Hooray.  It’s a holiday week!  That means everyone’s got all kinds of time off work and special plans for the week.  How fun. For those of us not in that category, here’s a quick glance at some things to do while the masses sleep off turkey dinner.

As the first of a 3-day week, Monday has a respectable amount of fun to choose from.  Strengths and theWaits pair up for a free show at Murphy’s around 9pm.  As an added bonus, Alyssa Moore takes the stage a second time when she debuts with Brandon O’Brien as Kitchen Dweller.  These two Rocket Science Audio rockers promise greatness and the small bit I’ve heard has me ready for more.  If that’s not your jive then just cross the street for P&H open mic music.  Two free events on the same block, can’t lose there.

Tuesday, Dave Cousar serenades the Buccaneer Lounge as usual, but only once the hour is good and late.  Before that, go check out the American Fiction Vinyl Release Party at the new Lafayette’s in Overton Square.  Yet another free event, this is the perfect reason to check out the Music Room and support a great local artist.  Things start around 9pm and rumor mills suggest multiple special guests that night.

Wednesday is when the real holiday portion of the week kicks off.  Half days off work.  Pre-Thanksgiving visits to B-side relatives.  The bustle will drive everyone to drink.  So, come to the P&H and have a good laugh while enjoying a pitcher of beer.  The Sneak Attack Comedy Thanksgiving essentially guarantees a full-body chortle at some point after 9pm.  Featuring a live OAM Audio podcast, the entertainers are local favorites from far and wide.  There’s no cover.  However, donations are always appreciated at the Poor & Hungry.  It is the day before the day of giving after all!

Thursday.  Well, there’s no need for curmudgeonly isolation on this auspicious holiday.  If you don’t have a Hallmark card to pose for, come have lunch at the Pumping Station.  It’s the perfect opportunity to try something completely new.  Thursday evening offers a number of places where you can escape the family.  Personally, I’m looking at Bar DKDC, because anything that incorporates Wild Turkey with Thanksgiving should be rewarded.  It’s a promise of good times with good music.  If you want something heavier, go check out the Hi Tone holiday show.  Only 5$, assuredly awesome.

That’s plenty of distraction until the weekend hits and then Friday explodes with entertainment options for those left standing.  The Memphis Dawls go on around 8pm at the Hi Tone.  There’s an 8$ cover but it’s a holiday weekend so spoil yourself.  If you want something more low-key, Five In One Social Club is hosting a post-Thanksgiving Game Night.  They’ll have Wiseacre beer on tap and a wide variety of games to choose from.

Of course, the spotlight stealer Friday is Marcella & Her Lovers performing with Terrance Simien at Bar DKDC later that night.  I hope Karen Carrier has insurance because they are going to tear the house down!  Also, Hope Clayburn is planning a Soul Scrimmage at the Buccaneer so really, there’s no excuse left – this night is clearly for dancing.  I hope to see you out on the floor!