Downtown Lanesboro, site of the Bluff Country Gathering, Thursday-Sunday, May 16-19
Event highlights this week include:
May 17-19, Preston
Preston Trout Days
May 17-19, Minneapolis
NEMAA Presents the 2019 Art-A-Whirl
May 18, Zimmerman
Bird Tour & Spring Celebration
May 11-18, Thief River Falls
Norwegian Heritage Week
May 18, Ely
Ely's Annual Citywide Rummage Sale & Business Crazy Day
Southern Minnesota
April 5 - May 25, Lanesboro
Holmes and Watson
Don't miss this twisting, tantalizing mystery! Sherlock Holmes has been dead three years when Dr. Watson receives a message from a mental asylum: three patients are claiming to be Sherlock Holmes. Did the world's greatest sleuth fake his own death? Who's the real detective and who are the impostors? Find out in this gripping, witty, intelligent thriller. Commonweal Theatre Company. 507-467-2525
May 1-26, Wabasha
Spring Seasonal Boutiques
Shop the many Seasonal Boutiques such as Grandpa's Barn Boutique, Barton's Brickhouse Boutique, Anderson House Boutique, Stonegate Studio & Gallery, and 5th Grant Boutique. This special event happens only twice a year! Shops throughout Wabasha. 651-565-4158
May 16-19, Lanesboro
Bluff Country Gathering
The 20th Annual Bluff Country Gathering is a four-day event presenting traditional American music, dance and singing styles. Workshops, conducted by a staff of nationally-acclaimed musicians, singers, dancers and folklorists, are designed to pass along the traditions of old-time music to participants at all levels of experience. Enjoy a concert on Friday evening, and a barn dance on Saturday evening. To take workshops, you must register for the entire weekend. Lanesboro Community Center and Sylvan Park. 507- 467-2696; 800-944-2670
May 17-19, Preston
Preston Trout Days
Preston Trout Days is an annual citywide celebration with trout fishing on the 9-Hole Fishing Course, children's fishing contest, patriotic floats at the Grand Parade, live music, car show, variety of vendors and local food stands, Firemen’s Beer Tent, and lots of treasures at citywide garage sales! Get up early and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Lion’s Club pancake breakfast. 507-765-2153
May 17-19, Spring Grove
Spring Grove Syttende Mai
Celebrate Norwegian Independence and Norwegian ancestry during Syttende Mai in Spring Grove. Don't miss the Blast Off Banquet & Social Hour, Running with My Gnomies, Musikk Fest, grand parade, Nordic dancers, kids' pedal pull, corn hole tournament, daily garage sales, games in the park, walks on the Norwegian Ridge Birding & Nature Trail and much more. Viking Memorial Park. 507-458-7793
May 18, Whalan
Stand-Still Parade
The residents of Whalan share their heritage through food, floats and entertainment. Stroll along and view the parade exhibits. The parade doesn't move -- the spectators do! Also enjoy works by artists and crafters, demonstrations, live music, petting zoo, kiddie train rides, pie-eating contest, beer garden, dance, fireworks display, great food and games for all ages. Main Street Whalan. 507-467-2696
May 23-25, Lake Benton
Larry Olsen Music Fest
Attend the 25th Annual Larry Olsen Music Fest and enjoy polka and old-time music by various bands and musical entertainers. Larry Olsen Farm. 507-368-9627
May 25, Pipestone
Raptor Program and Migratory Bird Day
See owls, hawks and bald eagles up close! The University of Minnesota's Raptor Center will bring raptors to the park for an interactive, educational program, along with a celebration of Migratory Bird Day at the park. Pipestone National Monument also offers a ¾ mile Prairie Circle walking path, museum, pipestone carving demonstrations, film, picnic area and a gift shop. As a visitor you will be able to explore American Indian culture and the natural resources of the tallgrass prairie. Pipestone National Monument. 507-825-5464
May 31 - June 2, Luverne
Buffalo Days
The annual Buffalo Days celebration features a vehicle cruise-in and street dance on Friday night. On Saturday, visitors will enjoy a parade, buffalo chip-throwing contest and huge arts and crafts show at the City Park. On Sunday, watch historic re-enactments at local cemeteries, and don't miss the 8th Annual Tales from the Graves and Pie & Ice Cream Social. Many other events will take place throughout the weekend including a Burger Battle, live music and Take 16 Block Party. Venues throughout Luverne. 507-283-4061
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
March 1 - Sept. 28, Chanhassen
Mamma Mia!
