Events in Blaine, MN

Take the Game Master seat with a free monthly session created for aspiring and experienced GMs who want to build confidence, learn the essentials, and start running engaging tabletop roleplaying games. The workshop offers practical tools in a supportive setting and adapts to the experience level and interests of attendees. Topics may include planning a session, guiding player choices, improvising with confidence, managing rules without stress, and crafting memorable moments at the table. The format is interactive and discussion-focused, with time to ask questions, workshop ideas, and learn from peers. The aim is to make Game Mastering feel approachable, manageable, and exciting. Pre-registration is required. Open to adults and to teens ages 16 and 17 only. The average session lasts about two hours.

Celebrate a second annual family fun day filled with activities for all ages. The day begins with a casual walk around the park, and participation in the walk is optional. Kids can enjoy carnival games where every play wins a prize, with one ticket per game and ticket bundles available. Adults can try a punch a cup game for a set fee per punch, with each prize valued at the entry price or more. Yard games add to the fun, and concessions will offer snacks and drinks at family friendly prices. A silent auction is planned, and donations of items or baskets are being accepted. Registered participants receive a meal ticket, and extra meal tickets will be available for purchase. Food is sponsored by Miller Auto Center in Cambridge, Minnesota. Registration includes a purple T-shirt and a meal featuring a hamburger or beef hot dog with chips, and registration also comes with discounted game tickets. Those who prefer to attend just for the games are welcome. Same day registration will be offered, and T-shirts are limited. The event will take place rain or shine. Payment options include cash, check, Venmo, PayPal, and credit. Hosted by a 501c3 nonprofit, donations may be tax deductible under IRS guidelines. APH provides Admission Bags to new long term heart patients and their families at Minneapolis Children’s Hospital.

NextGen Legacy Foundation and Gus Macker Twin Cities present an annual car show that blends basketball culture with automotive passion at North Hennepin Community College. This family-friendly gathering showcases standout cars and motorcycles, offers opportunities to connect with the community, and features a full slate of awards. Honors include Best in Show, People’s Choice, Best Paint, Best Interior, Best Motorcycle, and additional categories. Vehicle registration is available with early bird pricing at $25 and regular pricing at $30. Spectator admission is free. Vehicle space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.

This BLS medical CPR class offers a fun, interactive learning experience. The cost is $90.

Boulevard Bar & Grille offers a relaxed neighborhood spot for dinner and drinks, and its Summer Sunday music brings live tunes to the patio. Midwest singer songwriter Dwayne Thomas delivers classic bar favorites from the 1970s through the 1990s along with upbeat, heartfelt original songs. The music spans classic rock, alternative, country, and pop, with familiar selections by Tom Petty, Gin Blossoms, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Goo Goo Dolls, Bob Seger, and more.

Take part in a weekly One Piece store tournament featuring three best-of-one rounds, each 35 minutes long. The entry fee is $10. Players earn a pack for each match win, with at least one prize pack guaranteed for everyone, along with promo packs. The overall winner also takes home the winner pack.

This Star Wars Unlimited weekly booster draft features a draft portion followed by three Swiss rounds. The entry fee is $20. Prizes are awarded as one booster pack for each match won, and every participant is guaranteed at least one prize pack.

Designed for friends, family, and coworkers, this trivia event features a wide variety of questions. Participation is free, and prizes are awarded each night.

Registration is open for the Annual TPC ROSE Golf Event featuring women's scramble style play, with all proceeds benefiting the Invisible Wounds Project. Opportunities include participating in the scramble, becoming a sponsor or donor, or attending the after play luncheon. Spots tend to fill quickly. Organized by TPC ROSE, the event highlights community generosity that helps enhance and empower others.

Toddler Tuesday offers a dedicated jump session for children 5 and under. Little ones can bounce, explore, and play in a kid-focused environment, and parents can participate at no cost. It provides an easy way to burn off energy and make memories together.

Mad Jacks Sports Cafe of BP hosts an afternoon of Hotball Bingo paired with a power hour special. Domestic taps and bottles are $3 during power hour. Bingo packets cost $15, and if at least 50 packets are sold, payouts are guaranteed at $100. The schedule features 12 games and three jackpots, and a bingo on the Hot Ball comes with a chance to add $200. Offered every Tuesday.

The Champlin Farmers Market is back with a new home at Andrews Park. Shop a wide mix of locally grown produce, baked goods, and artisan items in a friendly community setting. This season introduces Champlin's POP Program. Enjoy live music and food trucks, and take advantage of the splash pad while you browse. Families can visit the market booth where children receive a free $2 token to spend on fresh produce. SNAP EBT is accepted. Activities are subject to weather conditions.

Cardio Drumming at Down The Street Nutrition blends fun, energy, music, and community into a workout that feels more like a party. No experience is needed and all fitness levels are welcome. Arrive 10 minutes early to preorder a post workout shake. Space is limited and registration is required.

Enjoy open play for Warhammer Age of Sigmar with reserved space provided at no charge. Entry is free.

Willard of Grunge Unplugged performs live on Elm Creek's patio, delivering a wide-ranging set that spans folk, grunge, Americana, deep cuts, and original songs.

