Free Museum Tickets

Many of you have found this web site by looking for free tickets to the Minnesota Zoo. Well this is the place to learn how to do many free things around the Twin Cities for free, including museums and the MN ZOO. Just think of them as really great coupons to go where you want to go!

You can go to this web site to check out all the details, but you can get free tickets to the following places in the Twin Cities, Minnesota:

Admit 4 people:

American Swedish Institute
Bell Museum of Natural History
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
Minneapolis Institute of Arts
Minnesota Museum of American Art
The Landing - Minnesota River Heritage Park (formerly Historic Murphy's Landing)
The Museum of Russian Art
Weisman Art Museum

Admit 2 people:

Bakken Museum
Hennepin History Museum
Historic Fort Snelling
Minnesota History Center
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
Minnesota Zoo
Sirens, Signals and Whistles Pass
Firefighters Hall & Museum
Minnesota Transportation Museum
Twin City Model Railroad Museum
The Works: A Technology Discovery Center
TRACES Museum Center for History and Culture
Walker Art Center

Now you ask, how do I get these free passes to these great places? Simple, go to your local library.

Anoka County

Carver County

Dakota County

Hennepin County

Minneapolis Public

Ramsey County

Scott County

St. Paul Public

Washington County

They all offer these free passes as long as you have a current library card with them. Just find the station with all the passes, pick where you want to go, and bring the card to the check out desk. It is just that simple. They will give you a receipt that tells the museum or zoo that you have "checked out" the pass. You have one week to use the pass in before it becomes invalid. So plan accordingly.

Now get to the library and figure out where you are going to explore this week!

What to Do This Weekend

Here are a couple of Red Box Codes that should work at McDonalds for this weekend:

MCDMEDVD & MCSUMR808

FRIDAY AUGUST 8TH

Hans Meyer Family Concert

Ojibway Park

2695 Ojibway Drive Saint Paul, MN 55125

Woodbury hosts free entertainment at the Ojibway Park Bandshell; inclement weather moves the performance to the Central Park Amphitheater.

http://www.ci.woodbury.mn.us/

Time: 11am

Cost: Free

Irish Fair of Minnesota

Harriet Island Regional Park

200 Dr. Justus Ohage Boulevard Saint Paul, MN 55107

An annual three-day celebration of all things Irish! Families can enjoy storytellers, live music and dance, an Irish marketplace, ethnic foods, 1K and 5K fun runs, and a special children's activity area with dance and sheep herding demonstrations, races, crafts, and much more. Park downtown and walk across the Wabasha Street Bridge, or park along Plato Boulevard.

952.474.7411

http://www.irishfair.com/

Ongoing Daily 8/8/08 - 8/10/08; check with location for exceptions.

Time: 10am-10pm

Cost: Free

St. Paulitics Films: Dr. Strangelove

Saint Paul Central Library

90 West Fourth Street Saint Paul, MN 55102

Bring lawn chairs and blankets - and bug spray! - over to the library, to watch outdoor screenings of politics-themed films in the Kellogg courtyard. This week's film is Stanley Kubrick's Dr. Strangelove, starring Peter Sellers. Cancelled in the event of rain.

651.222.3242

http://www.sppl.org/

8/8/08Ages: 10 to 18

Time: Dusk

Cost: Free

SATURDAY AUGUST 9TH

Meet Kate DiCamillo

The Red Balloon Bookshop

895 Grand Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55105

Author Kate DiCamillo introduces the fifth book in her Mercy Watson series, Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig. And if that's not special enough, she's joined by the St. Paul Saints' mascot, Mudonna!

651.224.9508

http://www.redballoonbookshop.com/

Ages: 4 to 12

Time: 10:30am

Cost: Free

Festival for Fathers and Families

North Commons Park

1801 James Avenue North Minneapolis, MN 55411

Local organizations celebrate fathers with a day of free activities at the park, including pony rides, a petting zoo, live entertainment, a moon bounce, free lunch, resource tables, and prizes. Dads attending with their kids get free t-shirts!

651.222.7432

http://www.mnfathers.org/festival.html

Time: 12n-4pm

Cost: Free

Scavenger Hunt

Highland Park Library

1974 Ford Parkway Saint Paul, MN 55116

Kids and teens can explore the library and its sources, with prizes awarded to those who complete the hunt.

8/9/08Ages: 5 to 18

Time: During library hours

Cost: Free

Teen Gaming

Hamline Midway Library

1558 West Minnehaha Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55104

The library invites teens to play Dance Dance Revolution and other games.

651.642.0293

http://www.sppl.org/

Ages: 12 to 18

Time: 2pm-4pm

Cost: Free

Animal Feedings

Springbrook Nature Center

100 - 85th Avenue Northwest Minneapolis, MN 55432

Naturalists are on hand to feed live prey to the exhibit animals and answer questions about the predator-prey relationship.

763.572.3588

http://www.springbrooknaturecenter.org/

Ongoing Each Sat 1/6/07 - 12/27/10; check with location for exceptions.

Time: 10am-11am

Cost: Free

Radio Disney Move It!

Southdale Center Mall

66th Street and France Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55435

Radio Disney and the Simon Kidgits Club invite kids to take part in music-fueled activities that get them "gamin', groovin', and movin'," including the "Rock and Goal" soccer challenge, a Tic-Tac-Know trivia game, video game challenges, and more.

Time: 3pm-6pm

Cost: Free

Lowes Build & Grow Clinic

This week build a mini school locker, just in time for back-to-school! You can make it easier by pre-registering here, or register on the day of the build-it.

Time: 10-11 am

Cost: Free

SUNDAY AUGUST 10TH

Sunday is looking pretty bad for any free activities in the Twin Cities. Use the time to spend time at a neighborhood park with your kids!

