Step Afrika!; photo by Meredith Hanafi
Highlights this week include:
Oct. 28-29, Owatonna
Spooktacular Halloween Weekend
Oct. 29-30, Minneapolis
Healthy Life Expo
Oct. 14-29 (Fridays & Saturdays), Brainerd
Hidden Hollows: Haunted Corn Maze & Haunted House
Oct. 28, Mahnomen
Boosters' Fish House Parade
Oct. 21-31, Duluth
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
[Southern] [Minneapolis-St. Paul Area] [Central] [Northwest] [Northeast]
Southern Minnesota
Oct. 21-29 (Fridays & Saturdays), Waseca
Haunted Corn Maze & Feed Mill
The sound of chainsaws and blood-curdling screams great you as you enter the cornfield, then a variety of monsters surround you as you try to flee the maze. If you find your way out of the haunted corn maze, enter the abandoned feed mill, if you dare. FarmAmerica. 507-835-2052
Oct. 28-29, Owatonna
Spooktacular Halloween Weekend
On Friday, Oct. 28, head to Village of Yesteryear for A Haunting We Will Go. This evening event features a flashlight scavenger hunt, games, snacks and more! On Saturday, Oct. 29, ghosts and goblins of all ages will want to grab their trick or treat bags for the 3rd Annual Trick or Treat Trail at Manthey Park. From 2-4 p.m., visit local businesses along the trail for treats, games, photo shoots and crafts. Also enjoy kiddie train rides, a scavenger hunt, trunk or treating, bounce houses, and a petting zoo. 507-451-7970
Oct. 28-31 (Friday, Saturday & Monday), Redwood Falls
The Francois Haunted Hotel & Monsters on Main Street
Come explore the subterranean hotel basement that survived the great fire of 1903, and discover new routes and new monsters that inhabit this underground world -- not recommended for those under the age of 13. And on Oct. 31, children under the age of 13 will enjoy Monsters on Main Street festivities including games, trick or treating at downtown businesses, and special tours of the less scary Francois Haunted Hotel! 507-637-2828
Oct. 29, Houston
Owl-O-Ween
See six species of owls in live owl programs, possibly including a rare albino barred owl! Also enjoy Halloween & autumn-themed treats & beverages, a spooked-out natural playground, pellet dissection, nest box building, and other programs. Fees apply for some events. International Owl Center. 507-896-6957
Nov. 4-5, Austin
And That's My Story
For the 2nd year, this storytelling festival will feature delightful and insightful stories by some of the areas' finest storytellers, including Michael Cotter. Come for dinner, stay for the show, and return on Saturday for a workshop on how to participate in the art of storytelling. Hormel Historic Home. 507-433-4243
Nov. 5, Northfield
Northfield MOPS Vendor & Craft Holiday Boutique
The 4th Annual Northfield MOPS Vendor & Craft Holiday Boutique will feature more than 35 local merchant, craft and direct sales business vendors. Raffle and bake sales are also available. Northfield Ballroom. 507-645-6110
Nov. 5, Elba, north of St. Charles
Venture Off The Beaten Path
Join park staff on a crisp afternoon hike to points unknown. Whitewater has a few spectacular views that have remained hidden from even the most seasoned visitor. During this afternoon hike, the group will leave the trails behind and venture into a secluded part of the park. Warm clothes, good shoes and cameras recommended. Whitewater State Park. 507-932-3007, ext.229
Nov. 12, Winona
Tundra Swan Migration Bus Tour
The Friends of the Refuge will offer a bus tour to view the fall migration along the Upper Mississippi River. Witness the spectacular Tundra Swan migration that takes place on the refuge, and enjoy discussion, instruction and lunch. Upper Mississippi Wildlife Refuge. 507-494-6238, 800-657-4972
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
Sept. 1 - Oct. 31, Stillwater
Aamodts' Apple Farm Fall Fun
Depending on the weekend, just some of the fall family activities include hay wagon rides, Honeycrisp Express kids' train rides, hay bale maze, apple picking, apple treats in the apple barn, and John Deere tractor trikes. Aamodts' Apple Farm. 651-439-3127
Sept. 17 - Oct. 30, Shakopee
ValleySCARE
Valleyfair transforms into ValleySCARE, the upper Midwest’s largest Halloween attraction, with more than 75 rides, attractions and entertainment acts, as well as nearly 400 creatures of the night, occupying 11 of the most intense and terrifying mazes and scare zones. Valleyfair. 952-445-7600
Oct. 29, St. Paul
