Got your weekend plans? We have some cool ideas, from a sudsy art exhibit to amazing music and Bay Area James Beard award semifinalists.

(As always, be sure to double check event and venue websites for any last-minute changes in health guidelines or other details.)

Meanwhile, if you’d like to have this Weekender lineup delivered to your inbox every Thursday morning for free, just sign up at www.mercurynews.com/newsletters  or  www.eastbaytimes.com/newsletters.

1 SEE & HEAR: The Grammys are back

The music world’s biggest night returns on Sunday with some awfully big stars competing for the top awards. Here’s how we think it’s gonna shake out.

2 EAT & SIP: James Beard contenders

The semi-finalists for the annual James Beard Award have been announced and more than 20 Bay Area restaurants and chefs are in the running. If you’re looking for a place to dine this weekend, why not try the best we have to offer?

Bay Area Latin jazz icon John Santos performs Feb. 1 in Berkeley. (Courtesy of John Santos) 

3 SEE & HEAR: A Bay Area icon

It’s always a treat to catch John Santos, the acclaimed Bay Area Latin jazz percussionist and bandleader. And here’s your chance: He’s got a brand new album out and a gig at Berkeley’s Freight & Salvage.

4 PLAY, SIP & EAT: Lunar New Year is here

The Year of the Snake arrived this week (Jan. 29), and there are celebrations and events throughout the Bay Area. Here’s a rundown.

5 COOK & SCARF: Super Bowl sensations

The big game (and even bigger party) doesn’t arrive for another week (Feb. 9 to be exact), but it doesn’t hurt to put together (and maybe taste) your menu right now.

Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid star in “Companion.” (Warner Bros. Pictures) 

6 WATCH: A freaky ‘Companion’

At a time when great horror movies seem to be everywhere, this comedy/terror new release totally has us intrigued.

7 SEE & HEAR: Great shows are all over

From a foamy art exhibit to one of America’s most popular comedians, there is a lot to see and hear in the Bay Area this weekend.,