Italian Apps at GEM; No. 9 Park Teaches Cocktails

BAY VILLAGE — TGIF — that is, thank GEM it's Friday. The Italian restaurant and lounge offers complimentary after-works apps tonight between 5 - 7 p.m. [FB]

BEACON HILL — Spend a relaxing Sunday afternoon learning how to make specialty cocktails with No. 9 Park bar manager Ryan Lotz. Each class runs from 2 - 4 p.m. and is $65; chef de cuisine Ben Weisberger will provide the snacks. This week, take on the tiki drink. Learn the history of tiki cocktails, discuss various rums, learn how to make syrups, and more. Yes, there will be drink umbrellas. Space is limited; call 617-742-9991 to reserve your barstool. [Press Release]

KENDALL SQUARE — Feel like going out this Tuesday, but want more than just green beer? Head over to Commonwealth for chef/owner Steve "Nookie" Postal's inaugural Ping Pong Extravaganza. Your ticket includes a drink ticket and snacks, and the tournament has 64 spots for ping pongers. Tickets are $25, and a portion of sales benefits InnerCity Weightlifting, a non-profit that aims to reduce violence through fitness training. [Official Site]