Events in Northfield, MN

Enjoy a relaxed chess gathering at Revolve Hall Food Hall in Apple Valley, open to players of all experience levels. Please bring your own board. Most games happen in the Curiouser Coffee area in the back upper left corner, and food and drinks from the hall can be carried to whichever spot you prefer.

This friendly gathering invites knitters, crocheters, and other needlecrafters to work on personal projects in the 3rd Floor Makerspace. The group meets on the first and third Fridays. Bring a project to work on and enjoy crafting alongside neighbors. Everyone is welcome.

Players can take part in a weekly FNM Draft that generally follows current set releases, with occasional Chaos Drafts for variety. Registration takes place before the draft begins. The entry fee is typically $15 unless otherwise noted.

Beastly Bash 2026 is a gala hosted by the Minnesota Zoo Foundation, offering a unique evening under the stars that celebrates a lifetime of care for animals. Explore the Zoo in a new way with live entertainment, engaging animal demonstrations, and plenty of food and drinks while learning how support helps animals thrive well into their golden years. All ticket purchases and donations benefit the Minnesota Zoo. An event ticket is $500 and includes access to food stations, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, live entertainment, animal encounters, memorable photo opportunities, and complimentary valet service. For a more private experience, the Conservation Cabana starts at $12,500 for 10 guests and provides a dedicated space for the entire event, reserved program seating, exclusive passed appetizers delivered to the cabana, access to a dedicated cabana bar, and a special visit from an animal ambassador. For sponsorship details, contact Ben Nelson at Ben.Nelson@mnzoo.org or 612.432.4824. For general questions, reach the Foundation at donations@mnzoo.org or 952.431.9237.

The patio at Crystal Lake Golf Club comes alive with music in an easygoing outdoor setting. Settle into the open air and let the tunes provide a relaxed backdrop.

This concert spotlights a tribute to ABBA by a group billed as Minnesota’s top ABBA tribute act, featuring a standout roster of musicians from Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Britain. Formed a few summers back, the band has notched sellouts across the state at venues ranging from theaters and clubs to park settings. Tickets are $26.50 for members, $31.50 for non-members, and $21.50 for students, and each price includes a $1.50 processing fee.

Set out from Pioneer Plaza in downtown Lakeville for a community bike ride featuring several route choices that highlight the area’s bike infrastructure. Admission is free and the experience is suitable for families. Presented by Lakeville Friends of the Environment in partnership with Lakeville Parks and Recreation.

The Lakeville Art Festival returns with a September weekend devoted to creativity and community. Artists from across the country gather on the Art Center grounds to share work in ceramics, painting, jewelry, glass, and more. Alongside the art, attendees can enjoy live music, local food trucks, a Youth Art Tent, and a collaborative Community Art Project.

Children interested in quarter midget racing can try the sport at an MQMRA arrive and drive tailored for newcomers. There are five opportunities available this season. Registration happens through the provided link, and space is first come, first served, so early sign-up is recommended because sessions tend to fill quickly.

Enjoy casual matches of the One Piece Card Game. Players with their own constructed decks can participate, and starter decks are available to borrow for anyone who needs one.

At Central Park in Faribault, the Light of Hope Cancer Foundation hosts an annual community gathering centered on hope, courage, remembrance, and support. The celebration features heartfelt survivor stories, a luminary walk in tribute to loved ones and cancer warriors, family-friendly games and activities, a variety of food trucks, raffle baskets, a silent auction, and health education booths. Official Light of Hope merchandise will be available, and music adds to a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Luminaries and bench banners can be purchased online or in person at the State Bank of Faribault, Allina Cancer Institute, Mayo Clinic Northfield, or through committee members. Whether honoring someone special, celebrating survivorship, or offering support to those affected by cancer, this event brings people together for a meaningful shared experience.

Bruce Burniece brings a wide-ranging repertoire of 1,100 hit songs covering over seven decades to Bogart's Entertainment Center. The show welcomes requests and encourages singing along and dancing, creating an interactive experience. Recognized for standout showmanship that audiences remember, he performs at more than 100 shows across Minnesota and Wisconsin each year.

