Swap Gear, Connect IRL, Give Back—All This Week

Happy Tuesday, friends. I'm very excited about this week's list of events—we have a gajillion free ones, including an outdoor gear swap.

Last week I asked if you'd be interested in volunteering together as a Twin Cities Scout community. Wow—153 of you responded! 68 said "Absolutely, I'm interested!" while another 81 wanted to stay informed about future opportunities. Whether you're ready to dive in immediately or want to see what develops, it's clear this community wants to give back together.

That enthusiasm perfectly captures something I experienced last Wednesday over coffee, listening to Veronica from Gifting Grove share her passion for gifting economies—the idea that communities can thrive through mutual aid and generosity rather than just transactions. It reminded me why we started this experiment twelve weeks ago: our neighbors have incredible stories and fresh perspectives, and when we create space to share them, magic happens.

Here's What's Next:

Next week, I'll include a survey to choose our first group volunteer opportunity. We'll vote on causes and timing to find something that works for as many of you as possible.

Example: Bridging MN offers group sessions where 5-25 people help sort donated goods and restock shelves for families transitioning out of housing insecurity. Sessions are 2-3 hours and they provide everything we need.

Whether it's Bridging, animal rescue, environmental cleanup, or supporting local arts—we're going to find something that gets this engaged community working together for good.

Stay tuned for next week's survey. This is going to be fun.

Tucked into a sunny corner of St. Paul, MidCity Farmers Market is the kind of spot you tell your friends about later. Picture this: live music drifting through the air, a mix of fresh produce and handmade goods, dinner from a local food truck, kids laughing by the activity table, and well-behaved dogs on leashes taking it all in (just not inside food tents). It’s that unmistakable feeling you’ve found a local gem.

Whether you’re a regular or just discovering it for the first time, Opening Day is the perfect chance to explore. Come browse, snack, chat, and take home something unexpected—from a bouquet to a good conversation.

Follow along for updates and behind-the-scenes moments @midcityfarmersmarket

Make a memory. Meet the makers. Support local.

This week, meet three sweethearts looking for their forever homes: Maelie is a Retriever-Collie puppy who's part troublemaker, part snuggle champion. Jules, a chill Retriever-Hound, knows his way around a couch. And Moana is a calico kitten with a stubby tail who gets excited about pretty much everything—exploring, napping, you name it.

Bridging MN empowers people to thrive by providing quality furniture and household goods to those pursuing housing stability. Volunteer to sort donations, assist clients shopping for essentials, or provide warehouse support. Turn someone's house into a home. Volunteer with Bridging today

The Loppet Foundation connects people to the outdoors through community-building experiences. Join their annual Juneteenth Community Fun Run & 5K on June 14, 2025—volunteer with course marshaling, event tear-down, photography, or medical support. Celebrate freedom in motion with your neighbors. Join the team

Safe Hands Animal Rescue saves and improves the lives of companion animals. Volunteer as an Event Lead to coordinate monthly adoption Meet & Greets—research venues, manage volunteers, and help pets find forever homes. Turn tail wags into forever families. Coordinate adoption events

Want to feature an event with a poster? Reach out to events(at)twincitiesscout(dot)com

Join us for our first real-life Scout gathering this Wednesday, May 28th from 7-9pm at Arbeiter Brewing Company. Expect meaningful games, good conversations, and a food truck that somehow does both tacos and sushi. I'll keep my phone on airplane mode to stay present—join me if you want. Friends and four-legged friends welcome! RSVP here

The Northeast Vintage Block Party is back this Saturday, May 31 from 11am–6pm at 5th & Hennepin. Expect 30+ vendors, food, music, and live art—all celebrating creativity, community, and vintage love. Free and all are welcome! Get the full details

🆓 - free event admission
🐕 - dog-friendly (qualifiers like patio-only will be mentioned in the event description)

Lilo & Stitch, 12:15pm, 2:20pm, 4:30pm, 6:45pm at Riverview Theater, Mpls
Catch the reimagined Disney classic about friendship and found family.

Sourdough 101, 6–8pm at Fat Pants Brewing, Eden Prairie
Hands-on bread class with a drink included. Leave with dough, a 105-year-old starter, and the skills to bake at home. $75—bring a bowl and dish towel.

Maple Grove Farmers Market, 3-7pm at Church of the Open Door, Maple Grove
Fresh, local produce and specialty goods; family activities and music.

Voyageurs Birthday Bash, 4-8pm at Utepils Brewery, Mpls 🆓
Celebrate 50 years of Minnesota’s national park with live music, nature activities, a special anniversary brew, and more.

Early Evening Jazz: Cornbread Harris & Friends, 4:30pm at Berlin, Mpls 🆓
Jazz legend Cornbread Harris leads a family-friendly evening jam. No cover.

Mapping Prejudice & Racial Covenants, 6–7pm at North Regional Library, Mpls 🆓
Learn how racial covenants shaped housing inequality and how you can help uncover and challenge them. Presented with the Mapping Prejudice Project.

Tjärnblom, 7pm at Minnehaha Bandstand, Mpls 🆓 🐕
Enjoy a Scandinavian string ensemble blending Swedish, Finnish, and Minnesota folk tunes. Perfect for dancing or relaxing by the lake.

Senior Social at The Loppet, 10am–2pm at The Trailhead, Mpls 🆓
Enjoy a day of mingling, birdwatching, lunch, bingo, and dancing at Theodore Wirth Park—free and open to all seniors!

Brühaven Book Bash ft Little Charity Book Truck, 11am - 5pm at Brühaven Craft Company, Mpls 🆓
Book-themed festival including book truck, literature trivia at 4pm, and reading activities.

