Friday, October 27
Light Up the Night
What: Diwali Festival of Lights
When: 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Where: Midtown Global Market, 920 E. Lake St., Minneapolis
Diwali is the Hindu festival of lights, celebrating the victory of good over evil, light over darkness. Both Hindus and non-Hindus alike are invited to join the festivities, which include a Bollywood dance performance, an Indian marketplace (with Indian food), crafts, a children’s talent show, and henna. Learn more.
Jaws, Mall of America-Style
What: Sharks After Dark
When: 9 p.m.–Midnight
Where: SeaLife Aquarium, Mall of America, 120 E. Broadway, Bloomington
This late-night party turns out the lights for a unique nocturnal view of the aquarium’s sharks and other sea creatures. The event features a DJ and a nacho bar, and all guests also have unlimited access to the nearby GameWorks, which offers video games, blacklight bowling, food, drinks, and other activities. Learn more.
Saturday, October 28
Have a Drink, Fling a Pumpkin
What: Hutchinson Pumpkin Fest
When: Noon–5 p.m.
Where: Crow River Winery, 14848 Highway 7 E., Hutchinson
If you’ve ever wanted to use a trebuchet to fling a pumpkin, then sit back for a wine tasting—this is your event. This annual festival has something for everyone: a corn maze, bounce houses, a hay bale mountain, and face painting for the kids, plus a chance for the adults to check out the winery’s tasting room. Other beverages, as well as food and live music, will also be available throughout the afternoon. Learn more.
From Lincoln Center to Minneapolis
What: New York City Ballet Moves
When: 7:30 p.m.
Where: Northrop Auditorium, 84 Church St. SE, Minneapolis
The renowned New York City Ballet comes to Minnesota for an evening of performances by both dancers and musicians. Four of the five ballets performed will be set to live music, including both ballet classics and works by up-and-coming choreographers. This is the first of three performances of the Northrop’s Ballet Series, which runs until April. Learn more.
Sunday, October 29
Barks & Brews
What: Dogtoberfest
When: 1–4 p.m.
Where: Lift Bridge Brewing Company, 1900 Tower Drive W., Stillwater
If you like dogs and/or beer (and who doesn’t?), Lift Bridge’s annual Dogtoberfest is a celebration of both. The event features games, raffles, food, beer, and costume contests for both dogs and their humans. Four-legged friends are welcome, and proceeds from the festivities go toward the Minnesota Boxer Rescue. Learn more.
Immigrant Voices
What: Birds Sing Differently Here
When: 1 p.m.
Where: Guthrie Theater, 818 S. Second St., Minneapolis
Based on true stories, this original play shares the experiences of 12 Iraqi-Minnesotan immigrants and refugees. The stories both mourn the loss of the homeland and celebrate new beginnings for Iraqi people in Minnesota. The performance blends professional actors with members of the Iraqi and American Reconciliation Project. Learn more.
