AUGUST 8

Not that we think you need a reason to pig out, but on August 8, you’ve got one: a Pig Pickin’ and Benefit for the Somerville Homeless Coalition, held from 6 to 9 pm outside at Redbones (55 Chester Street, Somerville). The smoking and basting go on all day for the event, which features slow-roasted smoked pig, corn on the cob, watermelon, corn bread, and more, plus music by the Second Line Social Aid and Pleasure Society Brass Band. The cost is $20; call 617.628.2200 for reservations, which are requested.

AUGUST 9

Summer might be waning, but it isn’t too late to celebrate that most summery of seasonal drinks: beer. On August 9, at 6:30 pm, Cambridge Common (1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge) presents an evening of beer and food, featuring Berkshire Brewing Company brewmasters Chris Lalli and Gary Bogoff speaking on the art of pairing the two. The restaurant will serve up a variety of summer treats, including gazpacho, crab cakes, and blackened catfish, along with beers to match. The cost is $35; call 617.547.1228 for reservations and information.

AUGUST 15 & 22

Classes don’t thrill us much, but a Class in a Glass? That we could get into. On August 8, Piattini (162 Columbus Avenue, Boston) presents the latest installment of its educational wine-dinner series, Class in a Glass, this week featuring dessert wines. On August 15, the class will cover Tuscan wines, followed by California wines on August 22. The cost is $40 per class (or a package of four classes for $140), and classes begin at 6 pm. Call 617.423.2021 for reservations and information.