Weekend family options: Cafesjian's Carousel, Irish Fair

The ride that once amused Minnesota State Fair goers for 75 years is now a century old. To celebrate, play old-fashioned children's games and other family activities. Enjoy free mini-cupcakes and root beer floats. A program at 3 p.m. includes a history of the carousel and performance by the Minneapolis Aquatennial Senior Singers. (11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. Free, carousel rides are $2. Cafesjian's Carousel, Midway Pkwy. and Kaufman Dr., St. Paul. www.ourfaircarousel.org.)

New to this cultural festival is an expanded children's area with space for kids to participate in artistic activities. The Irish and Celtic marketplace has been redesigned and will feature 104 booths. Musical entertainment by Altan, the Eddies, Gaelic Storm and others. Also displays, exhibits and workshops. (3-11 p.m. today; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat.; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Sun. Harriet Island, Plato Blvd. and Justus Ohage Blvd., St. Paul. www.irishfair.com.)