Community Corner
Get Out: Weekend Events in and around Inver Grove Heights
Looking for things to do this weekend? Check out some of these ideas.
- Capitol Civil War Tour
When and Where? 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sat., July 2 at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul.
Why Go? Independence Day Weekend is the perfect time to learn all about Minnesota’s important role in the Civil War, and you’re sure to discover plenty on this stimulating tour. According to the Minnesota Historical Society website, you’ll be “dressed and outfitted as a new recruit with reproduction accoutrements typically worn by Union soldiers,” and find out why the Capitol is adorned this weekend with unique paintings, articles and other fascinating relics from the Civil War. You’ll also see statues of famous Civil War officers from our state, learn about present-day efforts to conserve Civil War battle flags in the Minnesota Historical Society's collections, and experience much more. Be sure to make reservations by calling 651-296-2881.
Price: $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and college students, $5 for children ages 6 to 17. $2 discount for MHS members.
- Eagan’s July 4th Funfest
When and Where? 8 a.m. to midnight on July 2, noon to midnight on July 3 and 8 a.m. to midnight on July 4 at the Eagan Community Center festival grounds, at 1501 Central Parkway.
Why Go? This festive annual event in Eagan is called the July 4th Funfest, but it’s filled with plenty of fun events that take place the weekend beforehand, too. Start the weekend with lots of activities for the whole family at the Health and Wellness Event—with an emphasis on “active,” this is sure to burn calories, making room for all that Funfest food. Have a blast at the carnival filled with a variety of exhilarating rides and games, plus enjoy live concert entertainment. This year, don’t miss the new LED Lighted Ferris Wheel. The celebration concludes with the annual Royal Brain Freeze ice cream eating contest, and a magnificent fireworks display – the region’s largest.
Price: Admission and parking are free. You may purchase early-bird discounted carnival tickets online at www.eaganfunfest.org—place your order today, then pick up your tickets at the Funfest Grounds information booth during the Funfest.
- Minnesota’s Greatest Generation Exhibit
When and Where? 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fri., July 1 to Sat. July 2 and noon to 5 p.m. on Sun., July 3 at the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul.
Why Go? This one-of-a-kind exhibit is a tribute to a unique group of people that “lived through it all”: Minnesota’s Greatest Generation. “These remarkable people—who grew up during the Depression, came of age during World War II and participated in the post-war [baby] boom—created a lasting legacy that has shaped all of us who have come after,” according to the Minnesota History Center website. Members of Minnesota’s Greatest Generation are people we know: Our parents, grandparents, great-grandparents and our next-door neighbors. The exhibit features more than 6,000 square feet of artifacts, displays and hands-on elements.
Price: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and college students, $5 for children ages 6-17. The exhibit is free for children age 5 and under and for MHS members.
- Rare “Corpse Flower” Ready to Make a Big Stink
When and Where? 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., between now and July 4 at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in St. Paul.
Why Go? There’s a very uncommon sight—and smell—about to take place at the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. An 18-year-old endangered, rare Sumatran plant known as the Amorphophallus titanium, or “Corpse Flower," is preparing to bloom. According to the Conservatory’s website, once its flower bud emerges, it is expected to give off “a perfume odor of rotting flesh." The unusual plant stands over six feet tall and has been projected to blossom sometime between June 26 and July 4. Visit the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory’s website for a live webcam and daily updates on the “big stink.”
Price: Free, althought donations are welcome.
- The Comical Misadventures of Mr. Punch
When/Where? 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Fri., July 1 at the Lebanon Hills Regional Park Visitor Center at 860 Cliff Road in Eagan.
Why Go? Don’t miss this exciting, kid-friendly outdoor show by Z' Puppets Rosenschnoz. Mr. Punch’s comical misadventures—and amusing mayhem—create a great spectacle for all ages to enjoy. The play combines physical comedy, creative puppetry, clowning and live music.
Price: Free
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