Weekday Fun: The Best Events September 29-October 1

Looking for something fun to do in the neighborhood this week? From an author reading, to trivia about ’80s movies, to a cocktail party and benefit at the library, there are plenty of interesting events within walking distance. Details on those, and more:

Donal Ryan Reads From The Thing About December
When: Monday, September 29, 7pm
Where: Community Bookstore, 143 7th Avenue
What: Irish writer Donal Ryan, whose The Spinning Heart was the winner of prestigious Guardian First Book Award, reads from The Thing About December, a novel about a bullied farmer defending his land and all he loves against land-grabbers and changing times.
How much: Free!

Can’t Stand Trivia
When: Monday, September 29, 8pm
Where: The Gate, 321 5th Avenue
What: There’s a chance not only to win booze, but also wings from Bonnie’s. The only catch, of course, is that you’ve got to win — so assemble your smartest (and least hungry) friends, stat.
How much: Free!

Olive Oil 101 Class
When: Tuesday, September 30, 6pm
Where: O Live Brooklyn, 140 5th Avenue
What: Explore when, what, and how, as well as the flavor characteristics and chemistry, of single varietal extra virgin olive oil, and come out tasting olive oil like a pro, in this class led by owner Greg Bernarducci. There will be snacks and a signature cocktail to enjoy, as well.
How much: $30, includes a bottle of extra virgin olive oil. Contact 718-783-1680 or olivebrooklyn@gmail.com to sign up.

Second Annual Brooklyn Classic Fall Cocktail Party & Benefit
When: Tuesday, September 30, 6:30-9:30pm
Where: Central Library, Dweck Center, 10 Grand Army Plaza
What: The Brooklyn Eagles, a new a group of young supporters of the Brooklyn Public Library, are hosting their second annual benefit, which will help fund the library’s collections and programming for children, youth, and families. Enjoy a cocktail, network, and learn how the Eagles connect with new patrons, promote BPL as a cultural center, and build a vibrant community around the resources the library offers.
How much: Tickets start at $150, include Brooklyn Eagles membership, and are tax-deductible.

’80s Music Trivia
When: Tuesday, September 30, 8pm
Where: Tea Lounge, 837 Union Street
What: Five unique and challenging rounds on Jeff Spicoli, Long Duck Dong, Johnny Castle, and more.
How much: Free, but first-come, first-served, so arrive early.

Film Screening: The Kennel Murder Case
When: Wednesday, October 1, 6:30pm
Where: Central Library, Dweck Center, 10 Grand Army Plaza
What: Debonair detective Philo Vance (William Powell) sniffs out intrigue at the The Long Island Kennel Club with the aid of a Doberman in this 1933 film directed by Michael Curtis.
How much: Free!

Graydon James & Laura Spink, With Mya Byrne
When: Wednesday, October 1, 8pm
Where: Two Moon Art House & Cafe, 315 4th Avenue
What: Hear Graydon James and Laura Spink, the driving force behind Toronto folk-rock band Graydon James & the Young Novelists. Plus, Mya Byrne – a Jersey girl with a Southern heart – brings her “raucous alt-country” to the stage, as well.
How much: Pay what you can at the door.

Photo via Graydon James & the Young Novelists