5 Things You Should Know This Weekend — Aug. 12-14, 2011

Another busy weekend lies ahead, with a wide variety of activities open to residents of all ages. Here's the short list; find all weekend activities on our calendar:

1. The weather

It's looking a little gloomy, starting tonight, with a 30 percent chance of showers. Both Saturday and Sunday will be cloudy days, with the best chance of rain Saturday night, according to the National Weather Service. Highs should be in the mid-70s both days, with night-time temps in the 60s.

2. The music

Tonight's Rhythmz in Riley Park is just the start of this weekend's musical entertainment:

• Bones Maki & The Treble-Aires take to the "stage" in the at 7 p.m. with a rockabilly and Western swing sound.
• Folk musicians Billy Brandt and Sarana VerLin perform at the Farmington Farmers & Artisans Market from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday at the Walter E. Sundquist Farmington Pavilion.
• Dan Hazlett headlines Saturday night's acoustic music series at in downtown Farmington; he'll start playing at 7 p.m.
• Saturday at the amphitheater in Farmington Hills, starting with a swing dance lesson at 5 p.m., followed by a picnic and dancing at 6 p.m. Rain location is the . Tickets cost $12; call 248-473-1830 to learn more.

3. The giving

• Motorcyclists will gather at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at on Grand River in Farmington for the , which benefits wounded Marine Corps veteran Cpl. Joshua Hoffman. After registration, there will be an escorted motorcycle ride to Michigan International Speedway. To learn more about Cpl. Hoffman and the ride, read Nicole Krawcke's story on our site this morning.
• , located at 13 Mile and Greening, needs your help Saturday. and help restore the park to its natural beauty. The work starts at 8 a.m.; wear long pants and sleeves and bug spray, and bring snacks, small saws, lopers and clippers. The city of Farmington Hills will provide water and some equipment.
• Another is being held at noon Sunday at on Orchard Lake Road in Farmington Hills. These are rescued cats and kittens, so you'll be doing a good deed by giving them a home. 

4. The art

Winning photographers from The , created by Lesa Foto-graphy, will be featured in a free exhibit at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Historic PowerHouse/Winery Building at Orchard Lake and Grand River. Eight honorable mention photographs will also be on display, and all 11 photographers have been invited to showcase their work.

5. The karaoke

hosts a Steampunk Karaoke night at 8 p.m. Saturday. After paying a $5 admission, you can sing your heart out with plenty of musical options. The store is at 23023 Orchard Lake Rd.