Friday
Toast the Dancers
WHAT: Let the Spirits Move You: A Benefit for the Zenon Dance Company
WHEN: 7 p.m.
WHERE: The Cowles Center for Dance
Zenon Dance Company is back home in Minneapolis for what is basically an extended layover on their way from France to Cuba. Their Fall season includes the world premiere of a piece by Stefanie Batten Bland, choreographed while the company was in Cassis, France. An hour before the show there will be appetizers and a sampling of regionally crafted spirits to benefit the company. After the show, mingle with and toast the Zenon crew. More info and tickets at Cowles Center.
Tropical Philanthropy
WHAT: 30 Days Giving Food Drive
WHEN: 9 p.m.
WHERE: Amsterdam Bar and Grill
30 Days Giving is trying to collect 250 pounds of non-perishable food for the Food Group, and they’re going to do it with a Carnival in Rio-themed party. With a DJ, samba dancers, interactive activities, and live performances. Make sure you bring a few cans of food and get your tickets from Ticket Fly.
Saturday
Best in Show
WHAT: Minneapolis Kennel Club Dog Show
”‹WHEN: 9 a.m.
WHERE: Canterbury Park
There will be more than a thousand dogs and over a hundred breeds competing at the Minneapolis Kennel Club Dog Show. You don’t have to be a breeder or owner to spend a day admiring Great Danes and snapping selfies with toy poodles. The American Kennel Club has a good FAQ page about conformation for curious newcomers. You can plan your day around your favorite breeds thanks to the judging schedule.
Smooth and Oakey
WHAT: Mill City Whiskey Review
WHEN: 5:30 p.m.
WHERE: St. Anthony Main
The Whiskey Review gathers more than 80 whiskeys, ryes, bourbons, and scotches in one room. Local distillers such as 11 Wells join producers from around the world, including Japan’s Yamazaki and Scotland’s Tomatin. Gourmet appetizers will be served, and a complementary tasting program will be offered for anyone who wants tips for finding different flavor notes. More info and tickets at Mill City Whiskey Review.
Sunday
Brave the Elements
WHAT: Outdoor Adventure Expo
WHEN: 11:45 a.m.
WHERE: Midwest Mountaineering and the University of Minnesota
The expo runs all weekend, but Sunday has something for everyone. Fantasize about sailing French Polynesia, learn to comfortably and safely commute by bike this winter, or plan and gear up for another season’s worth of Northern adventures. Finish your evening by taking in a selection of films from the Banff Mountain Film Festival. For a full schedule and more info, visit Midwest Mountaineering.
Kids Concert
WHAT: Lyra Family Concert Series
”‹WHEN: 3 p.m.
WHERE: The Baroque Room
With music from France, Germany, and Italy, Lyra’s second performance of their six-part family concert series is a European tour without leaving your seat (unless you or your kids want to take part on one of the hand’s-on activities). This is the perfect way to introduce young kids to classical music. Snacks provided. More info at Lyra Baroque.
