The651.com

Photo hunt is back!  The first person to e-mail stacy@capcitypartnership.com the correct answer, wins!

The winner will walk away with a $50.00 gift card to Details Style Lab, click here for more information.

We were at the Smith Avenue High Bridge in St. Paul.  Thanks to the participants.  See you next week!

MNfashion Week is one of our favorite times of the year. When else can you have so many stylish events packed in a one-week period? Of course, this spring it’s more like MNfashion Month, with fashion shows and events happening throughout the month of April. There’s so much going on, we can understand if you feel overwhelmed - so to help you out, we’re highlighting the must-be-at events in St. Paul, as well as offering a comprehensive listing of the rest.

WEEK OF APRIL 19-25:

Christopher Straub Premier Collection (Official MNfashion Week event)
What: Former Project Runway contestant Christopher Straub has kept himself very busy since appearing on the sixth season (and coming in fourth) of the reality show. He opened an e-shop, announced an accessories line for ShopNBC, created a dress out of packaging from the Project Runway Wii game, and will be participating in Voltage as a handbag designer for PFT Couture and Emma Berg’s lines. This spring, he’s showcasing his very first full men’s and women’s clothing collections (accompanied by accessories, of course). Tickets are $15 to $50 and available online at www.vitalculture.com. (Pictured: A sketch from Christopher Straub’s Spring 2010 collection.)
When: 4-8 p.m. (5:30 p.m. show.) Sunday, April 25.
Where: Saint Paul Hotel, 350 Market St., St. Paul. www.christopherstraub.com

Saturday: A Man’s Show (Official MNfashion Week event)
What: Guys don’t ever seem to get as much attention as the ladies in the fashion scene. Fellas, feel neglected no more. This runway show will feature sartorial options from VState, Elsworth, Details Style Lab, and eyewear from the Spectacle Shoppe. Live music from the School of Rock’s student band Road Crew will provide a rockin’ accompaniment to the runway show, which includes an all-underwear segment. You can buy a retail discount ($10 for 10 percent up to $30 for 30 percent) for any of the retailers involved for a $5 donation, with proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Twin Cities. Free, but be sure to RSVP at event@detailsmn.com.
When: 8-10 p.m. Saturday, April 24. (Pictured: A spring look from Elsworth; photo by Chris McDuffie.)
Where: Lowry Theater, 16 W. 5th St., St. Paul. Details Style Lab: 651-251-8700. www.detailsmn.com

Thursday-Tuesday: “The Office on Film” (Official MNfashion Week event)
What: Presented in conjuction with the Goldstein’s current exhibition, “How Secretaries Changed the 20th Century Office: Design, Image, and Culture,” this film series highlights secretaries’ role in the working world over the years. Tuesday evening, the series kicks off with Skyscraper Souls, set during the market crash in the 1930s as romantic and financial entanglements provide the backdrop to costumes that range from day to evening. On Wednesday, Joan Crawford stars as a tough lady-boss in 1950s-era The Best of Everything. The series finishes off with over-the-top big-hair ‘80s classic Nine to Five - that’s right, the one starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Free. (Pictured: Joan Crawford in The Best of Everything.)
When: 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 20-Thursday, April 22.
Where: Goldstein Museum of Design, 32 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Ave., St. Paul. 612-624-7434. www.goldstein.design.umn.edu

Saturday & Sunday: Bibelot Spring Sale
What: Locally-owned gift and accessory shop Bibelot is hosting its spring sale at all four locations and its e-shop. Take 20 percent off storewide on jewelry, gifts, clothing and stationary, and get a $10 gift card when you spend $100 or more. (Pictured: Anne Garrison moon earrings.)
When: Saturday, April 24 & Sunday, April 25.
Where: Grand Avenue: 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-0321. Como: 2276 Como Avenue St. Paul, 651-646-5651. www.bibelotshops.com

