Weekend in Novato: Gypsy Jazz, Fly a Kite and Watch Your Own Story Come to Life

If you’re not too tired from all the holiday parties, head to Finnegan’s to hear Gypsy Jazz Caravan, an acoustic ensemble inspired by legendary gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt. The group’s repertoire includes swing standards, ballads, bossa novas, be-bop and a growing number of original compositions. 8:30pm. Finnegan’s, 877 Grant Ave. Free.

On Friday, Andrew Maley of Marin Maker Mobile comes to the Novato library to teach a workshop on MaKey MaKey, an invention that turns everyday objects such as paper, bananas or a glove into game controllers with the help of alligator clips.

Marin Maker Mobile made its first debut last year at the Marin County Fair and delivers STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) to children using project-based classes. To learn more about MaKey Makey, watch this highly entertaining video. Friday 1pm at Novato Library, 1720 Novato Boulevard. Appropriate for grades middle and high school students. Register in advance.

On Saturday, create and fly your own kite at a free event organized by Marin County Parks. Bring the whole family to Millerton Point on the eastern shore of Tomales Bay and learn how to build a customized "Frustrationless Flyer" kite with materials provided. Appropriate for ages 3 and up. 1pm at Millerton Point, Tomales Bay State Park: Hwy 1, Marshall.

Saturday evening, experience a unique form of improvisational theater at a Bay Area Playback Theater’s performance in San Rafael. The narrative of the play changes every night as members of the audience share their stories and actors instantly re-enact them using movement, music and dramatic spoken word. $10 in advance; $12-$18 at the door. 8pm.  Click here for more info.

This Sunday, it’s Open Studios at the Novato Art Center from 11am to 4pm. Drop in and meet artists and visit the Marin Contemporary Museum’s to galleries. Free. 500 Palm Dr.