As I sometimes joke, “Dates on the calendar are closer than they appear.” But it’s true that the end of summer is hurtling toward us like a boring machine racing a deadline. I have faith that you all can cram all these fun culinary events into your calendar without needing to tunnel under anything.

First up is a weekend-long fourth birthday celebration for Up-Down , the beloved East Nashville arcade bar at 927 Woodland St. This weekend, Aug. 15 and 16, they have an extended bash planned with fun events ranging from patio pong tournaments, beer and food and game specials, to a two-night “Battle of the Decades DJ Battle,” with the ’80s representing on Friday night and the ’90s taking their turn on Saturday.

The festivities are free to attend, and the fun kicks off at 6 p.m. on Friday and

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