Thursday: Shop Local at Picky Girl (Official MNfashion Week event)
What: St. Paul boutique Picky Girl showcases its collection of local designer wares at its MNfashion Week event - including our favorite local design duo, Calpurnia Peach. The whimsical clothing line for the girly-girl with good taste and a heart for story-telling features original hand-drawn screenprints in a bright sherbert color palette. Other local lines featured include handbags by Nelle, Post-, and Rapport, and accessories Julian Capelle and Perfect Pumps, with complimentary drinks and apps from D’Amico. The event also doubles as the launch of the “Picky Perks” card: With a $100 purchase of regular-priced merchandise, you’ll receive a Picky Perks card good toward future purchases. Simply present the card with each visit and receive 10 percent off all regular-priced merchandise (good through one year), and 25 percent off any purchase during your birthday week. (Pictured: A Spring 2010 look by Calpurnia Peach; photo by Lauren Gantner.)
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107. www.pickygirlmn.com

Thursday: Carrie Cordelia Handbags Trunk Show (Official MNfashion Week event)
What: Check out the new handbag line by Carrie Cordelia at this launch party and trunk show at W7 Collective. The line incorporates a creative application of high-tech fabrics and traditional materials, with designs incorporating feminine silhouettes and a gender-neutral aesthetic that should appeal to women and men alike. While you’re there, enjoy music, hors d’oeuvres and wine, and if you RSVP to the show, you’ll receive a discount card for 20 percent off at the event.
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 22.
Where: W7 Collective, Pilney Building, 1032 7th St. W., St. Paul. www.w7collective.com

Spring Promotions at FiveTwoSix Salon & Spa
What: Mark your calendars for May 1 and make a date with Mom: FiveTwoSix Salon & Spa will be hosting a Smashbox Saturday event just in time for Mother’s Day. For $75, you’ll get a makeup application redeemable for Smashbox product, a photo session, a printed photo and refreshments. (9 a.m.-4 p.m. Also May 8. Appointment required.) Now through May 8, buy a $50 gift card and receive a travel bag and two free 2-oz. samples of Bumble & Bumble product. Also while supplies last, buy a Dermalogica Daily Microfolian and receive a travel size Special Cleansing Gel and Active Moist for only $50 (an $80.50 value) - and through May, receive 10 percent off all Dermalogica products. Looking to try out a new stylist on the cheap? FiveTwoSix’s stylists-in-training program offers haircuts starting at $15. Finally, for every three people you refer to your stylist, you’ll receive a free haircut - and each referred person receives a complimentary Bumble & Bumble product.
When: Ongoing through May.
Where: FiveTwoSix Salon Spa & Gallery, 529 Selby Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-3839. www.526salon.qwestoffice.net.

BlackBlue Winter Sale + New Spring Offerings
What: BlackBlue has finally made the full transition into Spring. The hot men’s shop has just received shipments from Original Penguin and Hyden Yoo, in addition to Fred Perry, Shades of Greige, Tretorn, and more styles of Red Wing Boots as well as a fresh stock of A.P.C. denim in both the New and Petit Standard. While you’re there, fall clothing at men’s boutique BlackBlue has just recently undergone another round of markdowns with some items over 50 percent off. Brands include: F-Trope, Hyden Yoo, Cockpit, Shades of Greige, Fred Perry, Original Penguin, Woolrich, Generic Surplus, and Tretorn.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: BlackBlue, 614 Selby Ave., St. Paul. www.blkblu.com.

Friday: Elinor Grand Opening
What: St. Paul welcomes a brand new boutique, featuring the work of area fiber artists and jewelers (many of whom can typically be found at juried art fair venues such as the American Craft Council Show). Pieces ranging from sophisticated and sleek to whimsical and eclectic. Meet the artists, or swing by over the weekend during the St. Paul Art Crawl.
When: 6-10 p.m. Friday, April 23. Noon-8 p.m. Saturday, April 24. 12-5 p.m. Sunday, April 25.
Where: Elinor, 1559 Randolph Ave., St. Paul, 651-771-1791, http://elinor7.wordpress.com

