Get Out ... and Explore the Mendota Heights Area This Weekend

It’s Thursday, and you’ve got no idea what to do this weekend.

Patch is coming to the rescue. We’ve got the best bets for your work's-done-outta-here time. Check our picks for the activities to hit and new bars/restaurants/shops to explore.

VISTA Variety Show
Where and when? DeSales Auditorium at Feb. 4 and 5, 7 p.m.
Why go?  A talented group of students from Visitation and St. Thomas Academy will sing, dance, perform skits and more.  It's an entertaining tradition.
Pricing: Tickets are $10 each for students and adults.

Boys Varsity Basketball:  Henry Sibley vs. St. Thomas Academy
Where and when?  , Feb. 4, 7 p.m.
Why go?  Two talented teams + a friendly cross-town rivalry= a great night of high school basketball.
Pricing: Adults $6 and students $4.

St. Paul Winter Carnival Torchlight Parade
Where and when? Feb. 5 in downtown St. Paul, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Check out www.winter-carnival.com for parade route.
Why go?  Vulcanus Rex will overthrow King Boreas after the parade on the steps of the St. Paul Public Library.  Good-bye winter?  (Oh, we wish.)  Fireworks to follow.
Pricing: Free

Comedian Paul Hooper
Where and when?  in Lilydale, Feb. 4 and 5, two shows each night at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Why go? This comic sensation is described as being "high speed, high energy and highly volatile," so he's sure to liven up a cold winter's night.
Pricing: $15

Cross Country Skiing
Where and when?  There are 12 miles of groomed and tracked ski trails at Fort Snelling State Park, just a short drive from Mendota Heights. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
Why go?  The weather forecast calls for a slight warm-up, so this is the perfect weekend to grab those skis and enjoy a beautiful winter day.  Take a break in front of the fireplace in the Visitor Center.
Pricing:  Skiers ages 16 and older must purchase a day pass for $6 at the Visitor Center.  Visit www.dnr.state.mn.us for more information or call 612-725-2389.