Twin Cities weekend: Marathon, Oktoberfest, fall color rides, giant pumpkins
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Don't let the warm temperatures fool you — it's officially October, and fall activities are in full swing across the metro.
What's happening: Check out early fall colors from one of the highest elevations in Hennepin County this weekend at the return of Hyland Hills' chairlift rides up Mount Gilboa. $9.17
- The Minnesota Zoo's Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is also back now through Nov. 2, with thousands of hand-carved glowing pumpkins on the zoo's woodsy trail. $19-$30/person
- Prefer State Fair-sized gourds? Anoka's Great Pumpkin Expo will have giant ones on display this Sunday. Free
Plus: The 15th annual Twin Cities Oktoberfest, held at the fairgrounds on Friday and Saturday, will feature a multitude of local beers and German food vendors. Free entry
- Those looking for a sweeter beverage can check out Saturday's Orchard Bash at Minneapolis Cider Company, which includes hot mulled cider, apple-bobbing and carnival games. Free
More things to do ...
🎞️ Watch "wild, weird and wonderful" curated films from around the world at the inaugural MN Genre Film Exposition, hosted at AMC Rosedale this Friday and Saturday.
- Over 15 hours of features and shorts spanning numerous genres will be screened, with all-access and individual passes available. $15/film, $50 for five films, $60 for all-access
🎶 Swifties, you already know that Taylor is releasing her new album Friday — and if you want to celebrate, we have a roundup of watch parties, early listening events and even a "Life of a Showcat" bash featuring adoptable kittens. Prices vary
🎃 Visit the Halloween Capitol of the World at the Anoka Vintage Fest this Saturday. Over 50 vendors will set up shop selling clothing, furniture, collectibles and more in the middle of downtown — and ICYMI, you can drink alcohol as you shop. Free
🍅 Try the Twin Cities' best Bloody Marys at the annual Bloody Mary Festival at Union Depot this Sunday. Tickets include unlimited drinks from nearly 20 local bars and restaurants, plus small bites, live music and more. $48.18+
🏃 Cheer on runners this Sunday at the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon, which starts in downtown Minneapolis and winds around the Chain of Lakes, across the Mississippi River and throughout downtown St. Paul.
- Find ideal viewing spots via Meet Minneapolis. Free