Art-A-Whirl patrons of all ages enjoying indoor and outdoor seating at Brauhaus Brew Labs; photo by Pat Branstad
Event highlights this week include:
May 18-20, Preston
Preston Trout Days
May 18-20, Minneapolis
NEMAA Presents the 2018 Art-A-Whirl
May 19, Alexandria
Mai Fest
May 16-19, Detroit Lakes
Detroit Lakes Festival of Birds
May 19-27, Duluth
Duluth Dylan Fest
Southern Minnesota
May 18-20, Preston
Preston Trout Days
The annual Preston Trout Days celebration includes an adult fishing contest, kids' fishing contest, family bike ride, petting zoo, chicken bar-b-que, city-wide garage sales, Lions Club pancake breakfast, Grand Parade, street dance, firemen's beer tent, car show, family-fun activities, golf tournament, food vendors and more! While in Preston, check out the nearby National Trout Center for fish tee-shirt printing, a "big fish" contest, exhibits and experiential programs on trout and salmon biology & behavior, cold water ecology, geology, fly fishing, fly tying, spin fishing, aquatic entomology and local fishing information. 507-765-2153, 507-765-2452
May 18-20, Houston
Bluegrass Festival
The Southeast Minnesota Bluegrass Association present its annual May Bluegrass Festival with multiple bands on Friday, Saturday and Sunday — come for a day or the entire event! Camp on-site at Cushon's Peak Campground, or stay at one of the nearby motels or bed & breakfasts. 507-864-8109
May 19, Whalan
Stand-Still Parade
The annual Stand-Still Parade doesn't move -- the spectators do! Also enjoy handmade items by artists and crafters, demonstrations, live music by numerous acts, great food, games for all ages, and a petting zoo. Main Street Whalan. 507-467-2696
May 25-26, Northfield
May Fly Music Festival
The Contented Cow's May Fly Festival takes place outside (weather-permitting) over two days with performances at the Contented Cow in downtown Northfield, overlooking the Cannon River. Enjoy music by Chance Meetings, The Favorite Things and The 99ers on Friday, with music by Skipidilly, Dimestore Watch and Bad Advice Club on Saturday. 507-663-1351
May 26-28, Dundas
Rice County Steam & Gas Engines Show and Swap Meet/Flea Market
The 18th annual Swap Meet/Flea Market includes a flea market and swap meet, consignment auction, steam and gas tractor exhibits, demonstrations, horse drawn wagon rides, and Barta Pedal Tractor Pull. Dundas Showgrounds. 612-816-3131
May 27, Winona
Floating Concert featuring the Yellow Bellied Sapsuckers
The Yellow Bellied Sapsuckers will perform on a floating stage on Lake Winona. Audience members can paddle to the stage and float along with the performers or sit along the water's edge onshore. Family games and food will accompany the event. Lake Winona. 507-457-8258
June 1-3, Pine Island
Pine Island Cheese Festival
The Cheese Festival includes a wide array of festival favorites such as a carnival and midway, craft and vendor market, duck races, beer gardens, canoe and kayak races, 5K run, Grande Parade, coronation, and a Beer, Wine & Cheese Gala! Full event schedule at pineislandcheesefest.com. Trailhead Park. 507-356-3378
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
Feb. 3 - May 27, Minneapolis
Power and Beauty in China's Last Dynasty
They ruled with unrivaled opulence. They led secret lives of infinite power and pleasure. They built an empire to end them all. Now, from the mind behind the groundbreaking theatrical performance Einstein on the Beach, comes this story of China’s last emperors. A rare spectacle of art, light, and sound that places you inside the palace walls. Among the desires and dreams, the mystery and splendor. Seated is limited, and tickets are timed. Reserve your experience today. Minneapolis Institute of Art. 612-870-3000
March 2 - June 16, Excelsior
Guys and Dolls
Frank Loesser's celebrated musical comedy about rolling the dice and falling in love under the bright lights of Broadway is considered by many to be the perfect musical comedy. Enjoy just the show, or a show with lunch or dinner. Old Log Theatre. 952-474-5951
May 18, Minneapolis
Pulse Twin Cities
