Community Reporter

Downtown Action Series
2026-02-19 16:30 - 18:00 (America/Chicago) | Union Depot
February 19. Union Depot, St. Paul. Free.

The Downtown Action Series continues through 2026 with free public events focused on civic engagement, community connection, and downtown vitality. Hosted at Union Depot, the series brings together residents, leaders, and organizations to explore ideas and initiatives shaping downtown St. Paul. Each event offers opportunities to learn, share perspectives, and connect with others invested in the future of the city. Open to all and free to attend.More info: stpaul.gov/department/city-council/ward-2

Great Chefs of Grand Avenue
2026-02-19 17:00 - 21:00 | Macalester College
February 19, 5:00-9:00 p.m. Macalester College. $150-$810.

Join us on February 19 for an upscale culinary experience that brings together the finest restaurants along St. Paul’s historic Grand Avenue. This one-of-a-kind event will celebrate the avenue’s rich diversity and charm while drawing community members from near and far to savor everything that makes Grand Avenue special. Beyond the food, the event fuels meaningful impact—proceeds support the Grand Avenue Business Association, beautification initiatives along the avenue, and the nonprofit Women’s Advocates. Great Chefs of Grand Avenue is where exceptional cuisine meets community, culture, and cause. More info and tickets at grandave.com/events/greatchefs.

Rethinking I-94 In-Person Public Meeting
2026-02-19 17:30 - 20:30
Thursday, Feb. 19, 5:30–8:30 p.m. Wilder Foundation, St. Paul. Free.

This in-person public meeting offers community members the opportunity to review project documents, speak with project representatives, and submit official public comments on the Rethinking I-94 Scoping Document and Environmental Assessment Worksheet. Interpretation services will be provided. Comments may be submitted in writing or through a court reporter. The public comment period remains open through March 9, 2026. Visit the Rethinking I-94 project website for details talk.dot.state.mn.us/rethinking-i94.

Highland Park Trivia Night
2026-02-19 18:30 - 21:00 | Highland National Golf Course
Thursday, February 19, 6:30 p.m. Highland National Golf Course. $50 per team.

Test your knowledge and support a local cause at Highland Park Trivia Night. Teams will compete for prizes while enjoying a fun, social evening benefiting the Highland District Council. Gather friends, neighbors, or coworkers to form a team and tackle questions across a range of topics. The event takes place at Highland National Golf Course and is designed for friendly competition and community connection. Advance registration is encouraged, as space may be limited.More info: highlanddistrictcouncil.org

Button Blitzing
2026-02-20 18:00 - 2026-03-13 22:00
Select dates Feb. 20–March 13, various Twin Cities locations.

Watch for members of the St. Patrick’s Association selling commemorative parade buttons across the metro. Each $5 button supports the parade and enters buyers into a $1,500 drawing. Schedule subject to change; follow the association on social media for locations or visit stpatsmn.org/event-calendar for more information.

Sounds of Blackness: Music for Martin
2026-02-20 19:30 - 21:00
Friday, Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m. Ordway Music Theater. Tickets start at $29.

The Grammy Award®-winning ensemble Sounds of Blackness returns to the Ordway with Music for Martin, a joyful tribute honoring Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Featuring gospel, spirituals, blues, and soul, the multimedia concert celebrates justice, empowerment, and resilience. Originally commissioned by the Ordway in 1988, the performance has become a beloved tradition. Presented during Black History Month, this concert honors both history and those carrying Dr. King’s legacy forward. Tickets at ordway.org.

History Forum 250: The Memory of ’76
2026-02-21 11:00 - 12:30
February 21, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Minnesota History Center. $20.

Historian Michael D. Hattem examines how Americans have debated the meaning of the Revolution for more than two centuries. Learn more at mnhs.org/events.

Author Event: “Enmity and Empathy” with Ka F. Wong
2026-02-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Fort Snelling
February 21. Historic Fort Snelling, St. Paul. Free with Admission.

Author Ka F. Wong discusses his book Enmity and Empathy: Japanese Americans in Minnesota During World War II, which examines the eviction and confinement of Japanese Americans after Pearl Harbor and its lasting impact in Minnesota. Wong explores themes of injustice, resilience, and community response through historical research and personal stories. This program offers an important opportunity to learn about a lesser-known chapter of state and national history and to reflect on its relevance today.More info: mnhs.org/events

Irish of Minnesota Exhibit by Tom Dunn
2026-02-23 00:00 - 2026-03-20 17:00
Now through March 20. North Gallery, Landmark Center. Free.

Photographer Tom Dunn presents portraits highlighting the stories and identities of Minnesotans with Irish heritage. The exhibit explores cultural traditions and personal connections within the state’s Irish community.

Family Storytime
2026-02-25 10:30 - 11:15
Wednesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 18 & 25, 10:30–11:15 a.m. West 7th Library. Free.

