Rent “Smart People.” Dennis Quaid heads a terrific cast (Ellen Page, Thomas Haden Church, Sarah Jessica Parker) as a monumentally self-absorbed widower and college professor in this sharp indie comedy about a dysfunctional family that’s, well, too smart for its own good.

Hear “This Is the Life” by Amy McDonald. This Scottish singer has hit our shores with an album that is exuberant in its folksy energy. Her quick guitar and fast-paced lyrics make for a debut that is sure to leave a bounce in your step. Standout track: the title song ($13.98).

Visit Philadelphia for “Bug Fest” at the Academy of Natural Sciences. Watch a roach race, touch live insects and sample creepy-crawly cuisine at the Ace of Arthropods cookout that’s sure to please the kids, even as it grosses them out (Aug. 16–17; ansp.org).

Go to Fisherman’s Feast, the oldest continuous Italian festival in Boston’s North End. Celebrating the devotion of Sicilian fishermen to the Madonna del Soccorso di Sciacca, the event includes processions, entertainment, kids’ activities and cooking demonstrations (Aug. 14–17; fishermansfeast.com).

Surf repairpal.com. Be in the know on your next trip to the mechanic. This new site offers a comprehensive explanation of what typical repairs should cost based on car make, model, year and ZIP code. Now you can visit the shop with enough ammo to talk your way out of any scam.