Weekend Six Pack (6/18-6/20): World Naked Bike Ride, Foster-Powell Garden Tour, 2010 Dirty Birdy

Six Great Things to Do This Weekend…

LEARN

Effective Composting Class
Where: Fremont Whole Foods Market, 3535 NE 15th Avenue
When: Friday, June 18, 6:30–8 p.m.
Cost: $10
Tip: Space is limited, so register online to reserve your spot.

Composting—it’s not just for hippies anymore! This class will teach several different approaches to composting, including the lasagna method, which is considerably less delicious than it sounds.

ENGAGE

World Naked Bike Ride
Where: ODOT parking lot, SE Water and Taylor
When: Saturday, June 19, 9 p.m. (ride starts at 10 p.m.)
Cost: FREE
Tip: Considering stripping down for your first naked ride? Read the guide for newbies first.

It’s been six years since Portland’s first official naked bike ride, and ever since, bicycle seats across the city have been seeking out therapy in record numbers. This Saturday night, the World Naked Bike Ride will once again jiggle and dangle its way through our city streets, exposing gawkers to a little bit of what they want to see, and a whole lot of what they don’t.

RELAX

3rd Annual Foster-Powell Garden Tour
Where: Foster-Powell neighborhood
When: Saturday, June 19, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Tip: Email fopogardens@gmail.com for a map of participating gardens.

If your garden consists of grow lights, a good ventilation system and a dark closet, first of all, we need to hang out. Second, you should check out what a legal garden looks like in the Foster-Powell neighborhood this weekend, where traditional, naturescaped, edible and artistic gardens will all be in full bloom and open for public viewing.

CONSUME

Chocolatey Ride
Where: Couch City Park, NW 20th and Glisan
When: Friday, June 18, 12 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Tip: The ride is free, but don’t forget to bring cash to buy chocolate!

Pedalpalooza’s most delicious bike ride is scheduled for this Friday afternoon, when David Beer of Wingnut Confections and Sabrina Hicks of Alma Chocolate will lead a two-wheeled tour of local chocolatiers in search of the ultimate sugar high.

PLAY

2010 Dirty Birdy
Where: Portland International Raceway Motocross Track, 1940 North Victory Blvd
When: Friday, June 18, 5:30 p.m.
Cost: $45, kids under 13 free with a registered adult
Tip: Bring clean clothes and a garbage bag to toss your muddy duds in. Rinse off stations will be available after the race.

If mud wrestling has taught us anything, it’s that everything is better when it’s down and dirty. This “5kish” race through slip and slides, mud pits and all manner of mud-caked obstacles at PIR will be no exception. And, if you can make it through this gauntlet of goop faster than anyone else, you’ll be named the official 2010 Dirty Birdy. Mom would be so proud.

EXPLORE

Day of the African Child
Where: South Park Blocks (between SW Hall and Jackson) and Smith Memorial Student Union (724 SW Harrison)
When: Saturday, June 19, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Tip: The event is free, but be sure to bring cash for the various food, drink and crafts available for sale.

The South Park Blocks will transform into a showcase for African culture this weekend complete with music, drumming and dance lessons, food, storytelling and an outdoor marketplace.