One mom. One daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you'll never forget! Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. 952-934-1525
May 17, Minneapolis
Art Girls For Questscope
Art Girls for Questscope will bring together art enthusiasts and philanthropists across the Twin Cities in support of refugee and marginalized youth. Hosted by The Art Girls, a local arts organization, four Minnesota artists will have beautiful works of art for sale to benefit Questscope. Le Meridien Chambers. 612-607-6476
May 17-18, Chanhassen
Almost Paradise - 1984 Prom Night
Journey back to your '80s prom night during the time of big permed hair, loud fashion, giant bows, skinny ties, boom boxes, cassette tapes, roller skates and big puffy prom dresses! Wear your '80s prom fashion if you'd like and be part of the radical party as the band, made up of some of your "classmates," play your favorite hits from '82-'84! Three dynamic female vocalists, plus incredible male vocalists along with a band of the Twin Cities' finest will cover songs by Tina Turner, Bruce Springsteen, The Police, Donna Summer, Joan Jett, Huey Lewis, David Bowie, Billy Idol, Michael Jackson, Prince, Journey, Hall & Oates, The Go-Go's, Cyndi Lauper, The J. Geils Band and many more! Sing and party along as we re-live prom night 1984! Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. 952-934-1525
May 17-19, Minneapolis
NEMAA Presents the 2019 Art-A-Whirl
Presented by the Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association (NEMAA), 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 800 artists working in more than 20 different mediums. This event is free and open to the public. Take time to also visit Whirlygig 2019. Held in conjunction with Art-a-Whirl, Whirlgig brings you delicious brews, tasty eats and a music line-up of more than 15 acts including The Bad Man, Har Mar Superstar and Pert Near Sandstone at Indeed Brewing Company in Northeast Minneapolis. 612-788-1679; 612-843-5090
May 18, Chaska
A Day of Birding Walks and Workshops
Join birding enthusiasts and experts from around the region and celebrate the spring migration amidst spring flowers. The day is packed with featured presenters, workshops, classes, organization booths and guided walks. All must pre-register. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. 952-443-1400
May 18, Minneapolis
Celtic Woman
Since its debut, global musical sensation Celtic Woman's concerts continue to capture the hearts of an audience that spans the globe. Both an accomplished recording ensemble and a world-class performing collective, Celtic Woman celebrates Ireland's rich musical and cultural heritage, while continuing its remarkable legacy of introducing some of Ireland's most talented singers and musicians onto the world stage. Historic State Theatre. 612-339-7007
May 18, Hopkins
Mainstreet Day Arts & Craft Fair
The Mainstreet Day Arts & Craft Fair is a day-long event featuring more than 150 vendors from across Minnesota and the Midwest. Visitors can shop for all styles of jewelry, home decor, wood crafts, fine art, photographs, kids' toys and games, garden items, and much more. Entertainment will include live music, train rides, a balloon twister and face painting. There will also be a variety of delicious food vendors. Mainstreet, between 7th and 12th Avenues. 612-460-0522
May 18-19, Minneapolis
Doors Open Minneapolis
Doors Open Minneapolis is your chance to explore the buildings that tell our city's story. From theaters to business hubs, sacred spaces to private clubs, sports complexes to engineering wonders, historical gems to not-even-open-yet buildings, Doors Open Minneapolis will give visitors a free behind-the-scenes look at over 100 exciting venues. We're hoping to enrich experiences by presenting meaningful conversations with many of the people who make these venues the marvels that they are. Various Minneapolis locations. 612-870-1234
May 24-25, Chanhassen
Transit Authority - A Tribute to Chicago
Transit Authority is back by popular demand to perform their 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! Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. 952-934-1525
May 24-27, 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, plus a beautiful, patriotic Memorial Day service. Fun for the entire family. The rendezvous site is 7 miles west of Cannon Falls on Hwy 19. 763-535-6615
May 25-27, St. Paul
Memorial Day Weekend at Historic Fort Snelling
Over Memorial Day Weekend, explore the Historic Fort Snelling grounds and engage with the many stories that make up this location'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. Join in activities and watch demonstrations like cannon firings, blacksmithing and more. Throughout the weekend, visit the stone barracks to learn about the experiences of U.S. soldiers and the role of the military in the growth of the nation. On Monday, don't miss a special "living timeline" of America's military past on the fort's parade ground with costumed staff and re-enactors sharing the history of Americans serving in armed conflicts. Historic Fort Snelling. 612-726-1171
May 26, Scandia
Immigrant for a Day!
