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Strolling away from the Ridge

Adieu, Bay Ridge!

It is this reporter’s last week at the helm of your go-to-guide for weekend antics in the Ridge. And while your weekly dose of neighborhood shenanigans will never be the same, let us make the most of it this weekend with some beloved barroom rock and a sentimental stroll that is packed with neighborhood nosh, booty-shaking jams, and local goodies.

On Friday night, break out a pair of comfy walking shoes for a half-mile amble along Third Avenue for the season’s first Summer Stroll (Third Avenue between 80th and 90th streets). The 10-block stretch will be closed to cars so you can wine, dine, and meander the shuttered roadway in peace. Soak up some fresh air and sink your teeth into pizza, pasta, or pierogies at one of the many restaurants that will extend their seating into the street. You can shop at the vendors hawking clothes, crafts, and vintage knic-knacks, and if the mood so strikes you, boogie down to your favorite beats from a handful of live acts — including a New Orleans-style marching band — that will be peppered along the stretch, playing from 6–10:30 pm.

Those who prefer to spend Friday settled in one place can wind down the evening with alto-saxophone player Ken Simon at the Brooklyn Firefly (7003 Third Ave. at Ovington Avenue), and pair some smooth, jazzy rhythms with your swanky cocktail. Simon takes the stage at 8 pm.

On Saturday, keep the good times rolling with what Bay Ridge does best — classic rock ’n’ rolling. Saunter over to the Greenhouse Cafe (7717 Third Ave. between 77th and 78th streets) at 10 pm for local rockers Cherry Bomb, who are inspired by the likes of Guns ’N’ Roses, Joan Jett, and Blondie. Finally, escape the evening’s balmy weather at the Wicked Monk (9510 Third Ave. between 95th and 96th streets) with a Christmas in July concert by Radio Daze starting at 11 pm. The ’80s pop tribute band will transport you to cooler times with winter holiday-themed tracks to go with your frosty beverages from the bar.

Reach reporter Caroline Spivack at cspivack@cnglocal.com or by calling (718) 260–2523. Follow her on Twitter @carolinespivack.