Best Bets: Nov. 18-24

Things to do in Minnesota this week: art exhibitions, a holiday lights festival, a celebration of women’s history, and more

Celebrate Art and Black Identity

What: Layers of Joy
When: Nov. 19–Dec. 14
Where: University of Minnesota, 405 21st Ave. S., Minneapolis

“Layers of Joy” showcases the work of five artists exploring Black identity and community through layered materiality and the concept of Black joy as a tool for expression and connection. Curated by students in ARTH 3940, the exhibition features Leslie Barlow, Alexandra Beaumont, Eyenga Bokamba, Cameron Patricia Downey, and seangarrison.

Art by Leslie Barlow

Cookies With a Minnesota Connection

What: ‘The Ultimate Minnesota Cookie Book’ Discussion
When: Nov. 20, 7 p.m.
Where: 3038 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis

Join Lee Svitak Dean and Rick Nelson at Magers & Quinn Booksellers for a discussion of their new cookbook, “The Ultimate Minnesota Cookie Book”. This free event celebrates Minnesota’s baking traditions with recipes from the Star Tribune’s holiday cookie contest, featuring 35 new cookie recipes, baking tips, and sweet stories.

Get Glowing

What: GLOW Holiday Festival
When: Nov. 21–Jan. 5 (select evenings), 5-9 p.m.
Where: CHS Field, 360 Broadway St., St. Paul

The GLOW Holiday Festival returns to CHS Field in St. Paul from Nov. 21 to Jan. 5, featuring millions of twinkling lights, whimsical sculptures, and festive activities like the Giant Snowy Slide and Vixen’s Zip Line. With a portion of ticket sales benefiting local charities, GLOW has donated over $350,000 since 2020, offering a magical experience for families while supporting the community.

Experience 100 Years of Women’s History

What: ‘I Am Betty’
When: Nov. 23–Dec. 29
Where: 30 E. 10th St., St.Paul

History Theatre brings back the hit musical I Am Betty, a holiday celebration of 100 years of women’s history and the iconic Betty Crocker, blending original music and true stories. Running from Nov 23-Dec 29, the all-female cast highlights Betty’s influence on American society, with a recipe of resilience, joy, and empowerment, directed by Maija García.

Photo by Rick Spaulding

Three Days of Wintery Goodness

What: Winterers’ Gathering & Arctic Film Festival
When: Nov. 22-24
Where: North House Folk School, 500 W. Hwy. 61, Grand Marais

The Winterers’ Gathering & Arctic Film Festival celebrates winter through crafts, history, and stories, featuring courses, a winter camp, gear sale, films, and guest speakers. Highlights of the 2024 event include a knifemaking course with Sámi craftsman Niilá Omma, visiting North House Folk School from Sweden.

Courtesy of North House Folk School