Pass the Corona and don’t hold the lime. Allentown is celebrating the arrival of spring (Finally!) with the return of the popular Deck parties at a “Cinco Deck Mayo” party from 5 to 7 p.m. May 5 on the roof of the 8th and Linden street parking deck.

Food, drink, music, dance and crafts are "on deck" for Allentown's first Party on the Deck of 2011.

“Cinco Deck Mayo,” will feature live music by Ola Latina or “LATINWAVE,” and salsa dancers from Lehigh Valley Salsa Connexion to entertain and educate for those who want to learn the moves.  Adult refreshments, food samples from local restaurants and a great view of the sunset over western Allentown and Lehigh County have made these events a popular attraction in the Lehigh Valley.

“We’re excited to bring back this unique event.  People love the concept of kicking-off spring and summer festivities with Cinco De Mayo, and our two 2010 rooftop parties drew enthusiastic crowds.  Put them together and you get – “Cinco Deck Mayo” – a social event with festive atmosphere and top-notch entertainment,” said Allentown Special Events Manager Tara Craig.

The city is partnering with the Hamilton District Main Street Program, Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce and Old Allentown Preservation Association to produce the event, which includes generous support from Sangria, Cosmopolitan Restaurant, Action Party Rentals and the Holiday Inn Center City.

Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door and the price includes admission, parking, entertainment and two drink vouchers (beer, sangria, margaritas), as well as post-Cinco Deck Mayo specials at Sangria, Cosmopolitan, Made in Brazil, Allentown Brew Works and Burrito Works. Must be 21 or older to attend. Tickets are on sale now and are limited, so it is advisable to get them before it’s too late.

Purchase your tickets online now through Old Allentown’s website: www.oldallentown.org or at Allentown City Hall. For more information on Cinco Deck Mayo and other locations to purchase tickets, visit www.allentownpa.gov/rooftop or contact Tara Craig at 610-437-7530.

Culture of The Corset Uncovered At Mercer Museum

The Mercer Museum in Doylestown is taking another peek under the covers from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 5, when it explores “The Private Parts of Victorian Sexuality: The Culture of the Corset.” The interactive lecture and final installment of the museum’s daring adult series will look at the corset’s place as a piece of the female wardrobe in the Victorian era.

During the Victorian era, debate raged among feminist activists about dress reform. In “The Private Parts of Victorian Sexuality: The Culture of the Corset,” guests will explore this intimate debate in a fun atmosphere, learn about the ins and outs of Victorian undergarments, view corsets from the Mercer Museum’s collection, and can even try lacing up a corset and more.

“The Private Parts of Victorian Sexuality: The Culture of the Corset” is $16 per person and $14 for members. Reservations are required for the program and can be made by calling, 215-345-0210, ext. 123.

Cyclists Peddle Their Wares

The annual spring Flea Market at the Valley Preferred Cycling Center in Trexlertown, set for Saturday, May 7, is a great opportunity for veteran and newbie cyclists to stock up on tires, gloves, tubes, clothing and even bikes for the 2011 season. The velodrome is expecting about 150 vendors, which typically include both shops and individuals offering great stuff at equally great prices.

This year the track is also offering sangria and mimosas courtesy of Clover Hill Vineyards and Winery. Don’t forget to bring an appetite and check out the all-organic offerings at the Breakaway Café.

The event runs from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine. Bring an umbrella. Farmers set their planting schedules based on the Flea Market date but that also means there are some really great deals as vendors and racers try to unload their stuff before they get too soaked.

Call 610-395-7000 or go to www.thevelodrome.com for more information and ticket prices.