Twin Cities Labor Day weekend: Dolly Parton night, Snoop Dogg, apple picking
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Minneapolis Community Education registration opened this week — but if your dream class filled up too fast, there are still chances to try a new-to-you hobby for cheap.
- Here are some of my picks for introductory, low-commitment classes this weekend.
🏺 Try your hand at pottery with Dame Errant Clay in Minneapolis on Friday night. This two-hour, beginner-friendly lesson will teach participants the basics of wheel throwing without the commitment of a multiweek course. $85, includes materials
💃 Take a beginner swing dance class with Twin Cities Swing on Saturday night in St. Paul. A live big band and open dance floor follows. $16 general admission
🎲 Go beyond Settlers of Catan at Games by James' board game night in Richfield on Saturday. New and classic games will be provided, and staff are on hand to teach the rules and answer questions. Ages 10 and up welcome. Free
🐉 Interested in Dungeons & Dragons? Wyldwolf Games in Coon Rapids is hosting free learn-to-play sessions for kids, adults and families on Saturday afternoon. No supplies necessary — just show up. Free, registration required
🌳 Learn the art of bonsai at Chaska garden center The Mustard Seed's workshop Sunday morning. Participants will prune, report and wire a Boxwood shrub they can later take home. $80 for two classes. Part two is Sept. 13.
More things to do…
🪩 Raise a glass to an icon at A Night For Dolly, a happy hour hosted by Minneapolis' Aki's BreadHaus on Friday night.
- Patrons are encouraged to wear their tallest wig and "flashiest fit." Bring a children's book to donate for $1 off any drink. Free, tickets optional
🏇 Cheer on bull riders, barrel racers and steer wrestlers at the Pine City PRCA Rodeo Friday-Sunday.
- Expect classic rodeo competitions for all ages — including a few you can enter day-of — along with live music and, of course, a mechanical bull. $24.64 ages 13 and up, $9.79 ages 3-12.
🍎 Get a head start on fall fun at a pick-your-own apple orchard this weekend. Pleasant Valley Orchard & Cidery in Shafer, Apple Jack Orchards in Delano and Pine Tree Apple Orchard in White Bear Lake all open for the season on Saturday. Free entry
- Audrey's recommendation: Aamodt's Apple Farm near Stillwater is my personal favorite in the metro. Don't skip their homemade apple pie!
🎶 Want to see a concert on Saturday night? Snoop Dogg comes to Treasure Island Resort & Casino ($90.60, 50% discounts available), TLC and Salt-N-Pepa are at the Grandstand ($67.75+) and Creed takes over Mystic Lake Amphitheater ($40.50+)
- If you prefer something low-key, Music in the Garden returns to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum on Sunday afternoon, featuring local quintet Prior Lake Brass. Included with daily admission ($20 ages 16 and up in advance)
🏆 Audrey's weekend pick: If you're at the Fair on Sunday night, do not miss the Amateur Talent Contest. In 2024, I watched two tweens do pogo stick stunts while dressed as Mario and Luigi. 10/10 experience — and it's included with your fair ticket!