What to Do This Weekend

Your free movie Red Box Code for this weekend is: FUGI26

FRIDAY AUGUST 1st

Jazz in Plymouth
Hilde Performance Center
Plymouth Boulevard near 35th Avenue North
Minneapolis, MN 55447
Yannie Jazz Quartet and Charange Tropical perform at the Hilde Performance Center. In the event of questionable weather, call 763.509.5200 to confirm that the performance is taking place.
763.509.5200
http://www.musicinplymouth.org
Time: 6:30pm
Cost: Free

Uptown Art Fair
Calhoun Square
3001 Hennepin Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55408
The Uptown Art Fair, held the first weekend in August each year, features the work of more than 340 artists, food vendors, and live entertainment, as well as a Tomorrow's Stars art fair spotlighting the work of artists ages eight to 18. Booths spread out from Hennepin Avenue at Lake Street. Be warned: the fair attracts more than 300,000 visitors, so stroller navigation can be tricky! The fair is the largest of three art fairs this weekend (Loring Park and Powderhorn are the others); ride special Metro Transit buses between the fairs for free on Saturday and Sunday!
612.823.4581
http://www.uptownminneapolis.com
Ongoing Daily 8/1/08 - 8/3/08; check with location for exceptions.
Time: Fri 12n-8:30pm; Sat 10am-8:30pm; Sun 10am-6pm
Cost: Free

Bee Movie (PG)
Langford Park & Recreation Center
30 Langford Park
Saint Paul, MN 55108
The park screens Jerry Seinfeld's Bee Movie as part of the city's summer Movies in the Park series.
651.298.5765
http://www.stpaul.gov
Ages: 5 to 18
Time: Dusk
Cost: Free

St. Paulitics Films: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
Saint Paul Central Library
90 West Fourth Street
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Bring lawn chairs and blankets - and bug spray! - over to the library, to watch outdoor screenings of politics-themed films in the Kellogg courtyard. This week's film is Frank Capra's Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, starring Jimmy Stewart. Cancelled in the event of rain.
651.222.3242
http://www.sppl.org
Ages: 10 to 18
Time: Dusk
Cost: Free

35W Bridge Collapse Memorial
Gold Medal Park
2nd Street and 11th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55415
An outdoor ceremony at the park concludes with a moment of silence and bell-ringing throughout the state, to honor the victims of the tragedy on the one-year anniversary of the 35W Bridge collapse. Take Metro Transit to the service for free; download a pass here.
http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us
Time: 4:30pm-6:15pm
Cost: Free

Interfaith Prayer & Memorial Service
Basilica of St. Mary
17th Street & Hennepin Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55405
The Basilica remembers the victims of the 35W Bridge collapse on the first anniversary of that terrible event, with an interfaith service that also honors rescue workers and all of those who responded so courageously that day.
http://www.mary.org
Time: 11am
Cost: Free

SATURDAY AUGUST 2nd

Powderhorn Art Fair
Powderhorn Park & Recreation Center
3400 - 15th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55407
The Powderhorn Art Fair, now in its 17th year, features the work of more than 180 artists, and a kid-friendly setting and vibe. The fair is held the same weekend as the Loring Park Art Festival and the Uptown Art Fair, and fairgoers can ride special Metro Transit buses between all three for free on Saturday and Sunday! Sunday is also Green Day at the fair, with a focus on environmental education and activities.
612.729.0111
http://www.powderhornartfair.com
Ongoing Daily 8/2/08 - 8/3/08; check with location for exceptions.
Time: Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 10am-5pm
Cost: Free

Loring Park Art Festival
Loring Park
1382 Willow Street
Minneapolis, MN 55403
The Loring Park Art Festival features about half as many artists as the Uptown Art Fair (held the same weekend), but boasts smaller crowds and a great park setting, as well as live entertainment, children's activities, and food booths. Fairgoers can ride special Metro Transit buses between the park and the fairs in Uptown and Powderhorn Park for free on Saturday and Sunday!
http://www.loringartfestival.com
Ongoing Daily 8/2/08 - 8/3/08; check with location for exceptions.
Time: Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 10am-5pm
Cost: Free

Free First Saturday: Design Matters
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
1750 Hennepin Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55403
Learn how design innovations improve and impact lives around the world, and make eco-friendly art projects to take home during this month's Free First Saturday family event, which also includes gallery admission.
612.375.7600
http://www.walkerart.org
Time: 10am-3pm
Cost: Free

Grimm Farm Open House
Lowry Nature Center
7025 Victoria Drive
Victoria, MN 55386
Carver Park Reserve visitors can step back in time and celebrate the historic contributions of Wendelin Grimm, who developed North America's first winter-hardy alfalfa. Families can tour the restored 1870s farmhouse and play with hoops, stilts, and marbles.
763.559.6700
http://www.threeriverkdistrict.org
Ages: 2 to 18
Time: 1pm-4pm
Cost: Free

Kids Build Workshops
Home Depot
On the first Saturday of each month, participating Home Depot stores offer kids a chance to learn about tool and safety, and work with tools to construct a take-home craft from a pre-fab kit. Kids also get an orange apron and badge. Check with location for exceptions.
800.553.3199
http://www.homedepot.com
Ages: 5 to 12
Time: 9am-12n
Cost: Free

SUNDAY AUGUST 3rd

Acoustic Sunrise Concert: Wide Open Road
Minneapolis Institute of Arts
2400 Third Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55404
This free concert at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts is part of a series presented on Sundays.
612.870.3131
http://www.artsmia.org
Time: 11am-1pm
Cost: Free

Minneapolis Police Concert Band
Centennial Lakes Park
7499 France Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55435
Edina presents a free concert at the amphitheater at the southern end of the lake.
952.927.8861
http://www.centenniallakespark.com
Time: 7pm
Cost: Free

Swing!
Mall of America
60 East Broadway
Minneapolis, MN 55425
The cast of Chanhassen Dinner Theatres' upcoming production of Swing! brings jazzy dancing and jivin' tunes to the Rotunda.
http://www.mallofamerica.com
Time: 1pm-3pm
Cost: Free


Remember that this Tuesday August 5th is National Night Out. Be sure to check with your neighborhood to see if they are planning any fun activities within your neighborhood. Myself and my neighbor Lisa are still busily planning our night. This year ours is including the men having riding lawn mower races! You will be seeing pictures on Wednesday! Go out meet your neighbors and have a good time.

Great Time @ the County Fair

What a lovely Saturday we had at our local County Fair this past weekend. It was beautiful weather, and not to humid. All three kids had their crafts entered in the fair this year for judging. Ali's favorite item this year was her first attempt at a hand-made doll. I did help with the face, she was nervous about working so hard on it, then ruining it with the markers. She ended up entering 11 different items, including two different batches of cookies. She tried a new oatmeal raisin recipe that put mine to shame. I think she is now in charge of making oatmeal cookies.

Matt likes making projects, but is always rushing through them to get on to the next one. His projects are good, but I know they could be so much better if he took his time. The black dalmatian picture frame is his. He used a frame I found in the basement, and an old picture book with the pages already torn. His first attempt at decoupage was pretty good.

The shoe box people are his too. If you give my kids the clay pasta roller and lots of fimo clay, they will be quiet all day! All three kids love to play with clay. I tend to stock up on more clay when it goes on sale.

