Join the Blue Earth County History Center for family fun! Each month, enjoy free kids admission with paid adult/seniors admission, a scavenger hunt, crafts, and a hands-on history workshop for all ages!

March’s topic is Women’s History. Learn more about women in Blue Earth County and the Nation! Special Program at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Admission is $10/adults, $8/seniors, free for kids under 18 (with paid adult), and for BECHS Members.

Join the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota for 14 weeks of hands-on Indigenous learning!

Each Thursday from 4:00–6:00 pm, children ages 7–12 explore a new cultural theme through artmaking, storytelling, games, traditional knowledge, and guided activities. Co-sponsored by MSU’s Elementary Education program and Mahkato Okawitaya, these mini-workshops celebrate Dakota and Ojibwe traditions while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and respect.

Weekly topics include forest animals, dance regalia, beading, traditional tools, Indigenous games, star quilts, dreamcatchers, lodges, sacred foods, buffalo lifeways, drums, seasonal calendars, gardens, and ledger art. Children will handle replica tools, design patterns, build mini models, plant seeds, create artwork, and learn about the land and its first peoples.

Families may attend any or all weeks. Activities are designed to be inclusive, educational, and joyful—perfect for young learners who love culture, nature, and hands-on exploration.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. And others:

College of Education, Minnesota State University, Mankato
Blue Earth County Public Library
Blue Earth County Historical Society

Project Advisory Council Members

SkyAnne Walker, Hocąk artist
Alex Ek, Wiinik stone artist
David Clobes, Apache Nation photographer & filmmaker
Gwen Westerman, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
John Armendariz, Hocąk artist
Megan Heutmaker, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
Jessica Potter, Blue Earth County Historical Society

The Immigrant Defense Network's Brave of Us Tour is a multi-city effort across the Upper Midwest to strengthen community readiness, solidarity, and response.

This training will prepare participants to serve as Constitutional Observers, helping ensure rights are respected and communities are supported during moments of fear or harm and be added to IDN's rapid response network.

By registering at the following link, you will receive event updates, location details, and follow-up information as it becomes available. https://secure.ngpvan.com/rQT3AmpTu0Gsgr1xZDfBnA2

Join the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota for 14 weeks of hands-on Indigenous learning!

Each Thursday from 4:00–6:00 pm, children ages 7–12 explore a new cultural theme through artmaking, storytelling, games, traditional knowledge, and guided activities. Co-sponsored by MSU’s Elementary Education program and Mahkato Okawitaya, these mini-workshops celebrate Dakota and Ojibwe traditions while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and respect.

Weekly topics include forest animals, dance regalia, beading, traditional tools, Indigenous games, star quilts, dreamcatchers, lodges, sacred foods, buffalo lifeways, drums, seasonal calendars, gardens, and ledger art. Children will handle replica tools, design patterns, build mini models, plant seeds, create artwork, and learn about the land and its first peoples.

Families may attend any or all weeks. Activities are designed to be inclusive, educational, and joyful—perfect for young learners who love culture, nature, and hands-on exploration.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. And others:

College of Education, Minnesota State University, Mankato
Blue Earth County Public Library
Blue Earth County Historical Society

Project Advisory Council Members

SkyAnne Walker, Hocąk artist
Alex Ek, Wiinik stone artist
David Clobes, Apache Nation photographer & filmmaker
Gwen Westerman, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
John Armendariz, Hocąk artist
Megan Heutmaker, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
Jessica Potter, Blue Earth County Historical Society

The Immigrant Defense Network's Brave of Us Tour is a multi-city effort across the Upper Midwest to strengthen community readiness, solidarity, and response.

This training will prepare participants to serve as Constitutional Observers, helping ensure rights are respected and communities are supported during moments of fear or harm and be added to IDN's rapid response network.

