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City Cast Twin Cities

Sean McPherson

St. Patrick’s Day has a way of sneaking up on you. Suddenly, it’s March 17, and the best you can do is toss on a green hoodie on your way out the door. But frankly, there’s a lot of fun to be had in the Twin Cities both on the holiday itself and on the surrounding weekends. We want to run down a couple of options for your celebrations!

 This list skews heavily towards St. Paul. That’s because St. Paul is the beating heart of the Irish community in Minnesota. Minneapolis has a lot to offer, but if you can find your way over to St. Paul for a part of the day, you won’t regret it.

6 - Music and Comedy at Morrissey’s Irish Pub

Morrissey’s Pub is in the heart of Uptown, and although they bring the Irish flavor year-round, they lay the cabbage on thick for 

. They’ll have Celtic-inspired airbrush tattoos, glitter, and more throughout the day. In the evening, the string trio of Jones, Blake, and Schwarze holds court with their blend of Celtic and Americana influences. And just when you’re about to go home, since it’s a Tuesday after all, you’ll want to stick around for the “Craic Up” open mic night. An open mic on St. Patrick’s Day … what could go wrong? But this place has such a good neighborhood feel that I’d trust the hot mic to be well-controlled and dutifully distributed throughout the event.

The spirit of the Irish is strong at Kieran’s in downtown Minneapolis. On St. Patrick’s Day, the live music gets started at 5 p.m. with We Lucky Few. They’ll also be burning the midnight oil with music going all the way until 11:30 p.m. with Rattle and Hum – a U2 tribute band. Plus, the Wolves are playing the Suns right next door. Maybe they’ll even pull Belfast’s own 

Shamrocks is a classic St. Paul institution that I frequent year-round. But like so many Irish spots, they don’t announce their Irish heritage that loudly until St. Paddy’s, when they ooze Irish pride. The St. Paddy’s day tents at Shamrocks are full of life and merriment in a time of year when that can be in short supply. Shamrocks also staffs appropriately for the event. Sure, there’s a bajillion people there, but you should be able to get your green beer in a reasonable amount of time. Pro-tip: the amazing 

 makes many stops around the Twin Cities on St. Paddy’s, but my favorite spot to catch Minnesota’s only Irish Pipe Band is at Shamrocks. This year their sets are at 10:45 a.m., 3:15 p.m., and the nightcap at 10:15 p.m.

3 - The 60th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

This is bucket list stuff right here. St. Paul is the heart of the Irish community in the Twin Cities, and we show out for 

. It kicks off at Mears Park and then slowly and joyously jigs over to Rice Park. When the weather is right, this is a quintessential Twin Cities must. And hell, I actually think it’s a little better when it’s cold and snowy out, as it makes the energy that much more tangible. Grab the bus to downtown St. Paul, enjoy the parade, and then see where the day takes you. You’re going to love it.

My personal St. Patrick’s Day itinerary always starts at the Landmark Center. They kick things off early at 9:00 a.m., and right out of the gate, you’ve got 

. If you’re looking for well-researched seminars, they have you covered. If you want to get lost in the magic of Irish dance, you are also definitely in the right place. I feel like it’s a little too easy to purely take St. Patrick’s Day as an excuse to drink, but it’s a great holiday and a great culture to celebrate. Take in some amazing displays of Irish culture and 

The Dubliner Pub is ground zero for St. Patrick’s Day in the Twin Cities. Many a year it has been my last stop, and it never disappoints. Is it packed to the gills? Absolutely. Is the music really loud? Yup. Does the Powers just taste better at the Dubliner? It sure does. Make sure your holiday itinerary involves a 

, and everything is gonna work out right.

St. Patrick’s Day has a way of sneaking up on you. Suddenly, it’s March 17, and the best you can do is toss on a green hoodie on your way out the door. But frankly, there’s a lot of fun to be had in the Twin Cities both on the holiday itself and on the surrounding weekends. We want to run down a couple of options for your celebrations! 

St Patrick's Day activities in twin cities

Top 6 St. Patrick’s Day Activities

What To Do

Do you want to get in on the ground floor of a new national observance? Do you want to see one of the most exciting writers and performers working in modern jazz? Maybe an intimate reading with one of the most talked-about chefs in the nation is more your speed? What about enjoying a short stack of flapjacks in the company of polar bears and Hawaiian monk seals? All this and more awaits you in this week’s recommended events.

The Parkway Theater excels at bringing in original films through the ages and pairing them with Minnesota icons. On Monday the Parkway will host the Minnesota music group Paris1919 to support the lauded 1928 silent film “The Passion of Joan of Arc." This screening is presented in partnership with 

, a film festival that has brought films about music to Minnesota screens for more than a quarter century.

MN Hard Bop Collective Jazz Performance Workshop

Hard bop is the bluesier and more groove-oriented offshoot of bebop and the genre’s icons are some of the most revered in the jazz tradition, including Art Blakey, Horace Silver, and Jackie McLean. The team from the MN Hard Bop Collective keeps that tradition alive and growing in many ways in the Twin Cities, including their weekly sessions over at MetroNOME Brewery in Lowertown St. Paul. Whether you are an aspiring musician or just a fan of the music, swing on by MetroNOME on a Monday to hear a cast of student and professional musicians exploring this great songbook. 

