Melissa Walker
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Articles by Melissa Walker
Here’s your guide to August festivals and fun in Minnesota
Here’s your guide to August festivals and fun in Minnesota It might feel like summer is winding down, but there are still plenty of activities and good times to be had across the state. Taste a variety of craft beers and more at All Pints North Summer Brew Fest at Bayfront Park in Duluth, Minn. on Aug. 1. Comment Gift Share Rondo Block Party: Honoring the legacy of the Rondo community with entertainment, family activities and vendors. (11 a.m.-6 p.m. Aug. 1. Free.
Where to watch Fourth of July fireworks across Minnesota
Where to watch Fourth of July fireworks across Minnesota As America turns 250, celebrate with food trucks, live music, festivals and sparkling displays all weekend long. Fireworks lit up the sky over Normandale Lake, capping off the city of Bloomington's Summer Fete. (Jeff Wheeler) Comment Gift Share It’s the most colorful (and loud) night of the summer as cities across the state celebrate America’s independence. All fireworks shows start at dusk, usually 9:30-10:30 p.m., and are free unless noted.
Your July guide to Minnesota festivals, food and fun
Your July guide to Minnesota festivals, food and fun Keep busy this summer at these gatherings across the state that celebrate everything from art and music to raspberries and civic pride. Panda Fest, the panda-themed Asian food and cultural festival, returns to the Twin Cities at the end of July. (Richard Tsong-Taatarii/The Minnesota Star Tribune) Comment Gift Share From small-town festivals to the supersized Taste of Minnesota, July is heating up to be a fun month.
Cool off with oversized art in MOA and 7 more low-cost things to do this week
A colorful, immersive art installation created by K-Works Studio featuring a series of oversized, modular arches and benches. (Mall hours through July 26, free, North Atrium, Mall of America, 60 E. Broadway, Bloomington, mallofamerica.com) Discover funding opportunities and shop from local merchandise and food vendors with products ranging from fashion to home decor. (10 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.-Sun. free, Minnehaha Regional Park, 4801 S.
Nicollet County Historical Society and 8 more low-cost things to do this week
Nicollet County Historical Society and 8 more low-cost things to do this week Take in shows of live music and doctors with a sense of humor. The Nicollet County Historical Society is offering guided tours to mark 175 years since the signing of the Treaty of Traverse des Sioux. Comment Gift Share Throughout the summer, special exhibit tours will be given in honor of the 175th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Traverse des Sioux.
It’s finally berry season; here’s where to pick your own
It’s finally berry season; here’s where to pick your own Looking for fresh summer berries? From strawberries and blueberries to raspberries, here’s your guide to U-pick farms across Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Select ripe strawberries when you go fruit picking at local farms. (Alex Kormann/The Minnesota Star Tribune) Comment Gift Share Summer fruits soon will be ripe for picking, with strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and more ready to be eaten by the handful.
Summer Nights in Rice and 8 more low-cost things to do this week
Summer Nights in Rice and 8 more low-cost things to do this week Juneteenth celebrations also highlight the weekend. The Courtney Burton Sextet opens the fifth season of the Summer Nights in Rice concert series June 17 in Rice Park in St. Paul. Comment Gift Share The fifth season begins in honor of the Twin Cities Jazz Festival with the Courtney Burton Sextet.
Anderson Center Sculpture Garden and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
Anderson Center Sculpture Garden and 8 other low-cost things to do this week Outdoor summer music and theater begins at area parks. "Keya Tanka Lucie," Dakota for "Big Turtle Lucy" by students at Tower View Alternative High School, is just one of the many pieces at the Anderson Center Sculpture Garden in Red Wing. Comment Gift Share Walk the 15-acre park that is one of Minnesota’s largest sculpture gardens.
It’s summer festival time: Here’s your guide to June fun
It’s summer festival time: Here’s your guide to June fun From celebrating cheese, bullheads and community to art fairs and Juneteenth, plan your summer around these Minnesota events. Strike up the bands: A parade is part of West St. Paul Days June 4-7. Comment Gift Share Ahhh, summer. It’s not just a respite from the harsh winter, but a festival smorgasbord of all things culture, music, food and art.