Paint & Sip, 6pm at Inbound BrewCo, Mpls 🆓 🐕
No experience needed—enjoy painting and craft beer in a friendly setting.

Minnesota Wind Chill vs. Atlanta Hustle, 7pm at TCO Stadium, Eagan
Catch the 2024 UFA champs in action. Expect high-energy frisbee, free thundersticks, yard games, face painting, and a post-game beer at Surly. Gates open at 6pm—wear white!

New Orleans Suspects, 7pm at The Hook and Ladder, Mpls
Funky, soulful outdoor music with New Orleans flair.

Jessie Street Band, 7:30pm at MetroNOME Brewery, St. Paul
Live jazzy renditions of classics in a cozy brewery setting.

Richfield Farmers Market - Bike to the Market Day, 7am - 12pm at 6335 Portland Ave, Richfield 🆓
Pedal to the farmers market—bike-friendly fun, prizes, and local produce.

MN Record Show, 9am - 3pm at The Hook and Ladder Theater, Mpls 🆓
Browse vinyl, cassettes, DVDs, CDs, posters, and more. Free entry and free parking in back.

Saturday Mornings on the Farm, 9:30am at Gale Woods Farm, Minnetrista
Family farm fun with animals and hands-on learning for $6 a person (20% off for groups of 4+).

Outdoor Family Yoga, 10am at Kenwood Park, Minneapolis
Enjoy a playful, nature-centered yoga session with Joi, plus outdoor-inspired art. All ages welcome—just bring a mat or blanket!

Outdoor Gear Swap, 10am–1pm at Southwest Metro Lending Library, Chaska 🆓
Swap gently used outdoor gear with fellow adventurers—no cost to attend, and no gear required to participate!

Glacial Pothole Tour, 12pm at Interstate State Park, Taylors Falls 🆓
Think you know potholes? Join a short, rocky walk through glacial history, lava flows, and epic river views with a park guide. Great for curious kids and adults alike.

Unlimited Uptown Maker’s Market, 12-4pm at Unlimited Arts, Apparel & Accessories, Mpls 🆓
Monthly outdoor maker’s market with local small business vendors.

Capri Plaza Palooza Arts Festival, 12-5pm at Capri Theater, Mpls 🆓
Outdoor arts festival showcasing live music, art, and food vendors.

Houseplant & Seed Swap, 1–3pm at Edina Library 🆓
Bring your extra plants, cuttings, or seeds and trade with fellow plant lovers. Just make sure everything is healthy and pest-free!

Fathers Shaping the World: A Panel Discussion, 2–3pm at Rondo Community Library, St. Paul 🆓
Hear powerful reflections on fatherhood, legacy, and community from a diverse panel of local leaders.

Hennepin Fest, 2-7pm at Washburn Fair Oaks Park, Mpls 🆓 🐕
Festive gathering—food trucks, music, kid-friendly fun in the park.

Three Cultures, Four Friends, reservations starting at 5pm at Bar Brava, Mpls
Three friends and chefs unite for a 10-course dinner celebrating their roots and AAPI Month. $120/person—reserve your spot!

Spanish Grand Prix Watch Party, 8am at Fat Pants Brewing Co., Eden Prairie 🆓
Watch the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix live with fellow racing fans.

Turtle Fest: A Shell-eBration, 11am - 3pm at French River Regional Park, Plymouth 🆓
Sunday festival celebrating turtles and local wild nature, with food trucks and canoeing

Zine Pop Up Market, 12pm at Cream & Amber, Hopkins 🆓
Meet zine makers, enjoy a fun market, and join a zine workshop.

Polish Heritage Day, 1pm at Urban Growler Brewing Company, St. Paul 🆓
Polish culture celebration with themed activities at a local brewery.

Music in the Gardens, 1:30pm at Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska
Relax with live music surrounded by blooming gardens and nature.

Forest Bathing, 2pm at Spring Lake Regional Park, Prior Lake 🆓
Mindfulness walk in the forest; embrace the calming power of nature.

Lena & The Lovekills, 2pm at Lake Harriet Bandshell, Mpls 🆓 🐕
Outdoor swing and rockabilly performance at the lake bandshell.

Chris Fleming, 5:30pm and 8pm at Pantages Theatre, Mpls
Acclaimed comedian brings signature absurdist humor to downtown Minneapolis.

Brass Messengers Performance, 7pm at 331 Club, Mpls 🆓
Live brass band known for high-energy global sounds and dancing.

Yoga & Yogurt: 55+ Outdoor Summer Series, 9:30am at Cleary Lake Regional Park, Prior Lake 🆓
Outdoor yoga and breakfast for adults 55 and up.

Roe Family Singers, 8pm at 331 Club, Mpls 🆓
Old-time Americana band brings storytelling and bluegrass to this intimate venue.

Minnetonka Farmers Market, 2-6pm at The Marsh, Minnetonka 🆓
Market kickoff—fresh food, handmade crafts, live music, and family fun.

6 Week Hand Building Workshop (begins Jun 3), 6-8pm at Dame Errant, Mpls
First session of a six-week pottery course, all skill levels welcome.

Janelle & Simply Fusion, 7pm at Loring Park, Mpls 🆓 🐕
Rhythm & Blues performance, part of Minneapolis Parks’ summer music series.

I'd love you to meet two wonderful people who've been helping make the Scout better behind the scenes. Mai-Linh supports our event planning with thoughtful ideas and partner coordination, while Mike has an incredible knack for connecting us with local organizations that share our values. Having them aboard has made everything more collaborative and meaningful. They'll both be at Wednesday's gathering if you'd like to say hi!