Free events in Shakopee, MN

Minneapolis Parks horticulture staff lead monthly gardening at Victory Memorial Garden, with activities based at the Victory Flagpole. Gloves and tools are provided for use during the session. Work continues in light rain and is paused or canceled if weather becomes severe. No prior experience is required, and the sessions welcome all skill levels.

The public is invited to donate used tech. Donated items will be refurbished and placed with students in Minnesota.

Free tables are set aside every Friday for board gaming. Bring a group, meet new players, or enjoy a solo session.

Settle in for tabletop fun that mixes cards, dice, careful strategy, and a splash of chaos. Bring a favorite game to share, or take a seat with other players and explore something new. This gathering is free and open to everyone. The table awaits and players can jump into the fun.

Babywearing Twin Cities presents a welcoming meeting at Young Dance in Saint Paul focused on safe, comfortable babywearing. On arrival, use the building keypad and search for Young Dance to be let in. Expect to sign in and check in any carriers, take part in introductions and a safety demonstration, and have questions answered individually or with the group. Participants can try different carriers from the lending library, and items may be checked out. This event is free and open to everyone, and membership is not required. For health considerations, please skip this meeting if you or your child are currently ill or have recently experienced a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you need to return a carrier, contact a leader to arrange an alternative.

This St Paul farmers' market features a rotating vendor lineup that varies with the season and may change. Vendors include Susan's Raw Honey Farm LLC, Bisek Bees Bakery, Amazing Momo, Koja's Café, Plant Bar Café, Nana's Kitchen MN, Better Baked, Vivienne's Lemon Story, Oishii Dog LLC, Bueling Enterprises, Costa Farm & Greenhouse, North Country Farm, PPK Acres/Piekarski Gardens, Addies Donuts / Popcorn, Angel Hang Produce, Mai's Birds & Veggies, Novak's Orchard, Utecht's Homegrown Pork, Ger Vue Produce, Home-Grown Vegetables, Xiong Family Farm, and Teng Yang Produce.

Howl-O-Ween fun awaits at the new Mississippi Gateway Regional Dog Park, featuring free activities for dogs. Snap spooky portraits at Pawtography, pick up a quick doodle of your dog from MNDoodleBooth, enjoy pup cup treats, let dogs play in the off-leash area, and listen to live music. Please review the dog park rules beforehand. A Three Rivers pass is not required.

Connect with neighbors while exploring Uptown on a relaxed group walk. Uptown United hosts the outing, beginning at Seven Points and heading out in small groups to wander parts of Hennepin, Lake, Lagoon, and Lyndale, with chances to discover new spots and enjoy a snack or drink along the way. No registration is required, and some participants choose to stay for dinner afterward.

Volunteers are needed to help build and paint the set. Helpers may contribute for any length of time and are welcome to invite friends. Optional items to bring include drills, a T25 bit, and gloves. This work session includes painting, and a signup is available.

Browse smoked nuts, smoked salts, and New York style bagels while exploring many vendors. The market takes place in downtown Prior Lake by Boathouse Brewery, Edelweiss Bakery, and Lakeside Treats, and those businesses are available during the market.

The second phase of the buckthorn removal effort picks up where work left off at Sunset Park. Volunteers will be organized into three groups so the process runs smoothly. Cutters will remove buckthorn, treaters will follow closely to apply triclopyr herbicide to freshly cut stumps within a short window, and haulers will move brush to a designated staging area, placing everything with the stumps facing the same direction for efficient chipping by city crews. Roles can rotate during the day so everyone has a chance to try different tasks, and native plant seeds will be spread in the treated areas. The city will provide herbicide, weed wrenches, buckthorn blaster applicators, high visibility safety vests, safety glasses, loppers, and some native seed. Water and snacks are planned, with coffee possible. Participants should come prepared with durable work clothing such as thick pants, sturdy closed toe shoes or boots, and work gloves, plus sunscreen and a hat. Dress for the weather and for thorny brush since buckthorn can scratch, and protecting eyes and skin is important. Bring water and additional snacks if desired. Electric or manual forestry and tree trimming tools are welcome, used with great care, and safety glasses are mandatory. A walkthrough of the plan and safety guidelines will take place before work begins.