Step Afrika! The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence
Step Afrika!, the first professional company dedicated to the art of stepping, brings Jacob Lawrence's iconic paintings to life through the mediums of African-American stepping, South African gumboot, traditional Western African dance, vocals, drumming, and audience participation. A pre-show discussion, and a post-show Talk-back & Party with Step Afrika! will also be offered. The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. 651-224-4222
Sept. 30 - Oct. 30, Chaska
Scream Town
Explore eight terrifying attractions! Scream Town was selected by Haunted Attraction Magazine as The Must See Attraction of 2015. 612-562-6409
Oct. 7-30 (Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays), Shakopee
Trail of Terror
This is the largest Halloween event in the Midwest with more than 15 attractions including the Howling Pines Woods Walk, Hotel 666, HogTied Pub Crawl, Chuckles Pizzeria, Grubbs Pest Control, Crystal Caverns, and the all new Escape Room! Minnesota Renaissance Festival grounds. 952-445-7361
Oct. 13-30, Anoka
Anoka Halloween
Just some of the many highlights of Anoka Halloween include the Knights of Columbus Haunted House, Big Parade of Little People, Preschool Costume Contest, Anoka Lions' Tent Party, Spooktacular Carnival by Woman of Today, 31st Annual Gray Ghost 5k, and Orange Tie Ball. Various venues in Anoka.
Oct. 22-30 (Saturdays and Sundays), St. Paul
Como Friends ZooBoo
ZooBoo is a non-scary Halloween festival for families and young children. Over 200 live costumed characters interact and entertain children in a world of fairytales and fun! Como Zoo. 651-487-8201
Oct. 29, Afton
Trick or Treat Trail
Check out Trick or Treat Trail in downtown Afton where children can follow the St. Croix Trail through historic downtown Afton collecting Halloween treats for more than fifteen businesses. Fall craft and game stations will be ready for the kids, with costume judging at The Lumberyard Pub. This non-scary event is best suited for children ages 10 and under. 651-436-8883
Oct. 29, New Hope
Cooper Arts and Craft Fair
The 44th Annual Cooper Arts and Craft Fair features more than 100 artists and crafters selling one-of-a-kind creations. Cooper High School. 612-555-1212
Oct. 29-30, Minneapolis
Healthy Life Expo
This is the largest health, wellness and fitness show in the Upper Midwest with up to 200 local and national exhibitors showcasing everything to help you look, feel, and be your very best. Also enjoy three stages of speakers, seminars, and demonstrations, as well as free product sampling. Minneapolis Convention Center. 952-238-1700
Oct. 29-30, Stillwater
Trick or Treat on Main Street
Don't miss the many Halloween trick-or-treating stops along Stillwater's historic Main Street. On Saturday, Oct. 29, also enjoy Howl-O-Ween at the Dog Park where your costumed dog can compete for prizes. Also enjoy give-a-ways, agility demos, and great food. 651-439-6688, 651-351-1717
Oct. 30 - Jan. 15, Minneapolis
Martin Luther: Art and the Reformation
Five hundred years ago, one man took a stand that shook Europe and changed the world. Now you can see the story of Martin Luther and the Reformation brought to life through astonishing artwork and historical objects, traveling outside Germany for the first time ever. Minneapolis Institute of Art. 612-870-3000, 612-870-3131
Nov. 5, Maple Grove
Home Improvement & Design Expo - Maple Grove
The Home Improvement & Design Expo features up to 100 local and regional exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services to help you turn your dream home into a reality -- bring your ideas and blueprints! Presentations, giveaways and prizes will be offered each day. Maple Grove Community Center. 952-238-1700, 952-238-1300
Nov. 5, Minneapolis
Weekend with the Weisguides: Being American Today Bringing Voices, People, and Art Together
Weekend with the Weisguides navigates contemporary American identity through dance, collaging, interactive installations, an art theft mystery tour and cake! Weisman Art Museum. 612-625-9494
Nov. 5, Eden Prairie
Lioness Art & Craft Fair
The 7th Annual Lioness Art & Craft Fair features quality handcrafted goods and re-purposed items brought to you by nearly 100 exhibitors. Grace Church. 952-934-8170, 952-934-1132
Nov. 5, Eagan
Eagan's Indoor Winter Market
Eagan's Indoor Market features roughly 20 vendors selling a variety of goods and produce. Eagan Community Center. 651-675-5500