Pulse Twin Cities is a free event with incredible music and a powerful message. Featuring Grammy Award–winning artist Lecrae, Hillsong Young and Free, Tye Tribbett, international speaker and author Nick Hall, a special performance from Las Vegas based dance crew The Jabbawockeez and a Guinness World Record breaking pillow fight. Pulse Twin Cities will bring a positive message about hope to this community. No tickets necessary. U.S. Bank Stadium. 612-248-8080
May 18, Prior Lake
I Love the 90's Tour
I Love the 90's Tour stars some of the most iconic and indelible names in rap, hip-hop and R&B. Attendees will reminisce about the trend-setting decade with performances by Vanilla Ice, Salt-N-Pepa, Tone Loc, Color Me Badd, Rob Base and Young MC. Mystic Lake Casino. 952-496-6563
May 18-19, Minneapolis
Cirque Goes to the Movies
Hear the Orchestra perform film score selections from Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean, Titanic and more while (all around and flying overhead!) the internationally-acclaimed aerialists, acrobats and jugglers make the most astounding feats look easy. Minnesota Orchestra. 612-371-5656
May 18-19, Chanhassen
River: The Music of Carole King, Joni Mitchell and Carly Simon
Three top Twin-Cities female singers, Rachel Holder-Hennig, Deb Brown & Jana Anderson, pay tribute to legendary songwriters: Carole King, Joni Mitchell & Carly Simon. While these artists have an extensive list of works, "River" will focus on their most popular pieces...the songs that take the audience on a nostalgic journey through their own lives remembering the women’s music movement of the ’60s & ’70s: their prom, first kiss, weddings, heartaches and other life experiences. Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. 952-934-1525
May 18-20, Minneapolis
NEMAA Presents the 2018 Art-A-Whirl
Presented by the Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association (NEMAA), the 23rd Annual Art-A-Whirl is the largest open studio tour in the country, and it takes place all over Northeast Minneapolis. This is a great opportunity to tour private artist studios and galleries, purchase original artwork, and connect with over 650 artists working in more than 20 different mediums at roughly 50 locations. Art-A-Whirl is free and open to the public. 612-788-1679
May 19-20, Stillwater
Stillwater Flea & Crafter's Market
The Stillwater Flea & Crafter's Market features over 100 unique vendors, local crafters, food trucks, music and more! Make a day of it in the beautiful St. Croix River Valley -- admission is free! Washington County Fairgrounds. 715-557-1785
May 25-26, Chanhassen
Transit Authority - A Tribute to Chicago
Back by popular demand, don't miss Transit Authority in their premier tribute to the legendary rock band Chicago! This fantastic band presents sold-out shows across the nation performing Chicago's #1 hits and arena rock power ballads including: "Saturday In the Park," "Just You and Me," "Wishing You Were Here," "25 or 6 to 4," "Feelin' Stronger Every Day," "Old Days," "If You Leave Me Now" and many more! This terrific tribute band returns to Chanhassen Dinner Theatres by popular demand for a one-time opportunity in 2018. Fireside Theatre at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. 952-934-1525
May 25-28, Cannon Falls
Cannon River Fur Trade Rendezvous
The fur trade was an essential part of the 18th and 19th century history of the region that was to become the State of Minnesota. The Cannon River Rendezvous is a re-enactment of a fur trade encampment during that period. Characters and activities of the time are portrayed by over 150 re-enactors in historically accurate attire and tent camps. Enjoy music, food, demonstrations, contests, vendors and games. A beautiful, patriotic Memorial Day service will also be offered on Monday, May 28. Fun for the entire family. Seven miles west of Cannon Falls on Hwy 19. 612-879-9695
May 25-28, St. Paul
Memorial Day Weekend