Neighborhood Roots’s Southwest Farmers Market is a lively neighborhood market in South Minneapolis that showcases farm-fresh produce, meats and seafood, eggs, artisan cheeses, baked treats, flowers, handmade crafts, natural hygiene and body care items, pantry staples, and more from local farmers and makers. Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of ready-to-eat meals, fresh coffee, and refreshing beverages while they browse. Each market features live music from a rotating roster of local musicians and artists, creating a welcoming community atmosphere for all ages. The Power of Produce Club gives kids a chance to explore local foods through fun activities and includes a $2 token they can use to buy fresh fruits and vegetables.

Children’s Minnesota offers free car seat checkups to help families keep kids safe on the road. Certified technicians trained in car seat safety will examine your seat. The checkup is held at Richfield Fire Station No. 1. Registration is requested in advance by calling 612-813-6053 or emailing carseats@childrensmn.org.

This work day offers a mix of volunteer projects both indoors and outdoors. Please bring household cleaning supplies for indoor tasks, or gardening tools for outdoor cleanup. For more information, contact Patrick Kutzer.

Discover bargains and hidden gems at the 5th Annual Flea Market Event Show at West Side Ice Arena in St Paul. Public admission is free, and only vendors need to purchase tickets. Explore a lively mix of food trucks and stands, baked and cottage foods, brand-new and secondhand merchandise, handmade creations, vintage and antique finds, toys, and collectibles like Hot Wheels and Pokemon, along with a variety of reseller deals. The atmosphere is bustling and friendly, making it easy to browse, chat with vendors, network, and track down that special item you have been searching for.

Residents of Carver County can donate quality furniture at a free collection hosted by the City of Victoria with Carver County Environmental Services and Bridging. Bring clean mattresses and bed frames, sofas and chairs, tables and dressers, along with other approved furnishings, so they can support individuals and families establishing stable housing while keeping large reusable items out of the landfill. This outdoor drop-off is at the Victoria Recreation Center South parking lot. Items must be complete, in working order, and free of tears, stains, noticeable odors, and pet hair. Bridging staff will check donations on site and may turn away pieces that are not suitable for reuse. Review the accepted items list and size and condition guidelines on the event webpage before loading your vehicle. Bridging also accepts additional furniture and household goods throughout the year at its Bloomington, Plymouth, and Roseville warehouses. If weather conditions make it unsafe to proceed, a cancellation notice will appear on the event webpage.

Enjoy a free outdoor Nia class on the grass at Hidden Falls Regional Park, co-taught by Beth Giles and Andrea Weiss and offered through St. Paul Fitness in the Park. Nia blends nine movement forms from dance, martial arts, and healing arts, inviting participants of all ages and fitness levels to move the whole body in a sustainable way that emphasizes joy and comfort. The experience can be a vigorous aerobic workout or an easy, gentle practice, guided by the intensity you choose. Parking is available next to the picnic pavilion at the North Gate entrance off Mississippi River Blvd. The class meets in the little valley just below the picnic pavilion. Wear comfortable clothing. Nia is typically practiced barefoot, though clean, soft-soled shoes are also an option. Bring a water bottle and a mat or towel for the end of class. Bug spray and sunscreen are provided. Donations are optional and may be made with cash, Venmo, or by using class packages on Momence.

Enjoy a family-friendly storytelling session at Badger Hill Brewing featuring teller Jen Scott. Admission is free. Families and story lovers of all ages can sip a warm beverage, have a snack, and meet SAM members who enjoy engaging young audiences.

Celebrate the season at Lynde Greenhouse & Nursery with a family friendly festival where admission is free. Enjoy a fall themed photo spot, a bonfire with apple cider, pumpkin bowling, a scavenger hunt, and a selection of food trucks along with vendors. Try painting a pumpkin for a $5 fee, with the pumpkin provided, and look for additional seasonal activities. Remember to bring a camera for photos.