Composer and saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins leads one of the most imaginative quartets in modern jazz. Many jazz artists end up traveling with slightly different ensembles from gig to gig, frequently supplementing their sound with performers who are available for an individual show or limited runs. Wilkins has carved a different path with a dedicated ensemble who are intrinsic to his offerings. The payoff of a long-running intimate relationship is immediately tangible whether on a recording or live on the bandstand. Wilkins is accumulating the accolades one would expect from a player of his caliber but his secret weapon has nothing to do with his saxophone – it’s his writing and his bandleading that are setting him apart as one of the greats of his generation. 

Celebrate MAR10, or "Mario Day," Tuesday night with a Mario Kart tournament and live jazz fusion performances of video game music from local group Abandon Quest. The matches will be projected on a big screen behind the band as they play, so you can watch the music and the races at the same time. This free event is at Indeed Brewing in Northeast Minneapolis at 6:30 p.m.

Last summer the team from Danger Boat Productions, including City Cast contributor Tane Danger, traveled to nine towns across Minnesota, holding community dinners and performing improv shows. Now the team is back in the Twin Cities to premiere a scripted sketch comedy show that brings the audience all around the state in under an hour. The performance will be held at the Luminary Arts Center in downtown Minneapolis. 

Sean Sherman and his umbrella nonprofit, 

North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems

, have become one of the most celebrated food orgs in the country. Sherman has also become a fixture on the national circuit including a 

 on The Daily Show. Though Sherman has been doing the work here in Minnesota for a decade plus, his recent star turn is built off of his compelling new book 

 Virtual registration for Sherman’s appearance at the Central Library is open now, and a standby queue for in-person spots will be offered on the evening of the event.

In the world of nerdy holidays, Pi Day reigns supreme. Pi Day coincides with March 14 and if you need more details about the mathematical phenomenon, ask your friend who majored in math and is worryingly good at chess. But if you want to celebrate Pi Day, the place to be is at the Bell Museum. Since 2019, The Bell has been creating a large link of Pi digits and you can make your own contribution to the chain. There’s also workstations to make 

 or write in the syllabically demanding language of 

Though she’s based in the Twin Cities, Chastity Brown is a national-level talent and when she touches down in her adopted hometown of Minneapolis for a free show, it’s worth taking note. Brown will perform inside Mia and Mia’s Laura Brown will also be on hand to facilitate creative projects. The night will also feature free entry into Mia’s new special exhibition “

Modern Art and Politics in Germany 1910-1945

Jewelry magnate Larissa Loden has righted a historical wrong in the state of Minnesota. For 64 years, the Loon has been the state bird of Minnesota, and for those 64 years there has been no holiday offered to the people of Minnesota to celebrate! March 13 is the very day in 1961 when the common loon became our state bird, and the 65th anniversary of this blessed day calls for a celebration! With the ink still drying on the designation of March 13 as National Loon Day, Loden is turning the 

 loose on her jewelry store, where the staff will host PK the Loon from MN United, as well as host loon costume and call contests. City Cast Twin Cities is the media sponsor of the event and we will help judge the contests. The stakes are high here as the winner of the call contest will get a trip for two to Lake Tahoe. Our ornithology expert and Audience Development Manager James Napoli 

 that there are indeed loons in Lake Tahoe.

Pioneer Press Food Editor Jess Fleming knows a lot about fish fries and she has some strong preferences. When she 

, she highlighted the offerings at Saint Paul Brewing, which uses perch and sunfish, and gives them a light fry. The last Friday of Lent is March 27, and we recommend catching a fish fry or two before it’s over.

Besides for breakfast with your in-laws, when’s the last time you had hash browns next to a wild animal? Whatever your answer is, it’s been too long! A few times a year, the Minnesota Zoo opens up early and sets up a pancake bar with all the fixings plus turkey sausage links, eggs, and OJ. After you’ve had your fill, you can explore the zoo on a full stomach. 

I am one of the people who think that the greatest concert in human history took place on Thanksgiving Day 1976 at the Winterland Ballroom in San Francisco. That evening, The Band parked their tour bus for the last time with their most iconic lineup and celebrated their retirement with cameos from Joni Mitchell, Muddy Waters, Dr. John, Neil Young, and more. The concert album and film that came from that performance is the stuff of legend and it’s influenced generations of musicians across the globe. For the 21st time, the Twin Cities music community will coalesce to celebrate that great concert with performances from Alex Rossi, Molly Maher, Heatbox, and more. If you’re a lover of Americana music, this is a don’t-miss event.

It doesn’t get much better than Davina and the Vagabonds live at the Dakota. Davina Sowers has been leading her group for 20+ years and they’ve cemented themselves as one of the biggest draws in the world of jazz and Americana out of the Twin Cities. The Vagabonds spend much of the winter on the festival circuit in Europe, so catching them stateside for a show at the Dakota in March is a real treat. Prepare to laugh, cry, and drop your jaw a couple of times as one of the most road-tested ensembles in the Twin Cities performs at their favorite venue.