By registering at the following link, you will receive event updates, location details, and follow-up information as it becomes available. https://secure.ngpvan.com/FTBzyxhjOUmBtQcwdgV0Ow2

"In the music of Charlie Parr, there is a sincere conviction and earnest drive to create. The Minnesota-born guitarist, songwriter, and interpreter of traditional music has released 19 albums over two decades and has been known to perform up to 275 shows a year. Parr is a folk troubadour in the truest sense: taking to the road between shows, writing and rewriting songs as he plays, fueled by a belief that music is eternal and cannot be claimed or adequately explained. The bluesman poet pulls closely from the sights and sounds around him, his lyrical craftsmanship built by his influences." - Smithsonian Folkways Recordings

Live at the Carnegie is a Saturday Listening Series, curated by Liz Draper. The series is open to the public, with a suggested $20 donation to support the artists and the Carnegie.

6:30pm Doors | 7pm Artist Talk | 7:30pm Performance

Join the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota for 14 weeks of hands-on Indigenous learning!

Each Thursday from 4:00–6:00 pm, children ages 7–12 explore a new cultural theme through artmaking, storytelling, games, traditional knowledge, and guided activities. Co-sponsored by MSU’s Elementary Education program and Mahkato Okawitaya, these mini-workshops celebrate Dakota and Ojibwe traditions while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and respect.

Weekly topics include forest animals, dance regalia, beading, traditional tools, Indigenous games, star quilts, dreamcatchers, lodges, sacred foods, buffalo lifeways, drums, seasonal calendars, gardens, and ledger art. Children will handle replica tools, design patterns, build mini models, plant seeds, create artwork, and learn about the land and its first peoples.

Families may attend any or all weeks. Activities are designed to be inclusive, educational, and joyful—perfect for young learners who love culture, nature, and hands-on exploration.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. And others:

College of Education, Minnesota State University, Mankato
Blue Earth County Public Library
Blue Earth County Historical Society

Project Advisory Council Members

SkyAnne Walker, Hocąk artist
Alex Ek, Wiinik stone artist
David Clobes, Apache Nation photographer & filmmaker
Gwen Westerman, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
John Armendariz, Hocąk artist
Megan Heutmaker, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
Jessica Potter, Blue Earth County Historical Society

Invitamos a nuestra comunidad a reunirse en un espacio abierto y acogedor para relajarse y conectar con la naturaleza, donde sea que te encuentres. A través de una meditación guiada, crearemos un momento para bajar el ritmo, respirar y encontrar un espacio de reflexión y conexión interior.

We invite our community to come together in an open and welcoming space to relax and connect with nature, wherever you are. Through a guided meditation, we'll create time to slow down, breathe, and find space for reflection and grounding.

This is a Virtual Event. Please register at the following link: https://secure.ngpvan.com/VHmtMH1GGEeM3WrOoPokUA2

The Immigrant Defense Network's Brave of Us Tour is a multi-city effort across the Upper Midwest to strengthen community readiness, solidarity, and response.

This training will prepare participants to serve as Constitutional Observers, helping ensure rights are respected and communities are supported during moments of fear or harm and be added to IDN's rapid response network.

By registering at the following link, you will receive event updates, location details, and follow-up information as it becomes available. https://secure.ngpvan.com/R06vq9hzhkKAAWJYmDMjvw2

Please join Carnegie Art Center and Two Spirit Celebration for the Opening Reception of three new and captivating exhibitions:

- Two Spirit and MMIW/R Voices | A multi-year, multi-generational project that celebrates the vision and diversity of 2-Spirit, Native queer, gender expansive artists in the Upper Midwest.
- CAC Emerging Artists Exhibit | Cam Kaleda, Lauren Gengler, Samantha Paradise, Mady Vieths, and Geoffrey Tollefson
- Head in the Clouds | Beatrice Winter

This event is free and open to all.

Join the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota for 14 weeks of hands-on Indigenous learning!

Each Thursday from 4:00–6:00 pm, children ages 7–12 explore a new cultural theme through artmaking, storytelling, games, traditional knowledge, and guided activities. Co-sponsored by MSU’s Elementary Education program and Mahkato Okawitaya, these mini-workshops celebrate Dakota and Ojibwe traditions while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and respect.