Race Day #14 is the next event in the lineup, showcasing competitive racing.

Experience a welcoming celebration of holistic wellness in Lakeville at Holiday Inn & Suites Minneapolis - Lakeville. More than 40 vendors and practitioners come together with natural and alternative offerings, including herbal solutions, local raw unfiltered honey, crystals, essential oils, and organic goods, along with services such as energy work, wellness coaching, and psychic readings. A group mediumship gallery and free speaker sessions are part of the day. Admission is $5, and free workshops are available. Gift bags will be offered to the first 20 guests during two giveaway windows.

Long Time Gone returns to Glewwe Castle Brewery near Prior Lake. The venue now features a newly built pavilion that provides shade and shelter, offering a refreshed setting for the show at a spot the band frequents.

Becoming Her is a women’s retreat shaped as an afternoon of reflection and renewal. It offers space to slow down, reconnect with yourself, let go of limiting patterns, and move into the next phase of life with intention. The experience encourages treating this season as a natural reset instead of waiting for the new year, with a focus on making time for personal growth and self care. Attendance is limited.

Set at the Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club, this sporting clays gathering blends friendly competition with opportunities to connect. All skill levels are welcome, and no prior experience is required. Participants may shoot as part of their own team or be matched with one. The day features time on the course, followed by a happy hour, dinner, and an awards presentation. Registration is required. Platinum sponsors include Collins Aerospace, EFH Co., and Kraus-Anderson, with Wellington Management as the Gold sponsor.

Strengthen your center and move with intention at a Pilates session focused on precise, repeated movements, mindful breathing, and full-body engagement. An experienced instructor leads a sequence that begins with foundational work and offers optional challenges to enhance core power, flexibility, and alignment. Suitable for beginners and seasoned practitioners. Participants should bring a mat. Open to ages 16 and older. Pricing is $15 for members and $20 for non-members. The planned setting is Central Plaza, with Discovery Bay serving as the backup location in case of inclement weather. Instruction is provided by Hailey Hass of Hailey’s Pilates and Club Pilates.

Downtown Farmington becomes the hub for a series of community gatherings that highlight what makes the town unique. Each event features live performances, showcases from local businesses, and plenty of good food in a welcoming setting for all ages. Organized by area businesses in collaboration with the Farmington Economic Development Agency, the focus is on supporting the community, connecting neighbors, and creating lively downtown experiences throughout the season. Details on featured musicians and special attractions will be shared soon.

Daniel Nathan performs a classic rock set spanning the 1960s through the 1990s at Brianno's Chart House.

This P.E.O. fundraiser movie night features The Post (2018), a newsroom drama that follows publisher Katharine Graham and editor Ben Bradlee as they navigate a pivotal First Amendment battle to publish government secrets while striving to keep pace with The New York Times. The evening includes a social hour followed by the screening. Tickets are $21.50 and include a $1.50 processing fee. Proceeds benefit P.E.O. Chapter AR, supporting its long-standing tradition of awarding scholarships to Faribault’s female graduates pursuing post-secondary education. P.E.O. is a sisterhood dedicated to celebrating, supporting and motivating women through education.

Now in its sixth year, this same-gender partner throwdown returns to CrossFit Templar with four divisions and fresh ways to compete. Teams of two choose RX, Intermediate, Masters, or Scaled. The Masters field follows intermediate skills with age rules that require each athlete to be at least 35 and the pair’s combined age to be 80 or more. Capacity is set at 60 teams, and divisions may close as they fill to keep the day moving efficiently. Programming blends classic and modern tests. One workout pairs rowing for calories with rounds of the DT barbell complex, with both teammates working at the same time and a score that combines rower calories and total barbell reps. Another AMRAP varies by division and mixes Echo bike calories, dumbbell snatches, and a pulling skill that ranges from bar muscle ups to chest-to-bar or jumping pull ups depending on the division. All divisions perform a hang snatch with three attempts per athlete. A toes-to-bar and thruster piece will be unveiled later to keep some suspense in the mix. Athlete perks include a shirt or tank plus swag, with music from a professional DJ and photographers capturing the action for post-event galleries. Volunteers receive a shirt, swag, and meals. Onsite options feature treats and fuel from Sticks the Ice Pop Shop, Caffeination Station, and Nautical Bowls, along with gear from Thiccboi and athlete care from Wild Fox Massage and HealthPro Chiropractic. Spectators are welcome at no charge, parking is plentiful, and teams often set up tents between heats. Early team entry is priced at 160 dollars and the regular rate is 190 dollars per team. Tie breaks are decided by head-to-head results, then most event wins, then total time across workouts when time is used as a score. Division standards and additional details will be shared through event channels as the competition approaches.

