Weekend Best Bets: Feb. 22-24

Todd about Town: Eelpouts in Walker, a new music fest in Red Wing, “Grumpy Old Men” in Wabasha, Fleetwood Mac and Elton John in the Twin Cities, and more this weekend

“A Bronx Tale”

Photo by Joan Marcus


1.  Rumours & Dreams: The Music of Fleetwood Mac

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres 

February 21-23

When Pamela McNeill and her nine-piece band last performed songs by Fleetwood Mac, the dinner theatre rapidly sold out. McNeill and the band will perform the hits, including ”You Make Lovin’ Fun,” Don’t Stop Thinkin’ About Tomorrow,” and “Gypsy.” Learn more.

2. Big Turn Music Fest

Downtown Redwing 

February 22-24

The Big Turn Music Fest happens in and around Red Wing, across 21 venues, featuring 164 bands. The lineup of local royalty includes Dessa, Charlie Parr (2 Nights), Chastity Brown, Toki Wright, Mark Mallman, Dosh, the 4 on the Floor, and Chris Koza. Learn more.

3. Grumpy Old Men Festival

Throughout Wabasha

February 22-23

The annual Wabasha festival tips its hat to the town where 1993’s Grumpy Old Men was filmed. The weekend includes an ice-fishing contest, a cribbage tournament, and the Annual Grumpy Plunge. There are various costs for activities, with many free events as well. Learn more.

4. The Winter Beer Dabbler

Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul

February 23, 2:30-6:30 p.m.

The Winter Beer Dabbler features more than 180 local and national breweries and cideries and includes live music by the likes of the Gully Boys and Appetite for Zaccardi. Of course, food trucks line up, and don’t miss the meat and cheese showcase in the heated coliseum. Learn more.

5. Elton John

February 21- 22, 8 p.m.

Target Center, Minneapolis

Hit maker and elaborate costume wearer Sir Elton brings his “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour to the Target Center. Learn more.

6. A Bronx Tale

Orpheum Theatre, Minneapolis

Runs through February 24

The new Broadway hit is described as a mash-up of Jersey Boys and West Side Story, set in the 1960s and following a young man torn between following his father’s wishes versus his own wish to become a mob boss. Expect big dance numbers and a memorable music score. Learn more.

7. International Eelpout Festival

Walker Bay in Walker, MN 

Runs through February 24

This weekend, the town of Walker increases in population from approximately 1,000 to well over 10,000.  The eelpout festival has been taking over the town of Walker for 40 years this year, held on Leech Lake and named after an ugly bottom-dwelling fish (read about them here). There will also be sled dogs, food, live music, and more. Learn more.