This is the first time Timmy has entered anything in the fair. It is normally hard for the little ones to win, due to the age of 12 and under all being lumped together. He loves that digital camera, and I had asked him to take a picture of my lettuce coming up this spring. It was actually in focus, and he ended up winning third place for it! He other picture didn't place, but the good thing is every entry gets a participation ribbon no matter what. He will be back next year with harder projects I'm sure.

But the reason we went on Saturday, was for the Big Wheel Contest. Timmy was entered in the 3 year old boys, and the winner of the race gets a trophy and the big wheel they were racing on. Ali had been "training" Timmy all week to get him to go faster. The above clip is of the second heat. He ended up taking third place over all. In the semi-final race, his foot slipped off the pedal at the start and he lost that race. He was happy to get his yellow ribbon, and all the kids got to pick out a pop. He said he wanted to try again next year. I feel competition is good for kids, especially if they don't win all the time. I was proud of how he handled not winning the big wheel. There were some children there who did not handle it with much grace.

In the end we spent $50 to get into the fair, corn dogs, cheese curds, taco salad, and tacos. We brought our own water bottles, so spent nothing on beverages. We got two new reusable bags for our groceries, a clip board made out of recycled laundry bottles, tons of pencils for the next school year, and tons of good memories. The kids ended up winning $32.00 on their entries and all the ribbons. I unfortunately did not have time to enter anything this year. The blue building where the adults show their projects is looking more empty every year. Very sad! So I will take my free time this next year to start working on projects earlier. Hopefully I will have lots of picture of my projects here next year!

I just love the fair!

What to Do This Weekend

Free Movie rental from Red Box Code:

MCDMEDVD (McDonald's) & WALGREENS (Walgreens code)

FRIDAY JUNE 18th

Labor Neighborhood Block Party
Central Library
300 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55401
The official kick-off to this year's Aquatennial festival takes place on Nicollet Mall between 3rd and 4th Streets, alongside the library, and includes a free concert by Blue Travelers and Tim Mahoney.
http://www.aquatennial.com
Time: 5pm-11pm
Cost: Free

Sommerfest!
Orchestra Hall & the Minnesota Orchestra
1111 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55403
The annual Minnesota Orchestra festival includes family concerts and free outdoor performances in Peavey Plaza, showcasing orchestral, pop, jazz, and chamber music. Visit the website for a complete schedule.
612.371.5656
http://www.minnasotaorchestra.org
Ongoing Daily 7/11/08 - 8/3/08; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 4 to 18
Time: See website for offerings
Cost: Varies

Minnesota Sinfonia Great Summer Festival
Lake Harriet
43rd Street & East Lake Harriet Parkway
Minneapolis, MN 55410
Artistic Director Jay Fishman leads the Minnesota Sinfonia in one of its popular child-friendly classical music concerts, with a special appearance by trumpet soloist David Baldwin. Takes place at the Lake Harriet Bandshell on the northwestern edge of the lake.
612.230.6400
http://www.mnsinfonia.org
Time: 7:30pm
Cost: Free

Aquatennial 2008
Lake Calhoun
Minneapolis, MN 55408
The Minneapolis Aquatennial features sandcastle-building, sailing, and other competitions (including milk carton boat races), as well as an art fair, beach parties, and much more. They don't call it "The Best Days of Summer" for nothing! Visit the website for a complete schedule of events; many take place at Lake Calhoun, but there are events all over the city.
612.376.7669
http://www.aquatennial.com
Ongoing Daily 7/12/08 - 7/27/08; check with location for exceptions.
Time: See website for schedule
Cost: Most events free for spectators

25th Annual Highland Fest
Patina
2057 Ford Parkway
Saint Paul, MN 55116
Families can head to Ford Parkway, just east of the river, for a three-day street party that radiates out along the street in both directions from Patina. The fair features an expanded Midway, fireworks (Fri-Sat 10:30pm), a juried art fair, live music, and special activities for kids (Sat 10am-2pm) including face painting, a costume parade, a petting, pony rides, and craft projects. Martin Zellar plays on Friday night; Beatles tribute band Rubber Soul entertains on Saturday night.
http://www.highlandfest.com
Ongoing Daily 7/18/08 - 7/20/08; check with location for exceptions.
Time: Fri 2pm-10pm; Sat 10am-10pm; Sun 11am-5pm
Cost: Free

Negro Baseball League
Mall of America
60 East Broadway
Minneapolis, MN 55425
A few of the last remaining members of the Negro Baseball League field autograph requests in Sears Court.
952.883.8800
http://www.mallofamerica.com
Ongoing Daily 7/17/08 - 7/19/08; check with location for exceptions.
Cost: Free

Schwan's USA Cup
National Sports Center
1700 - 105th Avenue Northeast
Blaine, MN 55449
The Schwan's USA Cup - the largest youth tournament in the country - showcases more than 1,000 teams from 20 countries in matches scheduled between opening and closing ceremonies. Visit the website for a complete schedule.
http://www.usacup.com
Ongoing Daily 7/14/08 - 7/19/08; check with location for exceptions.
Ages: 4 to 18
Time: See website for schedule
Cost: Free to watch

SATURDAY JULY 19th

On the Day You Were Born
Champlin Library
12154 Ensign Avenue North
Champlin, MN 55316
In the Heart of the Beast Theater presents a toy theater production of Debra Frasier's best-selling children's book that uses puppetry, poetry, and music to celebrate natural phenomena. Free passes (required to attend) distributed at the library starting 30 minutes prior to the program.
952.847.5350
http://www.hclib.org
Ages: 3 to 18
Time: 1pm
Cost: Free

Manga Drawing for Teens
Riverview Library
1 East George Street
Saint Paul, MN 55107
Manga artist Becky Grutzik teaches a hands-on manga drawing workshop, as part of the library's summer reading and entertainment program.
651.292.6626
http://www.sppl.org
Ages: 12 to 18
Time: 2pm-3pm
Cost: Free

Universe in the Park
Tamarack Nature Center
5287 Otter Lake Road
Saint Paul, MN 55110
U of M astronomers share their telescopes and knowledge, with a short indoor presentation followed by outdoor telescope viewing.
651.407.5350
Time: 8:30am-10:30am
Cost: Free


10th Annual Wildlife Forever Art Expo
Mall of America
60 East Broadway
Minneapolis, MN 55425
See Smokey the Bear and Blue Goose in the Rotunda, along with large displays of award-winning youth art focusing on conservation and fisheries. Free trees are given to the first 5,000 visitors and family activities are offered throughout the day.
612.673.8431
http://www.statefishart.com
Time: 10am-6pm
Cost: Free

