Friday, June 9
Homegrown Healing
What: Roots to Healing
When: 7 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: Northrop Auditorium, 84 Church Street SE, Minneapolis
Exhibited at Northrop, art, plants, and medicine represent both new and old natural remedies, many found here in Minnesota. Beautiful flora, such as the lady slipper, will be discussed, along with more controversial greenery—cannabis. Learn more
Concoct Your Own Creature
What: Chimera Creation: Free Drop-In Art Workshop
When: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Where: Can Can Wonderland, 755 Prior Ave. N., St. Paul
Eli Libson, a video game character designer, is using his talents to help others create. Libson will guide participants in the making of their own ancient Greek creature, known as a Chimera. Participants start with images of a basic Chimera, then they personalize it with legs, eyes, feathers, and whatever else makes their dream creature complete. Learn more
Saturday, June 10
Beer…
What: St. Paul Summer Beer Fest
When: 2–5 p.m.
Where: Minnesota State Fair Grounds, 1265 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul
The 9th annual celebration features craft beer samples from 100 breweries. Not only can you drink beer, you can learn a thing or two about brewing. Brewers speak and educational seminars cover women in the industry, plus general beer history. Attendees can look forward to food, live music, and a silent auction for the YMCA. Learn more
…And More Beer
What: The Drinkin’ Spelling Bee
When: 7 p.m.
Where: 331 Club, 331 13th Ave. NE, Minneapolis
This game calls for inebriation and intelligence at the same time. A childhood favorite with a mature twist, this spelling bee allows you to drink a beer before the game and rewards you with another beer for each correct answer. Minds get fuzzy and questions get harder with each round, but the winner gets a free bar tab. Learn more
Sunday, June 11
Alive & Kickin’—& Singin’
What: Unsung Heroes
When: 2–4 p.m.
Where: Bloomington Center for the Arts, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd., Bloomington
Senior-citizen ensemble Alive & Kickin’ gives voice to performers ranging in age from 65 to 92, who craft musical shows around emotional stories and songs from popular artists including Josh Groban, Queen, and Smash Mouth. Along with a seven-person band, the cast celebrates those who have made a difference in their lives. Learn more
Street-Art Soiree
What: Chalkfest
When: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: Elm Creek Blvd. N and Main St. N., Maple Grove
This free festival displays professional sidewalk-chalk art. The pros will compete, but newbies and families can give it a try, too. More than 30 artists will use three blocks to show their stuff, creating chalk art that appears to be three-dimensional, jumping out of the sidewalk. Live music, food, and games will also be on deck. Learn more