Laurels String Quartet with Aby Wolf and Eric Mayson

The Laurels String Quartet has been the secret weapon of so many of Twin Cities acts, including Kavyesh Kaviraj and jeremy messersmith. The quartet generally does their work quietly, supplying inspired string accompaniment for other artists on stage and studio. This month, they take their own star turn with a Sunday residency in the intimate vibe of North Loop’s Berlin. The group used their considerable rolodex to flesh out the evenings with guest collaborators. This week’s concert features the powerhouse vocalist Aby Wolf alongside her frequent collaborator, keyboardist and vocalist Eric Mayson. 

City Cast's guide to things to do the week of March 9

Twin Cities Events March 9 - March 15

Is it time to bedazzle a romance novel? Or is it time to see some Detroit hip-hop legends share a stage with some of the best musicians in the Twin Cities? What about bundling up for an outdoor protest and benefit concert with Celtic punk legends? There’s a lot on offer in March, and we’ve got some highlights here for you.

Let some cinema help you through this winter. This series of short films tackles topics like taking care of the outdoors, grassroots advocacy, and snowy adventures in the backcountry. You’ll feel even warmer inside because the ticket proceeds are split between Superior Highland Backcountry and Save the Boundary Waters. 

We don’t talk enough about the joy of the Science Museum’s Omnitheater. In this immersive room with first-class sound, I’ve been transported to fossil digs in Wyoming and to lava rushes in the Ring of Fire. It’s a treasure to have a screen like this in the Twin Cities, and the Science Museum really lays it on thick during their Omnifest. Films include Apollo 11, Into America’s Wild, and Lost in Space: A Stellar Tours Adventure. 

Slum Village will forever be associated with one of their original members, the late great James Yancey, better known as J-Dilla. But the legacy of Slum Village lives on and continues to develop under the stewardship of original member T3. Now partnered with Young RJ, T3 keeps the music alive in the studio and on stages across the world. The crew has been through the Dakota before, but this time they’ll be supported by some of the best and brightest from the Twin Cities. The fusion-friendly group Room3 will be backing the band for the event. Local piano powerhouse and Dilla acolyte Kevin Gamble will be opening the show. 

Remember books before bedazzling? I barely do. It was a dark time. But things are better now. You can decorate your favorite book with a level of panache and personality that could never be matched on your Kindle. Graze Food Hall is hosting this one, and while you’re bedazzling, you will be dazzled by open mic readings. Plus, proceeds from each ticket will be donated to local mutual aid initiatives. Pro-tip: the smut-friendly book bedazzling event is not one for kids. Grab a babysitter and start bedazzling. 

The soundtrack of the last two months has been Rage Against the Machine. Whether it’s dropping into a brewery or seeing Tom Morello live onstage at First Ave, Rage Against the Machine has been top of mind ever since Operation Metro Surge touched down. We are lucky to have a top-notch Rage Against the Machine tribute band that can be called into action when the moment is called for. The band is fronted by the very talented rapper, vocalist, and radio host Diane and features a great cast of trusted players from town. So please, Mr. de la Rocha, please ignore your own lyrics for one night and “do what I tell you.” Go to the Turf Club, scream the lyrics you know at the top of your lungs, and get ready for the fight to continue tomorrow.

You can’t swing a walleye without hitting a fish fry in the Twin Cities during Lent. My favorite reference doc for 

 comes from Jess Fleming at the Pioneer Press, but I’ll save you some time … the fish fry at the Ukrainian American Center is one of the best! Not only are the fish, coleslaw, and french fries excellent, they also offer pierogies for those who aren’t fish-curious.

Abolish ICE Fundraiser with Dropkick Murphys

In their decades-long career, the Dropkick Murphys have been outspoken politically, and they continue that tradition this Friday. The Murphys will be gracing the stage of Palace Theatre in downtown St. Paul, but the tour bus is going to pull into town a little early to stage a massive Abolish ICE fundraiser at the Alex Pretti memorial site. The event runs from 1-8 p.m., and The Dropkick Murphys play acoustic at 4 p.m. Other acts include Obi Original, Brass Solidarity, Sophie Hiroko, and more!

Mahjong is not just for ‘old biddies’, according to our City Cast Contributor Sam Choo. Ampersand Shops in Minneapolis is hosting a three-week series for beginners to learn the ancient tile game of mahjong. During the event, you’ll learn from a pro, and you’ll also be sent home with a workbook for any mahjong adventures you might get into on your own time. Plus, picking up the ticket secures you 10% off at Ampersand on the days of the lessons. 

Tired of being warm? Boy howdy, do I have the event for you! Why not take a quick plunge into Lake Nokomis and then run a 5K? Maybe I sound skeptical, but my friends who have plunged swear by it, and I have to be honest, I enjoy a group 5K on a cold day over a hot one for sure. Plus, the proceeds will go to the Special Olympics. Plunge for a cause, then do a jog.

The Snapped Open Mic series at the Green Room has brought a whole new level of production to the open mic scene here in the Twin Cities. For one night, the team from Snapped is bringing that vibe out of the nightclub and into the iconic Sabathani Community Center in South Minneapolis. “The Highlight” is an open mic, so come ready to perform! The whole affair is hosted by the stellar multi-hyphenate talent Maya Marchelle.

March is Women’s History Month, and this Sunday draws a special focus as it is International Women’s Day. The MN Abortion Action Committee (MNAAC) and the Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee (MIRAC) are organizing a march at Powderhorn Park with a focus on standing with immigrant women and girls and providing money for working families. The event gets started in the Northeast corner of the park. 