Prince tributes and 7 more low-cost things to do this week
Prince tributes and 7 more low-cost things to do this week In addition to celebrating his purple majesty, take in some improv, outdoor music and an ode to Brittany, France. Prince is honored with celebration events across the Twin Cities this week. (Jeff Wheeler) Comment Gift Share Honor the life and music of his purple majesty with an outdoor party and sing-along. (2-10 p.m. Sat., free, Prince mural, 101 N.
Words of wisdom for Minnesota grads from Dr. Anthony Fauci and screenwriter Scott Z. Burns
Words of wisdom for Minnesota grads from Dr. Anthony Fauci and screenwriter Scott Z. Burns Commencement speakers in other states were booed for praising AI, but in Minnesota, they sounded the alarm. Will college graduates remember the words of wisdom from their commencement speeches? (Gillian Jones/The Associated Press) Comment Gift Share Listen Print Jeers mixed with cheers on graduation day at some American colleges this year.
Schooner Days and 8 more low-cost things to do this week
Schooner Days and 8 more low-cost things to do this week St. Paul opens the Downtown Riverwalk as Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter celebrates 60 years. Festival foods and carnival rides await at Schooner Days May 29-31 at Round Lake Park in Eden Prairie. Comment Gift Share Listen Print Suburban festival season begins in Eden Prairie with family entertainment, vendors, carnival rides and games.
Memorial Day celebrations and 6 more low-cost things to do this week
Memorial Day celebrations and 6 more low-cost things to do this week Spend the holiday weekend at a Twilight PJ Party, Island Summer Splash and Kickoff to Summer at the Fair. Zach Apitz left and Jacob Noll raised the flag at Historic Fort Snelling during Memorial Day services on May 26, 2025, in St. Paul. (Jerry Holt/The Minnesota Star Tribune) Comment Gift Share Listen Print The day begins with a flag raising, followed by music, cannon and musket firing and a historic baseball game.
Asian/Pacific Islander fest and 8 more low-cost things to do this week
Asian/Pacific Islander fest and 8 more low-cost things to do this week Head to Brand Farms for its first Tulip Festival and see what pitmasters are cooking up at Grill Battle at the Grillium. View martial arts demonstrations and more at the Asian American Pacific Islander Festival at Rosland Park in Edina on Saturday.
A Muna listening party and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
A Muna listening party and 8 other low-cost things to do this week Celebrate mom with bonsai, yarn, puppetry, customizable gifts and a Sound Garden. Electric Fetus plays Muna's new album, "Dancing on the Wall" during a listening party May 8 in Minneapolis. (Lacey Richgels/The Minnesota Star Tribune) Comment Gift Share Listen Print Electric Fetus welcomes Muna fans to listen to the band’s new record.
It’s time to make Mother’s Day brunch plans; here are 32 ideas
It’s time to make Mother’s Day brunch plans; here are 32 ideas Mom deserves more than burnt toast and coffee. Try one of these restaurant or takeout options in the Twin Cities instead. Giulia's Mother's Day spring-inspired menu has three featured dishes, including banana bread with cream cheese frosting, a chicken sandwich and fries, and eggs Benedict.
Kentucky Derby watch parties and 7 other low-cost things to do this week
Kentucky Derby watch parties and 7 other low-cost things to do this week The big horse race, Cinco de Mayo and May Day highlight a weekend of festivities. Guests will have on their best headpieces during the Kentucky Derby watch party at Running Aces in Columbus, Minn. Comment Gift Share Listen Print Put on your best frock and fascinator for one of the most exciting races of the year.
Arbor Day at the Arb and 8 other low-cost things to this week
Arbor Day at the Arb and 8 other low-cost things to this week Earth Month events continue with learning opportunities on sustainability. Celebrate Arbor Day on April 25 at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska with activities. Comment Gift Share Listen Print It’s all about trees with themed crafts, spring tree ID walks, spoon-carving demonstrations and more.
