1. Haunted Basement
Building #9, 2010 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis
October 5-31
Tickets: $27
This is one of the Twin Cities’ most unique, 18-plus Halloween experiences. It’s a sensory experience of sight, sound, and, yes, even smell. More on the creepy side than the kid-friendly side of Halloween. Learn more.
2. Rivertown Fall Art Festival
Lowell Park, Stillwater
October 6 and 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Free
This festival and juried art show has been happening for the past 30 years. The two-day celebration includes live music and various food vendors on the banks of the St. Croix River. Learn more.
3. Twin Cities Marathon Weekend
Minneapolis to the State Capitol
October 6 and 7
It’s free for spectators to cheer on the athletes participating in various races this weekend. Saturday is the date of the 5K and the 10K. Sunday features the 10-miler as well as the full marathon. Learn more.
4. New Ulm Oktoberfest
New Ulm
Weekends of October 5 and 6, 12 and 13
Free, with cost for food and drink
Voted by festival participants as one of the most authentic Oktoberfests in the Midwest, this is also one of the largest and most traditional Oktoberfest celebrations in the country. Learn more.
5. Twin Cities Oktoberfest
Minnesota State Fair Grounds, St. Paul
October 5 and 6
Tickets: $30 each, with complimentary beer stein
This two-day event features beer from Summit Brewing Company and games, music, and food of the traditional German variety. Learn more.
6. Dessa with the Minnesota Orchestra
Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis
October 5 and 6, 8 p.m.
Tickets: $50-$86
Singer, rapper, and new author Dessa joins the Minnesota Orchestra for a second time, for two performances. Learn more.
7. Hamilton
Orpheum Theatre, Minneapolis
Last show, October 7
Tickets: $10-$500
The Broadway sensation closes after a seven-week run, playing out the life Alexander Hamilton through rap and hip-hop on the Orpheum stage for the last time—a story of America then, told by America now. Learn more.
