Sue Z.'s Charitable Check-In: August

Sue Z.’s picks for philanthropic food events in August include the Mill City Night Market and an elegant night out for wildlife rehabilitation

A Mill City Night Out

WHAT: National Night Out at the Mill City Night Market  
WHEN: Tuesday August 7, 4-8 p.m.
WHERE: The Commons Park, 425 Portland Ave S., Minneapolis

WHY: To celebrate National Night Out and to encourage visitors to bring pantry items or purchase from the market’s farmers to benefit Waite House, a center in the Phillips neighborhood that integrates civic engagement with human services such as employment training, youth development, and basic services such as their food shelf, to foster positive change in the community. While hosting local farmers, the weekly Mill City Night market accepts donations for the food drive at the Market’s green information booth 

INSIDER INFO: Free yoga, lawn games, music, picnics this night only—plus a DIY salad dressing giveaway, where you can learn how to make a simple vinaigrette and experiment with different oils. Learn more.


Night of the Wild Ones 

WHAT: The Elegant Harvest
WHEN:  Saturday, August 11, 6:30-11:30 p.m.
WHERE: North end of Parkview Drive and Hamel Road, under a magnificent tent on a private polo field

WHY: To benefit the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota, dedicated to the memory of Clarkson Lindley.

INSIDER INFO: Wear elegant attire for a night of cocktails, wine, and dinner, plus a one of a kind live auction. Dance under the stars to George Farber and the Icons. Learn more.


Gastronomic Wonderland   

WHAT: St. Paul Food Truck Festival  
WHEN: Saturday, August 18, noon-10 p.m.
WHERE: Mears Park, 221 Fifth St. E., St. Paul

WHY: More than 45 food trucks offer a wide range of cuisines, from light and healthy options to indulgent treats. Also: craft brews form local microbrewers and non-alcoholic options. Fabulous apparel and accessories from fashion trucks, games, and activities galore, plus live bands and DJs. Proceeds benefit Feed My Starving Children.

INSIDER INFO: $5 wrist bands. Alex Rossi Music will perform at 7 p.m. Bring your pooch for Dogs of MSP meet-ups. Learn more.


Stomp Out Suicide

WHAT: 7th Annual Stamp Out Suicide
WHEN: Saturday August 18, 9 a.m. 
WHERE: Goodview Park, Wyoming, Minn.

WHY: This 5K Fun Run and Walk are a time to remember, feel hope, and connect to people and resources that can help. Join this supportive community in memory of Alissa Haines of Wyoming.

INSIDER INFO: Performances by Kat Perkins, memory line, games and activities, food trucks, balloon release, auction, face painting. Every dollar raised supports suicide prevention and crisis services for people who need it. Register and form your own team. Learn more.


Check back in every month for more picks by Sue Z.

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Sue Zelickson (Sue Z.) is a James Beard Award-winning food media personality, philanthropist, and longtime contributor to Minnesota Monthly and WCCO radio. She has founded the Charlie Awards, the Women Who Really Cook networking organization for women in the local food industry, and the Kids Cafe at Perspectives, Inc., which improves access to nutritious meals for families in need. You can find her buzzing around from event to event throughout the Twin Cities, helping to raise funds for charitable organizations, including some she has had a hand in building.