A good one.

This week’s ’dish has a little bit of everything we love about Minnesota—live tunes, local brews, quirky charm, nostalgic vibes, smoky meats, a hint of art, and a big ol’ scoop of the great outdoors.

BTW: We’d love to hear about your weekend! Feel free to shoot us a reply and let us know which events you checked out and how it went—it’d mean a lot. ♥️

Bon appétit!

-Joe & Haley

Your Weekend Forecast

Minnesota Craft Beer Festival

4/26

🍻 Fun fact: Minnesota has 237 craft breweries—14th highest per capita in the U.S.—and you can sample some of the best at the Minnesota Craft Beer Festival.

Over 80 breweries are showing up, including local names like Lupulin, Alloy, Modist, and Uncommon Loon. Alongside homegrown talent, you’ll also get to taste pours by craft brewers from across the U.S.—from rare small-batch releases to taproom-only specialties. It’s a chill, come-as-you-are kind of vibe, perfect for exploring unreleased varieties with fellow connoisseurs while enjoying live music.

Heads up: Every past festival has sold out, so grab your tickets early. Discounted admission is available for your designated driver. Doesn’t look like there’s much food at the event, which seems kinda odd.

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A couple of years ago, my buddy Jake suggested we take our annual camping trip up to the Boundary Waters. Those four days gave me some of my fondest memories: sharing meals around the campfire, taking turns carrying the canoe across muddy portages, and the burning biceps from paddling across never-ending lakes.

The scenery, the camaraderie, the struggle, and the conquering—all of it. It’s an experience I hope everyone gets to enjoy at least once in their life. And just maybe, this week’s Up Yonder will inspire (and equip) you to do just that.

MN 101: Canoeing

🛶 Step 1: Get a Canoe

Renting is the way to go if you’re just starting out, and canoes are available pretty much anywhere you’re headed. Locally, Three Rivers Parks, Minneapolis Parks, and Minnesota State Parks are your best bets for finding rentals at lakes near you. Skip places like REI if you’re staying local, as it would require you to transport the canoe to the lake yourself.

Heading up north? Look for local outfitters near the lake you’re eyeing. For our Boundary Waters trip, we rented our canoe from Voyageur North in Ely which came with car tie-down straps, life jackets, and paddles - plus a hot shower when you return! Pretty much any vehicle can transport a canoe (no truck required).

🗺️Step 2: Where to Go

The best place to start is wherever you feel comfortable—no need to go full wilderness warrior right away. Minnesota has plenty of options, from calm city lakes to epic backcountry routes, so you can ease in and level up at your own pace.

• Level 1: Local Lakes - Calm, shallow waters help you get used to the rhythm of paddling. If you’re renting, use the links above to find a lake with gear close to home. Our picks: Cedar Lake (Minneapolis), Bryant Lake (Eden Prairie), French Lake (Plymouth), or Forest Lake.

• Level 2: Calm Rivers - Rivers aren’t my first recommendation for beginners, and I’d definitely avoid large ones—between boats and wind, they can get choppy and frustrating. The Rum River (Ramsey) is a good option. Just make sure to check for dams before putting in, and avoid any rivers with rocks or rapids.

• Level 3: Full Send - The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) offers countless choose-your-own-adventure routes, known for remote campsites, rugged portages, and zero bars of cell service. It’s challenging, unforgettable, and totally worth it. Also, getting rescued is a challenge, so come prepared. Permits are required and can sell out.

🚣‍♂️ Step 3: How to Actually Canoe

YouTube will be your best friend for learning how to canoe, but here are a few tips to get you started:

• Find a friend. While it’s possible to paddle solo, it’s a lot harder—and honestly, kind of boring. Remember: “Brawn in the front, brains in the back.” The stronger person powers from the front, while the person more likely to pay attention (and not get you lost) steers from the back.

• Pack smart. Keep your center of gravity low by loading heavier items like backpacks and coolers low in the canoe. Lighter stuff—like jackets and snacks—should go up top and stay easy to grab. Don’t forget the essentials: sunglasses, a rain jacket or windbreaker, sunscreen, an emergency whistle, and drinking water. Life jackets (PFDs) are non-negotiable.

• Paddle in sync. Each person should paddle on the opposite side of the canoe, keeping their paddle mostly vertical and close to the boat. The front person sets the rhythm, and the back person follows—paddling a few strokes on one side before switching. The back paddler can use the “J-stroke” method to help steer and paddling on the same side can help turn the canoe or fight against wind.

🏕️Now, go for it.

The best way to learn is by doing—so pencil it on the calendar and just go. And when you do, I’d genuinely love to hear about your Up Yonder adventures! Reply here anytime to share your stories or ask any questions that come up while you're planning.

Until next week—happy trails!

–Joe

• Renaissance Fair 2025 still on despite major fire

• Model Railroad Show

• The Lightning Thief, Percy Jackson Musical

• Art in Bloom

• Fair Food Preview

PS: If your 2025 plans include buying or selling a home around the Twin Cites… 🙋‍♂️😃