Now in its fifth year, this Apple Valley fall craft and gift expo offers free admission and features a broad mix of vendors and creators. Browse handmade pieces, upcycled and repurposed items, artwork, baked goods, photography, and products from direct sales representatives, along with offerings from small and home-based businesses. It is a chance to explore distinctive, quality goods with friends.

Stop #8 in The Playground Hangout Pack Summer Tour wraps up with a casual meetup at Bourbon Butcher. Enjoy time together with optional food and drinks at your own cost, and feel free to bring dogs if you like. Seating may be split among tables, and Rodney and Kristin will circulate so everyone can connect with the pet parents their dogs spend time with. To help with planning, contact the organizer one week in advance to request a reservation, and you can also mark yourself as Going on the event. Attendees with branded shirts, hats, or jackets are encouraged to wear them, and referral cards and business cards will be available. Branded T-shirts, hoodies, and long-sleeve shirts are available in the Food Area, with purchasing handled via Venmo. The goal is to highlight the growing community that gathers at The Playground and also takes the fun on the road.

Next Stop Comedy brings stand-up to Angry Inch Brewing in Lakeville, featuring a fresh lineup of comedians at every show. Look for performers with television and podcast credits in a local brewery setting.

Championship Race Day takes place as Race Day 15 of the 2026 season.

The final Sunday Funday of the year offers a relaxed environment to build skills behind the wheel and log plenty of seat time. It is designed with beginners in mind while welcoming anyone eager to get on track. The day includes gate entry and tech inspection, a drivers meeting, and on-track sessions that begin after the meeting and continue until the track goes cold. Pricing is $50 for a drift pass and $20 for general admission, with free entry for kids 12 and under.

Enjoy a laid-back day of tabletop gaming at the shop. A selection of board games will be set out across multiple tables for casual play. Attendees may also bring their own favorites to share with the group.

Learn practical mindfulness techniques to connect with the natural world while exploring your own inner nature. After an introduction to basic practices, participants are guided through an immersive experience to apply those skills. The session is designed to broaden awareness, sharpen focus, engage the senses, and open the heart. It aims to nurture a deeper appreciation for nature and to cultivate compassion for animals, other people, and oneself. No previous experience is required. If you would like to write or sketch after class, please bring a journal. Instruction runs about one hour, with an additional 15 minutes before and after to gather, walk, prepare, and wrap up. Open to ages 16 and older. The program meets in Central Plaza or Discovery Bay. Member fee is $15 and the non-member fee is $20. Led by Richard Bonk, who holds a Master of Education in Counseling, has more than 30 years of experience in healthcare, is a longtime member of Common Ground Meditation with over 40 years of mindfulness practice, and is also an artist and lifelong naturalist.

This drop-in lab, led by Library Technician Bob Latchaw in the 3rd Floor Makerspace, offers a welcoming introduction to 3D printing and to preparing digital models for successful prints. Participants can ask questions, get guidance from a specialist, and connect with other creators. All ages and experience levels are welcome.

This gentle yin yoga session centers on self compassion and deep rest. Kate guides the practice alongside a sound bath created with Tibetan singing bowls. Supportive props are provided, and no prior yoga experience is needed. Pricing options are $15 for a single session or $65 for a six-class series. Registration is available.