Step back in time to the 1850's with immigrant-inspired family events at the old, small farm known as Gammelgarden Museum. Enjoy family friendly, free activities, games and crafts from the 1850's on the grounds among the 5 historic buildings that make up the old (gammel) small farm (garden). The main exhibit in the Välkommen Hus and the Butik gift shop will also be open. Gammelgarden Museum. 651-433-5053
May 26, St. Paul
Soundset
See 40+ artists performing on five stages in one day at the wonderful Minnesota State Fairgrounds on the Midway. Gates open at 11 a.m. and close at 9:30 p.m. Also enjoy the Last of the Record Buyers Production Showcase, Soundset Custom Car Show, Familia Skateboard Showdown, Soundset B-Boy/B-Girl Invitational, live painting, multiple carnival rides, beer & wine booths, and access to over 20 food vendors and local food trucks. Midway at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds.
Upcoming Twin Cities' concerts and performances include:
Fabulous Armadillos at the Medina Entertainment Center in Hamel, May 17
GRiZ at the Armory, May 17
Sammy Hagar & The Circle at the Mystic Lake Ampitheater in Prior Lake, May 17
Celtic Woman - Ancient Land at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, May 18
Cher: Here We Go Again Tour at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, May 18
Jim Jefferies at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, May 18
Marianas Trench at the Varsity Theater in Minneapolis, May 25
Foreigner at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, May 26
Dear Evan Hansen - The Tony Award-Winning Best Musical at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, May 28 - June 29
Adam Sandler at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, May 31
John Prine at the Northrop Auditorium in Minneapolis, May 31
Eddie Izzard at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, June 1
Juice WRLD at the Armory in Minneapolis, June 1
Studio 4 Dancers at Ames Center in Burnsville, June 1-2
Todd Rundgren at Ames Center, June 3
Rob Thomas at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, June 8
Vampire Weekend: Father of the Bride Tour at the Armory, June 9
New Kids on the Block at the Xcel Energy Center, June 11
Hannah Gadsby-Douglas at the Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis, June 12
Bat Out of Hell - The Musical at the Ordway Theatre in St. Paul, June 12-23
Middleditch & Schwartz at the Historic State Theatre, June 13
Father John Misty, Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit at The Armory, June 14
Coheed & Cambria at The Armory, June 15
David Grey at the Historic State Theatre, June 15
Hillsong United - The People Tour at Excel Energy Center, June 20
Shawn Mendes at the Xcel Energy Center, June 21
Carrie Underwood with Maddie & Tae at the Target Center in Minneapolis, June 21
Tickets are available through Hennepin Theatre Trust and Ticketmaster
Central Minnesota
May 18, Zimmerman
Bird Tour & Spring Celebration
Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day on a morning bird walk to view migratory birds and pollinators. Afterwards, head to the Oak Savanna Learning Center for the Friends of Sherburne NWR plant sale, kids craft activities, engaging booths and presentations, and more guided hikes! Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge. 763-389-3323
May 18, Alexandria
Mai Fest
Syttende Mai is Norwegian Constitution Day, the most celebrated holiday in Norway. Celebrate Minnesota's Scandinavian heritage at Mai Fest and enjoy traditional Scandinavian crafts, lawn games, music, a luncheon, kids' activities, jewelry making, rosemaling and specials at downtown stores and eateries. Runestone Museum. 320-763-3160
May 19, Sunburg
Syttende Mai Celebration
Attend the 15th Annual Syttende Mai Celebration filled with fun family events. Enjoy a Grand Day Parade at 3:30 p.m., along with a pedal tractor pull, quilt raffle, Sunburg Lakers Baseball Game, petting zoo, open mic at the Kultur Hus, non-denominational church service and more. Downtown Sunburg. 320-235-3552
May 24-26, Brainerd
Street Car Showdown