Is it time to bedazzle a romance novel? Or is it time to see some Detroit hip-hop legends share a stage with some of the best musicians in the Twin Cities? What about bundling up for an outdoor protest and benefit concert with Celtic punk legends? There’s a lot on offer in March, and we’ve got some highlights here for you. 

City Cast's guide to things to do the week of March 2

Twin Cities Events March 2 - March 8

Face it – you’ve got cabin fever. You’ve been doing all you can to survive here in the Twin Cities, but between Operation Metro Surge, actual ice, and subzero temperatures, you need a break. You need to rest, recharge, and come back for more. Sure, we’d all love to head to Cancun, but let’s be real, that’s not happening this weekend. But fear not, here’s a couple of spots within two and a half hours where you can get a change of scenery, enjoy some local flavor, and not break the bank doing it!

 of Minnesota. It’s two hours away from the Twin Cities, and Kirstie Kimball from beyond beurre blanc. says it is home to the best doughnuts in the state. Here are a couple of activities to do while in the Miami of Minnesota*.

: After consuming more than 50 raised glazed doughnuts across Minnesota, Kirstie Kimball landed on this one as the best in class! Pro-tip: bring cash. They prefer it!

: This charming and expertly curated museum comes with a great purpose: documenting great art inspired by water. The collection is stunning, and the museum is an aesthetically pleasing spot.

: There used to be Acoustic Cafes peppered across smaller river towns in the Upper Midwest, and a lot of them have changed names or closed. But the Acoustic Cafe in Winona stays strong, and they still serve up some of the best sandwiches on either side of the Mississippi. The place also oozes small-town coffeehouse vibes with acoustic performers, college kids on summer break working the counter, and a freezer full of legit ice cream options if you need a frosty treat.

*Calling Winona the Miami of Minnesota is a rarely used nickname built on Winona being in the southeast corner of Minnesota. If you bring South Beach expectations to Winona, you will be sorely disappointed and justifiably derided.

Our guest, Kirstie Kimball, called Lanesboro a “quintessential Minnesota summer vacation” spot replete with biking trails and more. But some of the activities on offer in Lanesboro are year-round affairs. Whether you book your visit for the busy summer season or slide in for a winter getaway, here are a few activities to consider. 

: This celebrated Lanesboro mainstay is so cool, they don’t even need an official website. Kimball says they have also eschewed a menu, simply writing their offerings on a whiteboard every day. Plus, if you just tell the staff what you want, they’ll give it the old Lanesboro try even if it’s not on the whiteboard.

: Note! This is a seasonal business that closes up for the winter months, but the pie is spectacular. And you’ll have to drive a spell out of town to nearby Whalan to get your hands on that pie. They usually have a number of pies available, and Kimball’s favorites are the French silk and the peach. Pro-tip: the people of Lanesboro love nothing more than spelling “shop” as “shoppe,” and we love that about them.

 Whether it’s cross-country skiing in the winter or biking in the summer, the Root River Trail is the go-to route in the Lanesboro area. With 42 miles of trail repurposed from an old railroad line, this is some of the most picturesque mileage in the Driftless Area. It’s even possible to book a series of hotel rooms along the trail for some extra luxury during your trip.

To truly enjoy a getaway, you need to be on the road for a bit first. To me, Red Wing is the bare minimum distance away from the Twin Cities to still feel like you got out of town. Clocking in at just 51 minutes away, Red Wing still feels like a totally different universe from the Twin Cities. It’s a charming river town with great fish fries, great photo ops, and one of the best theaters in the Upper Midwest. Here are a couple of spots to keep on your itinerary.

: Magic, music, theater, and more. The Sheldon Theatre is an expertly programmed venue that brings a great variety of events to Red Wing. I had the joy of seeing the New Standards do their holiday show at the Sheldon years ago, and the experience was simply top-notch.

: I’m a picky man when it comes to a fish fry, and I was not disappointed by my visit to Kelly’s. Battered fries? Check. Properly breaded haddock that’s crispy on the outside and cracks into creamy, fishy goodness? Check. Coleslaw? Check. There’s nothing better for me than a delicious fish fry in a Minnesota river town during Lent with a Summit EPA for sipping.

: If you’ve had an inexplicably good doughnut at a gas station in the general vicinity of Red Wing, it probably came from Hanisch Bakery. But downtown Red Wing has a lot more on offer than its other outposts. The spot has a full-on cafe plus an astounding amount of baked goods, both sweet and savory. I’ve never been disappointed by a cream-filled long john and a medium drip coffee with cream. Good morning, Red Wing!

: I was as surprised as hell when I had fun at a museum about boots. For the record, I was stone cold sober. I spent about an hour walking through the exhibit, learning along the way, and frankly, seeing worn-out work boots from different eras gave me a depth of understanding of 

 that a photo simply can’t supply. Plus, I’m a sucker for a giant boot.

Let’s cut to the chase. Duluth is the gold standard Twin Cities getaway for about a billion reasons. Our contributor Sam Choo loves that it’s the nearest place you can see the “curvature of the Earth” and marvel at the absolute massiveness of Lake Superior. The views on the way into Duluth on 35 are the best in all of Minnesota. It’s stunning in all seasons. Duluth is teeming with great activities, but here are a couple we heartily recommend.

