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Where to See Alpacas during National Alpaca Farm Days (September 25 – 26)!

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Foggy Bottom Alpacas

I never knew about National Alpaca Farm Days until 2020 when we were looking for something outdoors to do, and a place called Foggy Bottom Alpacas in Isanti had a FREE open house!

Now I see that other alpaca farms have open houses too during this one weekend – the last weekend in September.

Keep reading for events happening this year!

But first check out our visit to Foggy Bottom Alpacas in Isanti!

Foggy Bottom Alpacas

The open house was all day Saturday and Sunday and there were various animals (not just alpacas), a food truck and some activities.

The farm is family-owned and started in 2008. It’s on 20 acres and is just an hour or so north of the Twin Cities. They have an on-site store with various items made from alpaca products like gloves, scarves, and socks (which are really warm by the way, and not itchy like wool)!

[Read more…]

Twin Cities Halloween & Fall Family Events 2021

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Twin Cities Halloween Events 2021

September and October are two of my favorite months of the year because of the cooler, crisp air, pumpkin everything, and Halloween events and fall festivals galore! Here I’ve rounded up tons of fun events you can enjoy with your family in the Twin Cities. Many are free, some are at cost (but so worth it!). And there are some drive-thru events!

Be sure to check in advance as some require registration in advance and may be filled up, and some events may change or be cancelled.

Check back often for updates!!!!!

Got an event to add? Email me at twincitiesfrugalmom@gmail.com!!!!

September and October Ongoing Events

Sever’s Fall Festival & Corn Maze. Shakopee. Open September 10, 2021 – October 31, 2021.

Twin Cities Harvest Corn Maze 2021

Twin Cities Harvest Festival & Corn Maze. Brooklyn Park. Open daily September 18th through October 31st. Free admission to marketplace, $6 – 10 admission for corn maze and activities. Enter my giveaway for 4 tickets by Tuesday, September 21st!

Screamin’ Green Hauntoween at Crayola Experience. Mall of America. September 25 – October 31. Screamin’ Green Hauntoween returns for a month of spooky family fun! Join us for more than five weeks of spook-tastic crafts, trick-or-treating and more! Children are encouraged to wear costumes for the event (no costume masks). Get LOWEST-PRICED tickets through my special link! Tickets are $17.50 (regularly $22.99 – $24.99). Here’s how:

  • Just click on my personalized online store web link (URL) and enter the access code TCFM.  (Or visit https://tickets.crayolaexperience.com and enter my personalized store name: Twin Cities Frugal Mom)
  • You’ll be able to purchase and print the tickets right away, saving you time waiting at the entrance turnstiles and bypassing ticket booth lines! And they’re valid for up to a year.

Storyland! Minnesota Children’s Museum, St. Paul. OPEN NOW! (They opened early!) Don’t forget to use my discount code “TCFM” to save $3 per ticket every day online!

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. October 1 – November 7. Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley. Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is back for a 3rd year at the Minnesota Zoo! Wander through the glow of thousands of artfully carved pumpkins all alight in the night. This season, carve out a little time to bask in the glow of nature and enjoy this truly magical experience. (Buy tickets online)

Anoka Halloween. The Halloween capital of the month! Events throughout October. See below for some of the listings or visit their website for their full list.

[Read more…]

Twin Cities Harvest Festival & Corn Maze 2021 and Ticket Giveaway (Ends 9/21)

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Twin Cities Harvest Festival

Fall is definitely approaching – I know because we’ve had a few chilly mornings already!

But one of the best things about fall is fall festivals and corn mazes…like the Twin Cities Harvest Festival!

And great news!

The Twin Cities Harvest Festival is back in Brooklyn Park in 2021! 

And I have 3 packs of 4 tickets to give away!!!

It’s September 18th through October 31st!

We’ve gone several times throughout the years and we LOVE it.

FREE Admission for Marketplace

PLUS like last year, admission is FREE for the marketplace, pumpkin patch and food trucks!

[Read more…]

Hottest Fall Plaid Shacket for $37.99 (Free Shipping)

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Shacket

I just found out about the latest trend in fashion – the Shacket!

For someone who is cold all the time like me this actually sounds wonderful.

It’s park jacket – part shirt! How perfect for Minnesota weather!

I’ve found these for over $50 on online boutique sites but right now you can get one for only $37.99! It’s regularly $68!

It’s available in 4 colors (brown, green, gray and red) – and shipping is FREE!

About this Shacket

This button up plaid shacket is everyone’s new favorite. Featuring a soft material, cozy fit, and the most trending plaid pattern- this is a shacket you will reach for time and time again. This piece also has functional buttons so you can wear it open or closed. Pair with a sleek bodysuit, denim skinny jeans, booties, and a fedora for your next lunch date or toss over your fave graphic with leggings and sneakers for an on trend casual look. 

Details:

  • 100% polyester
  • True to size
  • Small (0-4), Medium (6-8), Large (10-12), XL (14-16), 2X (18-20)

Free Shipping!