Brainerd International Raceway's 2019 Muscle Car Series kicks-off Memorial Day weekend with the 11th Annual Street Car Showdown, a display of raw speed and power on the quarter-mile drag strip. The Showdown is the first race in the three-race series, featuring cars that can run 6-7 seconds at over 200 mph. The event also includes the Sports Car Club of America's (SCCA) Harvey West Classic on the 2.5-mile road course. It features great wheel-to-wheel racing action. Two exciting events for the price of a single ticket! Brainerd International Raceway. 218-824-7223
May 27, Onamia
Memorial Day Pow Wow
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, Kimball
Stearns County Breakfast on the Farm
Learn about where your food comes from and have some fun from 7:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. (rain or shine) during the Stearns County Breakfast on the Farm. Guided tours, a petting zoo, the children’s obstacle course and horse-drawn wagon rides make this a hands-on event for all ages. Breakfast is available for $5 a plate; children five and under eat free. Mill Creek Dairy. 320-398-6800
Northwest Minnesota
April 12 - June 9, Moorhead
The FMVA BIG Art Show
For two months each spring, the artwork of the Fargo-Moorhead Visual Artists (FMVA) fills the 4th Floor Gallery at the Hjemkomst Center. Pieces from art educators, emerging artists and established artists make this one of the largest and most comprehensive local art shows in the region. Each piece is complemented with artist statements describing the creation's influences, mediums used and process. Hjemkomst Center. 218-299-5511
April 25 - May 18, Moorhead
Theatre B Presents "Cry It Out"
Three new moms from different backgrounds bond over parenting babies. Seem simple? Well, friendship, marriage and careers are anything but simple in Cry It Out, a comedy with dark edges. Cry It Out takes an honest look at the absurdities of navigating women's choices, family life and job security in modern day America. Theatre B. 701-729-8880
May 11-18, Thief River Falls
Norwegian Heritage Week
Don't miss out on the fun, daily events taking place during this week-long celebration of Syttende Mai, Norway's Constitution Day. Just some of the many highlights include: Uff Da Day at Pioneer Village with Viking re-enactors, Scandinavian crafts, Lefse demonstrations, Norwegian songs, rommegrot, coffee and other Scandinavian treats; "Tomte and the Troll" at the United Methodist Church with a high-energy, interactive performance of this Nordic cultural fairy tale; Uff Da Challenge at Hartz Park, an adventure race for beginners and seasoned pros in the obstacle race world; and Bric-A-Brac Market honoring a long-standing Scandinavian tradition of flea markets with a wide variety of vendors sharing their vintage, junk, thrifted and handmade creations. Various locations throughout Thief River Falls. 218-686-0205
May 15-18, Detroit Lakes
Detroit Lakes Festival of Birds
Observe up to 275 species of birds during the 22nd 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 "The Return of the Peregrine Falcon" by Carrol Henderson at Maplelag Resort, followed by weekend bird tours, a bazaar, exhibitors and presentations. 218-847-9202
May 24-26, Cass Lake
Leech Lake Veterans Memorial Pow Wow 2019
Attend the annual Leech Lake Veterans Memorial Pow Wow and watch performances by native dancers and drum groups in beautiful regalia from throughout the Upper Midwest, northern Great Plains and Canada. Each day starts with a flag-raising ceremony at 10 a.m. Grand entries are at 7 p.m. on Friday, 1 and 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 p.m. on Sunday. A Grand Feast will also be offered on Sunday. Veterans Memorial Grounds at Palace Casino. 218-335-8395
May 25, Detroit Lakes
Holistic Healing & Psychic Expo
Experience the Metaphysical ways of healing for your mind, body and soul. Enjoy a day of enlightenment, learning and fun with likeminded people. Holistic practitioners specialize in psychic readings, tarot and angel card readings, numerology, astrology, aura photos, Reiki and other energy healing (each vendor has their own fee). Shop for healing crystals and stones, essential oils and sage, natural products, jewelry and more. There's something for everyone! Holiday Inn - Lakefront.
