Doubling up on get-togethers

Hobnobbing with the neighbors isn’t always something to look forward to, but this Saturday, a double bonanza of eating, drinking, and socializing at two outdoor flings promises a wickedly good time for even the most misanthropic East Side residents. First off is the Atwood Summerfest (2000-2100 blocks of Atwood Avenue, 608-241-1574 ext. 228) starting at noon. Chicken satay and jerked pork will jostle nicely with chili dogs, roasted corn, and ice cream cones from Schoep's, with Ale Asylum and Capital Brewery beer to wash everything down. The third installment of the Senior Scenester Potluck (Tenney Park shelter, 608-334-4289) will set sail later that day, from 4-10 p.m., celebrating the Madison music of ’80s and ’90s, including the hardcore scene that spawned the likes of Tar Babies, Imminent Attack, Old Skull, and Appliances SFB. Three years ago Bill Feeny and Lisa Marine became annoyed that the old punk-rock crew barely saw each other anymore, and put together the first potluck to bring that crew back together. Today it’s a blossoming tradition of food, beer, live music, photo albums, and a shelter plastered with flyers of the old Headliners and Turner Hall shows from Madison’s punk heyday. Those hardcore punks grew up to become pretty good cooks, judging by past potluck entries including blue corn chips with homemade salsa, brats flanked by deviled eggs, and several varieties of cold summer salads like tabouli, potato salad with radishes, orzo salad with vinaigrette and feta cheese, and even a metal lunchbox full of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

FATSOMETER: 2. Cycling revelers can burn calories travelling from one party to the next and graze for hours without feeling bloated. If swelling occurs, commence slam-dancing.