On Memorial Day Weekend, explore the grounds of at Historic Fort Snelling, visit with costumed interpreters, and engage with the many stories that make up the site's history. Learn about Native American history and the fort's role in U.S. expansion. Explore stories of African Americans at Fort Snelling, including Dred and Harriet Scott whose struggle to gain freedom from slavery helped ignite the Civil War. Watch demonstrations like cannon firings, hearth cooking, blacksmithing, and more. Join in historic games on the parade grounds, and bring the kids to the "History Hunt" scavenger hunt to earn a small prize. On Monday, don't miss a special "living timeline" of America's military past on the fort's parade ground, with costumed staff and reenactors sharing the history of Americans serving in armed conflicts. Historic Fort Snelling. 612-726-1171
May 27, Scandia
Immigrant for a Day
Step back in time to the 1850s with immigrant-inspired family events held at the old, small farm known as Gammelgarden Museum. Enjoy free activities, games and crafts from the 1850's, and be sure to tour the 5 fully-furnished historic buildings that make up the old (gammel) small farm (garden). Gammelgarden Museum. 651-433-5053
Upcoming Twin Cities' concerts and performances include:
Hall & Oates with Train at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, May 16
David Byrne at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, May 17-18
I Love The 90s Tour at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, May 18
Tomi Lahren at the Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis, May 19
Rob Lowe - Stories I Only Tell My Friends at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, May 20
Slayer with Lamb of God & Behemoth at The Armory in Minneapolis, May 24
Frankie Valli at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, May 27
The Head and the Heart at The Armory, May 30
Barenaked Ladies at the Mystic Amphitheater in Prior Lake, June 1
Chris Tucker at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, June 2
Chicago - The Musical at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, June 5-10
Paul Simon: Homeward Bound Farewell Tour at the Xcel Energy Center, June 8
Dropkick Murphys at The Armory, June 8
Carol Burnett at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, June 15
David Blaine at the Historic State Theatre, June 15
Steely Dan and the Doobie Brothers at the Xcel Energy Center, June 15
Tickets available through Eventful or Ticketmaster
Central Minnesota
May 17-19, New London
Musicville: A New Children's Musical
Musicville takes you on an adventure with Maiden Melody and Radical Rhythm as they attempt to save their town from the Sorcerer of Silence. On their quest to the Castle of Composition, they pass through the Desert of Doo-wop, the Ocean of Opera, and the Terrible Terrain of Tango meeting musical friends and foes along the way. Their journey teaches them about new kinds of music, overcoming obstacles, and the importance of working together! Held at the Little Theatre of New London. While in the area on May 18 take part in the Mayors' Bike Ride when mayors from Spicer, New London and Willmar will be leading a ride starting at 5 p.m. in each of their communities. The ride and picnic (at Goat Ridge Brewery) are free, but participants will need to pre-register at info@willmarlakesarea.com. 320-354-2559, 320-235-3552
May 18-20, Waite Park
Clue: The Musical - Dinner Theatre
The internationally popular game is now a fun-filled musical which brings the world's best known suspects to life and invites the audience to help solve the mystery: who killed Mr. Boddy, in what room and with what weapon? The board game will literally come to life in an innovative immersive staging of dinner and a show with 216 possible solutions, no two performances will be the same! Helgeson Learning Lab Theatre at GREAT World Headquarters. 320-258-2787
May 19, Alexandria
Mai Fest
Celebrate Mai Fest in downtown Alexandria! Syttende Mai is Norway’s Constitution Day and its most celebrated holiday! Celebrate your Norwegian heritage at Mai Fest with a traditional Scandinavian lunch, live choral, flute and fiddle music, traditional Scandinavian lawn games such as Kubb and Hnefatafl, Viking jewelry making, rosemaling and refreshments. Runestone Museum at Fort Alexandria. 320-763-3160
May 25-27, Brainerd
Street Car Showdown