Jane 1-8, Hawley
Hawley Rodeo Fest
Take part in a full week of events, starting with Breakfast on the Farm at Kasin Farms. Rodeo Fest concludes with two nights of Rodeo performances, June 7 & 8. Other events throughout the week include a Country Cowboy Church Service, Variety Show, Miss Hawley Pageant, Health Fair, Space Cowboys, John Deere Day of Play for kids, Street Fair, car and tractor show, vendors and more. Hawley Rodeo Grounds on Hwy 10 between Detroit Lakes and Moorhead. 218-483-3331
Northeast Minnesota
May 11-26, Duluth
Winnie the Pooh
This honey-filled delight is as sweet as it is fun, based on the beloved characters of A.A. Milne. Winnie the Pooh is once again in search of honey. Along the way, he meets his pals, Tigger, Piglet, Rabbit and Owl, but soon discovers that Christopher Robin has been captured by the mysterious Backson! As they prepare for a rescue operation, the animals learn about teamwork, friendship and, of course, sharing snacks. Duluth Playhouse. 218-733-7555
May 16-18, Hermantown
Minnesota Charms Quilt Show
This regional quilt show features 6 or more quilters, as well as vendors, speakers, trunk shows, demonstrations, a quilting class and quilt displays. AAD Shriners Temple. 218-476-3139
May 18, Ely
Ely's Annual Citywide Rummage Sale & Business Crazy Day
Ely's Citywide Rummage Sale and Business Crazy Day offers something for everyone with over 60 sales. You'll find a variety of rummage sales around town and numerous unique shops and restaurants downtown will offer amazing deals! Throughout the city of Ely. 218-365-6123
May 19-26, Duluth
Duluth Dylan Fest
The 2019 Duluth Dylan Fest will include the Armory Arts & Music Center benefit concert, a Dylan-themed art show, poetry reading, a singer/songwriter contest, lectures by "Dylanologists," concerts and more. May 24, 2019 marks the 78th birthday of Duluth’s native son, Bob Dylan, 2016 Nobel Prize recipient. Venues throughout the city of Duluth. 218-391-6299
May 24, Pine City
Art in the Park 2019
The 2019 Art in the Park summer season kicks-off on May 24 with an evening meal served by local organizations at 6 p.m. for a nominal cost, as well as free musical entertainment by the Pine City High School Jazz Band at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy dinner and evening entertainment with the family and friends each Friday at Robinson Park through the beginning of August. 320-322-4040
May 24-27, Schroeder
Art Along the Lake: Spring
Start in Schroeder and stop at galleries to take in the coolest one-of-a-kind scheduled activities and demonstrations planned at galleries! Complete list of demonstrations and activities. Galleries along the North Shore of Lake Superior. 218-387-2524
May 31 - June 2, Grand Marais
Northern Landscapes Festival
There is an explosion of life in spring! Participation in the festival is open to anyone interested in hands-on learning, curious about the dynamics of the northern landscape and eager to discover the flora and fauna of the area. More than a dozen field-focused courses form the backbone of the event, with evening presentations rounding out the full weekend schedule. The Raptor Center and wildlife photographer, Ryan Pennesi, are the featured presenters! On Sunday morning, the whole family will have an opportunity to meet and learn about North Shore raptors in a raptors program. North House Folk School. 218-387-9762
Be sure to visit the Deals section of ExploreMinnesota.com to learn of the latest discounts and specials!
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