Your Weekend: Muslim Journeys, Art, Polar Plunge

Looking for a way to keep busy in and around the Lehigh Valley this weekend? Here are a few suggestions: 

1. Get ready to talk about it: Lower Macungie Library is hosting a free five-part reading and discussion series this spring called Let’s Talk About It: Muslim Journeys. Participants will get the opportunity to read a book and discuss some important themes in Muslim history and literature with the help of well-qualified scholars from the Religion Studies Department at Lehigh University. The program kicks off at 1 p.m. Saturday. Please contact the library for more information at  610-966-6864.

2. Write that book. Parkland Community Library has a new group for aspiring authors. Drop by the library at 7 p.m. Thursday to talk and critique with other aspiring authors.

3. Be inspired. The Women's Ministry at Jordan's United Church of Christ in South Whitehall is hosting Christian motivational speaker Leslie Vernick beginning with breakfast at 8:30 a.m. Saturday. Vernick will speak on the “Best Possible You.” Cost: $10.00. For more information, call 610-395-2218.

4. Share a poem, sing. Amber Connection, 420 Chestnut St., Emmaus, is celebrating its 10th year with an open mic night Thursday night. 

5. Take a Polar Plunge. The Lehigh Valley Polar Plunge returns to the Delaware River at Easton for it second year. The plunge itself happens at noon Saturday, with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m., followed by a costume contest.  To learn more, and to register, visit the Polar Plunge's website.

6. Try new restaurants. Easton will celebrate Restaurant Week beginning Sunday. There will be fixed lunch and dinner mens at more than a dozen restaurants.

7. Celebrate Art. You can get a first look at the Allentown Art Museum's new exhibit, Paul Harryn: Essence of Nature, at a preview party from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday. There will be food, drink, and entertainment by the PA Jazz Collective. Art Museum members are free, and nonmembers, $25. Call 610-432-4333 ext 129.