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Good morning, South Metro!

September's hitting different this year... and honestly, we're kind of here for it.

What's inside:

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Permanent Jewelry Pop-Up | 3pm | OMNI Winery, Rosemount | Price varies
Ladies, this is basically the perfect excuse to day-drink and get something sparkly that'll never come off (in the best way). Four hours of wine, pizza, and getting permanent jewelry welded right onto your wrist or ankle – it's like friendship bracelets but with actual commitment.

The Castaways Concert | 6-8pm | Lakefront Park, Prior Lake | Free
Free live music by the lake on a Thursday evening – honestly, what more do you need? Bring your own chair, maybe grab some street tacos from the food trucks, and just vibe while The Castaways perform.

Brand Farms Fall Opening | Daily 10am-6pm starting Friday | Farmington | Price varies
Apple season is officially here, which means it's time to pretend you're going to make that homemade pie you've been talking about all year. Their outdoor farm store opens with fresh apples, fall vibes, and weekend activities that'll make your Instagram followers jealous.

Minnesota Badminton Tournament | Friday & Saturday | Burnsville High School
Calling all racket warriors – this drop-flight tournament has everything from recreational singles for the teens to senior doubles for the seasoned players. Registration deadline already passed (August 17th), but if you're into competitive badminton, this is where the action is.

Pet Adoption Event | 12-3pm Saturday | PetSmart, Lakeville | Free
You know that feeling when you walk past a pet store and your heart does that thing? The Rescue Network is bringing their "adoption cuties" for three hours of pure temptation – wagging tails, gentle purrs, and those eyes that seem to say "take me home, please?"

Drake Walters Live Music | 6:30-9:30pm | Bogart's Entertainment Center | No Cover
There's something about artists who've actually lived the songs they sing – this wandering musician collected sounds from the Midwest to Gulf Coast. Three hours of classic rock that hits you in the chest, country that tells real stories, and blues that comes from somewhere deep. RSVP here.

St. Croix Bluffs Nature Programs | 7pm | St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park | $7 day pass
Perfect for families who want to get the kids outside without the usual "I'm bored" complaints. You'll get to see live animals up close, learn some cool nature facts, and if you're lucky, there's a bonfire to cap off the evening.

Applewood Orchard Season | 9am | Applewood Orchard | Price varies
The ultimate fall family tradition starts – u-pick apples, pumpkin patches, hayrides, and those mini donuts that somehow taste better when you're surrounded by apple trees. Whether it's your first visit or a beloved yearly tradition, autumn magic awaits.

_{^{Some events need tickets and might be canceled or have different times. Check the event venue's website or contact them before you go.}}

Throughout September - Cannon Valley Regional Orchestra Auditions
Calling all south suburbanites who miss making music – this orchestra going into their 46th season is looking for musicians, especially upper strings. They're performing November 15th and 16th with Sibelius' "In Memoriam," Vaughan Williams' "Lark Ascending," and Schubert's "Unfinished Symphony" – plus some John Williams film music that'll give you all the feels. Learn more here.*

September 3-7 - Inver Grove Heights Days
Five days of community celebration including a treasure hunt, city-wide garage sales, bingo, and enough small-town festival charm to make you nostalgic for places you've never been.

September 4-6 - Fire & Ice Festival | Burnsville
Three days of festival fun carnival rides, food, and that classic Minnesota festival atmosphere you either love or pretend to love.

September 12th - LFA 217 Mixed Martial Arts | Mystic Showroom
Top MMA contenders throwing down in one of the fastest-growing sports around – every knockout, every takedown, pure adrenaline from start to finish.

September 13th - Apple Valley Fall Food Truck Festival | Quarry Point Park
Ten food trucks, live music, and zero admission fees – it's like a greatest hits compilation of local eats all in one park.

September 20-21 - Lakeville Art Festival | Historic Downtown Lakeville
100+ juried artists in a park-like setting using that unique circular booth arrangement, it's like wandering through an outdoor gallery where you can actually afford some pieces.

September 27th - Minnesota Throwdown Demolition Derby | Dakota County Fairgrounds, Farmington
Over 125 cars smashing into each other at full speed while attempting a world record – honestly, what's not to love?

September 27th - Lakeville Brewing Co. Oktoberfest | Lakeville
Annual Oktoberfest party where you can properly say "Prost!" without feeling ridiculous about it.

September 27th - Perfectly Unique Craft & Gift Expo | Apple Valley
Free admission to browse handmade crafts, upcycled treasures, and small business goodies.

*indicates sponsored advertising content.

Planning an event? Have exciting news to share? We want to hear from you!

The South Metro Scoop is your platform to connect with neighbors and showcase what makes our community special.

Whether it's a grand opening, community gathering, or local achievement - we're here to help spread the word.

Send any event info, or media links to [email protected] or reply to this email!

Next newsletter is going our Thursday morning!

— Brady Greenbush
Publisher & Editor