Midwinter Community Celebration

Ole says winter builds character.
Lena says it’s time for music, food, and a drink. Midwinter Community Celebration – Ole & Lena Days begins Saturday, January 31, 2026If your snow boots are tired and your couch has seen enough of you, come on out and help us kick off Ole & Lena Days the right way. We’ve got live music, an appetizer bar, specialty drinks, games, and a silent auction—which Lena plans to win, and Ole plans to carry home. Live music by Steel Bridges Band
 Appetizers, games & silent auction start at 5:30 PM

Mendota After Hours: The Nordic Countries and the Holocaust

While the Holocaust is most commonly associated with Germany and Poland, it was truly an international catastrophe that impacted nations and their Jewish populations in vastly different ways. Join us as Dr. Kyle Ward examines the diverse responses of the Nordic countries—Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland—during the Shoah and how these historical actions continue to shape the national identities and contemporary politics of these countries today.

Urban Classic Presents: Revelation

This show features the songs of Prince, New Power Generation, The Time, Jesse Johnson, Vanity 6, Wendy & Lisa, Alexander O’Neal, Janet Jackson, and more. Additionally, this extraordinary lineup includes former members of the Original NPG, Mint Condition, The Time, Mazarati, Sounds of Blackness, and the Jesse Johnson Revue. Moreover, these artists helped shape the very movement being celebrated. Here, “Revelation” honors the visionaries who transformed Minneapolis’ musical heartbeat into a global phenomenon.

Tina Schlieske Sextet

Tina Schlieske, a Midwestern rock mainstay, commands a dedicated and passionate following, especially in her hometown of Minneapolis. She’s best known for fronting the band Tina and the B-Sides. Her inaugural jazz recording, 2024’s The Good Life, sees Schlieske embarking on a transformative jazz odyssey. Here, this is her homage to the greats that have paved the way for voices like Tina’s to celebrate.

Take 6

10 Grammy Awards
10 Dove Awards
Gospel Music Hall of Fame

Take 6 is Claude McKnight, Mark Kibble, Joel Kibble, Dave Thomas, Alvin Chea and Khristian Dentley. Here, they are the quintessential a cappella group and the model for vocal genius. Moreover, they are the preeminent and best a capella group in the world.

Jake Shimabukuro

Jake Shimabukuro is a world-renowned ukulele virtuoso whose groundbreaking artistry has redefined the instrument for the 21st century. Here, he is hailed as the “Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele.” Moreover, Shimabukuro has captivated audiences across the globe with his masterful technique, innovative spirit, and deeply expressive performances. He seamlessly blends elements of jazz, rock, classical, blues, folk, and traditional Hawaiian music.

Global Conversations: Tanzania in Focus

U.S. partnerships with Tanzania have been defined by collaborations in development, education, environment, and security. However, this relationship is in flux following volatile elections and changing dynamics for international aid. Learn about Tanzania with with former USAID Mission Director in Tanzania, V. Kate Somvongsiri.

Fred Hersch Trio

Fred Hersch belongs to jazz’s piano pantheon. He has been an influential creative force for decades as an improviser, composer, educator, bandleader, collaborator, and recording artist. Here, he has been proclaimed “the most arrestingly innovative pianist in jazz over the last decade” by Vanity Fair. Also, he is hailed as “a living legend” by The New Yorker. A seventeen-time Grammy nominee, Hersch has garnered jazz’s most prestigious awards.

Culture Through Cuisine: Vietnam

Join Global Minnesota to explore the delicious culinary tradition of the Mekong Delta and indulge in a tour of Vietnamese flavors at Culture through Cuisine! A staple of the Minneapolis restaurant scene for over 30 years, Quang offers a delightful blend of southeast Asian cuisine and Chinese influence. During the meal, the restaurant owners will share the history of this family-run establishment. Registration includes a selection of appetizers, main course, soft drink, and taxes and tip.

Lake Shetek State Park Candlelight Trails

Come enjoy a magical winter night under the moon and stars at Lake Shetek State Park. Let the glow of luminaries guide you on two different paths. One path is about a half mile round trip through the Oak Woods Campground, on plowed park roads. Another path is about a 1-mile round trip through the woods and along the lakeshore from the Oak Woods Campground to the Lake Shetek Monument, on a variety of surfaces with hard packed snow. Then stop by the Interpretive Center to grab a cup of hot cocoa and a cookie while soaking up the warmth of a crackling campfire.