It’s Thursday, and if you’ve got no idea what you’ll do this last summer weekend before school starts, you’re in luck. There are big events happening in East Greenwich and nearby to put on your calendar. Check out the Patch picks for the best activities to hit and places to explore in your free time.

1. SUMMER’S END CONCERT

Hurricane Irene may have wreaked havoc on last weekend’s plans, and the lack of power certainly caused many delays this week, but the show goes on Friday as the Summer Arts and Festival Organization presents the 16^th annual Summer’s End Concert.

The gates open at 5 p.m., but you may want to stake out your picnic spot a little earlier to be sure to get a great view of the evening’s festivities.

Entertaining us will be the EGHS jazz ensemble, vocal students of local
songstress Phoebe Madden, and the Rhode Island Philharmonic with guest soloist John Pagano.

The staple Children’s and Veterans’ parades slated to step off around 8 p.m. are always a crowd pleaser.

As of now, Friday's weather forecast looks good, but in case of heavy rain, the event will be held at the same time on Saturday, September 3.

Where/When: James H. Eldredge Elementary School; Friday 5 p.m.

Why Go: The biggest event of the year in EG is a must-see, and a great place to meet up with friends from town and beyond.

Pricing:  Free with donations accepted

2. EAST GREENWICH ART FESTIVAL

Where/When: New England Tech, 1408 Division Road; Saturday 10 a.m.to 5 p.m.

Why Go: As part of its Labor Day arts weekend, East Greenwich will host over 100 contemporary American craft artists along with strolling entertainment, food and a farmers market at its inaugural Art Festival. Help make this much-anticipated festival a big success and an annual event.

Pricing: Free

3. EGHS VARSITY FOOTBALL

Where/When: North Kingstown High School, 150 Fairway Drive, North Kingstown; Friday, 6 p.m.

Why Go: The first game of the season against North Kingstown benefits the Injury Fund.

Pricing: Tickets available at the gate

4. OPEN MIC NIGHT AT THE GREENWICH HOTEL

Where/When: Greenwich Hotel Lounge; Saturday, 8:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.

Why Go: This is your chance to bring your own instrument and be a star.

Pricing: No cover, 21 and over

5. ADOPT-A-PET OPEN HOUSE

Where/When: Greenwich Bay Animal Hospital; Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Why Go: Start the school year with a new pet. You’ll be glad you did!

Pricing: Adoption fees vary

We know you have your favorites that we missed. So please share
the goodness in our comment box below, add your events to the EG Patch calendar, or e-mail them to eg.calendareditor@gmail.com.