Family Storytime is an interactive program featuring stories, songs, rhymes, and playful learning for children ages 0–5 and their caregivers. These developmentally appropriate activities support early literacy and school readiness in a fun, welcoming environment. Storytime is held in Room 112 of the West 7th Community Center and lasts approximately 30–45 minutes. Families are encouraged to stay afterward to browse the library collection and enjoy open play time. All families are welcome. More information at sppl.org.

Booked on Thursdays: A Darker Wilderness
2026-02-26 18:30 - 19:30
Thursday, Feb. 26, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Minnesota History Center. Free.

This informal book discussion centers on A Darker Wilderness: Black Nature Writing from Soil to Stars by Erin Sharkey. Participants are invited to connect over shared themes while learning about historical resources related to Black environmental writing and lived experience. Registration is recommended. More information at mnhs.org.

Skyway 5K
2026-02-28 00:00 - 23:59
Feb. 28. Union Depot, Lowertown. Registration required; fees start at $45.99.

Experience St. Paul in a new way at the Skyway 5K, a one-of-a-kind indoor race through the downtown skyway system. Participants wind through climate-controlled corridors above city streets, passing familiar landmarks from a unique vantage point. Open to runners and walkers of all experience levels. Visit raceroster.com/events/2026/113258/skyway-5k for details.

Bach & Friends Workshop
2026-02-28 09:00 - 15:30
Feb. 28, 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. St. James Lutheran Church, West St. Paul. $40.

Musicians of all abilities are invited to this day-long workshop exploring selections from Bach’s St. John Passion. Participants rehearse separately and together, culminating in a full play-through. Lunch included; scholarships available. bachsocietymn.org.

Artist and Archives: Community Collaging Event
2026-02-28 13:00 - 16:00
Feb. 28, 1–4 p.m. Minnesota History Center, Capitol Area. Free with registration.Bring copies of photos, letters, or other personal materials and transform them into collaborative collage artwork in this hands-on community archiving event. Materials provided and no art experience required. Participants may also have photos scanned and preserved onsite. Registration recommended at mnhs.org.

Éigse: A Musical Gaela
2026-02-28 18:00 - 22:00
Saturday, Feb. 28, 6–10 p.m. St. Paul Event Center. $125+.

The Center for Irish Music presents its annual fundraising gala with cocktail reception, live concert by CIM instructors, silent auction and fund-a-need program. Proceeds support Minnesota’s traditional Irish music school. Tickets available at centerforirishmusic.org/calendar.

Schubert Club Courtroom Concert: Georgia Jacobson, mezzo-soprano & Ryan Wolfe, baritone
2026-03-02 08:00 - 17:00
April 9, noon–1 p.m. Landmark Center. Free.Mezzo-soprano Georgia Jacobson and baritone Ryan Wolfe join forces for this free lunchtime concert. Jacobson, a Duluth native, has performed with Kentucky Opera, the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Lyric Opera of the North. Wolfe, praised for his commanding stage presence, has appeared with LA Opera, Wolf Trap Opera and major orchestras nationwide. Expect a dynamic program of vocal repertoire performed by two rising opera talents. landmarkcenter.org/event/schubert-club-courtroom-concert-georgia-jacobson-mezzo-soprano-ryan-wolfe-baritone.

Boys State Hockey Tournament
2026-03-04 10:00 - 2026-03-07 21:00
March 4–7. Grand Casino Arena. $13-$20

The annual boys state hockey tournament returns, showcasing top high school teams from across Minnesota competing for the state title. Visit mshsl.org for brackets, venues and ticket information.

Cellar Seminar: Bruichladdich Whiskey
2026-03-04 18:00 - 20:00
March 4, 6–8 p.m. Thomas Liquors. $50.

Explore heavily peated Scotch whiskies in this guided tasting led by ambassador Devin Vilardi. The class samples The Classic Laddie, Port Charlotte 10 and Octomore releases. Ticket includes a $20 product credit. Space limited. thomasliquor.com/events/.

Minnesota Cuban Film Festival
2026-03-04 19:00 - 2026-04-01 22:00
March 4–April 1. The Main Cinema, Minneapolis. $14

17th annual Minnesota Cuban Film Festival showcases contemporary Cuban cinema exploring themes of social change, resilience, and culture. Weekly screenings conclude with discussions, and the final event includes a performance by singer Gloria Rivera. Details and tickets at mspfilm.org.

Read Brave Talk Brave
2026-03-05 17:30 - 20:00
Thursday, March 5, 5:30–8 p.m. Arlington Hills Community Center. Free.

