Something for the weekend

All weekend

Bookworm festival

The Bookworm International Literary Festival kicks off this weekend, where authors and wannabes congregate to sip wine and talk shop from around the world. Tickets are still available for Saturday's discussion by Alison Pick, winner of the 2011 Canadian Jewish Book Award, on her latest novel Far to Go (4 pm, 65 yuan). On Sunday, catch indie folk artist David Thomas Broughton musically juggle a guitar, loop pedal and transistor radio (10 pm, 50 yuan).

Where and contact: The Bookworm, Sanlitun Nan Lu, Chaoyang district, 6586-9507

Friday

Excess Luggage

Catch this lightning fast keyboard jazz trio from Norway named after the fact they travel with oversized organs, as they tour through China on their embassy's dime.

When, where and how much: 9 pm, Hotcat Club (6400-7868), 50 yuan

When The Bough Breaks

Filmmaker Ji Dan presents his documentary on the residents of Daxing district, as Beijing's wave of urban development transforms the area. A discussion led by the director will follow.

When, where and how much: 8 pm, Culture Yard (8404-4166), 60 yuan. Reserve a seat at workshop@cultureyard.net

Saturday

Musical dilemma

For Beijing's music fans, good luck making a decision this Saturday. First, Yo-yo Ma returns to the capital, this time with the fantastic Silk Road Ensemble, performing works by Beijing rock vocalist and sheng player Wu Tong.

When, where and how much: 7:30 pm, NCPA (6655-0000), remaining available tickets start at 600 yuan

MEN at Yugong Yishan

Another option is MEN, the quirky and critically acclaimed NYC dance music trio led by Le Tigre's JD Samson, which will be sure to bring out hipsters from the deepest hutong.

When, where and how much: 10pm, Yugong Yishan (6404-2711), 100 yuan/70 presale

Sunday

NGO a go-go

For those curious on how to hook up with non-profits and volunteering gigs in Beijing, head to the next NGO job fair organized by the Dongjen Center.

When, where and contact: 9 am to 5apm, Dongjen Center for Human Rights Education and Action (19 Dashiqiao Hutong, 9 Gulou Dajie), 8403-4803