Don't Rain on BiMA's Parade

This week is heavy on the natural disasters in the Mid-Atlantic, what with a hurricane and an earthquake within a few days of each other, and good thing for us there’s a soundtrack to match all weekend long.

BiMA is this weekend, aka the Baltimore Music and Arts Festival, much of which is taking place in North Baltimore.

The BiMa Festival started on Thursday and runs through Sunday, encompassing 11 venues, including Joe Squared, Ottobar, Wind Up Space, Frazier’s, Charm City Art Space, The Depot, Golden West, Hour Haus, Cyclops Books, and the Sidebar. Most of these places are within walking distance of each other, if not a short ride. There’s a ton of stuff to take in and the best place to check out all that’s going on is here.

You can get a pass for all four days for $39, or single tickets ranging from $10 to $25, depending on what day you plan on going. BiMA is a collaboration of Baltimore artists and musicians doing what Baltimore does best, showcasing its talent. Some acts to catch are Misery Index, A Cat Called Cricket, Thrushes, The Moaners, Pharmacists, Sal Bando and Baltimore String Felons. There are more than 120 bands and acts to tempt you to leave the house as Hurricane Irene looms.

As August ends and September begins, there are a few things to do this week, in case Irene ruins the weekend plans.

Monday at Golden West is the Nintendo Challenge starting at 10 p.m. If you’re a fan of Super Smash Brothers then you’ll find your people there. If you’ve ever wondered how Mario Brothers would sound through a PA, show up Monday with $3 and wonder no more.

Hopefully BiMA won’t be cancelled or dampened by the rain, Baltimore artists need all the support they can get right now, as do the venues. There’s no reason not to visit them later in the week as well, there’s still something going on.

• Wednesday at Wind Up Space, Liz Meredith & John Somers, Mark Miller, Zack Forrest, Janel & Anthony. That’s a lot of names.  Doors at 8:30 p.m., show an hour later, price TBA.

• Wednesday at CCAS, Bomb the Music Industry!, The Sidekicks, 88mph, and Loud. 7 p.m., donation.