Take part in an open gaming session for Warhammer 40,000, where players can meet up for tabletop battles. Admission is free, and tables are set aside at no cost specifically for this activity. A Warhammer Discord is available to coordinate games and stay in touch with fellow players.

Compete in Magic: The Gathering Commander at the cEDH level in competitive pods with a proxy friendly policy. The entry fee is $13. Play runs for three rounds. Everyone receives two packs for participating, and you can earn one additional pack for each round win within your pod.

At Metta Coffee inside Avant Garden with Rum River Art Center, this gathering offers a relaxed evening of art activities, coffee, conversation within the queer community, and connection. This edition centers on carving your own stamp. It is designed for LGBTQ+ people of all identities, gender expressions, and orientations, creating a welcoming place to make art, build community, and express oneself. Those who choose to participate in art making can receive guidance from an instructor at no extra cost. The environment is sober, and both the instructor and the coffee barista identify as queer. Free yarn will be available for anyone interested in knitting or crocheting, and participants should bring their own knitting needles or crochet hooks. Open to ages 13 and older. Thanks to Metta Coffee’s donation of the café space, these events are offered at no charge.

Free bar trivia happens every week at The Wild Hare in Blaine, presented by Trivia Mafia. This Minneapolis-based group runs trivia nights in bars, taprooms, distilleries, and private settings throughout the Midwest and beyond, and also hosts themed editions and other pub entertainments. Expect a fun atmosphere with 90s favorites and music videos playing in the bar, along with a menu that focuses on great flavor while keeping health in mind.

Double rewards points are available every Wednesday at Pizza Ranch. Earn two points for every dollar on qualifying purchases, including the buffet, dine in, carryout, delivery, online orders through the Pizza Ranch website, and transactions paid with a Pizza Ranch gift card. Once your balance reaches 100 points, a $5 reward is added for a future visit.

Enjoy a lively, welcoming farmers market that champions healthy living, supports local agriculture, and brings neighbors together. Farmers and producers sell directly to shoppers, making it easy to build a one-on-one connection with the people behind the products. This year features vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, honey, and flower arrangements.

The Coon Rapids Farmers Market brings together local growers and makers with a bounty of fresh produce such as vegetables and berries, along with honey, jams, and flowers. Explore a rotating mix of crafters, artists, and cottage bakers from week to week, offering new finds with each visit.

Farmers Market on the Rum returns with an extended season featuring up to 11 vendors. The market sets up outdoors in Riverfront Memorial Park, with a move inside City Hall if weather is unfavorable. Look for fresh produce, baked goods, cottage foods, farmstead products, flowers, and more, with variety expanding as the weeks go by. The site is just north of Main Street in the parking lot next to City Hall and Riverfront Memorial Park. During the summer months, the City’s Rockin’ on the Rum concert series takes place in the park beside the market, bringing live music to the atmosphere. Across the full run there are 23 weeks of market days, with a larger roster of up to 25 vendors during the regular season.

FaerieLand will have a booth at Paws in the Park in Champlin, featuring t-shirts, hats, and other items for sale. Rescue dogs will be on site.

Dive into Riftbound TCG constructed play with three to four rounds of best-of-three matches. Entry is $10. Every participant receives a Nexus Night Promo Pack for taking part, while supplies last. Top finishers earn store credit based on turnout, with $7.50 from each entry added to the prize pool.

Put your deck to the test in a weekly Gundam constructed tournament featuring best of one matches. Entry is $10. Prizing follows a pack-per-win structure, with at least one prize pack guaranteed for every participant, plus store tournament kit rewards that include a winner promo and tournament packs.

Test your knowledge across a wide range of topics at DJ Trivia at The Ball Park - Twin Cities. It is free to participate and welcoming to families, friends, and coworkers looking for a fun, relaxed challenge.

It is a fun pick for friends, family, and coworkers, offering a wide range of trivia questions. There is no fee to play, and prizes are given out each night.

MTG Casual Commander Day offers relaxed Commander play with a simple entry of $6. When you sign up, choose a Play, Set, or Draft Booster priced at $5.99 or less. Before you head out, take a random pull from the Commander Prize Deck that could include rares, mythics, promos, or even store credit.

Every Thursday night, the buffet highlights wings in both traditional and boneless styles, paired with a selection of sauces.

This beginner-friendly open bluegrass jam at Torg Brewery is hosted by East of the Rockies. The atmosphere is welcoming, with space for musicians of all experience levels as well as listeners. Fiddle tunes may go once through, or in pairs or groups if the turnout is larger than 10. Attendees can enjoy a drink and bring an instrument to play along. Jam etiquette information is available for those new to bluegrass jams.