US only. Seller usually ships within 8 business days. Ships no later than Fri, Sep 17.

Check availability!

This deal is available for a limited time. 

Check it out and order now!

Make yourself a cup of Salted Caramel Pumpkin Latte to go with it too!

Salted Caramel Pumpkin Latte Recipe

(Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links that help support this site at no cost to you. All opinions are 100% mine.)

Free Minnesota History Pass for 6th Graders (It’s Back for 2021 – 2022)

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6th grade Minnesota History Pass
Photo credit: http://education.mnhs.org/6th-grade-minnesota-history-pass

Free admission to many museums statewide for 6th graders!

Yay! The 6th Grade Free Minnesota History Pass is being offered again for the 2021-2022 year!

Minnesota students in the 6th grade during the 2021-2022 school year can get a FREE Minnesota History Pass to use for free admission to Minnesota Historical Society sites and museums!

Any child who is in 6th grade during the 2021-2022 school year is eligible for this pass.

The pass is only good for the 6th grader (so not for the parents or siblings) and can be used through August 31, 2022. (Not valid for field trips, paid programs or specially priced exhibits.) It says you should receive your pass within 3 weeks but when I signed up my daughter a few years ago we got it right away.

Note – Some sites are closed due to COVID but many are open.

Learn more and sign up here: http://education.mnhs.org/6th-grade-minnesota-history-pass

Looking for more ways to get free or discounted admission to local museums?

Check out my guides:

Free or Discounted Admission Programs for Limited Income Families in Minnesota free discounted admission programs minnesota

Twin Cities Discount Guide for Families Twin Cities Discount Guide for Families

Free National Parks Pass for Families of 4th Graders

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Every Kid Outdoors

Families of 4th graders! Did you know that your family can get FREE admission to national parks for a whole year?

If your kid is in 4th grade then sign them up for the Every Kid Outdoors program and your family can get FREE admission until August 31, 2022!

Every Kid in a Park

Every Kid in a Park was created so fourth graders and their families could discover our country’s wildlife, resources, and history for free.

It was first announced by President Obama in early 2015 because American children spend less time outdoors than ever before, and this program wanted to address that problem.

Since the launch of Every Kid in a Park, hundreds of thousands of young people have had the chance to experience America’s parks and historic sites, many for the first time.

And in case you’re wondering (like I was) – fourth graders were chosen “because research shows that kids ages nine to 11 are beginning to learn about the world around them. They’re open to new ideas, and they are likely to connect to nature and our history.”

The program provides fourth grade students and their families free admission to all national parks and other federal lands. There are 5 in Minnesota.

Fourth Grade Park Pass

How it works!

All you do is go here to print and show at the entrance!

Be sure to have the PRINTED copy with you as they don’t accept electronic copies.

Learn more and sign up here: 

https://everykidoutdoors.gov/how.htm

More Ways to Visit Parks for FREE!

Check out these Fee-Free Days in National Parks!

More Park Fun!

Check out the “Parkcade” website with national park fun your kids can do at home!

More Outdoor Fun!

Do the 1000 Hours Outside Challenge with your family!

1000 Hours Outside

FREE PRINTABLE!

For winter fun, print out this FREE Winter Scavenger Hunt! Just click and print here:

Free Printable Winter Scavenger Hunt

MORE FREEBIES!

Sign up your child for a FREE Lego Magazine subscription! No catch!

Free LEGO Life Magazine Pinterest

Corn Maze Deals at Montgomery Orchard (Up to 43% Off)

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I love corn mazes and here are some great deals for the corn maze at Montgomery Orchard in Montgomery, Minnesota – about 1 hour south of the Twin Cities near Faribault!

Of course there’s way more to do there like picking apples and WINE tasting!

Montgomery Orchard

Montgomery Orchard – Save up to 43%

Right now you can save up to 43% on a corn maze admission tickets on Groupon!Montgomery Orchard hosts tons of family-friendly entertainment. You can enjoy self-guided tours through the beautiful prairie, and come to pick many varieties of Minnesota apples. There is also a six-acre corn maze divided into two halves, with one side being shorter and well-suited for families with small children, and a second side which is longer and will require more time to complete. A cidery/winery is also on-site, allowing adults to purchase a glass of wine or participate in a tasting. Five years ago Montgomery Orchard opened Montgomery Harvest Cider and Wines. Today, they offer five authentic ciders and five specialty wines. Grab a glass, then spend the afternoon in the corn maze or picking apples.Deal options include:

Details: NOTE: Free admission for children 5 and under. Available days and times: Friday from 1–5 p.m.; last admission at 3:30 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; last admission at 3:30 p.m. Sunday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; last admission at 3:30 p.m. Social distancing will be practiced. Masks required when approaching cash register

Promotional value expires October 31, 2021.

CHECK AVAILABILITY!

(Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links that help support this site at no cost to you. All opinions are 100% mine.)