Young Eagles Flights
Young Eagles at Airlake Airport
8140 220th Street West
Lakeville, MN 55044
Young Eagles offers kids a chance to fly - for free! - in a private airplane with a qualified pilot. The national program was launched in 1992, and more than 1.2 million young people have participated since; the local chapter offers the rides on the third Saturday of every month, weather-permitting. A brief "ground school" lesson in aerodynamics and safety is also included.
Call 952.831.5142 or 952.432.4231 in advance to reserve a spot.
http://www.eaa25.org
Ages: 8 to 17
Time: 9am-12n
Cost: Free

SUNDAY JULY 20th

Tony Dungy Book Signing
Mall of America
60 East Broadway
Minneapolis, MN 55425
Former NFL player and coach Tony Dungy appears in Sears Court to promote his new children's book, You Can Do It. Wristbands for the autograph line (required) are available starting at 10am; see website for signing guidelines.
952.883.8800
http://www.mallofamerica.com
Ages: 4 to 18
Time: 2pm
Cost: Free

St. Louis Park Community Band
Centennial Lakes Park
7499 France Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55435
Edina presents a free concert at the amphitheater at the southern end of the lake.
952.927.8861
http://www.centenniallakespark.com
Time: 7pm
Cost: Free

Aquatennial: Milk Carton Boat Races
Lake Calhoun
Minneapolis, MN 55408
The Aquatennial's beloved Milk Carton Boat Races and Beach Bash take place at Thomas Beach. Visit the official website for a complete schedule of events.
612.376.7669
http://www.aquatennial.com
Time: 10am-4pm
Cost: Free

Renaissance Festival Preview Party
Mall of America
60 East Broadway
Minneapolis, MN 55425
The Rotunda and Sears Court are transformed into a magical realm with coloring, storytellers, magic, music, and more, offering a free taste of what's in store at this summer's Renaissance Festival. Activities and crafts specifically for children are offered in Sears Court.
952.883.8800
http://www.mallofamerica.com
Ages: 2 to 18
Time: 11am-5pm
Cost: Free

Target Parade

I think this is the year of the free shirts for my kids. Ali got the free tank top from Wet Seal earlier this summer. They all got free t-shirts at the Back to the 50's Car Show, and today they all got Target t-shirts too.

I signed myself and the kids up to do the local parade under my Target store. I wore my capri pants with the regular red shirt I use everyday. The kids just wore whatever red & khaki they could find. When we got to the line-up, they had a few extra kids Target volunteer t-shirts. And they fit my kids! They were so exited to have actual Target shirts to wear.

We blew up Target bullseye balloons, handed out candy and pinwheels (see picture) while pushing four carts. My littlest rode in the cart the whole parade route. He sat and waved at the people watching. He actually would get a little mad when nobody would wave back. I think it is a kid thing to think when you wave, others must wave back.

All in all we had a fun time. It was windy, but not humid or hot, perfect parade walking weather. The kids had fun and saw a few of their friends along the route.

They are now looking forward to when we are volunteering at the MN State Fair, they will be getting another free t-shirt from there too!

What to Do This 4th of July Weekend

Free Red Box Movie Rental Code: EGIZER5

On this 4th of July weekend, I was hoping there was a web site that you could enter your zip code and there would be a list of fireworks displays in your area. I can not find one particular web site that offers that. I suppose it would be alot of work, but I could not find any. My suggestion is to Google "fireworks displays" and your closest big town, and see what pops up.

This is the best list I have found for the Twin Cities Area Firweworks Displays.

And just for fun, our local CBS news station WCCO has a free build your own virtual fireworks display with different music. It is kind of fun, the kids would get a kick out of it! You can click here to try it out yourself.

FRIDAY JULY 4th

26th Annual Taste of Minnesota

St. Paul's popular Fourth of July festival at Harriet Island features more than 50 food vendors and three stages of free entertainment (including, for the first time, one devoted to Christian music). This year's line-up includes REO Speedwagon, Eddie Money, and possibly, a senate candidate debate! Fireworks light up the sky nightly at 10:20pm. Lots of booths also offer giveaways and activities. Check the website for a full listing of events. Park in downtown St. Paul (free shuttle transport provided to and from the park) or take mass transit.

651.772.9980

http://www.tasteofmn.org/

Ongoing Daily 7/3/08 - 7/6/08; check with location for exceptions.

Time: Thu & Sat-Sun 1pm-10:40pm; Fri 11am-10:40pm

Cost: Free; fee for food

Tangletown 4th of July Parade & Picnic

Fuller Park and Recreation Center

800 Grand Avenue South

Minneapolis, MN 55419

Decorate bikes and strollers, meet at Washburn High School at 10am, and join an old-fashioned parade down to Fuller Park, where entertainment, games, prizes, and food await.

612.370.4963

http://www.minneapolisparks.org/

Time: 10am-1:30pm

Cost: Free

Edina Fourth of July Parade

50th & France

50th Street at France Avenue South

Edina, MN 55410

Edina's parade - featuring everything from marching youth groups to dancing seniors - starts at City Hall (just east of Highway 100) and proceeds about a mile east to 50th & France. (The city's fireworks display takes place further south, at Rosland Park, off 66th Street, when darkness falls.)

952.826.0380, ext. 252

http://www.edinaparade.org/

Time: 10am

Cost: Free

Fourth of July in Woodbury

Ojibway Park

2695 Ojibway Drive

Saint Paul, MN 55125

Bring a blanket or lawn chairs over to Ojibway Park for live music with the Red Rock Swing Band, a 17-piece big band specializing in classic swing music from Duke Ellington to the modern swing revival. Concessions are available for purchase. Fireworks begin at 10pm.

http://www.ci.woodbury.mn.us/

Time: 7pm-10pm; Fireworks 10pm

Cost: Free

There are multiple activities in almost every town Friday night. Be sure to check out your towns web site for local information about parades and festivals.

SATURDAY JULY 5th

Free First Saturday: A Moving Spectacle

Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

1750 Hennepin Avenue

Minneapolis, MN 55403

The Trisha Brown Dance Company offers performances (11am & 1:30pm) of several unusual site-specific works in the garden and adjacent Loring Park for this month's Free First Saturday family event, which also includes free art activities and gallery admission.

612.375.7600

http://www.walkerart.org/

Time: 10am-3pm

Cost: Free

Grimm Farm Open House
Lowry Nature Center

7025 Victoria Drive

Victoria, MN 55386

Carver Park Reserve visitors can step back in time and celebrate the historic contributions of Wendelin Grimm, who developed North America's first winter-hardy alfalfa. Families can tour the restored 1870s farmhouse and play with hoops, stilts, and marbles.

