Family weekend fun: Como Conservatory Centennial, Mini Maker Faire, St. Martin's Day
This weekend, the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory celebrates its centennial with a great deal of fanfare. Because the building has been the site of many weddings over the past 100 years, married couples are invited to a special vow-renewal ceremony on Saturday. Grab a slice of anniversary cake and learn about this history of the conservatory at gardener talks. Other activities include button and postcard making, a time capsule station and live music. (10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat.-Sun. Free. Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, 1225 Estabrook Dr., St. Paul. 651-487-8200. comozooconservatory.org.)
MINI MAKER FAIRE
Youth who love technology and creating will enjoy this event. Participants can experience the latest technologies in 3D printing, coding, robotics and more. Local educators will discuss trends in building and designing. Guests can also immerse themselves in the process of rapid prototyping, ideation and circuitry. (3-7 p.m. Fri.; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. Free. Barnes & Noble, 3225 W. 69th St., Edina. 952-920-0633.)
ST. MARTIN'S DAY
Nov. 11 marks the feast of St. Martin Tours. On Sunday, Landmark Center will pay homage to the Roman soldier who was baptized as an adult and became a monk. Rice Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland, with German treats and traditions that highlight the season of giving. Make a lantern and then parade through the park at dusk, led by "St. Martin" on his horse. Donations will be accepted for Joseph's Coat, an organization that provides goods and services to families in need. (4 p.m. Sun. Free. Landmark Center, 75 W. 5th St., St. Paul. 651-292-3225. landmarkcenter.org.)
MELISSA WALKER
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Lefse-wrapped Swedish wontons, a soothing bowl of rice porridge and a gravy-laden commercial filled our week with comfort and warmth.