Friday, July 1
Daydream believers
WHAT: The Monkees
WHERE: Minnesota Zoo Amphitheater, Apple Valley
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
It was bound to happen, so long as the Monkees were still singing and playing. Yet their appearance at the Minnesota Zoo amphitheater, one of the finest places to hear live music, indoors or out, would not have been foreseen when they were literally created for television more than 40 years ago. Seems they were better than anyone expected. Learn more at mnzoo.org
Friday, July 1
The light stays on
WHAT: “Scattered Light”
WHERE: Upper Landing Park, St. Paul
WHEN: Anytime
It was installed for the Northern Lights festival in June, but few know that the “Scattered Light” sculpture—hundreds of hanging light bulbs blinking on and off to simulate people crossing a crowded street—will remain at Upper Landing Park, behind the Science Museum, until July 24. It’s even cooler than it sounds, especially when you step inside for another angle. Learn more at northernspark.org
Saturday, July 2
Indie-pendence Day
WHAT: Free First Saturday
WHERE: Walker Art Center, Minneapolis
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Gallery admission is free, and the art-making is hands-on at this combination of the Walker’s Free First Saturdays and Open Field activities. Music, films, storytelling, and the evolution of hip-hop dancing from African cultures are all part of the deal. Learn more at walkerart.org
Saturday, July 2
The party continues
WHAT: Lorna Landvik’s “My Backyard Party”
WHERE: Bryant-Lake Bowl, Minneapolis
WHEN: 7 p.m.
Author Lorna Landvik (Patty Jane’s House of Curl) brings back her popular night of improv, skits, and raconteurship under a new name. Learn more at bryantlakebowl.com
Sunday, July 3
Riverside music
WHAT: Jazz Brunch
WHERE: Aster Café, St. Anthony Main, Minneapolis
WHEN: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The renovated, hip Aster Café offers a lazy brunch by the Mississippi with music by Patty and the Buttons. Learn more at aster-cafe.com
Sunday, July 3
Country’s music
WHAT: The Minnesota Orchestra’s free “Celebrate America!”
WHERE: Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis
WHEN: 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
The Minnesota Orchestra offers two free concerts of the finest American music: Aaron Copland, Ives, and, of course, Sousa, among others. Learn more at mnorch.org
