From Hennepin Co. Library:

If you are curious about vegan cooking, this virtual club is for you! Each month participants make recipes from popular cookbooks prior to meeting, then share their reflections with the group. Novice to expert cooks are welcome, as are interested non-cooks.

Additional information, including the Zoom meeting link and downloadable recipes, is available on the events page of the Compassionate Action for Animals website.

East Lake Vegan Recipe Club
Tuesday, Nov. 18 • 6:30–7:30 PM
Online

From In the Heart of the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre:

Come build a large Alebrije puppet with us! Gustavo Boada and a team of HOBT artists will lead six community build workshops to work on a large puppet to be installed into HOBT Puppet Library. Come learn about the art of Alebrijes and participate in a large puppet build.

Free and open to the public. Please sign up, as space is limited to 30 people. More info to come!

First Saturday Storytime
November 10, 12, 17, 19 • 6–9 PM
November 15, 22•10 AM – 1 PM
In the Heart of the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre (2411 Hennepin Ave)

From the American Swedish Institute (ASI):

Ever wanted to play music in the historic Turnblad Mansion? Now’s your chance! Bring your nyckelharpa, hardingfele, fiddle, or any acoustic instrument to ASI’s Open Nordic Jam. This jam is free and open to musicians of any level who want to learn and play Nordic folk. Bring your friends or plan to make new ones here!

ASI Open Nordic Jam
Thursdays, Nov. 6 – Jan. 8 • 6–8 PM
American Swedish Institute (2600 Park Ave)

From Sisyphus Brewing:

This is a free event every Thursday in the Sisyphus Brewing comedy club featuring some of MN's best comics — including a headliner! Open mic sign up is from 6-7pm with the list posted at 7:15pm. Show starts at 8pm! First timers should put a ⭐️ by their name for guaranteed stage time!

This is a full capacity show. Must be 18+ to attend.

Stand Up Comedy Open Mic
Thursdays • 8–10 PM
Sisyphus Brewing (712 Ontario Ave W #100)

From Bryan Mawr Neighborhood Association:

Please consider making a blood donation at this upcoming blood drive. The need for blood is constant and only volunteer donors can fulfill that need for patients in our community. Nationwide, someone needs a unit of blood every 2 to 3 seconds and most of us will need blood in our lifetime. Thank you for supporting our partnership with the American Red Cross blood program!

Red Cross Blood Drive
Friday, Nov. 21 • 11 AM – 1 PM
Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church (420 Cedar Lake Road S)

From In the Heart of the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre:

Come build a large Alebrije puppet with us! Gustavo Boada and a team of HOBT artists will lead six community build workshops to work on a large puppet to be installed into HOBT Puppet Library. Come learn about the art of Alebrijes and participate in a large puppet build.

Free and open to the public. Please sign up, as space is limited to 30 people. More info to come!

First Saturday Storytime
November 10, 12, 17, 19 • 6–9 PM
November 15, 22•10 AM – 1 PM
In the Heart of the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre (2411 Hennepin Ave)

From City of Minneapolis:

Available vaccines include: Flu, COVID-19, Mpox, and childhood vaccines, such as the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Free Vaccine Clinic
Saturday, Nov. 22 • 11 AM – 3 PM
Hosmer Library (347 E 36th St)

From Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board:

Join the MN Tracking Club to learn animal tracking basics from expert tracking facilitators. We will split off into smaller groups led by tracking experts and will explore a number of tracking "mysteries"; you'll learn how to look closely at a track or animal sign and how to identify what critter might have left it there.

Fall Family Animal Tracking
Sunday, Nov. 23 • 9 – 11 AM
Minnehaha Regional Park

From Friends of Roberts Bird Sanctuary:

Join MyBirdClub leaders for this free family-friendly program of youth birdwatching at Roberts Bird Sanctuary People of all ages with any level of knowledge and abilities are welcome. Youth under 13 will need an adult companion.