Auditions are being held for Sherlock Holmes and the 1st Baker Street Irregular, a Marquee Children’s Theatre educational production written by Brian Guehring and directed by Kathy Rush. This marks the first fall educational production for the company. Casting is open to actors ages 12 to 16 representing all ethnicities, genders, and abilities. The story follows Wiggins, a young pickpocket who crosses paths with Sherlock Holmes in disguise and rallies a group of street kids to help unravel classic Conan Doyle mysteries. Students selected for the cast are assessed a $100 tuition fee, with scholarships available upon request. Rehearsals are planned in advance of scheduled performances. Season support comes from The Bahl Foundation and Southern Heights Dental Group, and the activity is supported by the Minnesota State Arts Board through the arts and cultural heritage fund.

Bruce brings a vast repertoire of 1,100 hit songs spanning more than seven decades. He invites requests and encourages singing along and dancing, turning the show into a shared experience. Known for dynamic showmanship, he has earned a reputation for performances that audiences remember. Each year in April and December, he performs more than 100 shows across Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The Brothers Allmanac honors the legacy of the Allman Brothers with a faithful, high-energy tribute that channels Southern rock at its finest. Expect tight twin-guitar harmonies, soulful vocals, and expansive improvisation as they bring both beloved hits and deeper cuts to life. Celebrated for standout appearances on notable stages, the group captures the feel of the original band while keeping the music vibrant and dynamic. Tickets are $23.50 for members, $28.50 for non-members, and $18.50 for students, with a $1.50 processing fee included in each price.

South Alexander Park hosts the fifth annual charity car show featuring a classic slingshot Hemi dragster start up, custom trophies by Lazarus Garage, multiple food trucks, and an exhaust competition. Special guest judges include Simon Havican from Simon Says Garage, Jason Lee from Midwest Car Life, and Jeremy Weckman from Power Nation TV’s Carcus and XOR. Admission is $15 and there is no pre-registration. Entry fees are split between Patriot Assistance Dogs and Operation 23 to 0.

This casual Pokémon play and trade gathering brings back the feel of binder swapping and old-school games without sleeves. Participants of any age are welcome, and supervision for children is recommended, especially when trading. Staff will be available to look up card values and provide assistance, though help may be limited during busy periods. Private sales are not allowed, and only store-conducted transactions may occur. It offers a nostalgic space to trade, play, and perhaps find the perfect Pokémon for a collection.

New to the One Piece game or looking to sharpen your play? This learn-to-play session offers a friendly setting to get started or refine the basics. Starter decks are available to try before deciding to buy, and in-stock decks can be purchased to take home and customize. Open to players of all experience levels.

A members Halloween game day features a costume class. Those interested in joining can check it out to learn more. A meeting will follow later in the day.

Light up the night with a community ride that raises awareness for chronic illness, terminal illness, and disability. Everyone is welcome to participate on bikes, skates, skateboards, or on foot along a route of about 5 kilometers, roughly 3 miles. Festivities begin in the Bullseye Saloon backyard with a pre-party featuring a special guest DJ, followed by a neon-filled group ride through Elko, and then an after-party back at Bullseye with another guest DJ. Expect glowing gear, a face painter, and all you can eat pizza, along with high-energy fun and a message that shines bright. Event shirts will be available for purchase. Pricing is $50 per person, $150 for a family of four, $25 for ages 7 to 12, and free for children under 6. The Power of 10 Foundation is highlighted as a mission-driven nonprofit created from lived experience, compassion, and action. It supports individuals with serious and rare illnesses, with a focus on medically complex care, and embraces the belief that small acts multiplied by community can create powerful impact. The organization serves chronically ill, terminally ill, and disabled individuals by sending care packages, reaching 25,000 over eight years by the time of the event.

The day features a team-format golf scramble followed by a banquet dinner at Brackett's Crossing Country Club. The event raises funds for the iColin Classic, a foundation created to honor Colin Farbotko. Proceeds support two beneficiaries, the ALS Association and the Colin Y. Farbotko Memorial Scholarship at Luther College.

