Best Bets: Aug. 4-10

Things to do around Minnesota this week: ‘Beauty and the Beast,’ WE Fest, a half-marathon, and more

Be Our Guest

What: ‘Beauty and the Beast The Musical’
When: Aug. 5-17
Where: Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis

Enjoy a tale as old as time at the Orpheum Theatre’s “Beauty and the Beast.” With stunning sets, a Tony-award winning score, and Broadway talent, this enchanting production brings Disney magic to Minneapolis. Whether you’re reliving a childhood favorite or experiencing it for the first time, the show is magical.

Photo by Daniel Boud/Courtesy of Hennepin Arts

Country Music and Camping

What: WE Fest
When: Aug. 7-9
Where: Soo Pass Dude Ranch, 25526 County Highway 22, Detroit Lakes

WE Fest returns to Soo Pass Dude Ranch in Detroit Lakes for three days of camping and country music. Held annually since 1983, WE Fest has grown into one of the largest country music festivals in the country. This year’s lineup features headliners Jon Pardi, Hardy, and Cody Johnson, with additional performances by artists such as Megan Maroney and Kip Moore.

Courtesy of WE Fest

Good Craic!

What: Irish Fair of Minnesota
When: Aug. 8-10
Where: Harriet Island Park, 49 Harriet Island Road, St. Paul

Experience Irish music, food, and dance at the 45th annual Irish Fair of Minnesota this weekend. The festival features whiskey tasting, six entertainment stages, Irish sports demonstrations, and plenty of Irish food. It’s sure to be a “craic” (Gaelic for good time) for the whole family.

Courtesy of Irish Fair of Minnesota

Border Battle

What: Gopher to Badger Half Marathon
When: Aug. 9, 7 a.m.-12 p.m.
Where: McFair Avenue N., Stillwater

Represent your state in this friendly rivalry half marathon! Starting in Stillwater and ending in Hudson, the course crosses the scenic I-94 bridge. Whether you’re chasing your personal best or just looking to have fun, this run is open to everyone. There is even a kid’s run! Register by Wednesday night at midnight.

Where Local Culture Meets Craft

What: Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival
When: Aug. 9-10, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Downtown Minneapolis

Now in its seventh year, the Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival brings color and creativity to Nicollet Mall with a free celebration of chalk art, murals, live performance, and more. Plus, Jackalope returns in partnership with the Street Art Festival. This free event features over 150 curated local artisans offering handcrafted goods—from art and apparel to skincare and ceramics. More than a market, it’s a chance to connect with the makers and support small businesses.

Photo by Tony Nelson Photography

Sips for a Good Cause

What: Bloody Bash
When: Aug. 10, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Skyline Social and Games, 4894 Miller Trunk Highway, Duluth

Sip a Bloody Mary, sample beer snits, and support a great cause at the fourth annual Bloody Bash. Local bars and restaurants compete to win Best Bloody Mary, Best Presented Bloody Mary, and Best Beer Snit or Chaser. All proceeds from the event and bar sales are donated to Never Surrender Inc. to help fund the fight against ALS—last year’s event raised over $22,000!

Courtesy of Skyline Social and Games

Get Ready to Groove

What: Earth, Wind, and Fire
When: Aug.10, 7 p.m.
Where: The Ledge Amphitheater, 1700 Parkway Drive, Waite Park

Get ready to groove Earth, Wind, and Fire plays at the Ledge Amphitheater this Sunday. Listen to timeless hits like “September” and “Let’s Groove” under the stars for an unforgettable summer evening.