Weekly topics include forest animals, dance regalia, beading, traditional tools, Indigenous games, star quilts, dreamcatchers, lodges, sacred foods, buffalo lifeways, drums, seasonal calendars, gardens, and ledger art. Children will handle replica tools, design patterns, build mini models, plant seeds, create artwork, and learn about the land and its first peoples.

Families may attend any or all weeks. Activities are designed to be inclusive, educational, and joyful—perfect for young learners who love culture, nature, and hands-on exploration.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. And others:

College of Education, Minnesota State University, Mankato
Blue Earth County Public Library
Blue Earth County Historical Society

Project Advisory Council Members

SkyAnne Walker, Hocąk artist
Alex Ek, Wiinik stone artist
David Clobes, Apache Nation photographer & filmmaker
Gwen Westerman, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
John Armendariz, Hocąk artist
Megan Heutmaker, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
Jessica Potter, Blue Earth County Historical Society

Students of all sign language abilities are invited to join this engaging Intro to ASL Club where you can boost your American Sign Language skills through interactive books, games, and activities! Open to ages 6-18. No registration required.

For February's Adult Craft Night the North Mankato Taylor Library will be making bedazzled books! Bring your own book and they’ll provide everything else. Choose the February 17th OR 18th date when you register. There is no cost for this event. All materials will be provided. Registration required. Open to ages 18+. Registration opens Monday, January 26th at 10:00am. Register by calling the library at 507-345-5120, stopping into the library, or online at northmankato.com/library_calendar.php

Visit Old Main Village to learn how to protect your personal information in the digital age and review the best strategies to avoid being a victim of fraud. This free seminar will be presented by Wayne Kinneman, chief information officer of The Goodman Group. With more than 20 years of experience in technology, Kinneman looks forward to sharing his expertise.

When: Tuesday, February 17 from 2-3 p.m.
Where: Old Main Village
Admission Cost: Free

During this event, you will have the chance to:
- Learn how to spot spam texts and emails
- Understand how and why to freeze your credit
- Detect social engineering tactics
- Review password recommendations
- Learn why you need multifactor authentication and why seniors are common targets

Coffee and light refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP to Hannah at 507-388-4200 or hannah.barnlund@oldmainvillage.com

Join COPAL for a Love Your Immigrant Neighbor solidarity action and be part of a visible show of care and support for our immigrant neighbors.

📍 Madison East Center sidewalk
🕙 10:00–11:30 AM

Gather for a community rally, share lawn signs, and uplift messages of solidarity throughout the area. After the rally, community members are invited to help deliver flyers to nearby small businesses. Come stand with us, bring your voice, and help spread love and support in our community. 💛

Please use the link to register: https://secure.ngpvan.com/eoFv-tYaR0qA1UP39KqM-Q2

________

Únase a nosotros en una acción de solidaridad Love Your Immigrant Neighbor y sea parte de una muestra visible de cuidado y apoyo a nuestras comunidades inmigrantes.

📍 Acera del Madison East Center
🕙 10:00–11:30 a.m.

Nos reuniremos para un rally comunitario, compartiremos letreros para jardines y difundiremos mensajes de solidaridad en el área. Después del rally, la comunidad podrá ayudar a entregar volantes a pequeños negocios cercanos. Venga a acompañarnos, alce su voz y ayude a compartir amor y apoyo en nuestra comunidad. 💛

Por favor utilice en enlace para registrarse: https://secure.ngpvan.com/eoFv-tYaR0qA1UP39KqM-Q2

Join River Valley Running every Saturday at 8:15 A.M. for the Saturday Stride & Stroll! This is a FREE family-friendly event; strollers, walkers, and runners of all paces are welcome. Pre-planned routes are roughly 3 miles, but participants are welcome to go as short or as far as they'd like.
Previously called the 'Saturday Group Run,' we want to encourage an active lifestyle. They welcome people of all abilities to join even if they don't consider themselves runners. This is a social, inclusive event that's fun for the whole family! You can even bring your dog, as long as they are on a leash.
As always, they will provide snacks and coffee; with the chilly weather, we also have hot chocolate and tea. They’d love to see some new faces!
This event happens EVERY Saturday, rain, shine, sleet, or snow, unless otherwise noted.