: Yes, you should order in advance; yes, it will still take long; and yes, it is completely worth it. Most people will point you towards grabbing the Cajun Finn sandwich and asking for it jean jacket style, which means they add on sriracha and cilantro. I have no problem with that order; it’s a totally reasonable choice. But I myself am partial to the fish basket. It’s just a nice piece of smoked fish, addictive scallion cream cheese, a pile of saltines, and an Andes mint. It’s perfection, and I don’t think you’ve really been to Duluth until you try it.

: City Cast contributor Sam Choo always makes his way to Fitger’s, especially if his kids are in tow. Grab a burger and spend some time in one of the most iconic buildings in the Twin Ports.

: I’m a sucker for the scene at Burrito Union, and it’s one of my kids’ favorite spots as well. The cocktails are great, but the big draw for me is the ding sauce. What business does an almond curry sauce have being on nachos?! I have no idea, but when it tastes this good, I don’t bother to ask a lot of questions. I just sip my second margarita and shoo my kids’ hands away from the nachos.

: Right off the bat, the name is a hot mess – so many words, so confusing. But the minute you sit out on their patio on a breezy day, you know you are at one of the finest spots on Planet Earth. I’ve ordered the majority of items on their breakfast and all-day menus, and I’ve never found a dud, but I’ve probably ordered “Caesar salad / add salmon” the most times.

: For years, the great North Shore pie battle has divided families, ruined vacations, and broken up the silence on road trips. Betty’s Pies has its ardent supporters, and the Rustic Inn started off as an underdog, but at times it has commanded the lead. But for Kirstie Kimball, the winner is actually the New Scenic Café. Pro-tip: sometimes the New Scenic isn’t serving pie, so put in a phone call before you make the trip. Second pro-tip: the best pie is always a bit out of town.

City Cast's Guide for Getaways in Minnesota

Top 4 Minnesota Getaways

Poetry Night with John Krumberger and Thomas R. Smith

It’s poetry night at Magers and Quinn, and John Krumberger and Thomas R. Smith will share works that deal with loss. Krumberger recently retired from his career as a psychologist and psychotherapist and is reading from “When I Was a King,” a book of poetry dedicated to his wife who died of an undiagnosed cancer in 2019. Thomas R. Smith will be reading selections from his books of poetry including “Storm Island,” “Windy Day at Kabekona,”

Are you a mama? Are you an artist? Are you hungry? If you circled at least two of these, you should probably join the Mamas Ignite Collective Creative Circle at the Legacy Building. This event is put together by the hyper-talented musician and organizer Kashimana. The circle aims to reignite your creative spark with performances, mini-workshops and meaningful conversations. On top of all of that, there’s delicious food and limited childcare available during the event.

Tired of bingos where you don’t win dildos? TBH, I think at this point we all are. You can fix all of that on Tuesday over at Icehouse in South Minneapolis. This “feel good” bingo event organized by GRRL Scout is donating all ticket proceeds to Neighbors Helping Neighbors, and all the prizes come from your favorite politically active sex shop, 

. Grab a dauber, support a great cause, get a bingo and win a dildo. Best Tuesday ever?

Two short months ago I had never heard of the Whipple Building, but during Operation Metro Surge this building has served as HQ for federal agents from the Department of Homeland Security. It has also served as one of many nerve-centers of resistance to the actions of the DHS. Organizers at 50501 Minnesota and Veterans for Peace Twin Cities are inviting community members to share their stories from Operation Metro Surge outside the Whipple Federal Building. It's at 11am, and you can get there via the Blue Line or driving to the Fort Snelling Park and Ride South Lot.

Let the blues take over. Shemekia Copeland is one of the great blues vocalists on the scene today, and she always turns out a great performance at the Dakota. Fear not if you are worried that a night of relentlessly heartbreaking blues might not be the move – Copeland’s latest album, “Blame it On Eve,” is a self-described “vacation from all the heaviness.” That’s a vacation I think we’d all like to book.

Minnesota Writers Respond: A Public Literary Event

The way different parts of the Twin Cities arts community have shown up to support our neighbors in need is one of the few bright spots in a year that has so far been filled with dark clouds. Celebrated writer and speaker Jessica Nordell opened up the rolodex and scheduled a star-studded event at the Loft. Confirmed readers include Curtis Sittenfeld, Michael Kleber-Diggs, Sarah Ghazal Ali, Chaun Webster, Claire Wahmanholm, Saymoukda Duangphouxay Vongsay, Lara Mimosa Montes, Halee Kirkwood and Jessica Nordell herself. All proceeds from the event will go to our friends at the 

Lunar New Year with the Minnesota Orchestra

Get on your horse and get the most out of Lunar New Year by taking in this special program at Orchestra Hall. Chia-Hsuan Lin conducts the orchestra with guest appearances from Rui Du on violin and Yazhi Guo on suona.

Care to see a couple of the best rock bands in Minnesota all in one night? This is the Friday event for you. The headliner is Heart to Gold, but every band is in the upper echelon of the music scene here. The biggest draw for me is the chance to see she’s green, a group putting a modern angle on the shoegaze sound popularized by My Bloody Valentine. I saw she’s green at Best New Bands of 2023, and it was a blanket of distorted guitars with angelic vocals floating above and a pensive rhythm section rumbling below. I felt a physical kind of joy hearing this band deliver their passionate songs with exuberance and virtuosity. Bring your earplugs and see a band that is undeniably on their way up. 