Keep your bike running smoothly with a basic maintenance clinic focused on everyday upkeep. Instruction covers cleaning and polishing the frame, degreasing and lubricating the chain, and repairing a flat tire. Registration is managed by Lakeville Parks and Recreation, and a sign-up link will be added to the event once it is available.

Chandler's Conceal & Carry offers a MN, WI, and FL permit to carry course at Ahlman's Gun Range in Morristown, MN. This one day training welcomes beginners and experienced shooters, and no hunter safety certification or prior firearms experience is required. Participants receive classroom instruction followed by a brief live fire exercise. The course prepares attendees to apply for or renew a Minnesota Permit to Carry, which is recognized in 36 states. Tuition is $95 and includes the range fee. All essentials are provided, including required forms and applications, eye and ear protection, a target, and the use of a handgun with ammunition at no extra cost.

Paint a peaceful Northwoods lakeside scene with instructor Peggy Paulson in a guided class for ages 14 and up. Working step by step, you will create a rustic log cabin nestled among tall pines on a quiet point, mirrored in the calm surface of a classic Minnesota lake. Experience is not required, and the painting is completed in about three to four hours. Along the way, learn techniques for glowing skies, reflective water, rich evergreen textures, and warm natural light on the cabin. All materials are provided, including paints, brushes, and canvas, so you only need to bring creativity. Everyone leaves with a finished 11x14 painting and a printed handout that outlines the full process, plus added confidence in color mixing, composition, and brushwork. The class suits beginners and hobbyists, works well for date nights and team outings, and appeals to anyone who loves Minnesota’s lake country. Tuition is $62 for members and $70 for non-members, and the supply fee is included. Seating is limited.

Back for its second year in Farmington, the Brews and Backroads Festival is a one day celebration of community, live music, local flavors, and fall fun. The creators of Ramble Jam are elevating the experience with even more to enjoy out on the backroads. Presented in partnership by Farmington Rotary and Crazy Legs Farm & Pumpkins, it spotlights local connections and a distinctly Farmington spirit.

Landon and Charlotte will be at Stein Haus for an appearance.

Enjoy a community-focused burger dinner that supports the Northfield Women’s Center. The menu features a customizable burger bar, fries, and the Lighthouse sundae, with tickets priced at $20. Organized by Lighthouse Kitchen & Café in partnership with the Farmington VFW, this Lighthouse Fundraising Event brings people together over a thoughtfully prepared meal while supporting local efforts. A portion of each ticket and gratuities given on site go directly to the featured organization, and the evening offers a warm setting to connect with others who care about strengthening the community.

Neon-LIVE brings The Super Trouper ABBA Tribute Show to Brianno's Chart House for a high-energy celebration of one of the most popular groups of all time. The performance features a full live band with sound and lighting, dancing, and ABBA-inspired fashion. The set spans more than 20 hits, from Mamma Mia to Waterloo, creating an immersive nod to the disco era. Attendees can wear a disco costume or come as they are. Founded in 2015 by Garrett Steinberg, Leah Shanks, Mikey Much, Bill Tourville, Jessica Kaye, and Johnny Moeller, Neon-LIVE later added Logan Burns, Cayle Wendorf, and Julia Hilfer. With piano, vocals, guitars, and drums, the group performs in settings ranging from intimate celebrations to large festivals.

A restorative weekend is thoughtfully crafted to help you soften, breathe, and reconnect with your own radiance. This gentle, nourishing retreat blends movement, mindfulness, and meaningful reflection so you can honor your journey and rekindle your spirit, remembering the light that already lives within you. Over three days, immerse yourself in unhurried time outdoors among trees and grasses, opportunities to move, reflect, and reconnect, and intimate gatherings lit by candlelight. Nourishing meals, a sauna, a hot tub, and walking trails support your rest and renewal. The program features soul-nurturing sessions that may include meditation, yoga, reiki, exploration of the chakras, healing tinctures, astrology, sound healing, and more.