Meet in the Roberts visitor shelter near the Peace Garden parking lot for a brief welcome by guides before heading out to explore the Sanctuary! Binoculars are provided at no cost for free.

Youth Birding
Sunday, Nov. 23 • 10 –11:30 AM
Roberts Bird Sanctuary

From Compassionate Action for Animals:

Celebrate compassion, community, and delicious plant-based food at our ThanksLiving Vegan Potluck! Everyone is welcome – bring your friends, family, and your favorite vegan dish to share. Let’s make this season about connection and kindness to all.

ThanksLiving Vegan Potluck
Sunday, Nov. 23 • 2 – 4 PM
Matthews Park (2318 29th Ave S)

From MN Zen Meditation Center:

On the day of the year that has become most associated with American consumerism and shopping, we’d like to offer people a respite and alternative that they can practice every day of their busy lives. In meditation, we face the blank wall, return to our original stillness, and find relief from a busy mind.

MN Zen Meditation Center invites everyone to learn about and practice meditation together. The event is open to all at no cost. Join us to meditate and bring your family and friends! We'll be happy to give you a tour and answer any questions you have about the Center. There will be hot beverages and light refreshments.

Blank Friday: A Zen Alternative to Black Friday
Friday, Nov. 28 • 10 AM – 4 PM
MN Zen Meditation Center (3343 E Bde Maka Ska Pkwy)

From Uptown Association:

Join us on Small Business Saturday! Shop small & peruse goods from local makers in the Seven Points storefronts along Hennepin Avenue...and join ARTrageous Adventures and friends for ornament crafting, photo-ops, and holiday merriment.

Uptown Winter Wonderland Holiday Market
Saturday, Nov. 29 • 10 AM – 2 PM
Seven Points: 3001 Hennepin Ave

From Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board:

Kick off the holiday season right where it all began! Join us for the second annual screening of Jingle All the Way inside the stunning Nicollet Island Pavilion — one of the very locations where the movie was filmed!

Cozy up under the pavilion lights, sip on seasonal drinks, and relive this Minneapolis-made holiday classic starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad. Whether it’s your first time or a yearly tradition in the making, it’s the perfect way to start the festive season with family, friends, and plenty of holiday spirit.

Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase from Mintahoe Catering.
Free and open to the public. Seating is first come, first served.

Let’s make this the start of your new holiday tradition—right here in the heart of Minneapolis!

Jingle All the Way at Nicollet Island Pavilion
Sunday, Nov. 30 • 6:30 – 9:30 PM
Nicollet Island Pavilion (40 Power St)

From Art Shelf:

Join us as we meet at Art Shelf around 5:30 as we walk over to the Minnesota Zen center to participate in a 25 minute ZAZEN meditation, then we walk back to Art Shelf and participate in a group illustration session. We select three random prompts and draw them together. There are Artist on hand to help and provide mentorship to anyone learning. This activity is to promote mindfulness and creativity. Paired together as a source of wellness. All skill levels are welcome. You can also just show up for the illustration class which starts at 6:30.

Meditate & Illustrate
Mondays • 5:30 – 8 PM
Art Shelf (1415 W 35th St, Ste C)

From Holidays On Hennepin:

Come visit Santa's Print Shop! Stop by to participate in our custom ornament workshops.

Santa's Ornament Workshop
Dec. Tuesdays • 3 – 4 PM
Vital Print Press (2443 Hennepin Ave S)

From East Bde Maka Ska Neighborhood Association:

Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, wine, local bites and community at the Granada Theater!

Uptown Holiday Wine Tasting
Wednesday, Dec. 3 • 6 – 10 PM
Granada Theater (3022 Hennepin Ave)

From Minneapolis Institute of Art:

Connect, create, kick back! Meet at Mia is a series of free Thursday evening events for adults. Get to know us—and each other—with live music, art making, special programs, and unique food and drink (for purchase). No registration or secret handshake required.

