Melissa Walker
News Assistant
CalendarsA self-proclaimed "List Maker to the Stars," Melissa spends her days coordinating calendars, sorting through press releases and combing the internet for a variety of events for Twin Citians to occupy themselves in their free time for the Minnesota Star Tribune and Vita.mn entertainment calendars. In rare, spare moments, she writes stories and book reviews.
Latest from Melissa Walker
Holly Jolly Night and 8 other free things to do this week
Put on a cozy, themed sweater and get into spirit of the season with holiday events.
December 1, 2025
Drink up, Grinches. The season of holiday pop-up bars is here
Restaurants and bars are rolling out the twinkle lights, tinsel and special cocktails menus. Here are 24 to get you into the holiday spirit.
November 25, 2025
The 50th & France tree lighting and 8 other free things to do this week
The turkey has been eaten and it’s Santa’s time to shine with holiday markets, tree lightings and holiday movies.
November 24, 2025
Live music with Erica West and 8 other free things to do this week
Holiday themed events include Thanksgiving meal giveaways along with holiday markets.
November 17, 2025
A holiday guide to Scrooges, nutcrackers and ‘Jingle Bell’ concerts
The season also features light fests, craft markets, circuses and festive train rides.
November 10, 2025
From takeout to dining in, 40-plus options for Thanksgiving dinner and dessert
Make a reservations at a restaurant or make plans to order a whole meal, an array of sides and pies.
November 5, 2025
Restaurant offers free meals for Veterans Day — plus 8 other free things this week
Spooky season ends with the Richfield Pumpkin Smash and holiday cheer begins with the Holly Jolly Market.
November 3, 2025
Halloween tricks and treats and 8 other free things to do this week
A costume parade, “Scooby Doo” screening, Dia de los Muertos celebration and crafts are on the roster.
October 27, 2025
Celebrate ‘The Great Gatsby’ at 100 with a movie, plus 8 more free things to do this week
Celebrate Halloween and Day of the Dead activities, and the harvest season.
October 20, 2025
Great pumpkin fest, plus 8 other free things to do for MEA week
Events include a creepy-crawly experience, Halloween hayride and boo-brew bash.
October 13, 2025
Bakken’s 50th birthday, plus 8 other free things to do
Enjoy a pop-up concert by Cantus and celebrate activities with Indigenous people.
October 6, 2025
It’s the season of spooky mazes, terror houses and haunted hayrides
Monsters and ghouls seek to scare brave souls at a cannabis labyrinth, winery and amusement park.
September 30, 2025
