Best Bets: Ready to share stories and spooks

Published 10:21 am Thursday, October 29, 2015

Get ready for storytelling this weekend as people from all over share their stories at “And That’s My Story” on Friday. With Halloween on Saturday and tons of candy to collect, music, a haunted house and more, there is plenty for all ages this weekend.

1. Open Mic/Karaoke

7 to 9 p.m., Thursday, The Way Cafe

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Share stories, music, poems and experience with community members at this free event. Show up early to put names on the list, or call 507-440-4837 for a reserved spot. For more information, call 507-440-8651.

2. Halloween Party

12 to 1:30 p.m., Friday, Mower County Senior Center

It’s time to get out those costumes and scare up a little fun. Enjoy lunch and a little Halloween ghoulishness to get into the spirit of the holiday. There will be a prize for the best costume and photo opportunity. The cost is $6.50, and for more information, call 507-433-2370.

3. ‘And That’s My Story’

5:30 to 10 p.m., Friday, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Hormel Historic Home

Join community members and storytellers for stories, music, food and fun. Storytellers from the tristate area will gather at the Hormel Historic Home to share their stories and experiences. The first part of Austin’s Storytelling Event will feature dinner followed by a “concert” by nationally-known storytellers. There will also be a Saturday morning “Coffee and Donuts” with the storytellers at the Hormel Home beginning at 9 a.m. It will include stories and conversation with the featured tellers, connecting with history, and an open mic, an opportunity for everyone to share their own stories. “And That’s My Story” begins with a social hour at 5:30 p.m., followed by a dinner at 6:30 p.m. The storytelling concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Costs include $30 for the entire evening or $15 for the storytelling concert only. Co-sponsored by The Cedars of Austin. For more information, call 507-433-4243.

4. Reminisce – music concert

5-8 p.m., Friday, Four Daughters Vineyard

Smooth jazz, big band, Latin, easy listening, polkas, waltzes and more will be at this event featuring Steve Krob, Sue Hays and Theresa Iverson. Contact 437-2855 for more information.

5. Mower County 4-H Ambassadors’ Haunted House

7-10 p.m., Friday, Mower County Fairgrounds, 4-H Building

This haunted house is open to the public ages 8 and older. Small activities will be provided for younger kids. Cost is $5 to enter or $20 for a family of four or more. Enjoy a cup of cider and a cookie while waiting. For more information, call 507-437-9552.

6. 12th annual Hallelujah Harvest Fest

5:30-8 p.m., Saturday, St. John’s Lutheran Church

The harvest festival will feature family fun with games, prizes and treats all inside to stay out of the weather. Costumes are encouraged but scary costumes are discouraged. There is no admission fee, but bring a non-perishable food item and get 10 game tickets. Additional tickets are 10 cents. A light supper will be served from 5:45-7:30 p.m. and parental supervision is recommended.