A lot of Minnesota runners take a pause for the winter months. It makes sense. You might love a good jog but you don’t feel like slipping and then slipping a disc. That’s where the Skyway 5K comes in. This indoor 3.1-mile run gives you a chance to bend the rules of the St. Paul skyway and run at full speed in a fully indoor environment. I used to run from MPR all the way to 

 for the bún, but the security guards would always make me slow down. Not this Saturday! I’m running, sir.

Get ready Minnesota, it’s time for outdoor soccer. Minnesota United is back on the field and ready to pack the rafters at Allianz Field in Saint Paul. Whether you are into soccer or not, few places feel as alive as Allianz Field on a crispy late-winter afternoon as the Loons take their positions. Wear layers, and get ready to see Minnesota United for their home opener!

Ready for a walk and a schvitz? Sacred Ground Wellness and Fire and Ice Sauna are teaming up for an event they’re called the “ultimate sensory journey to transition from winter into spring”. The event starts with a walk through one of the most beautiful gems of our metro-area parks, Battle Creek Regional Park. After the hike, you’ll have ample time to warm up in a well-appointed sauna. 

We're finally tasting the end of winter, and there's tons to do around town. From great music, to dildo bingo to an indoor 5k, we have you covered.

What to do the week of Feb. 23 in the Twin Cities

Twin Cities Events Feb. 23 - March 1

Valentine’s Day is a divisive holiday. A lot of people dread it like the plague, but some adore it, even though it is clearly a capitalist plot to get us all to buy stuff. Too often, Valentine’s Day is marketed only to folks in relationships. Boo to that! There are a lot of great ways to embrace the holiday in the Twin Cities if you’re single.

Our Instagram friend Terri suggested going to see a movie solo, and that is spot on. Taking in a film is not only a great way to treat yourself, but maybe you can also manifest the love you want in your life with the film you choose. There are plenty of options in the Twin Cities this week! On Friday, 

 is showing the stone-cold '90s classic “The Bodyguard” with a friendship/dating mixer an hour before the screening. 🎶 

 is also rolling out some classic films from Italy for a run this weekend at The Walker Art Center and The Main Cinema, including a trifecta of queer romance movies running on Valentine’s Day. And if you are looking to boost your yearn, look no further than the theatrical release of 

Get yourself a friend like Tiffany Bui. She is a creative producer here at City Cast Twin Cities, but she clearly moonlights as an amazing party planner. Valentine’s is her favorite holiday, and it showed last year when she threw a really awesome Galentine’s Party. She kicked things off with a big vegetarian-friendly takeout order from one of the finest Thai establishments in the Twin Cities, 

. With the table set for pad thai and spring rolls, she then gifted every guest a cosmetic mirror from Etsy with the guest’s name engraved on the mirror in the color of their choice. (What the hell, Tiffany? I’ve never received such a thoughtful gift from any of my friends … ever). The gifts don’t stop there! She got everyone a clay kit in order to design their favorite pastries in clay, because of course she did. For the beverage course, Tiffany prepared cocktails and added glitter to all the glasses. The crew watched the 

. To cap off the party, Tiffany sent everyone home with vintage Valentine’s cards that she scored from the local letterpress mainstay 

. What’s the best thing to do for singles on Valentine’s Day? According to the sage wisdom of Tiffany Bui: “Tell everyone you love them, even if you’re not actively dating them!”

There is certain delicious food that makes romance impossible and cohabitation unadvisable. If you are living 

 this Valentine’s, why not dig into some garlicky goodness and revel in your own stench? What a treat. For my money, there’s no better garlic grenade than 

. Have you ever eaten a Boston Kreme donut and thought, “I wish this was made with garlic bread and instead of custard it were molten hot mozzarella cheese?” No, you haven’t. But some cook at Mario’s did, and the world is better for it. Rack up an order of these and a Detroit-style Hot Honey Pepperoni Pie, and you won’t even want to be around yourself. You’ve done it, and now you’ll be stinky ‘til Easter.

You aren’t really alone until you go cross-country skiing by yourself. In the quiet beauty of a desolate trail in 

, you will find the best company: your own. And don’t worry if you don’t really know how to ski – our City Cast contributor Em Cassel says it’s basically “like shuffling”. Plus, Em all but guarantees that when you head out for a wintry event stag, you’re sure to “meet another hottie who’s single!” Thanks, Em, we believe you.

I’ve spent a couple of single Valentine’s Days in my life on the lanes, and it’s always turned out great. Find yourself a bowling alley that attracts some single people, like 

. Then grab a lane all by your lonesome and start looking around longingly. Crank that yearn up to 11 and see if someone wants to put a bumper in your lane (if you know what I mean). There’s something romantic and comical about bowling alone, and hey, if it works out long-term for your new special someone, you’ll have a great meet-cute. Strike!

Valentine’s Day is a divisive holiday. A lot of people dread it like the plague, but some adore it, even though it is clearly a capitalist plot to get us all to buy stuff. Too often, Valentine’s Day is marketed only to folks in relationships. Boo to that! There are a lot of great ways to embrace the holiday in the Twin Cities if you’re single. 

