Weekend Happenings: Free Day at the Arboretum, Tour de Tonka, and Shakopee Derby Days

Summer is in full swing and there are many events to choose from this weekend!  We've highlighted three that we think are worth noting.

Chanhassen - Carver County Day at the MN Landscape Arboretum
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
Friday, August 5th, 2011 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Cost: Free Admission

On this special day, all Carver county and City of Chanhassen residents will be admitted FREE OF CHARGE to the Arboretum (with proof of residency).


Arboretum Director Ed Schneider will welcome Chanhassen Mayor Furlong, as well as city and county officials at a public welcoming ceremony, with complimentary refreshments, at 10 am in the Oswald Visitor Center. Immediately following, free gift bags will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. located in the Snyder Building.

There are many exhibits and special events planned for the day so be sure to come out to the Arb on Friday!

Tour de Tonka
Starting at Minnetonka High School
Saturday, August 6th, 2011 7:00 am
Cost:  Free to watch, Registration fees vary for riders, Accepting donations to ICA Foodshelf

Tour de Tonka, an annual Minnetonka Community Education multi-distanced bicycle ride through Lake Minnetonka communities for cyclists of all ages, promotes and celebrates healthy lifestyles, friendship, teamwork, and recreation through the collaboration of cities, sponsors, local charities and hundreds of volunteers.


Come watch this fun community event or for the more athletically minded, register to ride!  You can still register on Friday and even the morning of the event.  For more information follow the link above or visit the Tour de Tonka Facebook page.
 
Shakopee Derby Days
Huber Park, Shakopee, MN
Wed. Aug. 3rd through Sunday Aug. 7th, 2011
Cost:  Many Free events, various prices for rides and food

Shakopee's 26th annual summer festival, held the first full weekend in August. Events include entertainment, family fun park, Taste of Shakopee, market fair, fireworks, parade, senior Olympics, 5K turf run, and more. Most events are located in historic downtown Shakopee's Huber Park and are free or low-cost.  Visit the event website for specific event information or go to their Shakopee Derby Days Facebook page.