Last call for holiday inspiration

Need some last-minute ideas for holiday decorating? Dec. 16 marks the final opportunity to tour this year's Bachman's Holiday Ideas House. Designers have dressed the Bachman family's historic home in Minneapolis in an array of seasonal decor around the theme of "modern plaid." Every room is filled with fresh festive arrangements, trees, wreaths and garlands. 6010 Lyndale Av. S., $5. Sign up for a time to visit at bachmans.com.

KIM PALMER

Holiday shopping

Support Minnesota artists during the holiday season, and give family and friends a unique gift they won't be expecting. The Soo Visual Arts Center is hosting a holiday boutique featuring art and gifts including prints, jewelry, painting and sculpture. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 19; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 20 and 21; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 22 and 23. Soo Visual Arts Center, 2909 Bryant Av. S., Mpls. soovac.org/.

Homegrown apples

Imagine walking to your yard and plucking an apple for a snack — or making applesauce, muffins and pies. Horticulture educator Annie Klodd will lead a course on growing apple trees. Sample the variety of apples that can be grown in Minnesota, and learn how to select the right variety and site in your yard. Leave with instruction on how to pick a sapling, proper planting and maintenance. 1 p.m. Jan. 26. $56, advance registration required at http://arboretum.umn.edu/. 3675 Arboretum Dr., Chaska.

MELISSA WALKER