Cloudy, yellowed, or scratched headlights can be refreshed at this complimentary restoration event. The process includes a careful wash, progressive sanding with increasingly fine grits to clear haze and surface marks, followed by a UV-protective coating to help guard against sun-related discoloration. Advance registration is required, and each appointment lasts about 45 minutes. If the weather is unfavorable, plans may be adjusted.

This community open house welcomes kids, families, scout groups, and neighborhood organizations for a hands-on look at fire and safety. Meet firefighters and CIRT K9 Marshall, climb inside real fire trucks, and try on the protective gear used on the job. Activities include an inflatable bounce house and a fire extinguisher simulator. Safety learning covers smoke alarm tips and information, and there is an opportunity to learn about Community Connect. There will be live demonstrations, along with door prizes and activities designed for all ages.

A free community repair clinic takes place at Saint Stephen Lutheran Church, where participants bring broken household items and work side by side with friendly, skilled volunteers to diagnose issues and make repairs when possible. Items commonly brought include small appliances, clean clothing, electronics, mobile devices and more. Service is first come, first served, and no advance registration is required. Attendees learn hands-on troubleshooting and basic repair skills, build community connections, and help keep repairable items out of the trash. Volunteer opportunities are available.

Fiddler Mary DuShane, admired for her range across many fiddling styles and as a well-known presence in the music community, leads a performance in old St. Paul. She will be joined by Mikkel Bee, Dick Danaher, and Nicholas Jordan, performing in changing lineups. There is no cover; a free will offering will be collected, and all proceeds go to the musicians. Attendees are invited to bring a food or drink item to share.

At the Golden Valley Farmers Market, a vendor will offer fresh-baked sourdough loaves, baguettes, and a few sweet treats. Bread tends to sell quickly, so availability may be limited. Support local makers, enjoy the community atmosphere, and take home something delicious.

Introduce your child to lacrosse at a free beginner clinic at the FHS turf field. The session is led by the FHS girls and boys lacrosse coaches and players, creating a welcoming space to explore the sport. Kids do not need to bring equipment or have any prior experience, and the focus is on fun, community, and trying something new.

A lively farmers market with a weekly rotation of about fifty vendors, including growers, specialty food producers, chefs, and artists, accompanied by live music. It runs in all weather and is set in the parking lot of Settergrens of Linden Hills.

Give last year’s outfit a second life at the Edina Halloween Costume Swap at Edinborough Park. Bring costumes your household has outgrown or is ready to pass along, then browse for a new-to-you look for Halloween. The swap is free and open to everyone. Costumes can be dropped off in advance at Edina Fire Station 2 or brought directly to the event. Participants can trade, explore the selection, and help great costumes make the rounds again.

Affordable, inclusive Kung Fu training centered on practical self defense, open to adults and teens in a supportive environment. New participants are welcome to observe a session or take a complimentary first class. Instruction draws from the Southern Dragon tradition through the Yinglong approach, focusing on personal safety with principles of being practical, efficient, and effective. Movements emphasize direct, simple, and powerful techniques while maintaining the graceful, mindful, and disciplined qualities of Kung Fu. The practice is designed to enhance everyday life as well as personal protection. Information about costs after the free trial is available on the organizer’s website.

The Second Sunday fire and flow jam returns to Dragons Lair Performing Arts for a relaxed, practice-focused gathering. Spectators are welcome to watch, and experienced spinners can take part. Those planning to spin should bring their own fire props and fuel. Admission is free, and parking is free with plenty of space. This is not a performance or a party, but a community practice for people with some flow arts or fire experience, with safety support available for those who are newer. Start times shift with the season and sunset, so plan with that in mind. Bring friends, capture the moments, and enjoy an evening of movement and light.

