This Weekend

• Southern Comfort: South Side Irish Parade
  
  After drunks got it banned in 2010 and 2011, the South Side parade is back, but keep the boozing indoors to evade police.
  
  Fun zone: With bars including Cork & Kerry, Keegan’s, and Dubliner lining the route, you won’t have to go far to find a beer.
  
  Sun noon. Western Avenue from 103rd to 115th Sts., Beverly (773-916-7747). Free.

• Pong Stars: Pong Fest at The Anthem
  
  Chicago Sport & Social hosts this first-ever beer pong tournament, awarding a beer pong table to the winner.
  
  Gator aid: Specials include $3 Coors Lights, $5 Absolut/Jameson cocktails, and $6 mac & cheese bites baskets.
  
  Sat noon. The Anthem, 1725 W. Division St., Wicker Park. (773-697-4804). $20 per two-person team here.
  
  Nearby: Bangers & Lace; Carriage House, The Bedford

• Austin Avenue: Annual SXSW Send-Off Party at the Hideout
  
  Save a trip to Austin and see 11 local SXSW-bound bands play this all-day event to help fund their trips to Texas.
  
  Line ‘em up: We recommend local stars The Hood Internet and Outer Minds, plus newly buzzed-about band Frontier.
  
  Sat 3p. The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., Elston Industrial Corridor. (773-227-4433). $10 at the door.
  
  Nearby: Exit; Hollywood Grill; Goose Island

• Quick Hits: Speed Friending at the Lincoln Tap Room
  
  No, not the Facebook kind — this is real-life friending with games, prizes, and actual human connections.
  
  Show stopper: After the two-hour party with free beer and wine, stick around for the free post-event burlesque show.
  
  Fri 7p. Lincoln Tap Room, 3010 N. Lincoln Ave., Lakeview. (773-868-0060). $15 here.
  
  Nearby: S&G; Golden Apple; Grand River Bar & Grill