Things to do for single people on Valentine's day in Twin Cities

Single-Friendly Valentine’s Activities

We are officially in the thick of the holiday season. Hanukkah is already in full swing, and Christmas, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve aren’t far behind. Maybe you’re looking for some improv comedy, holiday cheer, or Christmas cookies made with weed butter. We’ve got you covered.

What happens when actors who have dutifully memorized an entire play's worth of lines share a stage with seasoned improvisers? There’s only one way to find out, and it’s by taking in the beloved Twin Cities mainstay “Off Book”. Our own contributor Tane Danger and Executive Producer Anna Weggel have both participated in the show and stated that when “it goes off the rails, it is hilarious,” and added that on “the times when it actually works, your mind explodes.” So if you want a good laugh and can hazard the risk of having your mind explode, park your butt in a seat at the Jungle on Monday. 

Eden Prairie Lion’s Club 52nd Annual Wild Game Dinner

If you are at a loss on where to find your next plate of Swedish moose balls with a pheasant egg roll appetizer, we’re here to help. The Eden Prairie Lion’s Club is throwing its annual Wild Game dinner, and they’ve nabbed some great guests as keynote speakers. Mike Grant and Chad Hartman are great in their own right, and they both hail from an iconic Minnesota sports lineage! Mike Grant’s dad is Bud Grant, the celebrated Vikings coach, and Chad’s dad is Sid Hartman, the revered journalist and broadcaster famous for his tenure at the Star Tribune and WCCO. 

Jane Austen’s 250th Birthday Party at Big Hill Books

A literary heavyweight turns 250 this week, and Big Hill Books is sending her up in high fashion. Big Hill is a relatively new shop nestled in Bryn Mawr, and they’re screening the 2005 film version of “Pride and Prejudice,” running some trivia and offering refreshments. RSVPs are required! Email 

It can be hard to find invention inside of tradition, but for 33 years, the Penumbra Theatre has been doing just that with their Black Nativity production. The show always features a powerhouse cast of the biggest talents in the world of Black theatre and music in the Twin Cities. Lou Bellamy is again at the helm as director, Sanford Moore provides the musical direction, and Marciano Silva Dos Santos is on choreography. Black Nativity runs through December 24. 

Cornbread Harris and Friends Present a Holiday Blues Show at The Hook and Ladder

A little blues goes a long way around the holiday season. Cornbread Harris turns 99 next year, but he shows no sign of slowing down. Harris was the subject of local writer Andrea Swensson’s latest book, “Deeper Blues: The Life, Songs, and Salvation of Cornbread Harris,” and we are happy to report that Harris has found a new home for his weekly jam sessions after Palmer’s closed. Harris now holds court at Schooner Tavern in South Minneapolis on Sundays from 5-7 p.m. But he’s heading down Lake Street a couple of blocks for this big holiday show at the Hook and Ladder. You never know quite who it’ll be when the flyer says “Cornbread and Friends,” but Cornbread’s rolodex is filled to the brim with folks who know the blues, and we expect a spectacular performance sure to get rid of the holiday blues 12 bars at a time. 

Obi Original and the Black Atlantics at The Cabooze

Obi Original is a Renaissance man comfortable behind the turntables, tearing it up with the Black Market Brass Band and handling the leadership for his blossoming Fanaka Nation crew. But Obi is at 

 with the Black Atlantics. His sprawling group features a small army of percussionists, vocalists, guitarists, and keyboard players coalescing to create a sound that builds off the legacy of great Nigerian music from Fela to the modern artists that make Lagos one of the most fertile music cities in the world today. Like many long-running ensembles, The Black Atlantics have hit a level of comfort and synchronization where they sound loose and tight at the same time. If you want to dance your ass off before the year is over, I see no better choice than getting out to the Cabooze.

Winter Solstice Lantern Parade in Powderhorn Park

Why not share some light with your neighbors on the darkest day of the year? The Semilla Center for the Arts, ArtStart, In the Heart of the Beast Theatre, and Barebones Puppets have come together for singing, soup, and a lantern parade with puppets. The smart move in the winter is to keep on seeking out community and connection during these frosty months, and few things build community like soup, lanterns, and puppets. 

Homegoing Celebration for Garry ‘Jellybean’ Johnson at Shiloh Temple

There is no replacing Jellybean Johnson. He is a one of one in the story of the Twin Cities music scene. From his early days at The Way in North Minneapolis alongside Morris Day, Prince, Jimmy Jam, and others, ‘Bean was the heartbeat of the scene. He worked behind the drumkit for Morris Day and the Time, but here in the Twin Cities, he might be most missed for his unflagging dedication to supporting the next generation of musicians and blessing unsuspecting stages and open jams with his guitar pyrotechnics. To hear my remembrance of Jellybean and a snippet of an interview we did together on Jazz88, check out this 

Cannabis Butter Infusion Class with Christmas Cookie Decorating at Heal Minneapolis

This isn’t your grandma’s cookie class, unless you’re talking about Grandma Mary Jane. This 21+ event will teach you how to infuse your butter with cannabis and how to decorate your cookies with Christmas spirit. The infusion will be led by the Green Witch, and Natty Kakes is handling all things cookie decoration. RSVP required. 

Dinner for One is a slapstick holiday tradition with a 60-year history in the U.K., but it is growing in popularity stateside, and it’s found a home over at Jungle Theater. A matinee performance featuring slapstick, improv, and live music might be just what the doctor ordered to usher in the days getting longer post winter solstice. 

