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
World Snow Celebration and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
Cold-weather events take over, with ice and snow sculptures, skating and sledding.
January 12, 2026
Minneapolis Institute of (Frozen) Art and 8 other low-cost things to do this week
Comic Andy Haynes comes to town, raise money for local charities and learn how to line dance.
January 5, 2026
Thrifty ways to ring in the new year
No-cost or low-cost New Year’s celebrations include games, dancing and music.
December 29, 2025
4 holiday light displays and 5 other free things to do this week
From Duluth to Mankato, holiday light displays add sparkle to the season.
December 22, 2025
Enjoy 6 solstice events and other free things to do this week
Solstice weekend welcomes a time of harmony and reflection with luminary walks and bonfires.
December 15, 2025
25 restaurants open on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day in the Twin Cities
Give yourself the gift of a fuss-free holiday with premade meals and desserts or these options if you’d rather dine out.
December 10, 2025
Minni Dazzle and 8 other free things to do this week
Holiday cheer spreads throughout the cities with light parades, a cookie exchange and Queer Holiday Market.
December 8, 2025
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