Join CADA for a night of games and giving!

On the main stage, guests will compete in Friendly Feud - a live, game show inspired by Family Feud, with questions about friendship and CADA’s work. This evening also features interactive mini-games, delicious food, signature cocktails, photo opportunities, and a fabulous silent auction.

Galentine's Day is more than a celebration of friendship - it's a way to support CADA, the lifeline that helps many survivors of domestic and sexual violence rebuild safety, connection, and community!

Tickets go on sale December 17!

Join the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota for 14 weeks of hands-on Indigenous learning!

Each Thursday from 4:00–6:00 pm, children ages 7–12 explore a new cultural theme through artmaking, storytelling, games, traditional knowledge, and guided activities. Co-sponsored by MSU’s Elementary Education program and Mahkato Okawitaya, these mini-workshops celebrate Dakota and Ojibwe traditions while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and respect.

Weekly topics include forest animals, dance regalia, beading, traditional tools, Indigenous games, star quilts, dreamcatchers, lodges, sacred foods, buffalo lifeways, drums, seasonal calendars, gardens, and ledger art. Children will handle replica tools, design patterns, build mini models, plant seeds, create artwork, and learn about the land and its first peoples.

Families may attend any or all weeks. Activities are designed to be inclusive, educational, and joyful—perfect for young learners who love culture, nature, and hands-on exploration.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. And others:

College of Education, Minnesota State University, Mankato
Blue Earth County Public Library
Blue Earth County Historical Society

Project Advisory Council Members

SkyAnne Walker, Hocąk artist
Alex Ek, Wiinik stone artist
David Clobes, Apache Nation photographer & filmmaker
Gwen Westerman, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
John Armendariz, Hocąk artist
Megan Heutmaker, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
Jessica Potter, Blue Earth County Historical Society

South Central Committee is focused on uplifting the Latino Community through advocacy, leadership, and event planning.

Please use the link to register: https://secure.ngpvan.com/YlmZbEx88UK9QJ1hNtILuQ2

This training provides campus leaders and educators with strategies to support refugee, immigrant, and Muslim students amid a challenging statewide climate. Participants will examine the impact of Islamophobia on student success and explore effective institutional practices that strengthen belonging, safety, and inclusive learning environments. The session offers clear guidance to help campuses respond thoughtfully and ensure all students feel valued and supported.

Experience the beauty of Minneopa State Park at night with a candlelight hike through the scenic Minneopa Creek River Valley. The self-guided hike is available anytime between 5 to 8 p.m. Choose your own adventure by enjoying up to 3 miles of illuminated trail, out-and-back. Gather around campfires with friends and family to warm up and enjoy free hot chocolate, courtesy of the Friends of Minneopa. Limited parking makes carpooling highly recommended. This special event is co-sponsored by the Friends of Minneopa State Park in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

To join, please meet at the Group Camp Parking Lot anytime from 5 to 8 p.m.

The program is free to attend but requires a valid Minnesota State Parks Vehicle Permit. These may be bought online at MN DNR State Parks Vehicle Permit or at the park office.

Join the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota for 14 weeks of hands-on Indigenous learning!

Each Thursday from 4:00–6:00 pm, children ages 7–12 explore a new cultural theme through artmaking, storytelling, games, traditional knowledge, and guided activities. Co-sponsored by MSU’s Elementary Education program and Mahkato Okawitaya, these mini-workshops celebrate Dakota and Ojibwe traditions while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and respect.

Weekly topics include forest animals, dance regalia, beading, traditional tools, Indigenous games, star quilts, dreamcatchers, lodges, sacred foods, buffalo lifeways, drums, seasonal calendars, gardens, and ledger art. Children will handle replica tools, design patterns, build mini models, plant seeds, create artwork, and learn about the land and its first peoples.