Dare to dive into the abstract! DJ TaliaKnight provides the soundtrack for this Meet at Mia. Make your own artwork with Laura Brown and enjoy a free screening of “Beyond the Visible: Hilma af Klint” to learn about one of the pioneering abstract artists. Get up close and personal with artwork from Mia’s collection during special tours of the contemporary art galleries.

Groove with DJ TaliaKnight
Watch “Hilma af Klint: Beyond the Visible,” 7 p.m. (run time is 1 hour, 33 minutes)
Create abstract-inspired artmaking with Laura Brown
Tour Mia’s contemporary art galleries, 6 and 7:15 p.m.

Meet at Mia: Pioneers of Abstraction
Thursday, Dec. 4 • 5 – 9 PM
Minneapolis Institute of Art (2400 3rd Ave S)

From the American Swedish Institute (ASI):

Ever wanted to play music in the historic Turnblad Mansion? Now’s your chance! Bring your nyckelharpa, hardingfele, fiddle, or any acoustic instrument to ASI’s Open Nordic Jam. This jam is free and open to musicians of any level who want to learn and play Nordic folk. Bring your friends or plan to make new ones here!

ASI Open Nordic Jam
Thursdays, Nov. 6 – Jan. 8 • 6–8 PM
American Swedish Institute (2600 Park Ave)

From Sisyphus Brewing:

This is a free event every Thursday in the Sisyphus Brewing comedy club featuring some of MN's best comics — including a headliner! Open mic sign up is from 6-7pm with the list posted at 7:15pm. Show starts at 8pm! First timers should put a ⭐️ by their name for guaranteed stage time!

This is a full capacity show. Must be 18+ to attend.

Stand Up Comedy Open Mic
Thursdays • 8–10 PM
Sisyphus Brewing (712 Ontario Ave W #100)

From Walker Art Center:

Bring your loved ones to the Walker for a day of art and creativity. Admission is free on the first Saturday of every month from 10 am-5 pm. Explore current exhibitions, get creative with drop-in art activities for families from 10 am-3 pm, and check out a film in the Mediatheque.

Free First Saturday: See, Honor, Nurture & Celebrate
1st Saturdays • 10 AM–3 PM
Walker Art Center

From Queermunity MN:

Lavender & Lights is a makers market celebrating local artists. Striving to be accessible and inviting to artists and art lovers off all backgrounds!

Lavender & Lights Winter Makers Market
Saturday, Dec. 6 • 11 AM – 3 PM
Queermunity MN (3036 Hennepin Ave)

From Holidays On Hennepin:

Stop by Kowalski’s for your groceries and pick up something extra to be donated to Joyce Uptown Foodshelf. Joyce Uptown Foodshelf is a people-centered no questions asked foodshelf in the heart of Uptown since 1969.

Food Drive for Joyce Uptown Foodshelf
Saturday, Dec. 6 • 11 AM –1 PM
Kowalski’s Uptown Market (2440 Hennepin Ave S)

From Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board:

We will start off by learning some tracking basics from Bill Kass, a professional in track and sign, and then will head out and explore Theodore Wirth park and practice our tracking skills. We will also use the community science data collection app iNaturalist to capture our findings.

This program is generally geared towards adults, but is open to interested learners of all ages.

Fall Family Animal Tracking
Sunday, Dec. 7 • 9 – 11 AM
Theodore Wirth Regional Park

From Queermunity MN:

Join us for a monthly gathering of fiction lovers! This inclusive book club explores fiction across all genres, meeting on Sundays at 2:00 PM. Led by two queer book enthusiasts, we choose books based on group preferences, with selections tallied from member input.

Discussions are open-ended and social, and there’s no pressure to finish the book before the meeting. Grab a drink or snack from the Queermunity café and settle in for a relaxed and welcoming conversation.

