Friday, June 12
Musical Charity
WHAT: Michael Franti and Spearhead
WHERE: Cabooze Outdoor Plaza, Mpls.
WHEN: 7 p.m.
Come see musician and humanitarian Michael Franti as he and his band Spearhead bring their signature positive energy to the scenic Cabooze plaza. Best known for their song “Say Hey (I Love You),” Franti and Spearhead acknowledge music’s power to change lives through cultivating a meaningful, inspirational repertoire. For tickets, check out the Cabooze’s website.
All the World’s a Stage…
WHAT: Twelfth Night
WHERE: Mixed Blood Theatre, Mpls.
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
Mu Performing Arts gives the classic Shakespeare play a distinctive twist by crossing cultural and ethnic as well as sexual boundaries: The gender-bending production is performed by an Asian-American cast. This show, in its closing weekend, embodies Mu’s mission to provide a platform for cross-cultural issues and diverse perspectives. For tickets, visit Mu Performing Arts’ website.
Saturday, June 13
Pull an All-Nighter
WHAT: Northern Spark Festival
WHERE: Various locations, Mpls.
WHEN: 9 p.m.
Minneapolis’ annual all-night art festival gives participants a chance to explore and celebrate our thriving arts community at venues throughout the city, including the Walker Art Center, Northrop Auditorium, and the Mill City Museum. Meet and bond with fellow art lovers as you get to see the city from a new perspective. For tickets and more information, check out the event’s website.
Eat for a Cause
WHAT: Twin Cities Donut Crawl
WHERE: Mears Park, St. Paul
WHEN: 9 a.m.
This could be the easiest—not to mention the most fun—way to give back this summer. With nine donut vendors and a large supply of coffee on hand, this year’s second-annual crawl hopes to exceed last year’s donation of 9,000 meals to Second Harvest Heartland. The more friends you bring, the larger your donut supply—all ticketholders are entitled to a donut from each shop. For tickets, check out the event’s website.
Sunday, June 14
Puzzle Mania
WHAT: Minnesota Crossword Tournament
WHERE: Landmark Center, St. Paul
WHEN: 12 p.m.
Impress your friends and fellow crossword lovers with your skill at this annual event, sponsored by the Friends of the St. Paul Public Library. Whether this is your first foray into the puzzling world or you’re a seasoned expert, this event is a great way to keep your brain active during these summer months. Visit the Friends’ website to register.
Lakeside Retreat
WHAT: Excelsior Art on the Lake
WHERE: Lake Minnetonka, Excelsior
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The summer art-fair season is in full swing. Check out the work of 140 artists on the picturesque banks of Lake Minnetonka, all set to the sounds of live music. The food comes from local and organic vendors, keeping in line with the event’s commitment to environmental consciousness. For more info, check out the event’s website.