Upcoming Twin Cities' concerts and performances:
Joan Biaz at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, Oct. 26
Love Jones The Musical with Musiq Soulchild at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, Oct. 26
Pentatonix: The World Tour at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Oct. 26
Need To Breathe presents Tour De Compadres at Roy Wilkins Auditorium at St. Paul RiverCentre, Oct. 27
David Sedaris at the Historic State Theatre, Oct. 28
The Band Perry at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, Oct. 29
Rick Springfield & Richard Marx at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, Oct. 30
Culture Club at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, Nov. 4
Four Bitchin' Babes - Hormonal Imbalance v2.5 at the Ames Center in Burnsville, Nov. 5
Keith Urban at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Nov. 5
Masters of Illusion - Live! at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, Nov. 5
Steve Earle & the Dukes at the Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis, Nov. 5
Patton Oswalt at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, Nov. 11
A Drag Queen Christmas at the Pantages Theatre, Nov. 18
PAW Patrol Live! Race to the Rescue at the Historic State Theatre, Nov. 19
The Fray with American Authors at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, Nov. 22
Tonic Sol-Fa at the Loft Stage in Woodbury, Nov. 25
The Oak Ridge Boys Christmas Show at the Historic State Theatre, Nov. 28
Tickets available through Eventful or Ticketmaster.
Central Minnesota
Oct. 7-31 (Fridays & Saturdays), Glenwood
Pope County Fright Nights Indoor Haunted House
This premier haunted house is a true scare for all ages, with the warmth of being indoors! Central Square. 320-805-0142, 320-634-3636
Oct. 14-29 (Fridays & Saturdays), Brainerd
Hidden Hollows: Haunted Corn Maze & Haunted House
Don't miss Central Minnesota's largest haunted attraction, Hidden Hollows! Paul Bunyan Land. 218-764-2524
Oct. 21-29 (Fridays and Saturdays), Sauk Centre
Monster Manor
Get your frights on at the 33rd Monster Manor with new scares every year and no need to wait in line in the cold, there is an indoor heated waiting area. 320-352-6121, 855-444-SAUK
Oct. 29, Onamia
Creatures of the Night & Halloween Film Festival
Have you ever been spooked by eerie noises at night? If so, attend the Creatures of the Night program on Saturday morning and learn about nocturnal wildlife to help calm your nerves next time you hear those sounds. Later that afternoon, enjoy a Halloween Film Festival when nature films about owls, bats, wolves and spiders will be shown continuously. Free popcorn and Halloween treats will also be available. Mille Lacs Kathio State Park. 320-532-3269
Oct. 29, Monticello
Halloween Howl
Attend this popular Halloween event featuring the Snakes Alive program and a variety of Halloween crafts and activities designed for children. Registration required. Lake Maria State Park. 763-878-2325
Nov. 5, Fergus Falls
Holiday Vendor Blender & Craft Show
Check out fine products and creations from a huge assortment of home-based businesses and crafters. Best Western Bigwood Event Center. 218-739-2211
Nov. 5, Zimmerman
Christmas by Candle Light - Ladies on the Loose Art Show
Over the hunting opener, enjoy a free art show, free food and drinks, demos, specials, and a great day of shopping at your favorite Zimmerman stores: The Tattooed Lady, Sassy Bean Boutique, Nelson Nursey, Ramshackled Treasures, Zimmerman Floral, The Shoppes on Fremont, ZoChic and AshleyTaylor. Afterwards, enter to win big prizes, and enjoy food & drink specials at Zimmerman Bar and Grill. 763-200-1204
Nov. 12, Brainerd
Holiday Arts and Craft Festival
The Holiday Arts and Craft Festival features more than 150 artists and crafters selling quality handmade items! Brainerd High School. 218-454-6926
Northwest Minnesota
Sept. 24 - Oct. 29 (Saturdays), Park Rapids
Pumpkin Party at Carter's Red Wagon Farm
Each Saturday of the fall features Robin Hood-themed wagon rides, a 6.5-acre corn maze, pumpkin picking in the pumpkin patch, miniature golf, pumpkin propeller, giant pumpkin boat rides, giant slide, cow "milking," straw bale maze, games, duck races, face painting, and Nerf Wars! Carter's Red Wagon Farm. 218-732-4979
Oct. 28, Mahnomen
Boosters' Fish House Parade