We strive to pick books that are accessible through public libraries or available used at Magers & Quinn. Whether you're a casual reader or a lifelong bibliophile, come join the fun!

This month's book is: The Lilac People by Milo Todd

You can sign up for Fiction & Friends email list here. If you have any questions, you can reach out to the facilitator, Martha Burket, at martha.burket@gmail.com.

Fiction & Friends Bookclub
1st Sundays monthly • 2–4 PM
Queermunity MN (3036 Hennepin Ave)

From Art Shelf:

Join us as we meet at Art Shelf around 5:30 as we walk over to the Minnesota Zen center to participate in a 25 minute ZAZEN meditation, then we walk back to Art Shelf and participate in a group illustration session. We select three random prompts and draw them together. There are Artist on hand to help and provide mentorship to anyone learning. This activity is to promote mindfulness and creativity. Paired together as a source of wellness. All skill levels are welcome. You can also just show up for the illustration class which starts at 6:30.

Meditate & Illustrate
Mondays • 5:30 – 8 PM
Art Shelf (1415 W 35th St, Ste C)

From Holidays On Hennepin:

Come visit Santa's Print Shop! Stop by to participate in our custom ornament workshops.

Santa's Ornament Workshop
Dec. Tuesdays • 3 –4 PM
Vital Print Press (2443 Hennepin Ave S)

From Hennepin Co. Library:

Join our discussion of new and interesting books written by queer authors or on queer topics – LGBTQIA+ centered program. Bring along your book recommendations for future meetings. Hosted by Lynn from East Lake Library and Sara from Ridgedale Library, this book club will meet the second Tuesday of each month.

The link to the live online discussion will be emailed to registrants in advance (within 48 hours of the event).

• Sept. 9 Canto Contigo by Jonny Garza Villa

• Oct. 14 Someone You Can Build a Nest In by John Wiswell

• Nov. 11 No meeting - The library will be closed for Veteran’s Day

• Nov. 12 Pretty by KB (Brookins)

• Dec. 9 To Shape a Dragon’s Breath by Moniquill Blackgoose

eBooks or downloadable audiobooks are available through www.hclib.org. Physical copies are available to check out at East Lake and Ridgedale libraries.

Queer Book Club
Tuesday, Dec. 9 • 6:30–7:30 PM
Online

From Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board:

You read the title correct. Bryant Square is so excited to host a "POP UP DANCE PARTY" event series in 2025! We provide the DJ and the space; all you need to bring is your energy and your best (or worst) dance moves. All ages are welcome!

Pop Up Dance Party
2nd Wed. monthly • 6:30–8 PM
Bryant Square Park Rec Center (3101 Bryant Ave S)

From Queermunity MN:

Join RedDoor at Queermunity for free HIV testing and education!

Free HIV Testing
2nd Thursdays monthly • 4–8 PM
Queermunity MN (3036 Hennepin Ave)

From the American Swedish Institute (ASI):

Ever wanted to play music in the historic Turnblad Mansion? Now’s your chance! Bring your nyckelharpa, hardingfele, fiddle, or any acoustic instrument to ASI’s Open Nordic Jam. This jam is free and open to musicians of any level who want to learn and play Nordic folk. Bring your friends or plan to make new ones here!

ASI Open Nordic Jam
Thursdays, Nov. 6 – Jan. 8 • 6–8 PM
American Swedish Institute (2600 Park Ave)

From Sisyphus Brewing:

This is a free event every Thursday in the Sisyphus Brewing comedy club featuring some of MN's best comics — including a headliner! Open mic sign up is from 6-7pm with the list posted at 7:15pm. Show starts at 8pm! First timers should put a ⭐️ by their name for guaranteed stage time!

This is a full capacity show. Must be 18+ to attend.

Stand Up Comedy Open Mic
Thursdays • 8–10 PM
Sisyphus Brewing (712 Ontario Ave W #100)

From Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board:

Decorate your own house with frosting and a variety of candy. Bring your creativity, your sweet tooth, and holiday cheer for this annual family tradition.