763.559.6700

http://www.threeriversparkdistrict.org/

7/5/08Ages: 2 to 18

Time: 1pm-4pm

Cost: Free

Stories at the Market

Midtown Global Market

920 East Lake Street

Minneapolis, MN 55407

The library offers morning storytimes at the market in July.

http://www.midtownglobalmarket.org/

Ongoing Each Sat 7/5/08 - 7/26/08; check with location for exceptions.

Ages: 2 to 18

Time: 10:30am & 11am

Cost: Free

Kids Build Workshops

On the first Saturday of each month, participating Home Depot stores offer kids a chance to learn about tool and safety, and work with tools to construct a take-home craft from a pre-fab kit. Kids also get an orange apron and badge. Check with location for exceptions.

800.553.3199

http://www.homedepot.com/

Ages: 5 to 12

Time: 9am-12n

Cost: Free

SUNDAY JULY 6th

Hopkins Westwind Concert Band

Centennial Lakes Park

7499 France Avenue South

Minneapolis, MN 55435

Edina presents a free concert at the amphitheater at the southern end of the lake.

952.927.8861

http://www.centenniallakespark.com/

Time: 7pm

Cost: Free

Free Family Fundays: Nature Play!

Eastman Nature Center

13351 Elm Creek Road

Osseo, MN 55369

Follow a deer trail, search for critters, match babies to moms, and play other challenging nature games. You can also use provided props to invent your own!

763.559.6700

http://www.threeriversparkdistrict.org/

Ages: 4 to 18

Time: 1pm-3pm

Cost: Free

A Walk in the Park: Bug Hunt

Lowry Nature Center

7025 Victoria Drive

Victoria, MN 55386

Join a naturalist on a walk in search of summer insects. (Funny, we never seem to have to look for them - they find us just fine!) Use nets and jars to catch and observe some of the creatures living in the park. No reservations needed.

763.694.7650

http://www.threeriversparkdistrict.org/

Ages: 2 to 18

Time: 1pm-2:30pm

Cost: Free

Wild about Snakes

Richardson Nature Center

8737 East Bush Lake Road

Minneapolis, MN 55438

Wannabe herpetologists can meet and touch a scaly snake, and then watch it down its dinner whole. Be sure to bring a camera!

763.559.6700

http://www.threeriverspaksdistrict.org/

Ages: 2 to 18

Time: 3pm-4pm

Cost: Free

What to Do This Weekend

Your Free Red Box movie code for this weekend is: SUMMER

It looks like a slow weekend for free activities. I think everybody is saving up their activities for the Forth of July weekend. But it does look like you could spend the entire day on Saturday at the Eastman Nature Center doing three different free activities. What a beautiful weekend to spend at a nature center.

I am also working on a permanent post about free activities for everyday of the week that are ongoing. So when you need something to do during the week, all you will have to do is click on the day of the week you are looking at. This will be up and running within the next few weeks!

FRIDAY JUNE 27TH

New Roots Duo
Lake Harriet
43rd Street & East Lake Harriet Parkway
Minneapolis, MN 55410
The park board presents a free guitar concert at the Lake Harriet Bandshell on the northwestern edge of the lake, as part of its annual summer entertainment series. Bench and lawn seating, and concessions, are available.
612.230.6400
http://www.minneapolisparks.org
Time: 7:30pm
Cost: Free

Five Fridays: Jaws
Saint Paul Central Library
90 West Fourth Street
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Bring lawn chairs and blankets - and bug spray! - over to the library, to watch outdoor screenings of films based on comics, plays and books in the Kellogg courtyard. This week's film is Jaws. Cancelled in the event of rain.
651.222.3242
http://www.sppl.org
Ages: 12 to 18
Time: Dusk
Cost: Free

Teddy Bear Band Family Concert
Ojibway Park
2695 Ojibway Drive
Saint Paul, MN 55125
Woodbury hosts free entertainment at the Ojibway Park Bandshell; inclement weather moves the performance to the Central Park Amphitheater.
http://www.ci.woodbury.mn.us
Time: 11am
Cost: Free

SATURDAY JUNE 28TH

Lowes Build & Grow Workshop
https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/
Build a mini baseball game this weekend.
Go here to pre-register your kids.
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Cost: Free

Minnesota Pops Orchestra
Lake Harriet
43rd Street & East Lake Harriet Parkway
Minneapolis, MN 55410
The park board presents a free symphony concert at the Lake Harriet Bandshell on the northwestern edge of the lake, as part of its annual summer entertainment series. Bench and lawn seating, and concessions, are available.
612.230.6400
http://www.minneapolisparks.org
Time: 7:30pm
Cost: Free

Chicken Run (G)
Hamline Midway Library
1558 West Minnehaha Avenue
Saint Paul, MN 55104
Catch a screening of the hit 2000 claymation film (from the makers of Wallace & Gromit), presented as part of the library's summer reading and entertainment program.
651.642.0293
http://www.sppl.org
Ages: 4 to 18
Time: 2pm
Cost: Free

Saturday Live: Dino Dig
Saint Paul Central Library
90 West Fourth Street
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Learn about paleontologists and the prehistoric world of dinosaurs from Children's Museum staffers, as part of the library's Saturday Live series.
651.266.7000
http://www.sppl.org
Ages: 3 to 18
Time: 11:15am
Cost: Free

I Can Camp with Kids
Eastman Nature Center
13351 Elm Creek Road
Osseo, MN 55369
Celebrate the Great American Backyard Campout by practicing with tents, camping gear, and fire-making. Learn about "leave no trace" techniques.
763.559.6700
http://www.threeriversparkdistrict.org
Ages: 5 to 18
Time: 1pm-3pm
Cost: Free

Count Caterpillars!
Eastman Nature Center
13351 Elm Creek Road
Osseo, MN 55369
Train to participate in the multi-year international Monarch Larva Monitoring research project to help conserve Monarch butterflies. One-hour per week commitment over the summer (at home or in the park) required. Advance reservations required for orientation.
763.694.7700
http://www.threeriversparkdistrict.org
Ages: 10 to 18
Time: 9:15am-11:30am
Cost: Free

Universe in the Park
Eastman Nature Center
13351 Elm Creek Road
Osseo, MN 55369
Join U of M astronomers for an evening of stargazing, including an indoor presentation and outdoor telescope viewing. The event, sponsored by NASA, takes place rain or shine. Participants receive free star maps.
763.559.6700
http://www.threeriversparkdistrict.org
Ages: 6 to 18
Time: 8:30pm-10pm
Cost: Free

