5 free events for weeknight fun this summer in Boston

Editor's Note: This is an excerpt from WBUR's Saturday morning newsletter, The Weekender. If you like what you read and want it in your inbox, sign up here. 

For a season defined by long naps on the beach and late, leisurely dinners, summer can be deceivingly busy. Maybe it’s because we try to squeeze in as much as possible on the weekends. But if you want to enjoy summer all week, Boston has a lot of options: music on the waterfront, catching a movie outdoors, or trying out some watercolor painting. The best part? All these events I just mentioned are free.

Without further ado, here’s one free activity to do each night of the work week this summer. Go to one, or go to them all. (Pro tip: An afternoon cup of coffee can go a long way.)

Movie Mondays at Time Out Market — through Sept. 1

401 Park Dr., Boston, MA 02215

Bring a picnic blanket to Time Out Market for their free weekly movie screening, which happens on their lawn every Monday at 8 p.m. You’ll get free popcorn if you arrive about 30 minutes before the movie starts, but if you don’t make it in time, don’t fret: there’s plenty to eat and drink just steps away at the food hall. This upcoming Monday’s installment is “Jaws”. You can see what’s showing later this month at this event page.

Tuesday Night Trivia at Castle Island Brewing — year-round

10 Old Colony Ave., Boston, MA 02127

Test your wits with trivia at this Southie brewery, every Tuesday night year-round, at 7 p.m. Admission is free (though if you’re a drinker, you may find yourself buying a few local beers and snacks), and winners earn prizes and bragging rights.

Watercolor Workshop Wednesdays at Lyrik Back Bay — through Oct. 1

400 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02115

Lyrik Back Bay is a new multi-use plaza on the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Newbury Street. In addition to a roster of free live music events, they’ve been hosting a free instructor-led watercolor workshop every Wednesday this summer from 4 to 7 p.m. There are three workshop session times during the three-hour block, so you’ll need to reserve a timed spot to get a seat — but this event is popular, so keep in mind that time slots open on Mondays at 5 p.m. at this link. You can also try your luck and show up in person on Wednesday at 3:30 p.m.  to grab a spot and sign up for a session (as some people drop out). All the watercolor materials you’ll need will be provided.

Thursday Night Comedy at Dot Tavern — year-round

840 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester, MA 02125

Need a laugh? Dot Tavern’s no-cover-charge, weekly comedy night starts every Thursday at 8:30. Check out local comedians perform at this classic dive, and if you stick around a little while after the show, you'll also catch some live music to end your night.

Friday Vinyl Nights at the Institute of Contemporary Art — through Aug. 29

25 Harbor Shore Dr., Boston, MA 02210

Last but not least, here's a smooth way to start your weekend. Make your way down to the ICA for Vinyl Nights, happening on the museum’s waterfront every Friday through the end of the month. Beginning at 5 p.m. on the museum’s patio, DJs will be spinning disco, cumbia, hip hop and dancehall tracks for you to dance to and there will be wine and oysters available for purchase. This event is free and open to all ages — see what’s playing here.

P.S. — I would be remiss if I didn’t mention our favorite spot for mid-week fun: WBUR CitySpace! Their fall lineup of events is now live, featuring word games, culinary conversations and much more.