Wagon Ride and Corn Maze Deals at Fall Harvest Orchard in Delano

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September is here and so are the corn mazes!

Here is a great deal for a wagon ride and corn maze at Fall Harvest Orchard in Delano!

Fall Harvest Orchard Delano

Fall Harvest Orchard – Save up to 20%

In Delano, which is about 45 minutes west of the Twin Cities, you can get a wagon ride and corn maze for up to 20% off on Groupon!

Fall Harvest Orchard is a family owned apple orchard and pumpkin patch. They have free parking and admission, and many free activities. They also offer 9 ticketed activities, U-pick apples/pumpkins, food options, and more.

Deal options include:

Promotional value expires October 31, 2021.

CHECK AVAILABILITY!

(Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links that help support this site at no cost to you. All opinions are 100% mine.)

Cirque Italia Water Circus at Maplewood Mall September 16 – 19 *Ticket Giveaway*

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Cirque Italia

This sounds so fun! Cirque Italia Water Circus is coming to Maplewood Mall from September 16 – 19, 2021! It will be in a big tent in the parking lot. 

Why am I excited?

Well, because I’m taking my family…plus because it will be a magical adventure!

AND because I have 3 family four-packs to give away to the 1:30pm show on Saturday, September 18th!

About Cirque Italia “Water Circus”

Have you ever had such a vivid dream you thought it was real? Have you ever wished you could turn back time? To go back to a simpler, happy time filled with sock hops, drive-in theaters, muscle cars, and thick sideburns? Well get out your poodle skirts and leather jackets! Cirque Italia’s Gold Unit performers can’t wait to take you back to a time when hula hoops and soda fountains were abundant, Elvis Presley dominated the airwaves, greased hair was all the rage, and street racing was a parent’s greatest concern! Come along for the ride when a 1950s-obsessed adolescent falls asleep and dreams of living in this revolutionary era. This high-octane show is guaranteed to captivate and engage every kiddo and Daddy-O in the audience.

CHECK IT OUT!

 

COVID safety

Cirque Italia is enforcing all recommendations set forth by the C.D.C. and local municipalities, and they have made adjustments and accommodations in order to comply with the safety guidelines set forth by local and state officials. These include:

  • Restricted seating capacity
  • Socially distanced seating with visual cues throughout tent
  • Mask mandate for anyone over 3 years of age (available for purchase if needed)
  • Increased number of hand sanitization stations in and around tent
  • All common areas wiped down and disinfected every 10-15 minutes

Because tickets are limited, you’ll definitely want to purchase your tickets in advance. There are 2 ways to do so:

Cirque Italia believes multi-culturalism is one of our strongest assets. Our show features performers from Argentina, Brazil, Romania, and many other countries. Of course, these incredible artists are preparing to wow you with their astounding acts. Master jugglers, low wire fanatics, dazzling contortion, wild trampoline antics, and even a wheel of death! 

Cirque Italia’s mission is to provide high-class entertainment suitable for all age groups, where all are welcome at our strictly animal-free shows!

Where?

3001 White Bear Ave N, Saint Paul, MN 55109

At Maplewood Mall in the parking lot under the stunning White & Blue Big Top Tent!

When is it?

September 16-19

·           Sept 16 – Thursday: 7:30pm

·           Sept 17 – Friday: 7:30pm

·           Sept 18 – Saturday: 1:30pm, 4:30pm, & 7:30pm

·           Sept 19 – Sunday: 1:30pm, 4:30pm, & 7:30pm

Cost and Purchase Info:

For more information, visit www.cirqueitalia.com and make sure to check all their social media accounts.

Tickets can be purchased now starting at $10.00-$50.00 depending on availability.

DISCOUNT!

Cirque Italia offers one free child admission with every full priced paying adult ticket in levels 2 or 3. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts, or deals. Please call 941-704-8572 to get the promo code for your location.

Box office hours: The box office opens on-site on Tuesday, the week of the show.

Non-show days: 10am – 6pm
On show days: 10am – 9pm

GIVEAWAY!

I have 3 family 4-packs to GIVE AWAY for the 1:30pm show on Saturday, September 18th!

Enter on my FACEBOOK PAGE HERE!

(Disclosure: I am provided with complimentary tickets in exchange for hosting this giveaway. All opinions are 100% mine.)

Free Admission for Grandparents at the Crayola Experience September 10 – 12

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grandparents crayola

FREE TICKET ALERT! Yay! In honor of Grandparents’ Day, grandparents get FREE admission at the Crayola Experience Mall of America September 10th – 12th, with PAID child admission! Plus get Lowest-Priced Tickets for Everyone Else! Offer not valid on Annual Passes. Limit one free admission per paid child admission. Offer expires September 12, 2021. Reservations are not required for free admission offers. Final interpretation resides with Crayola Experience. 

Note that kids 2 and under can always get in free. Check out their Special Offers page for info! [Read more…]