It’s Thursday, and you have no idea what you’ll do for the weekend. Patch is coming to the rescue. We've got the best bets for your done-work-outta-here time. Check our picks for the activities to hit and bars/restaurants/shops to explore.

1. RIB, WHITE & BLUE

Where/When: Lock 3 Park, 200 S Main St., Akron; Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m., and Monday at noon.

Why Go: Eat good ribs, listen to live music and on the Fourth of July, watch a spectacular fireworks display.

Price: Free admission.

2. FOUNDING FATHER'S BASH

Where/When: Earth Fare, 3737 W Market St., Fairlawn; Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Why Go: Earth Fare is hosting this all-American community cook-out that features live music, prizes and great food. 

Price: A burger and a hot dog are each $1. All military, police and fire personnel eat free.

3. SUPER SCIENCE SATURDAY CLUB 

Where/When: Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S Cleveland Massillon Rd., Copley; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Why Go: This club for 5- to 10-year-old students works on a new unit of study each month.

Price: $3 per class, or $10 each month.

4. FOURTH OF JULY WEEKEND FESTIVITIES

Where/When: Bicentennial Park, South Smith Rd., Fairlawn; Sunday at 8 p.m.

Why Go: The holiday activities begin with an outdoor concert that features the Brass Band of the Western Reserve. The evening ends with a fireworks display.

Where/When: Fairlawn Town Center, 2855 W Market St., Fairlawn; Monday at 6:30 p.m.

Why Go: The Fourth of July Parade begins in front of the Fairlawn Town Center, heads west on West Market Street to Ghent Road and ends in the Dillard's parking lot of the Summit Mall.

Price: Free.

5. SUNDAY SAMPLER

Where/When: Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High, Akron; Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Why Go: Enjoy free gallery admission to the collection and special exhibits.

Price: Free.