Gingerbread House Making
Friday, Dec. 12 • 6–7:30 PM
Bryant Square Park Rec Center: 3101 Bryant Ave S

From Chicago Ave Fire Arts Center:

Join us at the Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center (CAFAC),3749 Chicago Avenue, for a day filled with creativity, community, and craft.

We are so excited to present you with our 10th Annual RedHot Art Market, a celebration of talented makers and incredible art! From 11 AM to 5 PM (with an exclusive Fuelers’ Preview Hour from 10–11 AM), both buildings will be transformed into a vibrant marketplace featuring the work of 40 phenomenal local artists and makers.

Expect a stunning array of handcrafted treasures: from molten metalwork and delicate ceramics to imaginative prints, jewelry, textiles, and more. Each piece is a story, a spark, a perfect find for your gift-giving season (or your own collection).

And to top it off, 30% of all sales go directly to CAFAC’s Scholarship Fund, helping fuel the next generation of fire arts and community creators.

Come for the art. Stay for the fire. Leave inspired.

10th Annual RedHot Art Market
Saturday, Dec. 13 • 11 AM–5 PM
Chicago Ave Fire Arts Center: 3749 Chicago Ave

From Holidays On Hennepin:

Join in for a Sing-A-Long of popular songs and carols. We’ll be posted up by the fireside serving hot cocoa and cookies. Did you know singing with a group is good for your soul? Bust it open and belt it out with us!

Carols & Cocoa
Saturday, Dec. 13 • 11 AM –2 PM
Kowalski’s Uptown Market (2440 Hennepin Ave S)

From Bryn Mawr Neighborhood Association:

An afternoon celebration of winter, this downtown Bryn Mawr street festival features horse-drawn hay wagon rides, drum corps dancing, and roasting marshmallows over open fire pits. After all the outdoor festivities, enjoy an evening dance at the local coffee shop

Saturnalia
Saturday, Dec. 13 • 4:30–9:30 PM
Bryn Mawr (400 Penn Ave S)

From Walker Art Center:

Sensory Friendly Sunday is a monthly event designed for kids, teens, and adults with sensory processing differences, autism, or developmental disabilities. The galleries will be closed to the general public, allowing visitors to enjoy the museum in a calm environment, with accommodations such as quiet spaces, fidgets, and sunglasses available. Experience a selection of current exhibitions, make art, or watch a short film. All friends and family members are welcome.

Sensory Friendly Sunday
Sunday, Dec. 14 • 8 – 10 AM
Walker Art Center

From Art Shelf:

Join us as we meet at Art Shelf around 5:30 as we walk over to the Minnesota Zen center to participate in a 25 minute ZAZEN meditation, then we walk back to Art Shelf and participate in a group illustration session. We select three random prompts and draw them together. There are Artist on hand to help and provide mentorship to anyone learning. This activity is to promote mindfulness and creativity. Paired together as a source of wellness. All skill levels are welcome. You can also just show up for the illustration class which starts at 6:30.

Meditate & Illustrate
Mondays • 5:30 – 8 PM
Art Shelf (1415 W 35th St, Ste C)

From Holidays On Hennepin:

Come visit Santa's Print Shop! Stop by to participate in our custom ornament workshops.

Santa's Ornament Workshop
Dec. Tuesdays • 3 –4 PM
Vital Print Press (2443 Hennepin Ave S)

From Holidays On Hennepin:

Whether you’re picking up a grab and go lunch or picking the perfect pear in produce, our Strollin’ Santas will serenade you. Two Santas, a speaker, and a Spotify playlist – it’s lo-fi and LOADS of silly, festive fun.