A riverside concert at Mississippi Crossings in Champlin features Gen X Jukebox delivering a 90s soundtrack in a relaxed, all-ages setting with scenic river views. Food and beverages are available for purchase from Char Blu at a convenient concession window by the outdoor performance area, offering grab-and-go options along with a walk-up bar and two outdoor restrooms nearby. The Lookout Bar and Grill will also be onsite, and inside Mississippi Crossings you will find Jensen’s Market and Cullen’s Ice Cream. Well mannered dogs on leashes are welcome and owners must pick up after them, but dogs are not allowed in the lower seating area or on the turf. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted, though water in coolers is allowed and coolers may be inspected. Overflow parking is available at Chandler Park and in the pedestrian tunnel lot across Highway 169 off Dean Ave and Dowlin St N. Do not park in the Mississippi Point Park Boat Launch trailer stalls. Parking on East River Parkway is only allowed in designated spaces and vehicles may be ticketed if parked elsewhere. Sponsors include Char Blu Riverside, Edward Jones, Lightbridge Academy, Luther Brookdale Toyota, and Champlin Park Youth Hockey Association. Weather permitting, the show will go on.

Explore and strengthen your psychic and intuitive abilities in a welcoming circle open to all experience levels. Each gathering features a changing focus, including work with intuition and energy, practical tools and techniques, meditation and visualization, and ways to connect with spirit guides, with additional topics introduced over time. The environment is safe, supportive, and growth oriented. The cost is $15 per person, payable at the start of class.

This event features free to play music bingo with prizes in every game. There are no age restrictions, making it suitable for the whole family.

Suburban communities also experience homelessness, and this monthly gathering invites community members to talk about it face to face rather than in online comment threads. Held at a coffeehouse, the event offers complimentary drinks and a space for thoughtful dialogue. Attendance is limited to 30 people to keep the conversation productive. Sessions are planned to be livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube. Expect perspectives from the City of Anoka, Anoka County, and local nonprofits working on this issue, with data and frontline insights about suburban homelessness in the area. After these perspectives, the floor opens for discussion around a key question: how to show genuine compassion while also making room for accountability. A form is available through the provided link to share questions or information in advance and to register.

A rotating selection of sourdough items is typically offered Friday through Sunday. Photos include example offerings to give a sense of what may be available.

Food Truck FRI-YAY brings a changing mix of food trucks to the Champlin Ice Forum parking lot. It offers a convenient way to grab lunch or meet up with friends in a relaxed setting. Vendors rotate, so the lineup may vary.

Brooklyn Park Voices and The Wood at Zanewood Recreation Center are collaborating on a weekly summer flag football series held on the Zanewood Elementary school field, with sessions dependent on weather. Designed for ages 8 to 18, it welcomes first-timers and experienced players alike. Complimentary snacks and drinks are available. Expect a friendly, active environment that encourages meeting new people and enjoying the game together.

Kick up your heels at a barn dance paired with a happy hour, highlighted by a live set from Steam Machine. Try square dancing with instruction led by Ann Carter, then take breaks for yard games and cozy bonfires. No prior dance experience is needed. Tickets are available ahead of time or at the gate, with options to purchase by phone or at the Community Activity Center.

Badwolf hosts Magic: The Gathering Standard play in a casual setting that welcomes newcomers and veterans alike. Expect friendly matchups, a supportive community, and a cafe menu with food and drinks. Magic products and accessories are available for purchase. Attendance is free and no pre-registration is required. An optional $5 registration paid on arrival makes players eligible for prizes. Participants may arrive early or continue playing until the cafe closes.

Enjoy a playful yoga session lit by blacklights where movement, music, and neon accents come together. Arrive a little early to decorate with glow paint and markers that shine, then settle into a 60 minute, all levels flow in a colorful, illuminated setting. The class welcomes beginners and experienced practitioners alike, providing a creative space to move, breathe, and reconnect with your inner strength. The studio is located at the back of the building through the parking lot, and signage will be posted to guide the way. This is a free community class, but space may be limited, so letting the organizer know you plan to attend is appreciated. A small number of mats will be available to borrow, and bringing your own is encouraged if you have one. For questions, contact Paige via messenger or by text at 706-498-1592.

Grunge Unplugged returns to Elm Creek for another night of 90s grunge, delivering acoustic versions of hits and deep cuts from Pearl Jam, Nirvana, STP, Smashing Pumpkins, and AiC.

Presented in support of Blaine Youth Football, this event pairs a classic meat raffle with virtual pig racing. Meat raffle tickets are $2 and offer chances to win meat packs from Von Hansons. Pig racing tickets are $1, with cash payouts ranging from $50 to $150.

Friday Night Magic features a weekly Booster Draft. The format uses three packs across three rounds, and entry is $25. Prize support scales with your record: a 3-0 finish awards five packs, 2-1 or 2-0-1 earns three packs, and 1-2 or 1-1-1 receives one pack. Every participant is guaranteed at least one prize pack. This happens every Friday night.

Friday Night Magic features a weekly Standard tournament with a $13 entry fee. Prizes include two packs guaranteed, with additional packs awarded based on final standings. FNM promos go to the top two, while supplies last.

Test your deckbuilding skills in a Star Wars Unlimited weekly constructed tournament. Entry is $10. The event runs four rounds with best two out of three matches. Every participant is guaranteed at least two prize packs, with additional packs based on final standings. For four rounds, 4-0 earns 8 packs, 3-0-1 earns 6, 3-1 earns 4, 2-1-1 earns 3, and all other records receive 2. If the event uses three rounds, 3-0 earns 5 packs, 2-0-1 earns 4, 2-1 earns 3, and everyone else receives 2.

