Best Bets: Sept. 29-Oct. 5

Things to do around Minnesota this week: International Observe the Moon Night, Twin Cities Oktoberfest, and more

Sip and Shop

What: Fall Fashion Market
When: Oct. 1, 4-8 p.m.
Where: Schram Vineyards, 8785 Airport Road, Waconia

Sip, shop, and step into fall at Schram Vineyards’ Fall Fashion Market. Browse apparel, accessories, and jewelry from local boutiques while enjoying wine, craft beer, and food. Free to attend—perfect for a weekday night out with friends.

Moonlit Magic

What: Star Party—International Observe the Moon Night
When: Oct. 3, 8-9:30 p.m.
Where: Bell Museum, 2088 Larpenteur Ave. W., St. Paul

Celebrate International Observe the Moon Night at the Bell Museum! Peer through telescopes, explore lunar geology and history, and imagine the future of Moon exploration. Plus, enjoy free planetarium shows offered on a first-come basis.

Courtesy of Bell Museum/Jeffers Petroglyphs

Beer, Brats, and Bavarian Beats

What: Twin Cities Oktoberfest
When: Oct. 3-4
Where: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, 1621 Randall Ave., St. Paul

The Twin Cities’ biggest Oktoberfest returns with more than 20 local beers and ciders, authentic German fare, lively polka and rock bands, and traditional dancing. From stein-holding contests to Bavarian pretzels, it’s two days of food, fun, and nonstop “Prost!”

Courtesy of Twin Cities Oktoberfest

Ope! It’s Uffda Fest

What: Uffda Fest
When: Oct. 4
Where: Spring Grove

Uffda Fest returns to Spring Grove with quirky contests, local shopping, food, games, and small-town fun. From the legendary .10K “race” to pony rides and a barn dance, this autumn celebration brings the whole community together.

Courtesy of Spring Grove Area Chamber

Fall Fun for the Whole Family

What: 50th & France Fall Festival
When: Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-Noon
Where: The Plaza at Nolan Mains, 3945 Market St., Edina

Celebrate autumn at 50th & France with a morning full of family fun! Head to the Plaza at Nolan Mains for a llama petting zoo and photo ops, pumpkin painting, giant bubble magic, fall art projects, face painting, and a DJ dance party. Kids can also enjoy Eat Free deals at D’Amico & Sons and Red Cow, while parents grab smoothies and coffee from Extract Juicery.

Heritage and Harmony

What: Moon Festival 2025
When: Oct. 4, 12:30-5:30 p.m.
Where: Mall of America Huntington Bank Rotunda, 2131 Lindau Lane, Bloomington

The Alliance of Minnesota Chinese Organizations, the Minnesota Chinese Community, and local ethnic groups present the Moon Festival Celebration at Mall of America. Experience vibrant cultural performances by Chinese, Hmong, Laotian, and Vietnamese art troupes while honoring tradition, heritage, and community through music, dance, and celebration.