Strollin’ Santas
Saturday, Dec. 20 • 11 AM –2 PM
Kowalski’s Uptown Market (2440 Hennepin Ave S)

From Linden Hills Neighborhood Council:

Please consider making a blood donation at this upcoming blood drive. The need for blood is constant and only volunteer donors can fulfill that need for patients in our community. Nationwide, someone needs a unit of blood every 2 to 3 seconds and most of us will need blood in our lifetime. Thank you for supporting our partnership with the American Red Cross blood program!

Linden Hills Holiday Wine & Stroll
Thursday, Dec. 18 • 5 – 8 PM
Linden Hills

From the American Swedish Institute (ASI):

Ever wanted to play music in the historic Turnblad Mansion? Now’s your chance! Bring your nyckelharpa, hardingfele, fiddle, or any acoustic instrument to ASI’s Open Nordic Jam. This jam is free and open to musicians of any level who want to learn and play Nordic folk. Bring your friends or plan to make new ones here!

ASI Open Nordic Jam
Thursdays, Nov. 6 – Jan. 8 • 6–8 PM
American Swedish Institute (2600 Park Ave)

From Sisyphus Brewing:

This is a free event every Thursday in the Sisyphus Brewing comedy club featuring some of MN's best comics — including a headliner! Open mic sign up is from 6-7pm with the list posted at 7:15pm. Show starts at 8pm! First timers should put a ⭐️ by their name for guaranteed stage time!

This is a full capacity show. Must be 18+ to attend.

Stand Up Comedy Open Mic
Thursdays • 8–10 PM
Sisyphus Brewing (712 Ontario Ave W #100)

From the American Swedish Institute (ASI):

Mark the shortest day and longest night of the year at ASI with ASI’s popular Winter Solstice Celebration. Since pagan days, solstice has traditionally meant the “year as reborn,” with ancient (and modern) Scandinavians fusing it into the longer “Jul” or Yule season. ASI celebrates this powerful seasonal juncture with fun, festivity, and performance.

Winter Solstice
Friday, Dec. 19 • 5–9 PM
American Swedish Institute (2600 Park Ave)

Christmas Family Fun Day
Saturday, Dec. 20 • 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Midtown Global Market

From City of Minneapolis:

Available vaccines include: Flu, COVID-19, Mpox, and childhood vaccines, such as the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Free Vaccine Clinic
Saturday, Dec. 20 • 11 AM – 3 PM
Eden Prairie Library, Bluestem Rm (565 Prairie Center Dr)

From Art Shelf:

Join us as we meet at Art Shelf around 5:30 as we walk over to the Minnesota Zen center to participate in a 25 minute ZAZEN meditation, then we walk back to Art Shelf and participate in a group illustration session. We select three random prompts and draw them together. There are Artist on hand to help and provide mentorship to anyone learning. This activity is to promote mindfulness and creativity. Paired together as a source of wellness. All skill levels are welcome. You can also just show up for the illustration class which starts at 6:30.

Meditate & Illustrate
Mondays • 5:30 – 8 PM
Art Shelf (1415 W 35th St, Ste C)

From Holidays On Hennepin:

Come visit Santa's Print Shop! Stop by to participate in our custom ornament workshops.

Santa's Ornament Workshop
Dec. Tuesdays • 3 –4 PM
Vital Print Press (2443 Hennepin Ave S)

From Art Shelf:

Join us as we meet at Art Shelf around 5:30 as we walk over to the Minnesota Zen center to participate in a 25 minute ZAZEN meditation, then we walk back to Art Shelf and participate in a group illustration session. We select three random prompts and draw them together. There are Artist on hand to help and provide mentorship to anyone learning. This activity is to promote mindfulness and creativity. Paired together as a source of wellness. All skill levels are welcome. You can also just show up for the illustration class which starts at 6:30.

Meditate & Illustrate
Mondays • 5:30 – 8 PM
Art Shelf (1415 W 35th St, Ste C)

From Holidays On Hennepin:

Come visit Santa's Print Shop! Stop by to participate in our custom ornament workshops.