This gathering honors Ȟaȟá Wakpádaŋ (Bassett Creek) with a water blessing and educational activities, and it also recognizes Indigenous Peoples’ Day with song and a land acknowledgment. Indigenous participants will share ways to care for the lands and waters of Mni Sóta Makoce (Minnesota). The event takes place at Westwood Hills Nature Center in Minneapolis. It will proceed rain or shine, is free to attend, family friendly, and accessible. Attendees may bring chairs, blankets, and water bottles. Registration is optional. Appreciation is extended to cultural advisors Bradley Blackhawk (Ho-Chunk), Darlene St. Clair (Dakota), Jim Rock (Dakota), and Roxanne Gould (Anishinaabe). Funding is provided by the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission, the City of Golden Valley Environmental Commission, and Valley Community Presbyterian Church. Additional support comes from the City of Golden Valley Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission, the City of Minnetonka Historical Society, the City of St. Louis Park, Hennepin History Museum, Golden Valley Historical Society, Minnesota Repair Communities, Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, Plymouth History Center, Robbinsdale Historical Society, St. Louis Park Historical Society, The Loppet, Three Rivers Park District, Valley Community Presbyterian Church, and Westwood Nature Center.

Drag Queen Bingo hosted by Jamie Monroe takes place at James Ballentine "Uptown" VFW - Post 246 in Minneapolis. There is no cover charge. The event is sponsored by Absolut and features $5 Absolut drinks. Arrive early to secure a seat.

This free, drop-in social welcomes LGBTQ+ adults and allies aged 62 and older. Connect with peers in a warm, affirming setting, share a meal and conversation, and leave feeling more connected. These monthly gatherings focus on community and easygoing interaction, and an RSVP is not required. Please note that photography, audio, and video recording may occur; if you prefer not to appear in photos or recordings at any time, you can step aside or let a staff member know, no explanation needed.

Feeding Frogtown Meal Meetings brings the community together in Saint Paul with six public locations operating on Tuesdays. Meals come from local Frogtown restaurants, including Cheng Heng Restaurant and Milton’s Halal Market & Deli. The effort is presented in partnership with the Frogtown Neighborhood Association, Kitchen Coalition of Second Harvest Heartland, the Sanneh Foundation, and dedicated community members and volunteers. Addresses and specific hours are listed on the event flyer.

Yinglong offers affordable, inclusive Kung Fu instruction rooted in the Southern Dragon tradition with a strong emphasis on practical self defense. Adults and teens of all experience levels are welcome in a supportive, safety minded environment. Prospective students may observe a session or take a complimentary first class before deciding on ongoing training, and details about pricing after the trial are available through the tickets link. Lessons prioritize practicality, efficiency, and effectiveness, featuring direct, simple, and powerful techniques while preserving the art’s graceful, mindful, and disciplined qualities. Training is designed to build personal safety skills and support fitness goals in a way that enhances everyday life.

Elmer L. Andersen Library in Minneapolis hosts a hybrid celebration honoring artist, author, and woodblock printmaker Betsy Bowen as the recipient of the Kerlan Award. The event is free and open to all, with registration required for both in-person and online participation. The program recognizes Bowen’s achievements in children’s literature and her contributions to the Kerlan Collection, followed by a reception and book signing, with book sales provided by Red Balloon Bookshop. Based in Grand Marais, Minnesota, Bowen is known for her close connection to the North Shore and the Boundary Waters. Through hand-carved woodblock prints, she has captured the changing seasons and rugged landscapes of northern Minnesota with bold lines and rich textures, highlighting local plants, wildlife, and traditional woodcraft. Her books include Antler, Bear, Canoe: A Northwoods Alphabet Year, Twelve Owls, and Big Belching Bog, and her illustrations have helped connect readers of all ages to the region’s environment. Presented annually, the Kerlan Award honors outstanding contributions to the creation of children’s literature and acknowledges the donation of distinctive materials to UMN’s Kerlan Collection. The Children’s Literature Research Collections, home to the Kerlan Collection, preserves books, manuscripts, illustrations, comic books, story papers, and other resources that document the making of children’s literature and is recognized as a leading repository in the field.