The 10th Annual Street Car Showdown featuring drag races by the Muscle Car Series -- a display of raw speed and power on the quarter-mile drag strip. And don't miss the Sports Car Club of America's (SCCA) Harvey West Classic on the 2.5-mile road course. Brainerd International Raceway. 218-824-7223
May 26-28, Onamia
Minnesota American Indian Stories & Storytellers Film Festival, American Indian Music Fest & Memorial Day Powwow
On May 26, view short and feature films by and about Minnesota's Native American community throughout the day. Each screening will include an introduction by the directors or subjects of the films and will be followed by a Q&A session. The festival will include films on Native veterans, films by Minnesota native filmmakers, and the feature films, “Little Crow and the Dakota War” and “A Good Day To Die: Dennis Banks and the American Indian Movement.” On May 27, enjoy an American Indian Music Fest with music performed throughout the day by some of Minnesota's premier Native musicians. And on May 28, bring the family and join museum staff and community members in this social gathering honoring veterans past and present. Experience firsthand the excitement and joy of a contemporary powwow. Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post. 320-532-3632
June 1-3, Richmond
Minnesota Homegrown Kickoff
This three-day outdoor music and camping festival features stage shows by 20 regional bluegrass, old-time, and related acoustic music groups. Other highlights include workshops, food vendors, and jam sessions. The campground offers horseback riding, fishing, boat rental and swimming beach. El Rancho Manana Resort. 800-635-3037
Northwest Minnesota
May 16-19, Detroit Lakes
Detroit Lakes Festival of Birds
Observe nearly 200 species of birds during the 21st Annual Festival of Birds! Witness the spring bird migration in a unique transition zone of tall-grass prairie, northern hardwood and conifer forests, and wetlands in the Detroit Lakes area. The festival kicks off with "For the Birds" by Kevin Kling at the Historic Holmes Theatre. In addition to weekend bird tours, enjoy "Eagles, Swans & Falcons, Oh My!" by Carrol Henderson. 218-847-9202
May 18, Mahnomen
Cheech & Chong with Special Guest Shelby Chong
The Grammy-winning comedy duo, Cheech & Chong, are back and better than ever with their hilariously irreverent, satirical, counter-culture, no-holds-barred show. The twosome, made up of Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong, recorded six gold comedy albums, including the 1973 Grammy winner "Los Cochinos," and starred in eight films. Shooting Star Casino. 800-453-7827
May 19, Park Rapids
Minnesota Bike Opener
Attend the Heartland Park in Park Rapids and celebrate the start of biking season with a ride on the Heartland Trail! Itascatur and Northern Cycle will bring you bike safety info, tire changing demos and lots of giveaways. Invite everyone with a bike! Red Bridge Park & the Heartland Trail on Beach Road near downtown Park Rapids. 218-732-4111
May 26, Park Rapids
Spotting Spring Birds Program & Pioneer Village Tour
Discover the songs and sights of Minnesota's spring migratory birds! Join birder and instructor Ron Miller MD for a birding walk through Itasca State Park to discover recently arrived breeding birds as well as species passing through on their northward migration. The program begins at 8 a.m. Afterwards, get a feel for the early 1900s community of Lake Itasca at the Lake Itasca Region Pioneer Farmers Showgrounds. See the Itasca Historic Sawmill, and explore various buildings including a country school, dove-tail one-room log house and logging museum. The tour begins at 10 a.m. The showgrounds are located on the north side of Itasca State Park. 218-699-7251
May 28, Longville
Memorial Day Service
This annual Memorial Day program features patriotic music by the Longville Community Choir and a keynote address. Free and open to the public. Presented by Sherman A. Yochum VFW Post 772 and Auxiliary. Longville Fire Hall. 218-363-2630
June 2-9, Hawley
Breakfast on the Farm & Hawley Rodeo Fest
