9 free things to do in the Twin Cities this week

Take in the autumnal colors with self-guided nature activities and pioneer games. The cider press gets cranked up for beverages and guests can experience the new fall sound garden. (1-4 p.m. Sat., Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes. anokacountyparks.com)

Young writers prove they are wise wordsmiths during this reading series. Hear inspiring pieces from Lamonte, Daysionathepoet, Ken Poetry and IamM.E. (7 p.m. Wed., Sisyphus Brewing, 712 Ontario Av. W., Mpls., crackedwalnut.com)

Artists Syed Hosain and Ruthann Godollei talk about their work and Hosain's new exhibit "Eyes They Sea." The exhibit reflects recent moments of injustice and uncertainty. (3 p.m. Sun., exhibit runs through Oct. 29, 2909 Bryant Av. S., Mpls., soovac.org)

A partnership with the Schubert Club continues with a new season of music. Talented Minnesota Opera Resident Artists will perform. (Noon Fri., 1200 Marquette Av. S., Mpls., westminstermpls.org)

MEA weekend finds the Como Zoo covered in a variety of bugs. Learn about hissing cockroaches, anaconda, carnivorous plants, spiders and more through zookeeper and gardener talks and interactive activities. (10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fri.-Sun., 1225 Estabrook Drive, St. Paul, comozooconservatory.org)

Throughout the weekend, plump, well-groomed bovine will be judged. Human competitors also will be judged on their knowledge and there will be a trade show and exhibitions. (8 a.m.-8 p.m. Thu.; 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Fri.; 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Sat.; 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sun., Warner Coliseum & Livestock Complex, State Fairgrounds, 1265 N. Snelling Av., Falcon Heights, mnbeefexpo.com)

Throw on a glow-in-the-dark outfit or bracelets for an illuminating evening. Walk a path of glowing pumpkins, play glow games and groove along in the glow dance with a live DJ. (5-8 p.m. Sat., Veterans Park, 803 Old Hwy. 8, New Brighton. newbrightonmn.gov)

Comics will make the crowd laugh the fall chills away in this event, once voted Best Twin Cities Comedy Open Mic by City Pages. (7 p.m. Mon., Bryant Lake Bowl, 810 W. Lake St., Mpls., facebook.com/uproarmpls/ or bryantlakebowl.com)

Grab a gourd and paint pen for some artistic fun. Children 6-12 can use their imaginations to make spooky- or kooky-looking pumpkins. (4:30-6 p.m. Tue., Columbia Heights Public Library, 3939 Central Av. NE., Columbia Heights, anokacounty.libcal.com/event/10976995)

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