Raptors in the Yard
Lowry Nature Center
7025 Victoria Drive
Victoria, MN 55386
Meet a captive merlin and barred owl and learn about these amazing birds of prey. Bring a camera!
763.694.7650
http://www.threeriversparkdistrict.org
Ages: 2 to 18
Time: 2pm-4pm
Cost: Free

Animal Feedings
Springbrook Nature Center
100 - 85th Avenue Northwest
Blaine, MN 55432
Naturalists are on hand to feed live prey to the exhibit animals and answer questions about the predator-prey relationship.
763.572.3588
http://www.springbrooknaturecenter.org
Time: 10am-11am
Cost: Free

Thomas & Friends Playdate
http://www.toysrus.com
Kids can get free Thomas trading cards, hear stories, color, and play at a wooden railway table during a special chainwide in-store event. Check with your nearest Toys 'R' Us location to confirm their participation. Children must be accompanied.
http://www.toysrus.com
Ages: 2 to 10
Time: 11am-1pm
Cost: Free

Guitar Hero III Championship Tournament
Mall of America
60 East Broadway
Bloomington, MN 55425
Like American Idol, Guitar Hero gives folks a chance to show off their skillz and compete for prizes. Expect a lot of leather jackets and spiked wristbands. And hair. Lots and lots of hair. Note: No masks allowed. Takes place in the Rotunda.
http://www.mallofamerica.com
Time: 9am
Cost: Free

Fourth of July Wrist Ribbon
Lakeshore Learning Store
Lakeshore supplies everything kids need to make this free craft right in the store; expect the project to take 10 to 30 minutes. Parents must remain on-site. Offered at all Lakeshore locations.
http://www.lakeshorelearning.com
Ages: 3 to 10
Time: Stop in anytime between 11am-3pm
Cost: Free

SUNDAY JUNE 29TH

Stann Bann Big Band
Centennial Lakes Park
7499 France Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55435
Edina presents a free concert at the amphitheater at the southern end of the lake.
952.927.8861
http://www.centenniallakespark.com/
Time: 7pm
Cost: Free

Acoustic Sunrise Concert: Vicky Emerson
Minneapolis Institute of Arts
2400 Third Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55404
This free concert at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts is part of a series presented every other Sunday.
612.870.3131
http://www.artsmia.org
Time: 11am-1pm
Cost: Free

Bead Brunch
Beadhive
5458 Nicollet Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55419
Stop by the store for free treats and beverages, a demo of a jewelry-making technique, and savings on purchases.
612.823.1112
http://www.beadhivebeads.com
Ages: 13 to 18
Time: 12n-2pm
Cost: Free

50's Car Show

Well we actually made it to the State Fair Grounds for the Back to the 50's Car show on Saturday. Jeff had fun walking around by himself, due to me taking the kids to do the kids games and events. That was fine with me, because after awhile all the cars start to look the same.

The picture above is of the kids with the t-shirts that they "won" doing the games. They did not win with their times of rolling the hula-hoop, but they enjoyed the t-shirts just the same.

Before the kids games started, Radio Disney was there having dance contests and games for the kids too. Ali won a Radio Disney t-shirt and a Zach & Cody door hanger for her room. She also got a PS2 Ben 10 game and Wild Hogs bandanna. Matt stuck around long enough to win a gum ball machine and tattoos, then he was gone to look at cars. Timmy was to scared to even dance along to the music. Of well, he had a fun time telling us all of his favorite colors of cars.

Jeff had so much fun that he went back at night with one of our neighbors. I think all the kids with was to much for him!

What to Do This Weekend

Your Red Box Free Movie code for this weekend is: 667HW0G

Here are some weekend activities for the Twin Cities area, the biggest event this weekend is the Back to the 50's Car Show at the Fair Grounds.

FRIDAY JUNE 20TH

Back to the 50's Weekend

Minnesota State Fairgrounds

St. Paul MN

http://www.msra.com/BackToThe50s.htm

Step back in time with the biggest car show in Minnesota. Bring your sun screen! Check out their website for show times and other events for the whole weekend.

Runs Friday - Sunday

Time: 8:00AM - 10:00PM

Cost: Adults $10, Kids 12 and under free with paid adult

Get $2.00 discount cards at O'Reilly Auto Parts Stores

Minnesota Sinfonia Great Summer Festival

Lake Harriet

43rd Street & East Lake Harriet Parkway

Minneapolis, MN 55410

Artistic Director Jay Fishman leads the Minnesota Sinfonia in one of its popular child-friendly classical music concerts, accompanied by vocalist Debby Duncan. Takes place at the Lake Harriet Bandshell on the northwestern edge of the lake.

612.230.6400

http://www.mnsinfonia.org/

Time: 7:30pm

Cost: Free

Five Fridays: Spellbound

Saint Paul Central Library

90 West Fourth Street

Saint Paul, MN 55102

Bring lawn chairs and blankets - and bug spray! - over to the library, to watch outdoor screenings of films based on comics, plays and books in the Kellogg courtyard. This week's film is Hitchcock's Spellbound, starring Gregory Peck. Cancelled in the event of rain.

651.222.3242

http://www.sppl.org/

Ages: 12 to 18

Time: Dusk

Cost: Free

Love's Labour's Lost

Powderhorn Park & Recreation Center
3400 - 15th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Cromulent Shakespeare Theatre presents its annual parks production.
612.370.4960
http://www.minneapolisparks.org/
Ages: 5 to 18
Time: 7pm
Cost: Free

SATURDAY JUNE 21ST

Meet Elizabeth Atkinson
The Red Balloon Bookshop
895 Grand Avenue
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Author Elizabeth Atkinson presents her new book for middle schoolers about peer pressure and fitting in, From Alice to Zen and Everyone in Between.
6/21/08
Ages: 11 to 18
Time: 2pm
Cost: Free





Barb Ryman
Lake Harriet
43rd Street & East Lake Harriet Parkway
Minneapolis, MN 55410
The park board presents a free folk music concert at the Lake Harriet Bandshell on the northwestern edge of the lake, as part of its annual summer entertainment series. Bench and lawn seating, and concessions, are available.
612.230.6400
http://www.minneapolisparks.org/
Time: 7:30pm
Cost: Free





Eagan Art Festival
Eagan Community Center & The Blast
Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway
Saint Paul, MN 55121
The 14th annual festival features a juried artists' marketplace, food vendors, and live entertainment, including performers and activities specifically for children. Visit the website for a complete schedule.
651.269.ARTS
http://www.eaganartfestival.org/
Occurs every day from 6/21/08 - 6/22/08
Time: Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10am-5pm
Cost: Free admission; fee for some activities