Santa's Ornament Workshop
Dec. Tuesdays • 3 –4 PM
Vital Print Press (2443 Hennepin Ave S)

From Walker Art Center:

Bring your loved ones to the Walker for a day of art and creativity. Admission is free on the first Saturday of every month from 10 am-5 pm. Explore current exhibitions, get creative with drop-in art activities for families from 10 am-3 pm, and check out a film in the Mediatheque.

Free First Saturday: See, Honor, Nurture & Celebrate
1st Saturdays • 10 AM–3 PM
Walker Art Center

From Minneapolis Institute of Art:

Connect, create, kick back! Meet at Mia is a series of free Thursday evening events for adults. Get to know us—and each other—with live music, art making, special programs, and unique food and drink (for purchase). No registration or secret handshake required.

The winter months are peak hygge (pronounced HUE-guh) season. This Scandinavian word encourages us to tap into the cozy side of life, so we’re bringing those chill vibes to Meet at Mia. Make colorful, geometric art with Tia Keobunpheng and bring some “ahhh” to your senses with hand-crafted simmer kits. Roam Mia’s galleries to find the perfect wintery landscapes and bask in the glimmer of Norwegian silver artworks.

Create geometric artwork with Tia Keobounpheng
Make spice kits with Laura Wennstrom to bring some hygge-friendly aroma home with you
Explore “Crowning the North: Silver Treasures from Bergen, Norway”
Tour Mia’s winter-inspired art collection

Meet at Mia: Got Hygge?
Thursday, Jan. 8 • 5 – 9 PM
Minneapolis Institute of Art (2400 3rd Ave S)

From the American Swedish Institute (ASI):

Ever wanted to play music in the historic Turnblad Mansion? Now’s your chance! Bring your nyckelharpa, hardingfele, fiddle, or any acoustic instrument to ASI’s Open Nordic Jam. This jam is free and open to musicians of any level who want to learn and play Nordic folk. Bring your friends or plan to make new ones here!

ASI Open Nordic Jam
Thursdays, Nov. 6 – Jan. 8 • 6–8 PM
American Swedish Institute (2600 Park Ave)

From Northrup King Building:

From beautiful galleries and fun boutiques to one-of-a-kind local businesses, this is your gateway to discovering jewelry, fine art, home goods, wellness items, sculpture, photography, and so much more. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a curious explorer, or just looking for a special night out, Northrup King Nights is always a fun adventure. The doors are open – so stay late, explore, meet the artists, and come see what makes this building extraordinary.

Northrup King Nights
Saturday, Jan. 10 • 4–8 PM
Northrup King Building (1500 Jackson St NE)

From South Uptown Neighborhood Association:

Come over to Bryant Square park to experience a winter wonderland featuring hundreds of luminary lanterns around the skating rink and park. Stick around to skate or enjoy hot chocolate around two fire pits. This community event is co-sponsored by Bryant Square Park and the South Uptown Neighborhood Association.

Luminary Skating Party
Saturday, Jan. 10 • 5:30–7:30 PM
Bryant Square Park (3101 Bryant Ave S)

From Walker Art Center:

Sensory Friendly Sunday is a monthly event designed for kids, teens, and adults with sensory processing differences, autism, or developmental disabilities. The galleries will be closed to the general public, allowing visitors to enjoy the museum in a calm environment, with accommodations such as quiet spaces, fidgets, and sunglasses available. Experience a selection of current exhibitions, make art, or watch a short film. All friends and family members are welcome.

Sensory Friendly Sunday
Sunday, Jan. 11 • 8 – 10 AM
Walker Art Center

From Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board:

Annual tributes to Dr. King’s life and legacy take place at several park locations throughout the day, including an evening celebration at the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center with speakers, live entertainment and the presentation of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s Living the Dream award. Click here for details on events happening at other locations.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
Monday, Jan. 19 • 6:30 – 8 PM
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park: 4055 Nicollet Ave S

From Minneapolis Institute of Art:

Connect, create, kick back! Meet at Mia is a series of free Thursday evening events for adults. Get to know us—and each other—with live music, art making, special programs, and unique food and drink (for purchase). No registration or secret handshake required.

