages are not included and bowling is limited to availibilty.