May Day Workshops

Be a part of this year's May Day Parade. The community is invited to help In the Heart of the Beast Puppet Theatre create pieces for the annual event. (7 p.m. Tue., Thu.; 9 a.m. & 1 p.m. Sat. Free. Heart of the Beast Puppet Theater, 1500 E. Lake St., Mpls. 612-721-2535. www.hobt.org.)

The Great Minnesota Birthday Party

The governor's office has declared April 9 "Cheerful Givers Day" throughout Minnesota. An event highlighting the day features music by Tim Mahoney and Kathleen Johnson, photos with Twins mascot TC Bear, coloring contests and face painting. "Twin Cities Live" host Elizabeth Ries will emcee the day's events. Local high schools will compete in a cheer competition. (1-3 p.m. Sat. Free. Sears Court, Mall of America, Bloomington. 952-883-8810. www.cheerfulgivers.org.)

MELISSA WALKER