Friday, May 18
Our Big Pre-Summer Art Bash
What: Art-A-Whirl
When: 5 p.m.
Where: Northeast Arts District
More than 50 art studios and galleries throughout Northeast are hosting open houses. The neighborhood-wide art-centric tour includes mini-workshops, demonstrations, and special exhibitions. Plenty of bars, breweries, and businesses are also getting in on the action, including a funk-themed dance party at Bauhaus Brew Labs. Learn more
World-Record Pillow Fight Attempt
What: Pulse Twin Cities Concert
When: 7 p.m.
Where: U.S. Bank Stadium, 401 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis
Even though it’s the marquee event for Pulse Twin Cities—a student-led Evangelist group based in Minneapolis—this free concert has something for everyone. The night kicks off with a free performance by Lecrae—the hip-hop artist who won a Grammy for Best Gospel Album in 2013—and concludes with a stadium-wide pillow fight that is billed as the “world’s largest.” Learn more
Saturday May 19
Attend the Royal Wedding (Kinda)
What: Watch the Royal Wedding
When: 5 a.m.
Where: Brit’s Pub, 1110 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis
Brit’s Pub is throwing a big party for those of us who didn’t get the invite from the Royal Family (still waiting on mine). Enjoy a classic English breakfast while Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tie the knot at Windsor Castle. Sure, Brit’s may not have the ethos of Windsor, but the big-screen projector and wedding cake are the next best thing. Learn more
Indie-Rockers Descend on Art-A-Whirl
What: Live Music at Grumpy’s Northeast
When: 12:30 p.m.
Where: Grumpy’s Northeast, 2200 Fourth St. NE., Minneapolis
After you’re done Art-A-Whirling on Saturday, head over to Grumpy’s Bar and Grill—the one in northeast—for a backyard music festival that includes such big acts as the the Cactus Blossoms, the local folk band that appeared on Showtime’s reboot of Twin Peaks. Longtime indie-rockers Superchunk will headline, too. Learn more
Sunday May 20
A Challenging yet Hilarious Debut
What: Acting Black
When: 2 p.m.
Where: Illusion Theater, 350 Saint Peter St., St. Paul
Part TED Talk, part stand-up, part Power Point presentation, Acting Black is a one-man production that considers the damage racism has inflicted on everyone in America. Billed as both challenging and hilarious, the one-hour show zeroes in on how the African-American narrative has been appropriated over the years. Learn more
Do or Die for Minnesota United
What: Minnesota United vs. Kansas City
When: 1 p.m.
Where: TCF Bank Stadium, 420 SE 23rd Ave., Minneapolis
Minnesota United FC looks to continue their (nearly) unbeaten streak at home when they take on Kansas City. It’s a must-win game for Minnesota’s beloved soccer squad, who happen to be on the cusp of playoff glory. Check out Surly Brewing beforehand for the full experience of song and cheer and beer drinking. Learn more