A special performance at Minnesota Music Cafe in Saint Paul features guest artist Chris Bates. Admission is free.

This event focuses on wildlife friendly care of a prairie garden and the rhythms of tending it through the seasons. Tools, gloves, and snacks are provided, and everyone is welcome. Stalks are left standing over winter to support birds with seeds and to shelter native pollinators that overwinter in the soil or within hollow stems. Trimming typically waits until temperatures reach about 50 degrees. Planting emphasizes perennials, with most work planned for late spring and occasional replacements as needed.

An open, social session for painting, building, and other personal projects. Beginners can get friendly guidance, and experienced hobbyists can connect with a welcoming creative community. The gathering is free to attend, and bringing outside food is allowed.

This weekly free community group run starts at PRG and offers 4- and 6-mile routes. Paces range from walking or jogging to about 9 minutes per mile. A headlamp is needed at least through February, along with a smile. Friends are welcome.

Trivia Mafia brings bar trivia to the VFW Karaoke Bar inside James Ballentine "Uptown" VFW - Post 246. Prizes include gift cards to the Uptown VFW, and the bar features a $5 Jack Daniels special with original, Tennessee Fire, Tennessee Honey, and Tennessee Apple. No cover.

Transmission is a longstanding club night at the Uptown VFW for people who enjoy a wide-ranging soundtrack, blending new wave, indie rock, Britpop, funk, garage, punk, post-punk, synth-pop and electro with plenty in between. There is no cover charge. The vibe also lives on the air as a weekly program on Minnesota Public Radio’s 89.3 The Current, featuring a fresh theme each week.

In Burnsville, MN, this farmers' market brings together a broad mix of vendors throughout the season. The lineup features Susan's Raw Honey Farm LLC, Bisek Bees Bakery, Laila's Pizza, Eggroll Queen, Great Harvest, Bueling Enterprises, Aspen Ridge Honey, North Country Farm, Kettle Heads, Lorence's Berry Farm, Nutri-Harvest Farms, Ruhland Strudel Haus, Yang's Produce, Ray Sell Produce, Boua Sao Thao Produce, Der Thao Perduce, Utecht's Homegrown Pork, Boon Yang Vang Produce, Hmong Handicrafts Produce, Mai Vang Produce, Home-Grown Vegetables, Lor Yang Produce, Y and Y Produce, Judy Yang Fresh Vegetables, Mai's Garden, MCL Greenhouse & Farm LLC, Teng Yang Produce, Dave Nelson Greenhouse, Novak's Orchard, Pflaum Farms, and Jerry Xiong- Produce and Flowers. The roster can vary with the season.

Get help ensuring your child’s car seat is properly set up. Arrive with your car seat or booster already installed, and bring the seat’s instruction manual along with your vehicle manual. Walk-ins are accepted, though making an appointment is preferred. To schedule a car seat check, call 612-813-6053.

Children’s Minnesota hosts a free car seat checkup in Edina, where certified child passenger safety technicians inspect your car seat and provide guidance to ensure proper installation and fit. The event takes place at Edina Fire Station No. 2. Registration is requested; to reserve a time or ask questions, call 612-813-6053 or email carseats@childrensmn.org.

Test your music knowledge at Badger Hill Brewing with a Music Bingo night built around a Music Mashup theme. It is free to play and includes prize opportunities. Kailee hosts by playing songs while participants scan their bingo sheets for the listed artist or title and mark any matches. Enjoy a brew as you play and take part in an easy, music-filled twist on classic bingo in the taproom.

This honky tonk dance night at Cowboy Jacks Downtown Minneapolis offers both partner-style and line dance formats, with lessons available in the Barn area. Admission is free, and attendees of all ages are welcome. It provides an easygoing setting to pick up new moves, share a laugh, and enjoy a honky tonk atmosphere.