Saturday Live: Earth Is No Ordinary Planet
Saint Paul Central Library
90 West Fourth Street
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Learn how the Earth spins and orbits, and how that impacts seasons, through hands-on demonstrations and activities presented by the Science Museum, part of the library's Saturday Live series.
651.266.7000
http://www.sppl.org/
Ages: 3 to 18
Time: 11:15am
Cost: Free





Discover Saturday: Paws to Read
Central Library
300 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Kids can snuggle with specially-trained dogs and read. Takes place in the Star Tribune Imagination Activity Room on the first floor.
612.630.6000
http://www.mplib.org/
Ages: 5 to 12
Time: 2pm-4pm
Cost: Free





Solstice River XII

Nicollet Island Park
Nicollet Island
Minneapolis, MN 55401
This special annual site-specific dance and art happening is meant to be viewed from the Stone Arch Bridge on the longest day of the year. The performance celebrates art, community, and ecology, and this year, pays tribute to those who lost their lives in the 35W bridge collapse.
651.523.2480
http://globalsiteperformance.org/
Time: 8pm
Cost: Free





Juneteenth

Theodore Wirth Park
1339 Theodore Wirth Parkway
Minneapolis, MN 55411
This celebration of the ending of slavery marks the day, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, on June 19, 1865, that news of freedom finally reached slaves in Texas. Live dance, spoken word, gospel, reggae, rap, and other performances take place on three stages in the park, along with other activities (including a game area) and exhibitions. A parade starts at Penn and Plymouth Avenues at 10am, and heads south on Penn, then west on Glenwood into the park. The community is also invited to a free breakfast at Pillsbury Oak Park Center at 1701 Oak Park Avenue North (7am-10am).
http://www.juneteenthminnesota.org/
Time: Breakfast 7am-10am; Parade 10am; Festival 11am-7pm
Cost: Free





Roll the Dice Bicycle Rally

West Medicine Lake Park
1920 West Medicine Lake Drive
Minneapolis, MN 55441
Plymouth Parks & Recreation kicks off summer with a family event featuring a bike ride around the lake (kids must be accompanied by adults and wearing helmets). Prizes are awarded based on a roll of the dice - it's not a race! Register in advance by phone at 763.509.5200, or on-site starting at 9:30am on the day of the ride. Riders must finish by 11am to qualify for prizes.
http://www2.ci.plymouth.mn.us/
Ages: 6 to 12
Time: 9:30am-11am
Cost: Free





Young Eagles Flights

Young Eagles at Airlake Airport
8140 220th Street West
Lakeville, MN 55044
Young Eagles offers kids a chance to fly - for free! - in a private airplane with a qualified pilot. The national program was launched in 1992, and more than 1.2 million young people have participated since; the local chapter offers the rides on the third Saturday of every month, weather-permitting. A brief "ground school" lesson in aerodynamics and safety is also included. Call 952.831.5142 or 952.432.4231 in advance to reserve a spot.
http://www.eaa25.org/
Ages: 8 to 17
Time: 9am-12n
Cost: Free





Fanciful Fan

Lakeshore Learning Store
Lakeshore supplies everything kids need to make this free craft right in the store; expect the project to take 10 to 30 minutes. Parents must remain on-site. Offered at all Lakeshore locations.
http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/
Ages: 3 to 10
Time: Stop in anytime between 11am-3pm
Cost: Free

SUNDAY JUNE 22ND

Northern Winds Concert Band

Centennial Lakes Park
7499 France Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55435
Edina presents a free concert at the amphitheater at the southern end of the lake.
952.927.8861
http://www.centenniallakespark.com/
Time: 7pm
Cost: Free





Acoustic Sunrise Concert: Ben Glaros

Minneapolis Institute of Arts
2400 Third Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55404
This free concert at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts is part of a series presented every other Sunday.
612.870.3131
http://www.artsmia.org/
Time: 11am-1pm
Cost: Free





Miranda Cosgrove

Mall of America
60 East Broadway
Minneapolis, MN 55425
Miranda Cosgrove appears in honor of the release of iCarly - Music From and Inspired by the Hit TV Show. Find her in the Rotunda. See the website for signing guidelines; wristbands are required to enter the autograph line.
212.921.1020
http://www.mallofamerica.com/
Ages: 8 to 14
Time: 2pm-5pm
Cost: Free





Family Day
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
3675 Arboretum Drive
Chaska, MN 55318
Celebrate the arboretum's 50th birthday with a 1K Family Fun Run (10:30am), Raptor Center presentations (11am & 1:05pm), free cake and ice cream (11am-3pm), and performances by Swedish fiddler Ross Sutter (12:10pm & 2:15pm). Kids get free gift bags and Coke products, while supplies last. The event also offers a great chance to view the arboretum's new Treeology exhibit.
952.443.1422
http://www.arboretum.umn.edu/
Time: During arboretum hours
Cost: Free





Basilica Tours
Basilica of St. Mary
17th Street & Hennepin Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55405
Visitors can join guided tours of the landmark 100-year-old Basilica of St. Mary (meet at the front of the building, beneath the pulpit) following 9:30am and 11am Sunday masses. Self-guided tour brochures are also available at the back of the church.
612.333.1381
http:.//www.mary.org
Time: See description for schedule
Cost: Free

What to Do This Weekend

I personally will be at dance recitals all weekend, so I hope you guys can go out and enjoy some of the free activities this weekend. Two of the biggies are the Stone Arch Festival and Free Sunday at the Children's Museum.

Here is your red box code for your free movie this weekend: FLAGIT

FRIDAY JUNE 13th

Bob the Beachcomber Family Concert
Ojibway Park
2695 Ojibway Drive
Saint Paul, MN 55125
Woodbury hosts free entertainment at the Ojibway Park Bandshell; inclement weather moves the performance to the Central Park Amphitheater.
http://www.ci.woodbury.mn.us
Time: 11am
Cost: Free

Bill & Kate Isles
Lake Harriet
43rd Street & East Lake Harriet Parkway
Minneapolis, MN 55410
The park board presents a free concert at the Lake Harriet Bandshell on the northwestern edge of the lake, as part of its annual summer entertainment series. Bench and lawn seating, and concessions, are available.
612.230.6400
http://www.minneapolisparks.org
Time: 7:30pm
Cost: Free

Project Girl: A Guide to UnMediafying Your Life
Intermedia Arts
2822 Lyndale Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55408
The Wisconsin-based Project Girl organization offers a nationally-touring exhibition of multimedia works created by girls during workshops covering a media literacy curriculum designed to counteract the harmful messages with which they are bombarded by mass media
.http://www.intermediaarts.org
Occurs every day except Sundays from 6/5/08 - 8/16/08
Ages: 8 to 18
Time: During gallery hours
Cost: Free