This weekly Yu-Gi-Oh tournament features the Edison format. The entry fee is $10. Each participant receives at least two prize packs, with OTS packs available, and additional packs are awarded based on final standings.

Settle onto your mat for an all-levels yoga session led by experienced instructor Paige Findley. This gentle class emphasizes breath, body awareness, and foundational movement, creating a welcoming environment for newcomers and anyone easing back into practice. Paige’s calm guidance encourages you to move at a comfortable pace. The class takes place at Divine Lights. Please enter through the back of the building from the parking lot and look for posted signs. The cost is $15 per person, payable at the class. A limited number of mats will be available on a first come, first served basis, so bringing your own is recommended. Space is limited. For questions, text Paige at 706-498-1592.

This story hour is led by partners from Early Childhood Family Education.

An in-store meet and greet adoption event takes place alongside Chuck & Don’s Grand Opening in Brooklyn Park, presented in partnership with The Bond Between. Attendees can meet rescue pets seeking permanent homes, share a little love with friendly pups, and explore the new store. It offers a welcoming way to connect with animals and consider adding a four-legged companion to the family.

This weekly board game meetup features free, open play with plenty of room and tables. Participants may bring their own games, borrow a title from the Board Game Demo shelf, or purchase one and start playing right away. It is suitable for friends and families. Gaming space is also available throughout the week.

Amoré Antiques in Anoka hosts a free appraisal day with Certified Antique Appraiser David Schlueter. Guests may present family pieces, antiques, artwork including paintings, coins, gemstones, or jewelry for evaluation. Please limit submissions to one or two items, or a small grouping of coins or jewelry, and bring only pieces that can be easily carried. Furniture and firearms are not accepted. Sessions last about 15 minutes, with in-person sign-up on arrival and no appointments taken. The shop features two floors of antiques, vintage finds, and collectibles to explore. David’s credentials include certification as an antique appraiser, experience as an instructor in the field, graduation from GIA in jewelry and gemstones, formal training in art appraisal, and professional numismatic expertise, along with international travel experience.

Rumriver Art Center’s 21 Step Gallery presents Life Up North, the first solo exhibition by emerging artist Lauren Russell. Currently studying Studio Art and Art History at St. Olaf College, Russell gravitates toward gouache while exploring a range of mediums. The collection honors Northern Minnesota with expressive paintings that evoke its natural scenery, seasonal changes, and cherished family moments, using vivid color and purposeful brushwork to invite a personal connection to each scene. The gallery is located in an older building without elevators or escalators, and access requires climbing 18 stairs. Rumriver Art Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

The meat raffle offers the chance to win a $20 Brothers Meat Market gift card. In alternating rounds, a $1 drink goes to the number that comes after the winner.

Greenharbor's weekly park day in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota features fighting, spellcasting, roleplay, and camaraderie. This recurring gathering brings people together in the park for shared activities.

L1935 is partnering with 10K Brewing for another event to benefit the MDA.

This weekly Flesh & Blood Armory event features Classic Constructed play. The entry fee is $10. All participants receive one GEM Pack and are guaranteed two Prize Packs, with additional packs awarded based on final standings.

Deb Barrett returns to Hudy's Cafe & The Lil Bar for a live music performance. This return appearance brings her back to a familiar stage.

Experience a high-octane cover performance that spans timeless favorites and today’s hits. Powerful vocals lead the way, fueled by dynamic guitars and a punchy horn section for a lively, crowd-pleasing set.

Necessary Diversion performs at Casa Rio Tex Mex Restaurant in downtown Anoka with an evening set of popular songs spanning past and present. Guests can enjoy dinner and drinks alongside the live music.

A relaxed BBQ and picnic at Coon Rapids Dam Pavilion #2 kicks off the upcoming North Star Film Festival season. The gathering offers an easygoing space to mingle and network, connect with filmmakers and other creatives, and ask questions about the season before it gets busy. Food and drinks may include donations from grocery stores and local businesses, and attendees can also bring dishes. RSVPs are requested to help estimate food needs, and dietary restrictions can be shared for planning. Lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and outdoor games are welcome for extra comfort. Open to friends, family, and anyone interested in filmmaking. Parking requires a $7 vehicle permit. Community volunteers can help with setup, food and supplies, greeting, photos or video, cleanup, and future festival activities. More details will be shared as the event approaches.

This weekly open play is dedicated to Star Wars Legion, with space reserved for Legion players. Participation is free. Monthly Star Wars Legion tournaments are also available.

A relaxed Pokemon League gathering focused on open play and community. Registration includes one booster of your choice from standard releases or an official Pokemon Season Prize Pack, plus a random draw from the Prize Deck. That pull may award rare or promotional cards, an extra pack, Pokemon-themed swag, or credit toward purchases. Activities include friendly matches, trading, and time to hang out, and it also welcomes fans of Pokemon GO and Pokemon on Switch.

