Friday
Rub Some Dirt in it
WHAT: World’s Toughest Rodeo
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Xcel Energy Center
Horses, cattle, and bulls—oh my! It’s not every day you come face to face with modern-day cowboys. Events include bull riding, bareback, saddle bronc, and barrel racing. Get the lowdown at Bulls & Broncs.
All About That Bass
WHAT: Big Head Todd & the Monsters
WHEN: 8 p.m.
WHERE: First Avenue
Though Big Head Todd & the Monsters established themselves in the ’80s, the band has continued to dabble, expanding beyond their Colorado club roots. Over the years, they’ve compiled influences and forged a distinctive sound all its own—their appeal has gotten so broad that they once woke up a Space Shuttle Crew from Mission Control in Houston, and Hillary Clinton used one of their tunes as an official campaign song in 2008. Additional information at First Avenue.
Saturday
An Apple a Day
WHAT: Minneapolis Healthy Life Expo
WHEN: 10-5 p.m.
WHERE: Minneapolis Convention Center
Solidify your New Year’s resolutions by exploring up to 200 exhibitions focused on everything healthy. The Minneapolis Healthy Life Expo is the largest health, wellness, and fitness event in the upper Midwest. Whether you have questions about nutrition or your downward-facing dog, the Healthy Life Expo has an expert for you. Details at Minneapolis Healthy Life Expo.
Who, What, Wear
WHAT: College of Design 48th Annual Apparel Design Fashion Show
WHEN: 5:30 & 8:00 p.m.
WHERE: Ralph Rapson Hall
The University of Minnesota’s College of Design Apparel Design Program puts on its annual senior fashion show, showcasing 15 seniors. The show will feature a wide variety of designs, ranging from lingerie, to children’s clothes, to high fashion. Look books and details are available at University of Minnesota.
Sunday
Dashing for Drinks
WHAT: Brew ’n Booze Double Dash
WHEN: 11 a.m.
WHERE: NorthGate Brewing and Wander North Distillery
Why not combine work and play? This boozy-on-both-ends dash combines both the active and the indulgent. Run and receive a free craft brew from NorthGate Brewing and a free cocktail from Wander North Distillery. The dash happens sleet or shine, so come prepared. Tickets and more info at Active.com.
Got Snow?
WHAT: Loppet Urban Cross Country Ski Festival
WHEN: 8 a.m.
WHERE: Theodore Wirth Park
This monster of a festival features dozens of events over three days, ending on Sunday. Categories include snowshoeing, skating, dogsledding, fat-tire biking, and skijoring. Each category involves several distinct events. Surly Brewing is running a beer garden every day, and food trucks will provide refreshments for athletes and spectators alike. Tickets and additional information at Loppet.org.
