Every Thursday, right here. Entertainment highlights for in town and beyond.

Organic Gala

UNITY – The Common Ground Fair will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year, highlighting everything from organically grown goods to work by local artisans. With plenty of food and music and agricultural flair. >>When: Friday through Sunday >>Where: Unity Fairgrounds >>Daily Admission: $10 adults; $8 seniors; children 12 and under free; handicapped citizens free; school groups free on Friday >>FMI: Call 568-4142 or visit mofga.org

Bike Trek

BRIDGTON – Break out that old 10-speed for the Loon Echo Bike Trek, a popular fundraiser that benefits land conservation in Maine and features prizes, food and music. >>When: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday >>Where: Shawnee Peak >>Entry fee: $75 >>FMI: Call 647-4352 or visit loonecholandtrust.org

Sidewalk Chalking

BIDDEFORD – Mark up the town at the Chalk on the Walk Festival. All ages and abilities are invited to create, with prizes going to the best chalk squares. Event includes crafts and live entertainment by performers including Grupo Esperenza and Lex & Joe. >>When: noon to 4 p.m. Saturday >>Where: Downtown Biddeford >>Tickets: $5 >>FMI: Call 450-6233 or visit heartofbiddeford.org

Musical Much Ado

PORTLAND – Silver Lining is an original musical with tenuous ties to Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing.” Set in a 1930’s speakeasy, no less. At the St. Lawrence Arts & Community Center. >>When: Performances on Friday, Saturday and Sunday >>Where: 76 Congress St. >>Tickets: $12 and $15 >>FMI: Call 775-5568 or visit stlawrencearts.org

On Civil Rights

LEWISTON – Sheena Bellows, executive director of the Maine American Civil Liberties Union, will give a talk on democracy and civil rights as part of Professor Christy Hammer’s Senior Seminar. Open to the public in room 216 of USM’s Lewiston-Auburn campus. >>When: 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday >>Where: 51 Westminster St. >>FMI: Call 753-6500 or e-mail [email protected]

Also this week

American Idols Tour Live, 7 p.m. tonight, Cumberland County Civic Center >>FMI: 775-3458 or theciviccenter.com

Gallery Tour given by the staff of the Bates College Museum of Art, noon Tuesday, Bates College Museum of Art. >>FMI: 786-6158 or bates.edu

Check out Encore on Fridays for complete event listings.