Twin Cities weekend: Winter solstice, cathedral concert, competitive puzzling
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Illustration: Maura Kearns/Axios
Light up one of the longest nights of the year this Saturday at the Winter Solstice Lantern Parade, a community gathering celebrating the beginning of astronomical winter.
Driving the news: In the Heart of the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre and other local arts organizations will wind their way around Powderhorn carrying lanterns and larger-than-life puppets, like those seen at the MayDay Parade.
- Folks will then gather at the Powderhorn Park Rec Center for soup and socializing.
Details: 6-9pm Saturday, 15th Avenue South, Minneapolis. Free and all ages.
- Note: The actual solstice occurs at 9:03am Sunday.
More things to do ...
⛪️ The Cathedral of Saint Paul is hosting its annual Christmas Together concerts at 2pm and 7pm Friday, featuring performances by eight musicians and the Saint Cecilia Children's Choir (7pm show only). $12.51
🧩 Bring the whole family to Brooklyn Park Friday night for an all-ages, multigenerational competitive puzzle race.
- Teams of up to six people will build a 350-piece jigsaw puzzle that has large and small pieces for all ages to work together. $10 per family
⛸️ Sharpen your skates — Minneapolis' outdoor ice rinks are expected to open this Saturday, Dec. 20.
- Sorry St. Paul, no word yet on your opening date.
🎁 Missed someone on your gift list? Head to Nicollet Island Saturday for the Last Chance Market, featuring 50 vendors and convenient on-site gift wrapping. Free
🎶 Sing "Jingle Bells" with a pint of Guinness in hand Sunday afternoon at the Holiday Carol Pub Sing, hosted by Merlin's Rest in Minneapolis. All ages welcome, but get there early if you want a guaranteed seat. Free
🎺 Jitterbug on the dance floor at Minneapolis Cider Company's swing dancing night on Sunday. Beasley's Big Band will provide live music and introductory lessons are offered 30 minutes before the night begins. $10
