Five things to do in Iowa City this weekend from local acts to Hollywood's biggest names

Spring is nearly here, with temperatures slowly rising into the weekend, there is plenty to do. Whether it is spending a day inside or indoors, there is plenty to enjoy this weekend in Iowa City.

Here are five events worth checking out:

Live at LaWine Bar and Restaurant

Start the weekend with a chill Friday evening at LaWine. Enjoy an Asian-fusion dinner that will warm you from the inside and out, soundtracked by local singer-songwriter Jordan Messerole, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. LaWine Bar and Restaurant is hosting a local musician to soundtrack the evening every Friday in March, a perfect way to discover new music and try a new dish.

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Girlies For Emma Goldman: A Comedy Show

Support local comedy and Iowa City's Emma Goldman Clinic at the Girlies For Emma Goldman Comedy Show. The comedy show is now in its fifth iteration. Headliner and Show Producer Karen Sanchez is joined by University of Iowa Senior and Paperback Rhino Improviser MK Shultz, Wisconsin Comedian Kay Baratti, and local comedians to raise money for the Emma Goldman Clinic. Tickets for the show cost $10. It is an 18+ event. Guests 21 and older can BYOB.

The show will be held at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 9 at Willow Creek Theatre Company. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are available on eventbrite.com

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Tab Benoit at The Englert Theatre

A night filled with rhythmic and soulful sounds to welcome the warm weather is being offered at the Englert Theatre this weekend. Tab Benoit, a Grammy-nominated musician renowned for his Delta swamp blues, is bringing the sounds of the south to Iowa City. Catch his performance at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 9 at the Englert Theatre. Tickets start at $41.

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Plastic Relations and Behind My Camel at Wildwood Smokehouse & Saloon

Enjoy a night of eclectic and dynamic music dedicated to David Bowie and The Police. Tribute bands Plastic Relations and Behind My Camel are coming to Wildwood Smokehouse & Saloon on Saturday, March 9. Starting at 8 p.m., return to the golden age of rock-n-roll by dancing to the reimagined hits. The show goes until midnight, with general admission tickets available for $15. Guests can also reserve a table for an additional $20.

Blue Carpet Bash at FilmScene

It’s the biggest night in Hollywood and just another night in Iowa City. However, everyone can get in on Academy Award action at FilmScene. Watch the award show at 4:30 at FilmScene’s Chauncey location while enjoying the comfort and concessions of the movie theatre. Guests can RSVP for the free event on FilmScene’s website.

Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and business reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at [email protected] or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Five things to check out in Iowa City as spring inches closer