Saturday & Sunday: Wearable Art Midwest at St. Paul Art Crawl
What: WAM (Wearable Art Midwest) collective capitalizes on the St. Paul Art Crawl this weekend with a sale featuring more than a dozen local designers and artisans showcasing handmade fashions and artwear. Everything from clothing, accessories, hats, bags, jewelry, scarves and more will be for sale, and many of the items are made from repurposed and recycled materials.
When: Noon-8 p.m. Saturday, April 24 & noon-5 p.m. Sunday, April 25.
Where: Downtown Embassy Suites, 175 E. 10th St., St. Paul, http://www.facebook.com/wearable.art.midwest

Content shared with the651.com partner l’étoile magazine.

This weekend, a jazz drummer returns to his hometown, a renowned guitarist takes up the Haiti cause, and a ’60s soul singer is still hot.

Matt Slocum

Friday & Saturday: Matt Slocum Trio
One of St. Paul’s prodigal sons has returned - as a big-time jazz composer and drummer from the Big Apple. Though he was born and raised here, Matt Slocum has never performed in the Twin Cities until now. After high school, he went out of state to study, subsequently doing session work on both coasts and eventually moving to New York. He’s on the road promoting his debut recording of originals, Portraits, released just last month. Expect lush instrumentation, soulful saxophone, and intellectual subtleties. (9 p.m. Fri. & Sat. $15. 18-plus. Artists’ Quarter, 408 St. Peter St., St. Paul. 651-292-1359. www.artistsquarter.com”.)

illo Minn

Friday & Saturday: Illo. Minn: Volume Two

The opening party was last Thursday, but there’s still time to check out the must-see show if you didn’t make it out. The ROBOTlove-sponsored show features 28 local illustrators and two pieces from each, including their individual takes on the beloved Munny doll. (Though the dolls were purported to have sold during Thursday’s silent auction.) Next Thursday, hear from illustrators including DC Ice, Adam Turman, Nancy Carlson, Andy Powell, and Eric Hanson during a panel discussion. (Noon-6 p.m. Fri. Noon-4 p.m. Sat. Discussion: 6-7:30 p.m. next Thu. Exhibition runs through Mar. 6. Free. College of Visual Arts, 344 Summit Ave., St. Paul. 651-224-3416. www.cva.edu.)

Syl Johnson

Friday & Saturday: Syl Johnson
Soul singer/guitarist Syl Johnson has been around since the late ‘60s, when he made a name for himself with socially-conscious lyrics and a smooth, Al Green-esque voice. His vintage soul has since resurfaced via samples in classic hip hop tracks from the likes of Public Enemy and Wu-Tang Clan. Either way, his voice is sure to stir some familiarity within you. (8 p.m. Fri. & Sat. $12-15. Wilebski’s Blues Saloon, 601 N. Western Ave., St. Paul. 651-228-9959.)

Zoo Animal

Saturday: Zoo Animal, Hildur Victoria, Ten Centuries, Telepathos
Runners-up in City Pages’ Picked to Click in 2009, minimalist grunge-pop trio Zoo Animal are one of the hottest local acts in town coming into 2010. The band will be joined by some other up-and-comers - folksters Hildur Victoria and nu-gazers Telepathos. The new two-piece from Bill Caperton of Ela, Askeleton and One for the Team fame, Ten Centuries, also performs. (9 p.m. $5. 21-plus. Turf Club, 1601 University Ave. W., St. Paul. 651-647-0486. www.turfclub.net.)

'Transylvania Television'

Saturday: ‘Transylvania Television’ Meet-and-Greet
Meet the cast and producers of Transylvania Television, a “retro monster comedy that’s not really for kids.” The show, about a television station run by monsters in the Carpathian Mountains, was conceived of by a Minneapolis-based filmmaker Michael J. Jeagle and special effects guru Gordon Smuder. We’re hoping to spy some of the Henson-esque puppets. (4-8 p.m. Sat. Free. Source Comics and Games, 1601 W. Larpenteur Ave., Roseville. 651-645-0386. www.sourcecandg.com.)

