Best Bets: Sept. 8-14

Things to do in Minnesota this week: an art-filled scavenger hunt on Lake Street, cocktail hour at Turnblad Mansion, Sever’s Fall Festival, and more

SKOL!

What: Vikings Tailgate Party
When: Sept. 8, 5-10 p.m.
Where: Forgotten Star Brewing, 38 Northern Stacks Drive, Fridley

Kick off the 2025 Vikings season with Monday Night Madness at Forgotten Star Brewing! Enjoy pitcher specials, a 15-foot outdoor screen, exclusive $10 Vikings T-shirts, yard games, pull tabs, and a free halftime meat raffle. Patio seating available—bring your chair and your team spirit.

Sweet Pairings for a Powerful Cause

What: Cookies, Corks & Brews
When: Sept. 11, 5:30-9 p.m.
Where: Armory Event Center, 1002 43rd St. S., Moorhead

Indulge in Girl Scout cookie-inspired desserts from top pastry chefs, perfectly paired with wine and beer, at Cookies, Corks & Brews. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, auctions, and lively activities—all while supporting girl-led programming that builds courage, confidence, and character. Event is 21-plus.

Courtesy of Girl Scouts, Dakota Horizons

Where Art Meets Exploration

What: Lake Street Art Drop & Shop
When: Sept. 12, 5-7 p.m.
Where: Roat Osha, 3001 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis

First launched in 2023, the Lake Street Art Drop & Shop invites you to explore Lake Street like never before. This scavenger hunt–style series features hidden clues and local artwork you can take home—while discovering new spots and supporting small businesses along the corridor.

A Night of Art, Music, and Nordic Magic

What: Cocktails at the Castle
When: Sept. 12, 5:30-11 p.m.
Where: Turnblad Mansion, 2600 Park Ave., Minneapolis

The American Swedish Institute’s Cocktails at the Castle returns for an adults-only night at the Turnblad Mansion. Inspired by Salad Hilowle’s “Inscriptions,” the event features live music, Nordic-inspired cocktails, interactive art, curated films, and pop-up surprises—plus exclusive VIP perks.

Courtesy of American Swedish Institute

From Garage to Galaxy

What: Off-Leash Area’s Neighborhood Garage Tour
When: Sept. 12-27
Where: Brooklyn Park, Northeast Minneapolis, and Mounds View

Off-Leash Area’s Neighborhood Garage Tour is back with “Stardust Rendezvous,” a comic adventure of three space travelers navigating differences—and aiming for the stars. With local artists, live music, and full accessibility, this pay-what-you-can production ($5-30) hits Brooklyn Park and Northeast, plus a free show at Turbo Tim’s in Mounds View.

Ultimate Autumn Adventure

What: Sever’s Fall Festival
When: Sept. 13-14, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 3121 W. 150th St., Shakopee

Sever’s Fall Festival returns Sept. 13–Oct. 26 in Shakopee with a new Ancient Civilizations corn maze, a BMX Mega Jump stunt show opening weekend, live music, food, drinks, and 30-plus family attractions.

Courtesy of Sever's Fall Festival