After a long, brutal winter (well, for a couple weeks at least) spring has sprung! You can finally drag yourself out of hibernation and get outside without thinking you're going to freeze to death walking from your house to your car. Soon, you'll be able to enjoy BBQs and blooming flowers, but if you weren't excited already, here's everything you can't miss in the Twin Cities between now and Memorial Day.
Then Now Wow
Indefinitely
History can be pretty cool, but the history of Minnesota is even cooler. Then Now Wow is an exhibit at the Minnesota History Center focusing on past events that have shaped Minnesota. Take a ride in a Twin Cities street car, drill ore in the Iron Range, see the emergency exit door from the school bus involved in the 35-W bridge collapse and more. There's something sure to make you say "wow."
Upper Midwest Scuba and Adventure Travel Show
Saturday, March 25
Wonder what it's like under the sea? Head to the Upper Midwest Scuba and Adventure Travel Show to learn all about it. Whether you're a dive master or a newbie, there's something for everyone. Learn about dive techniques, shipwrecks, shark diving and more. Even complete a Discover Scuba course in the pool.
It's Tapping Time
Saturday, March 25-Sunday, March 26
Maple syrup is delicious, but how is it made? Find out at It's Tapping Time where you can watch volunteers tap trees, collect sap, and boil it to make maple syrup. Hear Native American stories, discover traditional tapping methods, and try maple treats.
Summit Chalet Family Night
Saturday, March 25
What's better than shredding the slopes on one of the last days of the season? How about getting it 50 percent off and getting a pizza party, a magician, face painting, art projects, and fireworks? All is possible at Summit Chalet Family Night at Lutsen Mountains.
A Scottish Ramble
Saturday, April 1
Head over to Landmark Center for A Scottish Ramble, the largest indoor Scottish festival in the Midwest. Enjoy cultural music, dance, food, and vendors. Yes, there will be bagpipes.
Minneapolis Bacon and Beer Classic
Saturday, April 15
Minnesota is home to some of the best craft beers in the nation. Try them all, along with a hearty meal of all things bacon at the Minneapolis Bacon and Beer Classic. The event also includes giant Jenga, cornhole, a bacon eating contest, and unlimited bacon strips. Can you think of anything better?
Easter At The Castle
Saturday, April 15
Join the American Swedish Institute for Easter At The Castle, including an easter egg hunt, crafts, story time with the Easter witch, decorating the Easter tree, and creation of Swedish-style Easter greeting cards.
Junk Bonanza Vintage Market Spring Show
Friday, April 20-Sunday, April 22
They say one man's trash is another man's treasure. Find your treasure at Junk Bonanza in Shakopee. Maybe you'll even find a rare vintage piece you can use to pay off your student loans.
Science Museum Adult Camp-In
Friday, April 28
Take on your own version of "Night at the Museum" at the Science Museum Adult Camp-In. It's all the scientific fun of visiting during the day, but includes two meals and a snack, a drink ticket, access to a cash bar, make and take workshops, a late night Omnitheater show, and Science Live demonstrations. Oh, and there's no small children running around to kill your buzz.
Festival of Nations
Thursday, May 4-Sunday, May 7
Celebrate your heritage and the heritage of many others at Festival of Nations, the longest-running multicultural festival in the Midwest. See stunning performances and exhibits, eat ethnic cuisine, and make personal connections.
Kettle River Paddle Festival
Friday, May 5- Sunday, May 7
Did you know you could white water raft in Minnesota? Paddle the rapids or glide along the flat water at Kettle River Paddle Festival in Sandstone. If you think you've got what it takes, enter the paddling race on Saturday to win some sweet prizes. Then, on Sunday, stake out a spot on the bluffs to watch the Kettle River Rodeo where paddlers perform their coolest stunts and tricks.
Cinco De Mayo St. Paul
Saturday, May 6
Head over to West Side St. Paul for Cinco De Mayo this year. There will be a parade, live entertainment, a beer garden, car, truck and bike shows, and even a jalapeno eating contest.
MayDay Celebration
Sunday, May 7
Check out the MayDay Celebration in Minneapolis to see a parade with larger than life puppets and other awesome works of art, music, and performance. Feeling inspired? The puppets are completely community-created and you can join in on the fun at any or all of the 16 workshops throughout the month of April.
Taste of Chaska
Wednesday, May 10
Food festivals are the best. Take on Taste of Chaska to try out food from local businesses in the area and take a few minutes to relax in City Square Park. The best part? Admission is free!
Minnesota Senior Games
Thursday, May 18-Sunday, May 21
Take a weekend trip to Mankato to see athletes triple your age and still in triple better shape than you are. Minnesota Senior Games hosts games for athletes aged 50+ including basketball, volleyball, running, track and field, and golf.
Fort Snelling's Memorial Day Weekend
Saturday, May 27-Monday, May 29
Take a step back in time at Fort Snelling's Memorial Day Weekend. Listen to costumed interpreters tell stories of the history of Fort Snelling, watch cannon firing demonstrations, play historic games, and see blacksmithing and hearth cooking presentations.