The Boosters' Fish House Parade will feature fish houses and other floats with a winter theme. In addition, enjoy a chili cook-off, silent auction, and fire pits on Main Street after the parade for social hour. Downtown Mahnomen and the Wild Rice Lounge. 218-935-2573
Oct. 29, Baudette
Sportsman's Lodge Annual Halloween Party
This annual Halloween Party features costume contests, games, live music, prizes, and drink, food and lodging specials. Must be 21 years or older to attend. Sportsman's Lodge "Sandbar." 800-862-8602, 218-634-1342
Nov. 4, Mahnomen
Tyler Farr in Concert
Tyler Farr is a country artist with classical training. His hits include "A Guy Walks Into a Bar," "Withdrawals," and "C.O.U.N.T.R.Y." Shooting Star Casino. 800-453-7827
Nov. 5, Bemidji
Newsboys
Newsboys, a Christian music sensation, returns to the Sanford Center for their Love Riot Tour, with special guests The Afters and Ryan Stevenson. 218-441-4030
Nov. 12, Longville
"Does Only" Holiday Champagne Breakfast
Kick-off the holiday season with fellow "does" while the "bucks" are out deer hunting, and enjoy a champagne breakfast, style show, silent auction, shopping, door prizes and more! This 15th annual event will be spectacular! Patrick's. 218-363-2630
Northeast Minnesota
Sept. 30 - Oct. 31, Duluth
Haunted Ship Tour
Each year, the William A. Irvin transforms itself into a haunted ship where the ghosts come alive. The haunting of the Irvin is not just a rumor, mysterious sightings have been recorded. Tour the haunted ship, if you dare. Canal Park, adjacent to the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. 218-722-5573
Oct. 14-29 (Fridays and Saturdays), Chisholm
Field of Screams
Discover what lurks in the night during the Field of Screams. Your guide will lead you past scariest scenes and the many ghosts, maniacs, killers, and monsters that await you. Minnesota Discovery Center. 218-966-0115, 218-254-7930
Oct. 21-31, Duluth
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
A young couple stumbles into a castle inhabited by weirdos from the planet Transylvania including Dr. Frank N. Furter, a transvestite Frankenstein in rhinestone heels. Live audience participation is back! Be prepared with props in hand as this cult classic is reenacted along with the movie. Dress your best; there's a costume contest at every show! Performed in The Underground. 218-733-7555, 218-733-7577
Oct. 28-30, International Falls
Wizard of Oz the Musical
The International Falls community theater group will bring to life this classic musical and transport everyone over the rainbow. Backus Community Center. 218-285-7225
Oct. 29, Grand Rapids
Spooky Timbers
This family-friendly spooky event includes logging camp tours, music, storytelling, trolley rides, hot cider, hot chocolate and more. Visitors will want to keep a lookout for a Sasquatch in the woods! Forest History Center. 218-327-4482
Nov. 4-5, Duluth
Gales of November
The Gales of November brings together the entire Lake Superior community to learn about underwater exploration, Great Lakes lighthouses and shipwrecks, maritime history and diving technology. Gales of November also includes a Gala & Dinner at the DECC, maritime trade show, speaker presentations, raffles, and exciting silent auction. Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center. 218-727-2497
Nov. 4-6, Lutsen
Bluegrass Masters Weekend
Celebrate, make music, learn, and listen at the North Shore Music Association’s 26th Annual Bluegrass Masters Weekend! Bluegrass musicians and fans from all over MN, the U.S., and Canada come to listen to and learn with the nation’s best bluegrass players and instructors. Three days of jamming, a full day of instrumental workshops, and an evening concert by our featured group make this a spectacular pickin’ weekend in a relaxed setting. Lutsen Resort. 855-286-3066
Nov. 11-13, Grand Marais
Lake Superior Storm Festival
There’s nothing quite like a November gale — wind howling, icy waves lashing the rocks, and the shiver of awe running down your spine. Treat yourself to a storm-season retreat before the bedlam of the holidays begins. This event honors the power and wild beauty of Lake Superior with a trivia radio show, Taking Fashion by Storm show, annual Wave Dash, Edmund Fitzgerald presentation, painting and wine class, the Spirits of Lake Superior Shipwreck Dinner, concert with Gordon Lightfoot hits, and more! 218-387-2524
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