FOR some it will be a disappointment, and for some it will be a source of elation.

Yes, an international football weekend is upon us and the prospect of watching England v. Lithuania looms large.

It doesn't have the makings of a thriller.

On the plus side, with Saints having a weekend off and no real football available, it leaves a weekend free to explore Hampshire.

So without further ado, here's what you could spend Saturday and Sunday doing.

  • Go and see the Grapes of Wrath at the Nuffield Theatre in Southampton. The reinterpration of John Steinbeck's depression-era classic was described as a "wonderful production" by the Daily Echo's reviewer, and it runs until March 25.
  • Take in some live music at Cafe Reflections in Southampton on Friday evening. The venue is hosting Made in Shirley, which will feature performances by The Sturmey Archers and Fragile Lucy, among others. Doors open at 8pm.
  • Learn about the city's medieval walls. Southampton Tourist Guide Association is holding an informational walk at 11am on Saturday and the event will give those attending the chance to enter historic vaults.
  • Luxury chocolate making (do we need to say more?). Professional chocolatiers from Chocolate Craft will use high quality ingredients to create delicacies. The event is at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens on Saturday and classes are available from 10am until midday or 2pm until 4pm.
  • Do a Parkrun. The free weekly events are increasing in popularity and begin at 9am every Saturday. There are runs at Netley Abbey, Southampton Common, Eastleigh, Lee-on-the-Solent, Fareham, Whiteley, Brockenhurst, Winchester and Lymington.
  • Watch live theatre at Totton Festival of Drama. The event begins on Wednesday and runs until Saturday and is set to see performances by 11 local drama groups. Organisers say there will be a variety of comedy, tragedy, drama and farce.
  • Peruse some interesting items at Southampton Market. It's held every Friday and Saturday from 9am until 5pm in Above Bar Street and offers antiques, arts and crafts, vintage accessories, jewellery and food.
  • Go stand-up paddle boarding with St Denys Sailing and Rowing Club from 1pm on Sunday. The club is inviting prospective boaters to join in and take to the River Itchen and learn a new skill.
  • Take your mum out for a Mother's Day tea. The afternoon event at Tudor House and Garden in Southampton begins at midday and will feature a selection of sandwiches, jam, clotted cream and mini cakes.
  • Enjoy some acoustic music at Live Lounge at the Edge and the Box Bar. The free event begins at 4pm and will feature live singers and performers, as well as two-for-one cocktails.
  • Go and see Portsmouth at Fratton Park (only joking!)

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