Looking for last minute, off-the-cuff weekend plans?  It’s not too late to figure it all out.  For a glimpse of upcoming events that we’ll be covering, check out the scrolling calendar in our side bar to your right.  Otherwise, here are a few highlights to check out in and around Manhattan this weekend!

Arts & Culture

Friday, March 25 – Sunday, March 27- The International Artexpo New York 2011 kicks off tonight with over 400 exhibitors with artists from over 30 countries and best of all, tickets start at just $15.(Art Expo New York)

Sunday, March 27- The Macy’s Flower Show kicks off this Sunday with a “Towers of Flowers” theme in Herald Square.  Walk the entire floor and take lots of pictures as the display concludes April 10^th.

Sports

Friday, March 25 – Sunday, March 27- Newark’s Prudential Center hosts March Madness with the East Regional portion of the tournament being played at The Rock.  Marquette and UNC and Kentucky and Ohio State all clash tonight.  See if you can secure a spot for some of the highly anticipated hardwood showdowns.  ( March Madness Tickets)

Saturday, March 26- Still got World Cup fever? Head across the pond to the New Meadowlands for an American soccer exhibition as the United States takes on Argentina. Shin guards sold separately. (USA v. Argentina Event Info)

Music & Entertainment

Friday, March 25- If you already have tickets (and we don’t!), kudos because this show is sold out, but Josh Homme and the rest of the Queens of the Stone Age take on Terminal 5 to play their entire self titled 1998 debut.  Rock on! (Queens of the Stone Age Event Details)

Friday, March 25- Movie release day.  Quiet night tonight?  Check out some releases coming out today- Sucker Punch (PG-13) from Zach Snyder, director of 300 and Watchmen and Peep World (NR) starring Michael C. Hall, Rainn Wilson, and Sarah Silverman.  Don’t blame us if you hate both.

Nightlife

Friday, March 25- The west side’s Pacha has an “Ibiza Comes to New York” party with free admission before midnight. (Ibiza Comes to New York)

Saturday, March 26- It’s not as easy as you think to meet people in Manhattan.  Check The Empire Room for their 8 Minute Dating event.  It’s suggested for 30-40 types, but come on:  Cougars!  (8minutedating.com)

Other

Saturday, March 25- Join the LocalBozo Crew and Edible Manhattan down at Jimmy’s No. 43 as the bar hosts a Brisket Cookoff from 1-4pm with proceeds going to benefit the New Amsterdam Market.  Tickets start at just $20 and more information can be found here:  (Jimmy’s No. 43 Brisket Cookoff)

- Jane Van Arsdale