Families may attend any or all weeks. Activities are designed to be inclusive, educational, and joyful—perfect for young learners who love culture, nature, and hands-on exploration.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. And others:

College of Education, Minnesota State University, Mankato
Blue Earth County Public Library
Blue Earth County Historical Society

Project Advisory Council Members

SkyAnne Walker, Hocąk artist
Alex Ek, Wiinik stone artist
David Clobes, Apache Nation photographer & filmmaker
Gwen Westerman, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
John Armendariz, Hocąk artist
Megan Heutmaker, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
Jessica Potter, Blue Earth County Historical Society

Join Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Minnesota State University Mankato for this amazing event and annual celebration of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion!

Keynote Speaker: Steve Tamayo, Traditional Lakota Artist and Educator
Meal Prepared By: Chef Pedro Lozada

Student performances will be featured throughout the night to celebrate the talent within Diversity, Equity & Inclusion!

Individual Student Ticket: $15.00
Individual Non-Student Ticket: $50.00

Student Table of 8: $100.00
Non-Student Table of 8: $300.00

To reserve a ticket or table, please contact Ann Swartz-Beckius at 507-389-1028 or email ann-marie.swartz-beckius@mnsu.edu.

Deadline to reserve your ticket or table is Monday Jan 26, 2025

Join the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota for 14 weeks of hands-on Indigenous learning!

Each Thursday from 4:00–6:00 pm, children ages 7–12 explore a new cultural theme through artmaking, storytelling, games, traditional knowledge, and guided activities. Co-sponsored by MSU’s Elementary Education program and Mahkato Okawitaya, these mini-workshops celebrate Dakota and Ojibwe traditions while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and respect.

Weekly topics include forest animals, dance regalia, beading, traditional tools, Indigenous games, star quilts, dreamcatchers, lodges, sacred foods, buffalo lifeways, drums, seasonal calendars, gardens, and ledger art. Children will handle replica tools, design patterns, build mini models, plant seeds, create artwork, and learn about the land and its first peoples.

Families may attend any or all weeks. Activities are designed to be inclusive, educational, and joyful—perfect for young learners who love culture, nature, and hands-on exploration.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. And others:

College of Education, Minnesota State University, Mankato
Blue Earth County Public Library
Blue Earth County Historical Society

Project Advisory Council Members

SkyAnne Walker, Hocąk artist
Alex Ek, Wiinik stone artist
David Clobes, Apache Nation photographer & filmmaker
Gwen Westerman, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
John Armendariz, Hocąk artist
Megan Heutmaker, Dakota, MSU, Mankato
Jessica Potter, Blue Earth County Historical Society

Have a broken toaster, torn jacket, or glitchy lamp? Don’t toss it — bring it to the free Fix-It Clinic and get help from skilled volunteers who can assist with repairs and teach you hands-on DIY skills.

No registration required

What to expect:
- Help with small appliances, clothing, toys, and electronics
- Learn how to make repairs yourself
- Limit: 2 carry-in items per household
- First-come, first-served
- Items accepted until 3:30 PM

We cannot accept:
- Oversized or heavy items
- Gas-powered equipment
- Full zipper replacements (small zipper fixes are okay)

Interested in volunteering?
Sign up here:
https://heydempster.wixsite.com/fix-it.../volunteer-page

Join the Good Thunder Reading Series for their first spring reading featuring novelist V.V. Ganeshananthan.

For January's Adult Craft Night, they will be making winter luminaries! Choose the January 21st OR 22nd date when you register. There is no cost for this event. All materials will be provided. Registration required. Open to ages 18+. Registration opens Monday, December 22nd at 10:00am. Register by calling the library at 507-345-5120, stopping into the library, or online at northmankato.com/library_calendar.php

Students of all sign language abilities are invited to join this engaging Intro to ASL Club where you can boost your American Sign Language skills through interactive books, games, and activities! Open to ages 6-18. No registration required.