Stuck in town for Memorial Day weekend? Don't despair as there's plenty of fun to be had. Here are a few free activities paired with ideas for where to eat.
Robot Sumo and Shabu-Shabu: On Saturday, May 24th, the Museum of Science offers a free Robot Sumo competition (1 PM; free with the price of museum admission; 1 Science Park; 617-723-2500; www.mos.org). After the match, consider taking a 30-minute stroll – or catch the T – over to Chinatown for Japanese shabu-shabu at Kaze (1 Harrison Ave.; 617-338-8283).
Go Shelling: Also on Saturday, the 15th annual Earthfest at the Hatch Shell brings free music from bands including Cake, Cracker, The English Beat and the BoDeans (noon–6 PM; 10 Storrow Dr.; see more details). Before or after the lineup, stop into Antonio's Cucina to fuel up (286 Cambridge St.; 617-367-3310).
Sail and Sup: Free sailing lessons from the Boston Sailing Center will be given on Monday, May 26th (1–5 PM; the Riverboat at Lewis Wharf; 617-227-4198). Stick to the theme with classic seafood shack eats at the Boston Sail Loft (80 Atlantic Ave.; Commercial Wharf; 617-227-7280).