As the new year rolls in with resolutions and fresh starts, Downtown Parks is making sure that creativity and community go hand in hand. Your local hangout is serving a robust platter of activities this winter, from the fine arts to the fine art of line dancing. Minneapolis residents, and their non-local friends, can indulge in a slew of events meant to rekindle their love for home-grown cinema, explore their literary side or get their hands dirty with some artistic expression.
For those itching to pick up a paintbrush or thread a needle, the Park Palette Art Classes on January 13 and 27 at Water Works Pavilion could be the answer. While Minneapolis residents can snag a spot for the bargain price of $15, those hailing from beyond will need to shell out $22.50—a tad steeper but still a steal for the chance to personalize an art journal or learn the chic art of Visible Mending. As mentioned by Downtown Parks, "Start 2025 creatively—join us on January 13 to craft a personalized art journal that sparks inspiration for the year ahead."
For the cinephiles, or anyone simply looking for a cozy afternoon, "Movies Made (right) Here: The Untamed Heart edition" offers a trip down memory lane with a free screening of a Minneapolis love story, 'Untamed Heart'. This 1993 romantic drama not only flaunts the city's landscape but also makes for a perfect winter warmer. According to the Downtown Parks announcement, grab some popcorn and "relive the magic of a film that’s as much about love, as it is about our beautiful city."
Staying true to Minnesota’s literary roots, the Minnesota: A Literary Powerhouse Book Club invites bookworms to dive into 'The Devil's Bed' by William Kent Krueger on January 20. Exploring themes of intrigue and suspense set against a familiar Minnesotan backdrop, the book club provides an avenue for thrilling discussion—no registration, just your presence required. As the club put it, the book is about "a deadly web of intrigue," making it an irresistible lure for those hungering for some intellectual sparring to go with their start to the new year.
And let's not forget about the rhythm enthusiasts. Dancing in the Pavilion beckons to those ready to line dance their way through a Sunday afternoon. Whether you're a line dance aficionado or someone with two left feet looking to laugh at themselves, Billie from the Back Road Kickers will be there on January 26 to ensure everyone feels the beat. And with free parking to boot, as the organizers note, feel free to bring "your friends, family, or come solo—everyone’s welcome in this fun, friendly environment!"
So, there you have it—Downtown Parks isn't just a place to pass through this winter, it's a destination. Whether you're looking to stir your soul with stirring local cinema, connect through the collective sigh over a gripping novel, or just stomp to some heart-pumping beats, Minneapolis has got your back. Stay warm, stay inspired, and who knows, you might just walk away with more than just a resolution accomplished.