Read Brave, Saint Paul Public Library’s citywide book club, invites the community to a special evening of conversation, food, and storytelling. This event features a panel discussion with author Romina Garber and young voices from the community, centered on this year’s Read Brave selection, Lobizona. The novel explores themes of immigration, belonging, and identity through both real and imagined worlds. Guests are invited to enjoy a shared meal provided by Immigrant Kitchen and take part in meaningful dialogue about issues that matter to St. Paul. Free copies of Lobizona are available at SPPL locations while supplies last. Open to teens, families, and adults. Learn more at readbrave.org.

Kickin’ It Irish
2026-03-06 19:00 - 2026-03-17 20:00
March 6–8, 13, 15 and 17. Celtic Junction Arts Center. Free – $30.Celtic Junction presents a modern fusion of Irish dance and live music in this high-energy stage production celebrating contemporary Irish culture. Tickets and more information at kickinitirish.com.

Home Improvement Workshop Day
2026-03-07 09:00 - 12:00
March 7, 9 a.m.–noon. Cretin-Derham Hall. Free.

Attend one-hour workshops on home improvement topics for homeowners and renters in Highland Park and Macalester-Groveland. Learn more at highlanddistrictcouncil.org.

Como Park Snowsports Booster Club Wild Mountain Day
2026-03-07 10:00 - 21:00
March 7, 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Wild Mountain. $40 lift ticket; rentals $30.

Join the Como Park Snowsports Booster Club for a full day of skiing and snowboarding. Discounted lift tickets available; equipment rentals optional. Transportation not provided. Mountcomo.square.site.

Exploring Jewish Influence on Comics and Graphic Novels
2026-03-08 10:00 - 12:00
March 8, 10 a.m.–noon. Twin Cities German Immersion School. Free.

Hosted by Or Emet, this program features Dr. Richard Logan discussing the significant role Jewish creators have played in the comics and graphic novel industry. A social time follows the presentation. Zoom option available with advance registration. oremet.org.

Flavors of Slovakia Dinner
2026-03-08 12:00 - 17:00
March 8. Doors noon, dinner 12:30 p.m. C.S.P.S. Hall, St. Paul.

Enjoy a traditional Slovak meal featuring bryndzové halušky, holubky, dessert, and coffee. $35 per person, prepaid reservation required. Details at sokolmn.org/all-events.

Sundays at Landmark: TaikoArts Midwest’s Ensō Daiko
2026-03-08 13:00 - 14:00
Sunday, March 8, 1–2 p.m. Musser Cortile at Landmark Center, Downtown. Free.

Experience the powerful rhythms of Ensō Daiko in this energetic taiko drumming performance blending music, movement, and culture. The program is part of Landmark Center’s free Sundays at Landmark series. landmarkcenter.org.

House Plant Bingo Bazaar
2026-03-08 13:00 - 16:00
March 8, 1–4 p.m. Harriet Island Pavilion. $5.

Get ready to shout BINGO at this foliage-filled community event hosted by St. Paul Parks and Recreation and the St. Paul Parks Conservancy. Participants can enjoy plant-themed bingo with chances to win prizes from local vendors. This is an 18+ event. Tickets are $5 and space is limited.https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/co12fA?vid=1oow4m

Mind Opener — Past, Present and Future: The Case for Liberal Arts Education
2026-03-10 16:30 - 18:30
March 10, 4:30–6:30 p.m. Mairs Concert Hall at Macalester College. Free.Hosted by the Citizens League, this panel explores the evolving role of liberal arts education in preparing students for civic life. Speakers include Macalester President Suzanne Rivera and Minnesota Office of Higher Education Assistant Commissioner Wendy Robinson. Learn more and register at citizensleague.org/blog/mind-opener-past-present-and-future-the-case-for-liberal-arts-education.

Can Can Super Mario Wonderland
2026-03-10 17:00 - 21:00
Throughout March; special event Tuesday, March 10. Can Can Wonderland. Admission varies; costumes receive 50% off.

Can Can Wonderland celebrates Super Mario & Friends all month long with themed drinks, gaming and special programming. Guests who arrive dressed as their favorite character receive half-price admission during March. Featured beverages include the nonalcoholic “Yoshi’s Island Matcha” and the cocktail “Koopa Kooler.”On March 10 (MAR10 Day), the venue hosts open-play Nintendo Switch gaming, live video game music by Marimba Matt and the Bards Quartet, Mario-themed trivia, DJ sets and photo opportunities. The celebration honors Mario’s legacy of creativity and shared play across generations.More info:cancanwonderland.com.

RCHS History Revealed: Lissie
2026-03-10 18:00 - 19:30
March 11, 6–7:30 p.m. Landmark Center. $25.

The Ramsey County Historical Society hosts singer-songwriter Lissie for an evening conversation moderated by journalist Youa Vang, followed by audience Q&A. landmarkcenter.org/event/rchs-history-revealed-lissie.