This Yu-Gi-Oh tournament uses the Advanced Constructed format with a $10 entry fee. Every participant is guaranteed two OTS prize packs, and you earn an additional pack for each match win in every round. The event runs three rounds, with a fourth added when attendance reaches nine or more players. Prize support is awarded in OTS packs and booster packs.

Boulevard Bar & Grille in Lexington is a welcoming neighborhood gathering spot for dinner and drinks, and a summer Sunday on the patio brings live music outside. This event spotlights singer-songwriter Corey Rae White, an experienced performer with a deep well of ideas and a reputation for heartfelt writing and crowd-pleasing shows. A former Minnesota Music Association Guitar Player of the Year nominee, he blends melodic finesse, musical complexity, and seasoned warmth, all delivered with good humor and quick wit. His songwriting has earned multiple honors, including National Native-E Music awards, along with a 2020 Native American Music Awards nomination for Best Independent Recording by New Artist for the original song Dimmer and two NAMA nominations in 2021 for collaborations on I Will Always Fight and Don’t Keep Me Waiting. Across 27 years he has logged more than 3,000 national and regional performances with groups such as The Johnny Holm Band, Kalliah & BlackWater, The CRAE WHITE Band, Flywheel, Dazy Head Mazy, Branded Country, The Dukes Of Hudson, The Lonesome Losers, and tribute projects including Girls Night Out, Pure Soul, and Showbiz Kids. He has also performed alongside artists such as Train, Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert, John Rich, Sister Hazel, Travis Tritt, Kelly Pickler, Marshall Tucker Band, Semisonic, Susan Tedeschi, Johnny Lang, and the Zac Brown Band. Patio vibes and live music come together with Corey Rae White at Boulevard Bar & Grille.

William Kent Krueger returns to Anoka to celebrate God’s Country, the 22nd installment in his Cork O’Connor mystery series. As Cork prepares for a family trip into the Boundary Waters, ominous visions weigh on him, and the search for his missing friend, Cordell Bishop, reveals signs of violence. The investigation pulls him into dangerous dealings with the Kennedy brothers, criminals hunting for their late father’s hidden stash. As peril escalates and choices grow more difficult, Cork faces his darkest instincts, helps others reach safety, and ultimately takes justice into his own hands. The event features an author conversation and Q&A with Matt Goldman, a New York Times bestselling author and Emmy Award winning television writer whose credits include Seinfeld, Ellen, The New Adventures of Old Christine, and Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency, followed by an optional book signing. Krueger is also known for The River We Remember, This Tender Land, Ordinary Grace, which won the Edgar Award for best novel, and the original audio novella The Levee, along with twenty Cork O’Connor novels that include Spirit Crossing, Fox Creek, and Lightning Strike. This ticketed, offsite gathering takes place at First Congregational Church of Anoka, also known as Anoka UCC. Registration is required, and each ticket includes a hardcover copy of God’s Country.

Braun Entertainment and Hudys Cafe & The Lil Bar present a new Artist Spotlight Series that shines a light on local performers in a relaxed, creative setting. This edition features Bryce Hegge.

Make a ceramic travel tumbler in a guided pottery class led by Rumriver Art Center at Metta Coffee inside Avant Garden Bookstore. An instructor will show how to shape the vessel from clay slabs and attach a half lid, then help you decorate with underglaze. No prior experience is required. Open to ages 13 and older, welcoming adults and families. The cost is $40 per person. Finished pieces will be fired and ready in about two to three weeks. You will receive an email when your piece is ready for pickup, and it should be collected within 14 days at Rumriver Art Center.

Settle into a welcoming tarot social focused on connection and hands-on practice. Attendees bring their own decks, trade readings, compare techniques, and learn by doing in a low-pressure setting. Light snacks and drinks will be available, with open seating and ample room to shuffle, draw cards, ask questions, and explore a variety of reading styles. This is not a class, it is a communal practice space where newcomers and seasoned readers are equally at home. Bring a personal deck, exchange insights with others, and discover what the cards reveal. Cost: $15.

Colors of Southeast Asia Fest gathers the community under the 2026 theme Rooted in Healing, Growing in Unity. The celebration uplifts stories, nurtures resilience, and encourages connections across generations and cultures through welcoming experiences for families and attendees of all ages. It also honors the meaningful contributions of the Southeast Asian community to Minnesota, with a special focus on Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, and communities throughout Hennepin County. The event takes place at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park.

Boulevard Bar & Grille - Lexington hosts live music on the patio in a laid-back neighborhood setting for dinner and drinks. Taking the stage is MoeDeLL, an Americana singer and songwriter whose guitar work, imaginative lyrics, and unmistakable voice drive songs with foot tapping melodies and steady, rolling rhythms. His material shifts from playful to tender and from bright moments to darker shades. A Virginia native, he grew up hearing old country at home, discovered bluegrass through local pickers at the farmers market, and folded in rock while playing in garage bands. He recorded with Monkey In A Mansuit, releasing a funk and rock album in 2002 that earned local radio play. After a 2004 solo EP he moved to Minnesota and signed with Aquarium Records, which released Out There in 2006 and Kairos in 2010, followed by his self released The Inevitable EP in 2010. His later music leans into classic country and bluegrass roots, including the 2016 album Local with acoustic textures and train beat rhythms, and Logan Drive in 2017 as a companion to that release. He performs frequently, solo or with various collaborators, at venues around the country, and has opened for Antigone Rising, Better Than Ezra, Cheap Trick, Bret Michaels of Poison, and Christopher Thorn and Travis Warren of Blind Melon.

