South Slope Weekend Events Spotlight: February 12-15

Photo of Carl Banks via Freddy’s

Looking for something to do this weekend? With everything from Valentine crafts and poetry to “melodic nomads” and big red dogs, you won’t have to go far for fun. Here are some of our favorite events from around the neighborhood:

The Pre-War Ponies
When: Thursday, February 12, 10pm
Where: Barbes, 376 9th Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues
What: Discover some forgotten gems from the ’20s, ’30s, and ’40s, as The Pre-War Ponies takes the Barbes stage on Thursday night.
How much: $10 strongly suggested donation.

Shape Up NYC: Cardio Toning
When: Friday, February 13, 12pm
Where: Audubon Center, Prospect Park
What: Shape up your core with a free cardio class in Prospect Park that will combine strength, balance, and toning exercises. No reservation is required, but it is recommended that you bring a workout mat.
How much: Free.

Kids Create: Be My Valentine Craft Program
When: Friday, February 13, 3pm
Where: Park Slope Library, 431 6th Avenue at 9th Street
What: Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the Park Slope Library with crafts and music for children in grades K through 6.
How much: Free.

Roots Poetry Series
When: Friday, February 13, 8-10pm
Where: Roots Cafe, 639 5th Avenue, between 18th and 19th Streets
What: The monthly poetry series at Roots brings together an impressive lineup on Friday night! Look for readings from Melissa Ahart, Hafizah Geter, Raphael Allison, and Aimée Dupont.
How much: Free.

Coffee Bark
When: Saturday, February 14, 7-9am
Where: Meadow beside the Picnic House in Prospect Park (Enter at PPW and 3rd Street)
What: Last weekend’s Coffee Bark with FIDO was cancelled, but they’ll be out there on Saturday with treats for dogs (and their owners), as well as information on off-leash activities.
How much: Free.

Lawson Leong And Carl Banks
When: Saturday, February 14, 8pm and 11pm
Where: Freddy’s, 627 5th Avenue, between 17th and 18th Streets
What: First up at Freddy’s on Saturday night is a double set from comedian Lawson Leong, who “shares his views on race, religion, dating and addiction through the lens of unconditional love.” Afterward, stick around for “melodic nomad” Carl Banks, performing blues/roots & folk rock at 11pm.
How much: Free!

Lover and Loners Valentine’s Day Party
When: Saturday, February 14
Where: The Monro Pub, 481 5th Avenue, between 11th and 12th Streets
What: Whether you’re getting cozy with the one your love, or just hanging out with some mates, the Monro Pub is the place to be on Saturday night. Look for $8 Champagne & strawberries, $10 flirtinis, and $9 Bitter & Twisted.
How Much: No cover.

Nature Playtime: Zoo
When: Sunday, February 15, 10:30am-12:30pm
Where: Prospect Park Zoo, 450 Flatbush Avenue
What: The Prospect Park Alliance, Prospect Park Zoo, and Tinkergarten are teaming up (with a little help from the Disney Conservation Fund) to bring families creative play opportunities in the park’s natural areas. Every Sunday through April, those visiting the Prospect Park Zoo will be able to take part in Nature Playtime! in the native plant garden. Look for nature-inspired art, insect observation, playing with snow, scavenger hunts, and more. Want to try some Nature Playtime activities on your own? Download a free activity card here. A new card will be added to the website each month through April.
How much: Free with zoo admission.

Figure 8 Play Date With Clifford The Big Red Dog
When: Sunday, February 15, 2-4pm
Where: Lakeside, Prospect Park
What: This series from WNET Kids Club THIRTEEN lets families join PBS characters — this week, Clifford the Big Red Dog — for some loops around the skating rink, as well as character-themed activities and arts and crafts.
How much: Skating admission is $8, skate rentals are $6; Kids Club members get free admission and $1 off skating rental.