7 amazing Bay Area things to do this weekend, May 20-22

We bet many of you are already looking forward to Memorial Day Weekend, but just stop right there, campers. You owe it to yourself to make the most of this weekend first. And we have some cool ideas, from amazing dance and music shows, to an iconic ’80s band to an awesome day trip to Point Pinole.

And if you’re going out to a show or a meal, remember that the COVID landscape is still evolving, so be sure to check the venue or restaurant website for the latest safety updates before you go.

(Psst, if you want to get this Weekender lineup delivered to your inbox every Thursday morning for free, just sign up at www.mercurynews.com/newsletters or www.eastbaytimes.com/newsletters.)

1. SEE & HEAR: An amazing weekend for live entertainment

Whether your thing is site-specific dances about Alameda Point, crazy-talented Scottish Fiddlers or toys that come to life, there’s a Bay Area show for you this weekend.

2. EAT & PLAY: Bay Area’s Insta-worthy restaurants

If you’re one of those diners who loves to share their outings on social media, we salute you! Here are our picks for the Bay Area’s nine most Instagrammable restaurants.

3. WATCH: An edgy bromantic comedy

“Emergency” blends your basic frat-boy comedy stunts with a pretty hefty breakdown of American racial attitudes. Somehow, it works. It tops our rundown of new shows and movies you should know about, along with the return of beloved Disney chipmunks Chip ‘n Dale.

4. PLAY & SIP: A wiking paradise

World-class wineries and hiking trails make Paso Robles a primo wiking (wine plus hiking) weekend destination. Here’s an itinerary.

5. SEE & HEAR: A classic ’80s band

The seminal goth-rock band Bauhaus just launched its first U.S. tour in 16 years (spoiler alert: Bela Lugosi is still dead) and has a pair of shows this weekend in San Francisco. It’s the start of what should be an awesome summer for Bay Area fans of ’80s acts.

6. PLAY: A booming time in Point Pinole

Point Pinole Regional Shoreline has it all, to-die-for views, great walks, and an explosive (literally) history lesson. In other words, it’s a great day trip. By the way, if you’d like to suggest cool places for us to write about, check out our Bay Area Bucket List.

7. SEE & HEAR: An amazing singing contest is about

The Irene Dalis Vocal Competition is back in San Jose for the first time in years, serving up some of opera most promising young stars. Here’s what you need to know.