We are officially in the thick of the holiday season. Hanukkah is already in full swing, and Christmas, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve aren’t far behind. Maybe you’re looking for some improv comedy, holiday cheer, or Christmas cookies made with weed butter. We’ve got you covered. 

City Cast's Guide on what to do this week

Twin Cities Events Dec. 15-21

Jam-packed is the only way to describe our events calendar as we approach the holidays. Literary readings, concerts, kid-friendly events, and more! Don’t let the frosty temperatures keep you holed up – bundle up and enjoy the Twin Cities this week!

Kaveh Akbar in Conversation at the Hopkins Center for the Arts

Kaveh Akbar visits the Hopkins Center for the Arts Monday evening and Tuesday morning. Akbar is an Iranian American poet and author of “Martyr!,” one of the most critically-acclaimed and bestselling novels of 2024. In addition to his own writing, Akbar is the editor of 

The Penguin Book of Spiritual Verse: 100 Poets on the Divine

. Akbar will appear in conversation with award-winning broadcast journalist Marianne Combs.

Mary Lucia Book Release with Host Lizz Winstead at the Granada

Mary Lucia’s heartbreaking and hilarious memoir “What Doesn’t Kill Me Makes Me Weirder and Harder to Relate To” has been one of the most 

 of the year, if not the decade. The book pulls no punches in outlining Lucia’s harrowing tale of a listener-turned-stalker during her tenure at MPR’s The Current. At the same time that Lucia tackles that chapter in her life with honesty and vulnerability, she also displays why so many of us loved spending our afternoons listening to her circuitous DJ to-do list of celebrating distorted rock and roll, reporting on her recalcitrant pugs, and sticking her tongue out at the news of the day with Bob Collins from MPR News. At the Granada, Mary Lucia will be joined by media legend and fellow non-punch-puller Lizz Winstead.

Mark O’Connor’s Appalachian Christmas at the Dakota

Christmas sounds pretty good on a fiddle, especially when that fiddle is held by the esteemed Mark O’Connor. O’Connor is a musical chameleon who fits comfortably in with a string quartet, a bluegrass ensemble, or a jazz jam. But for nine years running O’Connor and his wife, Maggie O’Connor, have celebrated their love of Appalachian song with a touring Christmas show. There is a reason O’Connor and company have kept the show running for nearly a decade. It’s a fan and critic favorite and certainly worth circling on your calendar if you love Appalachian music. 

Little Explorers Thursday at the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

Do something with the little person in your life on Thursday mornings. During the winter, Little Explorers is held in the visitor center at the Como Zoo with story time, play time and tons of other activities. And count on an appearance from the beloved Blaze Sparky and company crew at 11:30. ASL interpretation is available most Thursdays. 

 as “the truth” by our contributor PaviElle, and we couldn’t agree more. She is a celebrated singer-songwriter known all over the world, but based right here in the Twin Cities. Her latest release, “Sing to the Walls” (2022), was a stunning effort and saw her packing First Ave to the gills and touring all over the world. Friday’s performance closes out the 14th season of Landmark Live, which featured stellar appearances from Megan Kreidler of Kiss The Tiger and Davina Sowers from Davina and the Vagabonds.

The Capri Big Band features seasoned players from many generations and they are a fixture at the Capri, one of the most beloved and storied stages in Minnesota. This Sunday, the group will be holding court from 3 to 5 p.m. with plenty of holiday music in the program. The group will also honor the recently deceased former leader of the ensemble, flutist and Minnesota icon Faye Washington. When speaking about the importance of celebrating players from older generations, our own PaviElle added that many of these artists “play better than some young people.” We agree, and we look forward to hearing the big band flex some of those old-school skills this Sunday at the Capri! 

Our events calendar this week includes literary readings, concerts, kid-friendly events, and more! 

Things To Do This Week in the Twin Cities

Twin Cities Events Dec. 8-14

Tiffany Bui

Holiday markets are condensed centers of seasonal joy and capitalism. Engaging in heavy-handed spending is just baked into the Christmas pie, but at least you can feel good about it at a holiday market. What’s better than shopping local with mulled wine in one hand and raclette cheese in the other?

There are well over a hundred holiday markets in the Twin Cities this season, but I went on a mission to find the best three. The markets that made my list have some combination of unique vendors, a great location, and a strong grasp of the holiday spirit. Plus, these markets all go through December, so if you don’t catch it one weekend, it will still be around the next. If you don’t see your favorite here, you can 

1. European Christmas Market at Union Depot

. Walking through the neatly lined cabins of vendors, feeling the cold on my cheeks as I looked at alpaca-fur gloves, sipping mulled wine in a commemorative cup – that’s what this market is all about. I ate a strawberry churro and spaetzle and felt like I was floating on a snowbank of dreams. 

weekends through Dec. 21. Times vary by day.

 This is an outdoor market, so bundle up. There are also two warming houses serving drinks if you need a break.

: The North Pole Express will pull into Union Depot in mid-December, and kids can come aboard to meet Santa and his elves. Kids can write their letter to Santa while seated in the vintage train for a real “Polar Express” experience. 

2. Field and Festival Holiday Market at Wagner’s Garden Center

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