Regional artists Amanda Grace and Roseland take the stage at Mississippi Crossings in Champlin, delivering powerful vocals, heartfelt songwriting, and high-energy performances along the Mississippi River. The riverfront venue provides a scenic Twin Cities setting for an evening focused on music and community. Guests may bring lawn chairs or blankets to relax on the lawn and enjoy the Mississippi Crossings Summer Series. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.

Enjoy a no-cost movie night set at a barn, welcoming guests of all ages. The feature will be chosen through a community vote from options that include Casper, Coco, Zootopia 2, and The Spongebob Movie - Search for Squarepants. Expect a large outdoor screen, a creative activity for children, and a limited supply of picnic blankets, so bringing your own blanket or lawn chair is encouraged for comfortable viewing.

Small Town Radio is back at one of their favorite places, Elm Creek Brewing Co, for a show.

Settle into the Boulevard Patio at Boulevard Bar & Grille - Lexington for a laid-back summer Sunday of live music with Glen Everhart. Recognized nationwide for expressive vocals, deft guitar work, and creative looping, he performs acoustic favorites spanning the 70s through today. With more than 3,000 shows in 33 states and four countries, he is a seasoned entertainer who connects with the crowd from the first song to the last. Billed as reinventing the art of live acoustic performance, this patio set blends familiar tunes with engaging showmanship.

Enjoy branch-against-branch games alongside lively minnow races and other activities. Participate with a branch team or attend to show your support. Admission is free, and food and vendor options add to the fun.

This free gathering offers open time to stitch in a friendly setting. Participants can share works in progress to spark fresh ideas, take part in fun challenges and exchanges, and enjoy themed celebrations. It brings together a creative community that keeps people returning.

Illumination Saturday offers a welcoming day focused on healing, guidance, and clarity. Readers, healers, psychics, and intuitives provide brief sessions and set aside their usual rates, accepting pay-what-you-can contributions so more people can participate. It is a relaxed way to sample different healing and intuitive approaches, meet the practitioners, and build connections within the community. All sessions are walk-in only on a first come, first served basis. Practitioner availability varies, and the last appointment is taken according to each practitioner’s individual schedule.

An annual car show and dyno challenge presented by Rapids Honda features a full day of activities with giveaways, raffle prizes, and food trucks available. Additional details will be shared as they become available.

Returning by popular demand, this large Midwest corgi meet-up welcomes corgis, corgi mixes, and the people who love them for a lively day of community and fun. Please check in at the entrance with your dog so attendance can be counted accurately, as a previous gathering drew about 300 corgis and the aim is to surpass that. Look for food trucks, corgi-themed goods for sale, and professional mini photo sessions. Scenic backdrops abound among tall pines, prairie landscape, and a sunflower garden at the former Andover Sunflower Field. A fenced backyard is dedicated to off leash play for corgis. Admission is free for those attending with a corgi. Spectators without a corgi are 5 dollars per person, children included. Parking is complimentary on site and at Prairie Knoll Park across the street. There are no online ticket sales, so do not send money to anyone claiming to sell entry. By attending, you acknowledge the risks of an outdoor dog event and agree to waive and release claims for any injury, damage, or loss affecting you, your dog, or your group. Children must remain under close adult supervision at all times, which means keeping them within sight. Soliciting, unapproved sales, handing out promotional materials, and political campaigning are not permitted, and only approved vendors and sponsors may promote or sell products or services. Please clean up after yourselves and your dogs, and use the designated bins for trash and pet waste. Dog owners are responsible for supervision and control at all times, and should remove any dog that shows aggression, high stress, or disruptive behavior.

This non-profit gathering offers a day of fellowship and Christian music. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for comfortable seating as they enjoy the experience.

The Fleet Farm Car Show & Food Truck Festival in Brooklyn Park features a visit from The Rescue Crew, who will be on site with adoptable pets looking for new homes. Attendees can meet these animals, browse an array of cars, try their luck at door prizes, and enjoy food from many local food trucks. There is no charge for spectator entry.

Fantasy Book Club features a discussion of The Incandescent by Emily Tesh, a dark academia fantasy with sapphic themes that carries echoes of Naomi Novik’s Scholomance series and Plain Bad Heroines. Tesh is a bestselling author with national and international acclaim and is a recipient of the Hugo and World Fantasy Awards. The book is available in paperback.

Happy Hour Movie Night at Historic Eidem Farm pairs a laid-back social hour with a feature film screening. A community poll will decide the movie, with options including Pride & Prejudice, Dirty Dancing, Twilight, Twisters, or Mamma Mia. It is a simple choice for a date night or a relaxed outing with friends.