Take part in a full week of events, starting with Breakfast on the Farm on June 2, and concluding with two nights of PRCA Barnes Rodeos at the Hawley Rodeo Grounds on June 8-9. Breakfast on the Farm includes breakfast prepared by Hawley Area Lions with fresh scrambled eggs & cheese, locally made sausage, pancakes, coffee and milk -- free will donation! Also enjoy free ice cream cones, bounce houses, farm animal zoo, pedal tractor pull, live entertainment, cow-milking and more. Wagons bring you to and from the parking area. Rodeo nights include ongoing activities such as water wars, vendor fairs, pie & ice cream social, kiddie parade, rodeo parade and more! 218-483-3331
Northeast Minnesota
May 18-20, Hinckley
Chmielewski 40th Anniversary Polkafest
Make plans to attend the Chmielewski 40th Anniversary Polkafest and enjoy 10 top bands, 30 hours of dancing, daily polka hop lessons, a World of Accordions museum exhibit, workshops and daily door prizes! Grand Casino Hinckley. 612-597-8116
May 19, Ely
Ely’s 8th Annual City Wide Rummage & Business Crazy Day Sale & Ely Folk School Workshops
Ely's City Wide Rummage & Business Crazy Day Sale offers something for everyone with over 60 participants! Not only will you find a variety of treasures at rummage sales around town, there will be amazing deals and specials at unique shops and restaurants downtown. Before or after your treasure-hunting excursion, check out the amazing workshops offered at Ely Folk School including Create a Hardbound Book, Black Ash Berry Basket, and Nature Writing: Spring in the North. And at midnight, kick back, gaze at the night sky and enjoy the Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower. 800-777-7281
May 19-27, Duluth
Duluth Dylan Fest
The 8th Annual Duluth Dylan Fest has an exciting line-up of events in locations throughout downtown Duluth. Just some of the highlights include a Bob Dylan Exhibit Opening Reception, performance by The Big Wu at Armory Arts & Music Center, Dylan Pub Trivia, Blood on the Tracks Express train ride from Duluth to Two Harbors to Duluth, Dylan Fest Singer-Songwriter Contest, a Farewell Brunch, and much more! 218-391-6299
May 25-27 Schroeder
Art Along the Lake: Spring
Art Along the Lake: Spring Gallery Tour features special exhibits, demonstrations and activities at galleries throughout Cook County. Start in Schroeder and stop at galleries to take in one-of-a-kind scheduled activities and demonstrations. 218-387-2524
May 26, Duluth
Minnesota Remembers Vietnam Events
The St. Louis County Historical Society is inviting veterans, especially Vietnam veterans, to share in a meal and conversation. The programming is centered on the PBS documentary “The Vietnam War” by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick, followed by a facilitator-lead group discussion. Audience members will be served a meal and asked to shares any thoughts or feelings with the group. This event is very informal, and nothing will be recorded. American Legion Post #71. 218-733-7586
May 30 - June 3, Duluth
Duluth Superior Film Festival
The Duluth Superior Film Festival (DSFF) is an ambitious and innovative event that delivers film, music and art to the Twin Ports region. In its short history, DSFF has developed an exemplary reputation for presenting a distinctively imaginative and diverse line-up of international, American independent and regional films. Over 5 days, the festival will present an exciting slate of films, bring popular music acts, host many visiting filmmakers to introduce and discuss their works, and include an array of events, panels, discussions, and parties. Zeitgeist Arts Building, Clyde Iron Works, Zinema 2 and other unique venues along the breathtaking shores of Lake Superior in Duluth. 612-227-8015
June 1-3, Grand Marais
Northern Landscapes Festival
Spring is an explosion of life in the North! Discover the birds, wildflowers, insects and more during this festival. Field-focused courses form the backbone of the event, with evening presentations rounding out the full weekend schedule. This year, renowned ecologist Bernd Heinrich returns to campus as the featured guest to teach and speak. Bernd will offer a two-day course exploring his book Bumblebee Economics. North House Folk School. 218-387-9762
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