Best Bets: July 14-20

Things to do around Minnesota this week: Christmas in July, a local art fair, a German party, and more

Night at the Museum

What: Art and Wine After Dark
When: July 15, 6-8 p.m.
Where: Minneapolis Institute of Art, 2400 Third Ave. S., Minneapolis

Wine and art are the perfect pairing— both timeless, indulgent, and meant to be savored. Enjoy both with an after-hours evening in the galleries of the Minneapolis Institute of Art.  The event includes a private, curated tour of the museum, bites from Paris Dining Club, and a wine tasting with sommelier Bill Summerville.

Christmas in July

What: Christmas in July
When: July 16, 4-6 p.m.
Where: The Saint Paul Hotel, 350 Market St., St. Paul

Enjoy a festive evening at The Saint Paul Hotel to celebrate the launch of ticket sales to the holiday spectacular, “It’s a Wonderful Life—A Live Radio Show.” The performance is an annual tradition at the hotel in December. The event includes a holiday market with local artisan vendors, perfect for gift giving or treating yourself. Savor complimentary holiday bites and beverages while you shop.

Courtesy of The Saint Paul Hotel

A Bavarian Blast

What: Bavarian Blast
When: July 17-20
Where: Brown Country Fairgrounds, 712 N. 12th St., New Ulm

New Ulm’s biggest summer party returns this weekend! Bavarian Blast features live music, dancing, beer, and excellent bratwursts. Polka dancing, parade floats, and stein-holding contests pay homage to the town’s German roots while celebrating in true Minnesota style.

Enjoy Local Art

What: Minnehaha Art Fair
When: July 18-20
Where: Minnehaha Falls, 4801 S. Minnehaha Drive, Minneapolis

Celebrate creativity and community at the Minnehaha Art Fair this weekend. The beloved fair features hundreds of local and regional artists, food vendors, and kids activities. Vintage lovers can stop by the vintage and funky fest to shop for unique styles and mediums, and everyone can enjoy live entertainment on the pavilion stage. Visit the art fair’s website to obtain a free metro pass for the event.

Music on the River

What: Minnesota Yacht Club
When: July 18-20
Where: Harriet Island Regional Park, 49 Harriet Island Road, St. Paul

From the creators of Lollapalooza and Austin City Limits, the Minnesota Yacht Club music festival brings major artists and great energy to Harriet Island Regional Park. Hozier, Weezer, Alabama Shakes, Fall Out Boy, and Green Day are headlining the festival, with additional performances from renowned artists such as Train, Sheryl Crow, and Sublime.

Photo by Roger Ho, Courtesy of Minnesota Yacht Club

A Jazz Icon

What: Patti Austin at the Dakota
When: July 18-19, 7 p.m.
Where: Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis

Grammy-award winning artist Patti Austin is performing at the Dakota on Friday night. Austin is a renowned R&B-turned-jazz musician whose work draws influence from artists like Ella Fitzgerald. Her rich vocals and stage presence promise an excellent show.