Twin Cities True Vintage Show and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
Twin Cities True Vintage Show and 8 other low-cost things to do this week Freshen up your fashion with thrifting and swaps and celebrate Earth Day. Dapper shoppers will look to freshen their look at Twin Cities True Vintage show on April 18 at State Fair North End Event Center in Falcon Heights. Comment Gift Share Listen Print Add some old-school flair to your wardrobe and shop from more than 50 antique, vintage fashion, jewelry and accessories vendors.
Puppet Lab Festival and 8 other low-cost things to this week
Puppet Lab Festival and 8 other low-cost things to this week Food truck season is here, scope out hot rods and learn how to DJ at Wax Night. Puppet artist Destiny Davison presents "Dolly Who's for Dinner" during Open Eye Theatre's Puppet Lab Festival April 10-19 in Minneapolis. Comment Gift Share Listen Print Residency artists present their new puppetry performances in a workshop environment, held over two weekends.
MN Aurora jersey launch and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
MN Aurora jersey launch and 8 other low-cost things to do this week Goodies will be hidden all over the Twin Cities for Easter egg hunts. What will the Aurora's next jersey look like? Find out at the release celebration on April 3 at their home offices in Eagan. (Daniel Mick Photography) Comment Gift Share Listen Print The female soccer team collaborated with the Minneapolis Institute of Art to design a new jersey celebrating Minnesota’s creative spirit.
‘Twilight’ trivia and eight other low-cost things to do this week
‘Twilight’ trivia and eight other low-cost things to do this week Watch the NCAA basketball tournament at Pryes’ new sports mezzanine and grab one more beer before Headflyer Brewing closes its taproom. Test your "Twilight" knowledge during a themed trivia night at Surly Brewing Co. in Minneapolis.
Your guide to Easter brunches and takeout with 20+ options
Your guide to Easter brunches and takeout with 20+ options Hop on over to these restaurants and let chefs prepare your holiday feast, from fancy buffets to meals or desserts to pick up and eat at home. There are plenty of options for a Easter feast if you don't feel like cooking. (The Minnesota Star Tribune) Comment Gift Share Listen Print If Easter sneaks up on you, hosting isn’t for you or you just want to treat yourself, local restaurants are ready with a spread.
MN Bars Bake Sale and eight other low-cost things to do this week
MN Bars Bake Sale and eight other low-cost things to do this week Meet Minnesota Book Awards finalists and attend a book fair. Minneapolis baker, author and media personality Zoë François is one of the celebrity bakers at MN Bars Bake Sale at Graze Food Hall by Travail in Minneapolis on March 21. (Graham François) Comment Gift Share Listen Print More than 40 home bakers will present baked goods to benefit the Salt Cure Restaurant Recovery Fund, which helps to preserve Minnesota’s food culture.
A smattering of St. Patrick’s Day dining offerings for your Irish food fix
A smattering of St. Patrick’s Day dining offerings for your Irish food fix Reubens and corned beef and cabbage become the dishes of choice, all washed down with Guinness or a special Irish cocktail. Shepherd's pie is on the St. Patrick's Day menu from March 13-17 at Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar in Eagan. Comment Gift Share Listen Print You don’t have to be a distant Dubliner cousin to celebrate the season of all things green and shamrock.
Irish Arts Minnesota’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
Irish Arts Minnesota’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and 8 other low-cost things to do this week Green beer is on tap this week along with live music and Irish dancing. Dancers will perform at Irish Arts Minnesota's St. Patrick's Day celebrations at Landmark Center in St. Paul on March 15 and 17. Comment Gift Share Listen Print Irish Arts Minnesota’s Day of Irish Dance and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations will have theatrical, dance and music performances along with food, vendors and activities.
Northwest Sportshow and eight other low-cost things to do this week
Northwest Sportshow and eight other low-cost things to do this week Celebrate women at markets, literary conversations and a dance party. A catch and release trout pond is just one of the attractions at the Northwest Sportshow at the Minneapolis Convention Center March 5-8. (Alex Carroll) Comment Gift Share Listen Print An experience for lovers of the outdoors with exhibitions showcasing boating, fishing, hunting, travel, RVs and anything else you could want for your next adventure.