Stop 6 of the Tripleshift Shootout Series brings a competitive day of bowling to Andover Lanes. Participants roll through four qualifying games to set the field, then move into an eliminator-style semifinal round. Handicap scoring is calculated at 80 percent of a 210 average.

Matt Tennessen returns to Hudy's Cafe & The Lil Bar for a live performance of Americana music.

Step into a pop-up vintage flea market presented by the team behind Totally Rad Vintage Fest, set at Elm Creek Brewing Co. Discover a carefully selected mix of clothing, accessories, collectibles, and other throwback pieces spanning multiple decades. Admission is free. Hunt for rare gems, support local vendors, and connect with fellow vintage fans while enjoying a brew from the host brewery.

This five-day, four-night getaway to Lincoln, Nebraska blends architecture, museums, wineries, shopping, local history, and live entertainment. The package includes hotel stays, travel by motorcoach, nine meals, guided attractions and tours, luggage handling, and the services of a professional tour manager. Rates are $1,350 for single occupancy, $1,150 per person for double occupancy, and $1,075 per person for triple occupancy, with triple rooms featuring two double beds. A $100 deposit is due at registration, a final payment and refund deadline applies, and optional travel insurance is available. Trips are fully refundable through the Spring Lake Park Recreation Department up to the registration deadline, after which participants should refer to their optional travel protection plan for coverage details.

Excitement is building for a show at Serums in Anoka. The performers are eager to take the stage and put on a great performance.

What Anoka is Reading brings readers together for meaningful conversations by exploring a range of genres selected to spark thoughtful discussion. The featured title is The Wedding People by Alison Espach, a widely popular New York Times bestseller and Today show Read With Jenna book club selection with sales exceeding 1.5 million. The story follows an unforeseen attendee at a wedding and the surprising people who help her begin again. Paperback copies will be available.

Wrapping up the 2026 Rockin' The Rum concert series in downtown Anoka, this show delivers two hours of Southern Rock. Bring a lawn chair for a comfortable, laid-back evening of live music.

The performers return to Heart of the City Music Factory for a fourth appearance. They are considering turning it into an evening of requests.

The 7th Annual Hendricks County International Festival returns to Hobbs Station with planning already underway. It will bring back the fun from last year and introduce new additions, with more details to be announced.

Explore the charm of Door County, Wisconsin on a four day, three night extended tour featuring scenic drives, lakeside towns, local flavors, and vibrant autumn color. The itinerary includes travel with a stop at Lambeau Field, cherry picking with an optional boat tour, a traditional Door County fish boil with non fish options, a trolley ride to take in peak foliage, a hands on art experience to create a keepsake, and a visit to the Death’s Door Maritime Museum. The package provides three nights of hotel accommodations, deluxe motorcoach transportation, luggage handling for one bag per person, nine meals, all listed tours, admissions and tickets, and the services of a professional SLP Recreation Tour Manager. Pricing is per person at $1,550 for a single, $1,350 for a double, and $1,275 for a triple. A $100 deposit is due at registration, and optional travel protection is available.

Howl-O-Ween at the new Mississippi Gateway Regional Dog Park offers free fun for dogs and their humans. Pups can pose for spooky photos with Pawtography, get a doodle portrait from MNDoodleBooth, enjoy pup cup treats, and run in the off-leash area while live music plays. Guests are asked to review the dog park rules. No Three Rivers pass is required.

Three Soul Cry reunites for a special concert at the Music Factory, marking their second reunion at this venue. The contemporary Christian trio of Tom Mills, Sara Renner and Chryss Altamirano comes together to share the music that defined their time as a group. They previously won the Minnesota State Fair talent competition and recorded two albums of original songs, III Soul Cry and These Remaining Days. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door, and seating is general admission. Concessions, Mr. Chipper's fresh-baked cookies and merchandise will be available for purchase during the show. The Music Factory is located on the second floor of the Old Milk Factory, a World War I era building on the Rum River in Anoka. The building is not wheelchair accessible and there are stairs to climb.

Amateur radio participants from across Minnesota come together at the North Star Radio Convention, a flagship statewide gathering for the hobby. The program features knowledgeable presenters and workshops with material suited to newcomers and experienced operators alike, offering something for every skill level. It is also a friendly setting to catch up with familiar contacts and meet new enthusiasts from around the region.

The Minnesota State Speed Puzzling Championship will take place in the Grand Room at the Brooklyn Park Community Activity Center, offering a full slate of competitions for every kind of puzzler. Test your skills in solo rounds, team up with a partner, or join a team of four. New race formats include the Pairs Relay and the Solo Puzzle Pyramid, with organized check-in and instructions before each contest. Participants can puzzle alongside experienced competitors, pick up complimentary puzzles, and trade titles at a swap table that is free for registrants and available to guests for a $10 fee. The top three finishers in every division will receive prizes such as gift certificates or free puzzles, along with custom wooden puzzle piece trophies with laser etching. Ticketing is per person for every event. For pairs and teams, pricing is calculated individually, with pair entries split by two and team entries split by four, and each participant purchases their own ticket. Capacity is limited, and an Early Bird offer provides $5 to $10 off each ticket. Registration is finalized once payment is received, and every ticket reserves one spot in its selected event. Purchases totaling at least $100 in contest tickets may qualify for a free 2026 Championship T-shirt when the shirt is added to the cart and the coupon code 26FREETEE is applied in the same transaction.