This Meet at Mia is all about photography! DJ BleakRoses provides the tunes for you to explore Mia’s photography exhibition “Containing Multitudes.” Get your aura portrait taken with Vivid Violet Photography.

Listen to DJ BleakRoses
Discover Coggins cameras and get your own aura portrait with Vivid Violet Aura photography
Explore Mia’s photography galleries

Meet at Mia: New Views
Thursday, Jan. 8 • 5 – 9 PM
Minneapolis Institute of Art (2400 3rd Ave S)

From Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board:

The Winter Kite Festival is a beautiful festival that fills the sky with colorful kites, offers winter activities for all, delicious local food trucks and free s’mores by the fire to warm up throughout the day.

Lake Harriet Kite Festival
Saturday, Jan. 24 • 12–4 PM
Lake Harriet

From Powderhorn Art Sled Rally:

The Art Sled Rally is put on by neighborhood artists and residents in coordination with Adventures in Cardboard,  the incredible staff at Powderthorn Park, local community organizations and business sponsors who all want to enrich the spirit of community life in Powderhorn through free public events with a focus on artistic expression and out-of-the-ordinary spectacle.

Powderhorn Art Sled Rally
Saturday, Jan. 31 • 2–3 PM
Powderhorn Park (E 33rd St & 10th Ave S)

From Walker Art Center:

Bring your loved ones to the Walker for a day of art and creativity. Admission is free on the first Saturday of every month from 10 am-5 pm. Explore current exhibitions, get creative with drop-in art activities for families from 10 am-3 pm, and check out a film in the Mediatheque.

Free First Saturday: See, Honor, Nurture & Celebrate
1st Saturdays • 10 AM–3 PM
Walker Art Center

From Meet Minneapolis:

The candlelit Luminary Loppet is the Twin Cities’ most magical event of the season. Come out to Lake of the Isles and enjoy the Luminary Loppet where you can walk, snowshoe, or ski on the candlelit trail winding across the lake. Experience 1,200 luminaries lining the trail with unique ice features and much more – all in the heart of Uptown. Refreshments such as hot chocolate will be offered at tents across the lake. Food trucks, beer, and music are located at the Luminary Party.

Luminary Loppet
Saturday, Feb. 7 • 6–10 PM
Lake of the Isles

From Walker Art Center:

Sensory Friendly Sunday is a monthly event designed for kids, teens, and adults with sensory processing differences, autism, or developmental disabilities. The galleries will be closed to the general public, allowing visitors to enjoy the museum in a calm environment, with accommodations such as quiet spaces, fidgets, and sunglasses available. Experience a selection of current exhibitions, make art, or watch a short film. All friends and family members are welcome.

Sensory Friendly Sunday
Sunday, Feb. 8 • 8 – 10 AM
Walker Art Center

From Meet Minneapolis:

The Midwest’s biggest and best winter beer festival will make its triumphant return to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. We’re beyond excited to welcome you all back to the Mighty Midway to sample great beer from breweries all over the United States while enjoying music, food trucks, and other thrilling attractions.

2026 Winter Beer Dabbler
Saturday, Feb. 21 • 3–6:30 PM (early access 2 PM)
MN State Fairgrounds

From Walker Art Center:

Bring your loved ones to the Walker for a day of art and creativity. Admission is free on the first Saturday of every month from 10 am-5 pm. Explore current exhibitions, get creative with drop-in art activities for families from 10 am-3 pm, and check out a film in the Mediatheque.

Free First Saturday: See, Honor, Nurture & Celebrate
1st Saturdays • 10 AM–3 PM
Walker Art Center