Best Bets: Last weekend of summer giving way to fall

Published 10:17 am Thursday, September 18, 2014

The last weekend of summer will have fall flair, so get ready for some fun as the 26th year of pumpkins kicks transitions to first day of autumn on Tuesday. Music, green living and woolly cows are sure to make this weekend one that won’t be forgotten.

1. Bella Ruse Concert

7 p.m. on Friday, Jay C. Hormel Ruby Rupner Auditorium

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Bella Ruse will bring its combination of airy folk and crunchy pop to the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center a day before the duo performs at RE-Fest. Singer Kay Gillette and guitarist Joseph Barker utilize a variety of instruments — typewriter, suitcase organ, glockenspiel and kazoo — to carry listeners deep down the rabbit-hole into their magical musical world. The concert is free and open to public.

2. Re-Fest

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Mower County Fairgrounds

Enjoy musicians, artisans, educators and exhibitors, plus individual and family-oriented workshops on green living, energy conservation and renewable energy. Learn how to take action to conserve Earth’s limited resources and make positive changes in your community. The event is free and open to the public.

3. North Central Scottish Highland Cattle Regional Show

9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Mower County Fairgrounds

See a unique and majestic breed of beef cattle. This is a family event for both exhibitors and the public. At 9 a.m., there will be a junior show, and at noon, there will be an open show. Check www.mowercountyfair.com for updates. Call Mark Schulz, organizer, at 507-582-1073 or email mark@flatlandfarms.com for more information.

4. Austin Youth Hockey Golf Classic

12 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Meadow Greens Golf Course and Austin Eagles Club

The four-person best-shot format kicks off with a noon shotgun start and a silent auction and dinner to follow at the Austin Eagles Club during the 10th annual event. All proceeds benefit Austin Youth Hockey with the ultimate goal of keeping the program strong and affordable for the community. To register, go to www.austin.pucksystems2.com/page/show/7013-welcome-to-the-website-for-austin-youth-hockey-in-austin-minnesota. For more information, call 507-219-1573.

5. Tim Patrick and his Blue Eyes Band

7:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, Historic Paramount Theatre

Tim Patrick, a dynamic Frank Sinatra-style singer who performs regularly in the Twin Cities area with his swingin’ Blue Eyes Band, is coming to the Paramount Theatre Stage. Cost is $20 at the door or $15 in advance. For more information, visit www.timpatrickmusic.com or www.facebook.com/timpatrickmusic.

6. Farmer John’s Pumpkin Patch Starts Up

All day on Sunday, Farmer John’s Pumpkin Patch, Austin

Celebrate the 26th year of of family fun at Farmer Johns. Pick pumpkins, discover fall decorating items, take advantage of fall photo opportunities, and take horse and wagon rides. Groups are welcome. Call 507-437-9180 for reservations or information.