Prince-themed trivia and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
Prince-themed trivia and 8 other low-cost things to do this week Catch a midnight screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” and embrace your inner grouch at the “Grumpy Old Men” festival. Contestants can test their Prince knowledge during a themed trivia night at the Curious Crow in Circle Pines on Feb. 26. (Chris Pizzello/The Associated Press) Comment Gift Share Listen Print Are you the Purple One’s favorite fan? Test your knowledge at this relaxed evening of trivia and music. (6:30 p.m. Feb.
40+ fish-fry options at Twin Cities-area restaurants and churches
40+ fish-fry options at Twin Cities-area restaurants and churches Go old-school with the church dinner special, find greasy goodness at a local dive, or enjoy a posh sit-down meal for your annual Lenten ritual. Smack Shack serves up beer-battered cod, fries and coastal slaw for their Lent special at the Bloomington and Minneapolis locations. Comment Gift Share Listen Print Lent ushers in the beloved fish fry, with the standard accompaniments of crispy fries and crunchy coleslaw.
‘Home on the Mornin’ Train’ and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
‘Home on the Mornin’ Train’ and 8 other low-cost things to do this week Black History Month celebrates excellence through a play, workshops, film and self-care. Ruby Anders and Lexa Rischell star in Youth Performance Company's production of "Home on the Mornin' Train" at Howard Conn Fine Arts Center in Minneapolis. (Doug Neithercott) Comment Gift Share Listen Print A musical drama following the lives of Black children fleeing slavery and Jewish children in hiding. (10 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Feb.
16 indoor playgrounds in Minn. that help cure cabin fever
Cabin fever? Burn off energy at these indoor attractions. Keep toddlers to tweens entertained and escape the winter elements at these indoor playgrounds. Kids can jump for joy at Urban Air Adventure Park in Apple Valley. (Provided by Urban Air Adventure Park) Comment Gift Share Listen Print With snow mounds, slippery spots and cold temperatures making outdoor play areas uninviting or unsafe, fun seekers need an indoor alternative.
Valentine love at Great Lakes Aquarium and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
Valentine love at Great Lakes Aquarium and 8 other low-cost things to do this week Grab your boo by the hand for swing dancing, live music and dessert. Fitzgerald, a 2-year-old Giant Pacific octopus, is just one of the many aquatic species at Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth. (Provided by Great Lakes Aquarium) Comment Gift Share Listen Print No trout about it, love is in the air for you and your special salmon.
Hudson Hot Air Affair and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
Hudson Hot Air Affair and 8 other low-cost things to do this week It’s a week of celebrations with the Super Bowl, Bob Marley Day and Galentine’s events. Colorful balloons will take to the sky during Hudson Hot Air Affair Feb. 6-8 in Hudson, Wis.
Day Block Brewing’s Winter Showcase and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
1. Winter Showcase Coffee Break Entertainment and Northstar Original Revue present a 21+, two-stage showcase featuring True Lust, Ambient Toad, Jay James, Daniel Sousa and others. (4 p.m. Jan. 31, $10-$15, Day Block Brewing, 1105 S. Washington Av., Mpls., dayblockbrewing.com) 2. Burning Man Hangout Former attendees and/or fans of the annual outdoor music festival are invited to gather, share stories and enjoy craft beverages. (6:30 p.m. Jan.
9 low-cost things to do in the Twin Cities this week: Jan. 21-27.
1. Polar Bar The Hewing Hotel is giving Tullibee and its bar and lounge a winter break and has opened a rooftop crystal-clear, frozen bar. Each week features a different spirit brand, drink specials and winter-esque food. For those who need to thaw out, the indoor rooftop bar also is open daily. (4 p.m.-midnight Thu.-Sat. through early spring, free, 300 N. Washington Av., Mpls., hewinghotel.com) 2.
World Snow Celebration and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
1. World Snow Celebration Sixteen teams from around the world will compete for prize money by creating large, intricate snow sculptures. Surrounding activities during the event include a snow slide, bingo, scavenger hunt, live music, an indoor market and more. (Various times Jan. 13-25, see website for schedule, free, Lowell Park, 201 Water St. N., Stillwater, worldsnowcelebration.com) 2.