Downtown Anoka hosts the 14th anniversary of Anoka’s Walking Dead Pub Crawl, and admission is free. Pick up a toe tag at any participating location, then visit every stop to get it stamped at each venue’s designated station. When your tag is complete, turn it in at any participating venue before the night wraps up. Each location offers its own prize drawing, and your entry goes to the place where you submit your finished tag. Participating venues include Magillicuddy’s, Ambi Wine, 10K Brewery, Billy’s, Ibiza West, Pizza Man, Wheelhouse, Serum’s, Casa Rio, and 201 Tavern. Share photos using #anokanightlife. Do not pay anyone for vendor spots, promotions, or advertising related to this event, as those requests are not legitimate.

Matthew Ward brings a storied legacy in contemporary Christian music to the stage. A founding member of 2nd Chapter of Acts, he helped define the sound of the genre and has sustained a career spanning more than four decades. His journey includes performances across all 50 states and in over 30 countries, nine solo albums, and fifteen albums with 2nd Chapter of Acts. Ward has collaborated with more than fifty artists, from a duet with Donna Summer and background vocals on the number-one hit She Works Hard for the Money to contributions for Leann Rimes, Jordin Sparks, Terry Talbot, Andrae Crouch, Annie Herring, Twila Paris, Keith Green, and many others. He began singing with his sisters as a teenager, recorded his first solo project Toward Eternity at eighteen, and later turned a battle with cancer into the acclaimed album My Redeemer. General admission seating is offered. Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. Concessions and merchandise will be available, including Mr. Chipper’s fresh-baked cookies. The Music Factory is located on the second floor of the World War I era Old Milk Factory on the Rum River in Anoka. The building is not wheelchair accessible and requires climbing stairs.

This benefit at the Minneapolis Marriott Northwest Hotel & Conference Center features drag performances, a meet and greet with the queens, photo opportunities, and a silent auction, all supporting the Jane Brattain Breast Center and Women's Health. It brings together entertainment, community, and fundraising to help provide vital care and resources for women.

Next Stop Comedy brings a stand-up showcase to Heavy Rotation Brewing Co., featuring a rotating lineup of top comedians. Each performance introduces fresh acts, including talent seen on television and heard on popular podcasts.

Hosted by Freshwater, this evening along the Mississippi River celebrates how water links people, communities, and ideas. Centered on an Art for Water theme, the program explores how creativity, storytelling, and shared experiences can deepen people’s connection to water and highlight the role everyone plays in protecting it. The curated experience includes creative and hands-on moments, opportunities to meet fellow supporters, collaborating organizations, and leaders from the community, and a spotlight on Freshwater’s mission and impact. Designed to welcome longtime supporters and those new to the cause, the gathering supports efforts to safeguard freshwater resources across Minnesota and beyond. Ticket registration and additional details will be shared soon.

The 25th annual Modified Portable Ice House Show returns to Adrenaline Sports Center and runs alongside the North Metro Ice Show at the same venue. Launched in 2002 to celebrate creative upgrades to portable ice fishing houses, it now welcomes both flip-over and pop-up hub shelters. Expect a friendly showcase of custom builds, connection with fellow ice anglers, and plenty of chances to win prizes. All attendees are entered for a chance to win a guided ice fishing trip with Matt Johnson Outdoors, and food trucks will be on site for those who wish to purchase a meal or snack. Participants who register a modified shelter for the contest pay $25 and receive a free gift. This year introduces a plaque for the top house as voted by show participants, and every contest entrant will be included in the prize drawings. Prize details will be announced.

The Anoka Lions are organizing a playful chalk festival at Veterans Park and the adjoining parking areas in downtown Anoka. Look for cheeky chalk themed wordplay and a lighthearted atmosphere built around creative chalk fun. Additional details will be shared as they become available.

Jellybean and Julia's BBQ becomes a Halloween hub as Lazarus takes over for a full evening of live music, comedy, and punk rock costume contests. Performances unfold throughout the night, including Lazarus solo, sets with guest musicians, the second-ever appearance of Lazarus & the Bandits, and Cretin Avenue Hop, a Ramones tribute led by Lazarus. Additional details to follow.

At Adrenaline Sports Center, the 9th Annual Ramsey Fall Craft & Gift Expo gathers handmade creators and small businesses for a marketplace featuring woodworking and knot craft, embroidery and crochet, lighting accents, metal art, wooden signs, cosmetics, beauty and wellness goods, art and photography, baked treats, candy, and jars of jams and jellies. Attendees can explore a wide variety of vendors with something for many tastes. The event provides free admission and free parking, is family friendly, and is accessible for individuals with disabilities.

Grunge Unplugged returns to Elm Creek for another night of 90s grunge tunes, featuring hits and deep cuts from Pearl Jam, Nirvana, STP, Smashing Pumpkins, and more. The set showcases both beloved anthems and lesser-known tracks from the decade.