Hillsborough
ROSIE LEDET & THE ZYDECO PLAYBOYS
THE BLUE BAYOU CLUB–The Bayou can assume the temperament of a Chicago blues club, a deep South juke joint, or a New Orleans music hall depending who has the stage. It’ll be that last one in all its sweaty, hyper-rhythmic glory when accordion-wielding Rosie Ledet and her band hit Churton Street–the Zydeco Sweetheart and her Zydeco Playboys (led by her talented husband Morris on bass). Tickets run $16-$20. Free Zydeco dance lessons begin at 8 p.m. for ticket holders, and the live music starts at 9:30. –Rick Cornell
Raleigh
RALEIGH WIDE OPEN
FAYETTEVILLE STREET–Some folks in Raleigh never thought the day would come when construction on Fayetteville Street came to a close and traffic routes returned to normal. As such, it’s no surprise that the grand opening of the new and improved Fayetteville Street warrants a gigantic celebration, just as the orange and yellow barrels are pushed aside and the Caterpillars rolled away. Events include a welcome speech from Mayor Meeker featuring a military fly-over, and a parade and block party with live music and street performers. Come meet and greet the Hurricanes, glimpse the Comedy Worx players, hear country gems Tres Chicas, and see a flashy fireworks show to close out the evening. A Beer Garden featuring world-class brews and summer seasonals will quench your thirst, but, if beer’s not your beverage, check out the wine tasting tent or grab some water and grub from a street vendor. Events start at 6 p.m. Entry is free, but be sure to bring enough dough for the downtown party essentials: parking, food, drink, etc. –Kathy Justice
MARCH OF THE PENGUINS
N.C. MUSEUM OF ART–The Nature Channel receives the Hollywood treatment as this documentary-style film gives viewers a firsthand look at the age-old journey of the Emperor penguins, marching toward their barren, wind-swept mating grounds in the Antarctic tundra. Morgan Freeman lends his voice to the narrative, adding just the right amount of dramatic flair to this otherwise biological biopic. The flick rolls at 9 p.m. Bring $3 for a ticket; kids age 5 and under get in free. –Kathy Justice