Minneapolis Institute of (Frozen) Art and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
1. Minneapolis Institute of (Frozen) Art Frozen sculptures inspired by the museum’s collection will be on display in the courtyard for a limited time. Guests can then warm up inside with self-guided tours of the original works. (5-9 p.m. Jan. 8; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 9-10 and Jan. 13-15, free, Target Park, 2400 3rd Av. S., Mpls., artsmia.org) 2. Andy Haynes The writer, actor and comic seen on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” and Comedy Central brings his act to the Twin Cities. (8 p.m. Jan.
Thrifty ways to ring in the new year
1. Minnesota Bobber Drop The Midway Saloon’s fourth annual party where instead of a ball drop, an oversized, 7-foot fishing bobber is released. Music by the Dylan Salfer Band. (8 p.m. Wed., $10-$15, women get in free, 1567 University Av. W., St. Paul, themidwaysaloon.com) 2. New Year’s Eve Celebration on Ice The rink is open for hockey and skating on the outdoor Oval as well as the indoor arena.
4 holiday light displays and 5 other free things to do this week
1. Bentleyville Tour of Lights View the bright and shiny holiday light spectacle before it ends this weekend. (5-9 p.m. Dec. 24-25; 5-10 p.m. Dec. 26-27, 350 Harbor Drive, Duluth, bentleyvilleusa.org) 2. Holiday Swap Meet After Christmas is done, some may feel the need to purge. Bring board games, duplicate toys or other nerdy items to trade. (2-6 p.m. Dec. 26, the Curious Crow Company, 9157 S. Highway Drive, Circle Pines, curiouscrowcompany.com) 3.
Enjoy 6 solstice events and other free things to do this week
1. Creekview Winter Solstice Bundle up for an evening stroll along a glowing path lit with luminaries. Warm up at the firepit and enjoy s’mores and light refreshments. (5-7 p.m. Fri., Creekview Park, 5001 Humboldt Av. N., Mpls., minneapolisparks.org) 2. Nordic Julemarket It’s winter solstice weekend at Norway House with Norwegian holiday music, cultural festivities and a mini pop-up market with local artisans. (11 a.m.-4 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sun., Norway House, 913 E.
25 restaurants open on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day in the Twin Cities
Eat & Drink Give yourself the gift of a fuss-free holiday with premade meals and desserts or these options if you’d rather dine out. By Melissa Walker The Minnesota Star Tribune December 10, 2025 at 3:00PM The Mistletoe Mule is among the holiday cocktails at the new Stock & Bond steakhouse in downtown Minneapolis.
9 free things to do in the Twin Cities this week: Dec. 10-16.
1. Minni Dazzle Mingle merrily as Fulton Beer releases the new beer, “Cran You Hear What I Hear.” Throughout the weekend shop at the holiday market, play drag bingo, visit with Santa and listen to the Urban Sounds and Target Spots choirs. (3-11 p.m. Fri., noon-11 p.m. Sat., noon-8 p.m. Sun., Fulton Beer, 414 N. 6th Av., Mpls., fultonbeer.com) 2. Richfield Holiday Lights Parade The air may be brisk, but the festive event filled with music and illuminated vehicles will warm the spirt. (6:30 p.m. Thu.
From takeout to dining in, 40-plus options for Thanksgiving dinner and dessert
By Melissa Walker Yum offers everything except the turkey with an assortment of sides, from acorn squash soup, stuffing, mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce and more for pickup at locations in St. Louis Park, Minnetonka, St. Paul or Woodbury on Nov. 26. Prices range from $6.95-$59.95. Pumpkin and pecan pies are also available ($26.95). yumkitchen.com A buffet of classics including turkey, herb stuffing and pumpkin pie along with a chilled seafood bar.
It's the season of spooky mazes, terror houses and haunted hayrides
It's that time for thrills and chills, and when witches, vampires and zombies are out and about. Several scare zones in the Twin Cities and beyond have added varying levels of gore and ghoulishness in their spooktacular events to set off screams, shivers and laughter.
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