5 Things You Need To Know Today: Mike Birbiglia, Open Mic Mondays, and More

1. You need a good laugh. Comedian and storyteller workshops his next one man show at Union Hall. The new show includes pieces he has performed on Public Radio International's This American Life. 702 Union St, 8pm, 21+

2. You need some new music. Join in featuring singer/songwriter and NYC native Kevin Egan. He currently fronts a band called Twenty Four Thousand Dollars in Austin. You can download their 3-song EP at twentyfourthousanddollars.com to hear more. 721 Franklin Ave, 9pm, free.

3. You need your songs to be heard. Each Monday night, the Brooklyn Lyceum hosts. Admission is free to watch and/or perform. Performers should arrive by 6:30pm to sign up for that evening's show. A maximum of 2 songs or 7 minutes of material is permitted. A minimal backline is available, including a small guitar amp and microphones; all other required equipment should be brought by performers. 225 4th Avenue.

4.You need your voice to be heard. At 6:30pm, the will meet at the Cobble Hill Community Meeting Room. This meeting will discuss liquor license and permit applications of 4 neighborhood businesses. For more information, see the BC6 agenda. 250 Baltic St, free.

5. You need to get the kids' creativity flowing. Join the and learn about the traditions of Kwanzaa while creating and designing a hanging candle. Get hands-on with your Kuumba, or creativity, and take home your own Kwanzaa candle! For ages 6 and up. 145 Brooklyn Ave. Free with $7.50 museum admission.