Cool free events

An Extravagant Hunger: The Passionate Years of M.F.K. Fisher reading and potluck
Food writer Anne Zimmerman hosts this mini fete to celebrate her new tome about prominent culinary scribe M.F.K. Fisher. It's a good excuse to try a new recipe—any small dish is welcome—eat gratis food and chat with fellow gastronerds. You're not required to bring something, but remember: Nobody likes a mooch. Word Bookstore, 126 Franklin St at Milton St, Greenpoint, Brooklyn (718-383-0096, wordbrooklyn.com). Thu 31 at 7:30pm.

The Bell House Ping-Pong Tournament
If you don't want to pony up $5 to play—or break a sweat in your new plaid shirt—sit back and watch this monthly gathering at no cost. Participants may be amateurs, but they still take their game to Forrest Gump--like proportions. 149 7th St between Second and Third Aves, Gowanus, Brooklyn (718-643-6510, thebellhouseny.com). Next event: Apr 26 at 8pm.

Calamity Chang burlesque shows
Tattooed vixen of the downtown striptease scene Calamity Chang hosts two weekly shows: The Spanking of the Lower East Side at Nurse Bettie features a rotating cast of five entertainers, including singer Broadway Brassy and ukulele player Jen Kwok, while Room 69 at Hotel Chantelle concentrates on bawdy vaudeville. Nurse Bettie, 106 Norfolk St between Delancey and Rivington Sts (212-477-7515, nursebettieles.com). Thu 10pm. * Hotel Chantelle, 92 Ludlow St between Broome and Delancey Sts (212-254-9100). Fri 9pm.

Crest Fest '11
There's a cadre of talented artists capable of turning lug nuts, bolts and rivets into show-worthy pieces—and they're out in full force at this annual art exhibition. More than 150 creatives will display work in traditional and offbeat media, including paintings, sculptures and light art. Also on the docket: DJ sets and live music from an eclectic mix of local bands, plus about 20 vendors hawking food, drinks and handmade wares. Crest Hardware, 558 Metropolitan Ave between Lorimer St and Union Ave, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (718-388-9521, cresthardwareartshow.com). June 18 noon--8pm.

Come Out and Play Festival
During this four-week celebration, a series of games are staged in outdoor locations throughout lower Manhattan. The kickoff event—to be staged June 19—is yet to be determined. For more info and an updated schedule, visit comeoutandplay.org. June 19--July 16.

Great Hill Open Ultimate League
This jovial group invites all levels of hurlers to fling Frisbees every Saturday and Sunday as part of casual pickup games. Tie-dyed garb and hemp necklaces are not required. Great Hill, W 106th St at Central Park West (Alternate: Morningside Park, W 110th St and Manhattan Ave). Sat 10am; Sun 1pm; Tue, Thu 6pm.