This weekend was a pretty solid reminder of why I love this city. Celebrated Pride at the Gay Farmers Market, caught Devon Gilfillian & Cece Coakley kicking off WNXP's Summer Line series downtown, and sat in on a powerful conversation at The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) with Representative Justin Jones, Ruby Amanfu, and Allison Russell about protecting Nashville from massive AI data centers that threaten places like the Zoo and North Nashville. Community only works when people show up, so don’t be afraid to stand up and use your voices.

Speaking of showing up, the World Cup is here, and we've rounded up the best watch parties around town so you know exactly where to cheer, groan, and order one more round.

Plus, today's your last chance to win a spot at Pinewood Social's Fourth of July celebration, complete with BBQ, bowling, and one of the best fireworks views in the city.

JUST ANNOUNCED

• Nashville-based indie rocker Michigander celebrates Over Before You Know It at Grimey’s on July 31st with an in-store performance and album signing. Preorder from Grimey’s to lock in your wristband.

• Somebody once told you this was a terrible idea... and that's exactly why you're going. Shrek Rave returns to Brooklyn Bowl with fairy tale fits, absurd dance remixes, and enough swamp energy to keep the party going all night. Get outta your swamp and into the party.

• Liam Kazar has earned fans like Jeff Tweedy by writing songs that somehow feel instantly familiar. Catch the acclaimed songwriter, joined by Josh Gilligan, at Third Man's Blue Room for a night of warm, timeless indie rock this September 25th. Be in the room where the sweet jams happen.

• One member says Do615 MORE helped them discover their favorite bands. Another says it helped them fall in love with their city. For five years, that's been the whole point. Celebrate with 12 months for $50!*

• Plus other just announced shows from Tom Morello, Bailen, Molly Hatchet, Edwin McCain, The Arcadian Wild, and more!

WORLD CUP WATCH PARTIES

If this weekend reminded me of anything, it's that showing up is half the fun. The same goes for the World Cup. Whether you're cheering for the U.S., backing your family's home country, or just looking for an excuse to spend an afternoon at your favorite bar, we've rounded up the best watch parties around Nashville. Grab your jersey, claim your lucky seat, and let someone else worry about the officiating.

Bonus spot (not on this list): If the weather is nice, consider popping into Lost & Found on the Eastside, as they have been showing games on an outdoor screen with sound!

THIS WEEK

LOCALS ONLY

• Believe in little green men or not, this sounds like a fun way to spend World UFO Day. Head to Shelby Bottoms for an after-dark hike exploring local UFO lore while learning what is actually flying around the night sky. Registration is required; come on by and investigate for yourself!

•  Blood donors needed in Nashville! Good Labs is offering free blood donation screenings, so if you’ve been needing bloodwork done, give them a ring and knock out two birds with one virtuous stone.

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