The Friday Buffet

Or maybe we should call this week's installment, The Open Bar" once you take a gander at the entries.

• Today is the final day to get discounted tickets for Ramp Fest 2009, held April 3 at the Garfield Park Conservatory. Funds raised from the event showcasing the local wild leek will benefit The Land Connection, which advocates sustainability and community-based food systems in the Midwest.
• The North Park Nature Village Center (5801 N. Pulaski) hosts its 28th annual Maple Syrup Festival tomorrow and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Among the highlights of the festival are lessons on how to tap a tree, boil the sap and tasting actual maple syrup samples.
• A reminder about Goose Island Stout Fest from 1-5 p.m. Sunday at their Clybourn brewpub. It's $30 and you need to RSVP to 312-915-0071. Afterward, stay and try out the new menu by John Manion (ex-Mas, Old Oak Tap).
• Two Brothers is having a tasting of their 2008 Bare Tree Weiss Wine at the Bluebird (1749 N. Damen) Tuesday from 7-9:30 p.m. For this event, the Ebel brothers are bringing in a special firkin of the brew to tap. They'll also be tasting out Monarch White Ale, Cane and Ebel Red Rye Ale, The Bitter End Pale Ale, Ebelweiss Wheat Beer, French Country Ale, Northwind Imperial Stout, and the amazing Red Eye Porter with Coffee. Brats and snacks will also be served to counter all this beer. RSVP to the $25 event by emailing to info@bluebirdchicago.com.
• Salud Tequila Lounge (1471 N. Milwaukee) is hosting a tequila dinner featuring Los Arango tequila March 25 and 26. The four-course dinner begins at 7:30 p.m. and costs $40. RSVP to 773-276-7582; no walk-ins are being accepted.