Friday, August 16
Opera for Foodies
WHAT: Agent Fidelio: A Picnic Operetta
WHERE: Dodge Nature Center’s Farm Education Center, West St. Paul
WHEN: 7 p.m.
Indulge in some culture and locally sourced goodies with Mixed Precipitation’s outdoor presentation of Agent Fidelio, an opera filled with secret agents, covert operations, and an abundance of intrigue. The company’s modern spin on the original Beethoven opera is the perfect pairing for the five-course menu. Learn more at mixedprecipitation.org
Friday, August 16
Got Rhythm?
WHAT: Rhythmically Speaking Presents: 2013
WHERE: The Southern Theater, Minneapolis
WHEN: 8 p.m.
With the mission of revitalizing jazz- and rhythm-based dance in the Twin Cities, Rhythmically Speaking is a troupe unmatched in spirit and passion—which is apparent in their annual show. This year’s production features a handful of local swing dancing favorites, so grab your fedora and go get your Sinatra on. Learn more at brownpapertickets.com
Saturday, August 17
Minne-soooh-tah
WHAT: You Betcha! Minnesota-Made Festival 2013
WHERE: The Shops at West End, St. Louis Park
WHEN: 12 p.m.
Gear up for the State Fair with a festival that’s almost as quintessentially Minnesotan. The You Betcha! Festival features live music, a classic car show, and food trucks serving up gastronomic delights to prep you for all that food on a stick you’ll consume next week. Bonus: the proceeds benefit Guitars for Vets and Music Education in Schools. Learn more at theshopsatwestend.com
Saturday, August 17
A Night of Noshing
WHAT: North Coast Nosh IX
WHERE: The Soap Factory, Minneapolis
WHEN: 6 p.m.
We dubbed it the Best Foodie Event of 2012, and for good reason: with an eclectic mix of local vendors serving everything from artisan cheese to craft beer to top-notch charcuterie, you’re sure to eat well at the Nosh. But wait, there’s more: savor the chance to chat with purveyors about the products, too. Learn more at heavytable.com
Sunday, August 18
Moonlight Paddling
WHAT: Canoe When the Moon Is Full
WHERE: Baker Park Reserve, Maple Plain
WHEN: 8 p.m.
Whether you’re with the family or the fiancé, there’s nothing quite like a moonlit canoe ride. Glide leisurely through dark waters as you keep a sharp eye out for wildlife. As part of the Three Rivers Park District’s Full Moon Program, this event is led by an experienced guide with plenty of knowledge to share. Learn more at threeriversparks.org
Sunday, August 18
A Black and White Affair
WHAT: The Twin Cities Annual Black & White Tie Event
WHERE: Fine Line Music Café, Minneapolis
WHEN: 10 p.m.
Get decked out in your finest (black and white) evening gowns and tuxedoes for a night of fun to benefit the Carrington Cares Foundation. The best-dressed male, female, and couple will receive prizes, so start primping now! Learn more at blackandwhitetieevent.eventbrite.com