Lakeville Cheerleading hosts cheer teams from across the metro area for its annual competition at Lakeville North High School, sponsored by J & D Boat Rental. The event showcases a full slate of spirited routines as teams demonstrate their skills and teamwork. Spectators can pick up a cheer gram for a favorite athlete, browse a variety of onsite vendors, and visit concessions for food and refreshments. Vendor space is available for this event. For details about participating as a vendor, email lakevillecheerbooster@gmail.com.

Next Stop Comedy brings stand-up to Angry Inch Brewing in Lakeville, Minnesota. Each show features a different lineup, including comedians seen on TV and heard on popular podcasts.

Hosted at the Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club, the 5th Annual NARI Cares Clay Shoot offers fun, friendly competition, and a chance for contractors and trade partners to connect.

Closer to Indigo appears at the Lakeville Area Arts Center for the first time, extending its reach into the south metro. Admission is $15, and a ticket purchase link will be provided soon.

The third annual Fari "BOO" Bar Crawl brings a festive, costume-focused night to historic downtown Faribault, raising funds for the Paradise Center for the Arts. Registration takes place at the Paradise with a $12 entry fee per person, which includes a $1.50 processing fee. To compete in the costume contest, participants visit all of the participating bars for judging, and winners are announced in the Paradise auditorium. Participants must be 21 or older. The event is presented in collaboration with the Historic Downtown Faribault Committee.

A live auction with a real-time online simulcast showcases early consignments that include signs, lanterns, lamps, artwork, photographs, calendars, locks and keys, dining car pieces, telegraphy items, and more. Bidders can take part in person or participate remotely, and shipping is available worldwide. A complete catalog will be published two weeks in advance.

This fall event brings together many talented vendors. Browse and stock up on preserves, freshly baked bread, and more.

Quinn Dale takes the stage at Bogart's Entertainment Center for an evening of stand-up that mixes fearless humor with quick wit. Followed by more than a million fans online and supported by a development deal with 20th Century Fox, Quinn has appeared on The Tonight Show and Comedy Central, with additional credits on Showtime and with Carson Daly. Originally from Minnesota and now based in Los Angeles, his material bridges generations and backgrounds, weaving sharp observations on race and politics into a shared celebration of laughter. A signature part of the show is his in-the-moment crowd work, creating spontaneous interactions that make every set feel unique. This event takes place rain or shine. All sales are final and nonrefundable.

Joseph Hall, a finalist on NBC's America's Got Talent, presents Reflections of the King, an Elvis tribute that celebrates the music and legacy of the King of Rock and Roll. This upbeat show invites sing-alongs to beloved hits and offers a sincere salute to Elvis Presley. Elvis Presley Enterprises recognizes Hall as one of today’s leading Elvis tribute performers. Some audience members may even go home with a teddy bear or a scarf. The experience is designed for all ages. Tickets are Member $28.50, Non-Member $33.50, and Students $23.50, with a $1.50 processing fee included. Sponsored by Fette Electronics.

In its second year, the Cougar Craft Fair fills Lakeville South High School with more than 70 vendors showcasing ceramics, jewelry, woodwork, and other unique handmade creations from local artisans. The fair offers a wide range of finds for personal use or early holiday gifting. Proceeds benefit the band programs and the event helps build community.

Chandler's Conceal & Carry is offering a MN/WI/FL permit to carry course at Ahlman's Gun Range. This one day class provides everything needed to apply for or renew a Minnesota permit to carry, with reciprocity in 36 states. No prior firearms experience or hunter safety certification is required, and all experience levels are welcome. Instruction wraps up with a brief live fire session. The fee is $95 and includes the range fee. All materials and equipment are supplied, including required forms and applications, eye and ear protection, a target, and the use of a handgun with ammunition at no extra cost.

Celebrate the launch of Amy Lynn Green’s new book, The Home Front Sisters. She shares an inside look at her writing process, highlighting the historical research involved and the challenges and joys of crafting a World War II reimagining of Little Women. A question and answer session follows the talk, and a book signing will be available. It is a chance to discover your next read and meet a Minnesota author.

At Hope Ministries, an autumn market brings together a variety of vendors offering pantry favorites. Browse preserves, freshly baked bread, and more to take home.