Twin Cities weekend guide: Ren Fest, K-pop convention, outdoor opera
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Huzzah! The Minnesota Renaissance Festival's 55th season has arrived with plenty of special events, themed activities and of course, turkey legs.
What's happening: Saturday and Sunday's theme is Highland Fling, inspired by "Scottish tradition and revelry."
- The day begins with strength competitions like open stone putts and heavy hammer throws before moving to Irish dance performances, kilt competitions and Scotch egg eating contests.
The latest: If you want to duel in a safe environment, the fair just added a Cardboard Combat Pit, where kids can battle boss monsters or each other — all strictly moderated by Adventures in Cardboard staff.
Be smart: Parking passes are required to park on festival grounds ($15 in advance, $30 day-of), or you can use one of the eight Park and Ride lots ($6 for a round trip).
- 9am–7pm Saturday and Sunday. Rain or shine. $26.95–$29.95 ages 13 and up, $16.95–$19.95 ages 5–12.
More weekend fun...
🦐 Did you know August is crayfish party season in Sweden? Celebrate the occasion at the American Swedish Institute's annual event Friday night, where guests will sing drinking songs, don party hats and feast on a full crayfish dinner. Doors open at 6pm, tickets are $85.
🏎️ Cars and Caves takes over the Chanhassen AutoPlex Saturday morning with hundreds of classic, muscle, antique, street rod and exotic cars and motorcycles.
- This month's themed display will feature British cars; it's free to all and family-friendly, though donations to the event's nonprofit beneficiary are encouraged. 9am–1pm, free entry.
🎤 Minnesota's largest K-pop event is back, and double the size.
- KPOP Minnecon takes over Saint Paul RiverCentre Saturday and Sunday with concerts, celebrity appearances, dance competitions, workshops, panels and community. Doors open at 10am, $30 for a one-day pass. Concert and meet-and-greet tickets sold separately.
🇮🇳 The Colors of Southeast Asia Fest also returns for its second year this Saturday in Brooklyn Park.
- The family-friendly event celebrates Southeast Asian traditions with performances, local vendors and cultural experiences. 12–6pm, free.
🦮 Does your dog need some serious exercise? Twin Cities Dog Powered Sports Group is hosting a beginner-friendly dryland mushing session in Lake Elmo Park Reserve on Sunday morning.
- Harnesses, lines and bikes will be available to borrow (with advance notice), and no prior experience is required. 8am, $5 donation requested.
🛻 Swap the Grandstand for a truck bed at this Sunday's edition of "The Pickup Truck Opera," a touring outdoor production by Twin Cities-based theater company Mixed Precipitation.
- The company's "futuristic version" of "Tales of Hoffmann" will be performed in Loring Park's Garden of the Seasons on Sunday at 5pm. Free, donations welcome