Here's this week round up of diverse distractions from rising unemployment, rain showers, swine flu and gas explosions. Keeping you thrifty whatever the weather.
Thursday: There truly can't be a better place to watch the film Night at the Museum than at the Horniman Museum where, after dark, we know that walrus comes to life and rampages round the music gallery, lusting after the big old tuba. Free 8.30-10pm, the Bandstand.
Or if you're in north London, catch the Gay Men's Chorus at Museum of London, 5pm
Friday: Polish up that poker face and join the slightly misnomered Poker in the Park in Leicester Square "park" for a festival of all things pokery including lectures, book readings, demonstrations, tutorials and, of course, tournaments. Free, from 12 till 21.30.
Saturday: Take a free guided tour of The Photographers Gallery 'When You're a Boy'exhibition about male fashion, masculinity and sexuality, 3pm OR join the Straycation walk with Scott Wood of SELFS for subversive amblings up Blackfriars Road, also free at 3.
Sunday: Join the London Mela in Gunnersbury Park, free, between 1-8.30pm. There are 7 zones of entertainment ranging from the expected Asian Network and classical stage to the alternative Doosra stage, hosted by DJs Bobby Friction & Nihal. Add in food from around the world, stalls, kids stuff, street art, dance and performance and tell us you need anything more to do this Sunday.....
Actually, if you do... there'a always World Music from the Richmond Riverside and a free film festival in Angel.
Monday: Drop in and meet the artists behind DIY Regeneration at the Camden Arts Centre between 7-8.30pm. Find out more about this project for Kings Cross and see the work produced during their residency.
Tuesday: Not at work today? Join an art ramble around Victoria and Mile End Parks with materials and refreshments provided, no experience or talent required and it's absolutely free. Meet 10am at Chisenhale Art Place. Or there's another opportunity to visit the Hunterian Museum at the Royal College of Surgeons and get rare glimpse of that Henry VIII cartoon in the big hall.
Wednesday: Visit the Rock and Roll Public Library (pictured). Free and open till 25 August.
