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Good morning, South Metro!
Friday's here... and honestly, even it being a short work week, we're all ready for it.
While Lakeville's making headlines (again) – this time with environmental groups asking some pretty pointed questions about that mystery development – the rest of us are just trying to figure out what to do with our weekend.
Good news: we've got you covered.
What's inside:
Why environmental lawyers are suddenly very interested in Lakeville's water usage
Bacon Weekend at B-52 (because sometimes you just need to embrace the chaos)
Apple season kicks off at Brand Farms – hayrides, apple cannons, and tired kids guaranteed
Minnesota's biggest drone show ever happening Saturday night (yes, really)
That genius parent hack at Nine Mile Brewing where kids do crafts while you drink beer in peace
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News
Environmental Group Sues Lakeville Over Mystery Development
The Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy has filed a lawsuit against the City of Lakeville over a massive 1.36 million-square-foot project that the city won't identify as a data center.
The lawsuit claims the city violated state environmental law by hiding the true nature of this development, which could consume 2.5 million gallons of water daily and use more electricity than 3,000 households.
Lakeville Ranks #6 Most Livable Small City in America
SmartAsset just dropped their annual ranking of America's most livable small cities, and Lakeville landed at #6 out of 279 cities nationwide.
Not bad for a city that keeps getting it right when it comes to balancing growth with quality of life.
Friday (09/05/25)
Bacon Weekend at B-52 Burgers and Brew
If you love bacon... and let's be honest, who doesn't... this three-day celebration at B-52 is calling your name. They've got live music all weekend, contests with prizes, and a bacon-heavy specials menu that includes bold bacon cocktails. It's the kind of weekend that makes you forget about your diet and just enjoy life.
Fair Food at Lakeville Fleet Farm
Craving fair food but missed the State Fair? Head to Fleet Farm's parking lot where there will be cheese curds, corn dogs, funnel cakes, and mini donuts – basically everything that makes fair food so irresistibly delicious. Four days of pure carnival indulgence without the crowds.
Parade of Homes
House hunters and design lovers, your weekend (and the next three weeks) just got a whole lot more interesting! Minnesota's beloved Parade of Homes is back, offering free tours of hundreds of newly built and remodeled homes across the Twin Cities. See their guidebook.
Date Night at Nine Mile Brewing
Parents, this one's for you – drop the kids off for a supervised craft session while you actually enjoy a beer in peace! The Arts Creative handles the little ones (ages 4-11) with pizza and crafts, while you get a BOGO beer deal in the taproom. It's genius... no babysitter stress, everyone's happy, and you get some actual adult conversation. Register here.
Saturday (09/06/25)
Brand Farms Opening Weekend
Apple season is officially here, and Brand Farms is pulling out all the stops for their opening weekend! You're looking at hayrides, u-pick apples, sunflower mazes, apple cannons, and bounce pads that'll tire out the kids in the best way possible. Happening Saturday & Sunday.
5 Speed Custom Concert at Quarry Point
Saturday afternoon calls for good music and fresh air, which is exactly what you'll get at this Apple Valley Arts Foundation concert. 5 Speed Custom will be performing from 1-3:30pm at Quarry Point Park – it's one of those perfect fall afternoons where live music just hits different.
Saturday Night Nitro at Mall of America
F1RST Wrestling brings the thunder to Mall of America with their fourth annual Saturday Night Nitro event. You'll see top performers including international stars and fan favorites in what promises to be an action-packed night. It's all-ages with first-come, first-served seating – perfect for families who want some high-energy entertainment. Get tickets.
Burnsville Festival Aerial Drone Show
History's about to be made at the Burnsville Festival with Minnesota's largest aerial drone show ever! This record-breaking display happens at 9:25pm, right before the Saturday fireworks show. It's the kind of spectacle that makes you feel like you're living in the future... and it's completely free.
Salsa del Soul at Burnsville Festival
The Burnsville Festival is celebrating community in the best way – with multicultural activities, local music and arts, and that wonderful feeling of neighbors coming together.
Sunday (09/07/25)
Civil War Weekend at LeDuc Historic Estate
Step back in time this weekend at the LeDuc Historic Estate where history comes alive through Civil War re-enactments and hands-on experiences on Saturday & Sunday. You'll find presentations, demonstrations, and activities that'll keep kids (and adults) engaged. Learn more here.
Some events need tickets and might be canceled or have different times. Check the event venue's website or contact them before you go.
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— Brady Greenbush
Publisher & Editor