BioBlitz 2008
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
3815 American Boulevard East
Minneapolis, MN 55425
BioBlitz - a combination community festival and scientific endeavor - allows scientists from the U of M, the Bell Museum, and around the state (with the help of volunteers) to count as many species of plants and animals as they can find in a 24-hour survey period in a given area. This year, the event takes place at the refuge. Guided walks, demonstrations, and other activities take place throughout the period, and visitors can speak with scientists about their work. See the website for a complete listing of events.
http://www.bellmuseum.org/bioblitz/
6/13/08 - 6/14/08
Time: Fri 5pm-Sat 5pm (a 24-hour event)
Cost: Free

Play Time
Brackett Park and Recreation Center
2728 39th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55406
Weather-permitting, the park offers a weekly outdoor playtime for families with kids from birth through age five. Call to register.
612.370.4924
http://www.minneapolisparks.org
6/6/08 - 8/29/08
Time: 9:30am-10:30am
Cost: Free

SATURDAY JUNE 14th

The Bad Animals
Lake Harriet
43rd Street & East Lake Harriet Parkway
Minneapolis, MN 55410
The park board presents a free Heart tribute concert at the Lake Harriet Bandshell on the northwestern edge of the lake, as part of its annual summer entertainment series. Bench and lawn seating, and concessions, are available.
612.230.6400
http://www.minneapolisparks.org
Time: 7:30pm
Cost: Free

Parktacular
Wolfe Park & The Rec Center
3700 Monterey Drive
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Parktacular - a community fair now in its 12th year - just keeps getting bigger and better. This year's festivities include water games and carnival rides, a climbing wall and petting zoo, family fishing clinics, kids' fairs (Sat 2pm-6pm), concerts, a street dance (Fri 5pm), a 12-mile family bike ride, a Belgian waffle brunch (Sun 9am-1pm) and more. The Grand Day Parade runs along West 40th Street into the park (Sat 12n). Visit the website for a complete listing of events and offerings.
Occurs every day from 6/12/08 - 6/15/08
Time: See website for schedule
Cost: Free; Fee for rides, food, and some activities

Stone Arch Festival
Nicollet Island Park
Nicollet Island Minneapolis, MN 55401
This Father's Day weekend tradition features more than 250 artist booths; free dance, theater and music performances; children's art activities; and a large classic car display. The festival runs along Main Street and down on to Nicollet Island at the historic St. Anthony Main riverfront. Park in the lot at 2nd Street Northeast, or better yet, save yourself a few headaches and take public transit.
612..378.1226
http://www.stonearchfestival.com
6/14/08 - 6/15/08
Time: 10am-6pm
Cost: Free

Father's Day Fun
Lakeshore Learning Store
Lakeshore celebrates Father's Day by offering a day of games, product demos, and make-n-take crafts, including an opportunity to create a card for dear old dad. Visit the Father's Day Fun page on Lakeshore's website for a 20% off coupon, good on any single non-sale purchase
.http://www.lakeshorelearning.com
Ages: 2 to 10
Time: 11am-3pm
Cost: Free

Midsommar!
American Swedish Institute
2600 Park Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Celebrate the coming of summer with fiddling, dancing, and frivolity! Enjoy live music, crafts, storytimes, food, games, and colorful Swedish folk costumes and dancing. The highlight of the day is the festive raising of the Midsummer Pole at about 1pm, followed by folk and ring dancing around it. Visitors can make flowered head wreaths, learn Swedish songs and dances, and play Kubb, a Swedish lawn game. This year, two 1908 vehicles are also on display (weather-permitting), to honor the year the mansion was completed. Presentations at 11:30am and 1:30pm address institute founder Swan Turnblad's Waverly electric car, one of the first automobiles in Minneapolis.
612.871.4907
http://www.americanswedishinst.org/ASI/Home.html
Time: 10am-4pm
Cost: Free, including museum admission

Dragonfly Collecting
Eastman Nature Center
13351 Elm Creek Road
Osseo, MN 55369
Help the Minnesota Dragonfly Survey Project by searching out and collecting dragonflies with a naturalist.
763.559.6700
http://www.threeriversparkdistrict.org/
Ages: 5 to 18
Time: 10am-12n
Cost: Free

Peer into the Pond
Maplewood Nature Center
2659 East Seventh Street
Saint Paul, MN 55119
Catch, identify, and release snails, waterbugs, and minnows, and view them up close under a video zoom lens. Children must be accompanied; advance registration is required by June 12.
651.249.2170
http://www.maplewood.mn.us
Ages: 4 to 18
Time: 10am-11:15am
Cost: Free

MCBA Family Day
Minnesota Center for Book Arts
1011 Washington Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Families can explore the art of black and white silhouettes during a special hands-on open house at the Minnesota Center for Book Arts. All needed materials are provided; dress for a wet mess.
612.215.2520
http://www.mnbookarts.org
Time: 10am-1pm
Cost: Free

9th Annual It's Kids' Time Extreme Mall Tour
Mall of America
Highway 494 & Highway 77
Minneapolis, MN 55425
Guitar Hero, DDR, NBA Ballers, American Idol, and other popular titles are featured in a GameZone, along with demos and giveaways of the latest gaming products during this mall tour for tweens and teens. A Kidz Active Zone offers cardio kickboxing demo classes, jump roping contests, hula hoop challenges, and other performances and activities.http://www.sppkids.com http://www.mallofamerica.com
Ages: 10 to 18
Time: 11am-5pm
Cost: Free

Fish Print T-Shirts
Creative Kidstuff
4313 Upton Avenue S
Minneapolis, MN 55410
Bring in a t-shirt (white suggested; limit one per person), and turn it into a unique gift for Dad or Grandpa for Father's Day. The store provides everything but the shirt, including a real fish. Available at all Creative Kidstuff locations.
http://www.creativekidstuff.com
Ages: 2 to 18
Time: 11am-2pm
Cost: Free

Lowe's Build and Grow Workshops
Lowes locations
Bring the kids to build their own measuring tape. You can preregister at the above link.
Ages: 3-12
Time: 10-11am
Cost: Free

SUNDAY JUNE 15th

Robbinsdale City Band
Centennial Lakes Park
7499 France Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55435
Edina presents a free concert at the amphitheater at the southern end of the lake.
952.927.8861
http://www.centenniallakespark.com/
Time: 7pm
Cost: Free

Acoustic Sunrise Concert: Mary Bue