Hungary

Sunday: Urban Expedition: Hungary
If you’re looking for something a little more family-oriented, round up the kids and head to the Landmark Center for this event showcasing the best in Hungarian culture and customs. Everything from art and dance to food and music will be represented. (1 p.m. Sun. Free. Landmark Center, 75 W. 5th St., St. Paul. 651-292-3293. www.landmarkcenter.org.)

Details Style Lab

Sunday: Charity Salon Service Jam for Haiti
The ever-charitable folks at Details Style Lab are giving you the chance to get pretty - for a good cause.The salon and spa host a charity salon service jam for one day only, with all proceeds going to White Bear Lake’s Healing Haiti organization. Call now to make your appointment.(Sun. Noon-5 p.m. Details Style Lab, 346 St. Peter St., St. Paul. 651-251-8700. www.detailsmn.com.)

Peter Lang

Sunday: Haiti Recovery Benefit Concert
Renowned acoustic guitarist Peter Lang is behind the latest Haiti concert in the Twin Cities. He’s joined by an impressive group of national and local blues and folk acts, including Pat Donohue, Peter Ostroushko, Nikki and the RueMates, Phil Heywood and others. The proceeds go to benefit the Friends of the Orphans organization, which provides pediatric medical care and run an orphanage in Haiti. (2-6 p.m. Sun. $50 suggested donation. Wellstone Center, 179 Robie St. E., St. Paul. 651-482-1703. www.friendsoftheorphans.org.)

"Under ther Cherry Moon"

Monday: “Under the Cherry Moon”
A little-known film directed by and starring Prince and Jerome from the Time, Under the Cherry Moon is receiving a rare screening thanks to underground film collaborative Trash Film Debauchery. The duo play gigolos who swindle rich women out of money; things get complicated when Prince falls in love. The romantic comedy-meets-drama-meets-musical film was best-known for its soundtrack, Parade, which featured the Prince hit “Kiss.” Unlike Purple Rain, the only performance by Prince in the film is for “Girls & Boys.” Prince is our hometown celeb, so it’s kind of required viewing. (10 p.m. Free. 21-plus. Turf Club, 1601 University Ave W., St. Paul. 651-647-0486.)

Winter’s plentiful shopping events and sales continue this week.

[My Sister's Closet]

Through Saturday: My Sister’s Closet Winter Clearance Sale
A longtime favorite of this writer, My Sister’s Closet is having its bi-annual blowout sale. The sister-owned shop housed in one of Grand Avenue’s historic houses will be taking 50 percent off everything in stock, including vintage and designer consignment. In other news, look for a second My Sister’s Closet location opening in Uptown Minneapolis at 2741 Hennepin Avenue South on February 1 with all-new stock. (Jan. 18-30. 1136 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-2819.)

Sunday: Rocco Altobelli Salon Spa fund drive and discounts
Locally-owned salon and spa Rocco Altobelli is offerings discounts on services and products for a good cause. Get discounts on services between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. with a donation of three nonperishable food items per service. Cash or check will be accepted for a haircut ($20 plus food), accent color ($20 plus food for 10-12 foils), brow wax ($10 plus food) and lip wax ($7 plus food). All proceeds go to Second Heartland. Appointments can be made beginning Jan. 28. (Jan. 31. St. Paul: 665 S. Snelling Ave., St. Paul. 651-690-5491. Rosedale: 1655 County Rd. B2 W., St. Paul. 651-631-2289.)

[A look from Details Style Lab]

Through Sunday: Details Style Lab Deal
Bring two or more non-perishable food items and receive a 10 percent discount at spa and men’s clothing boutique Details Style Lab. The store plans to donate 800 pounds of food this year, providing 150 meals to a family of four. (Ongoing through Jan. 31. 346 St. Peter St., St. Paul, 651-251-8700.)

[Painting by Sarah Wieben]

Through Sunday: The Grand Hand Winter Sale
Art and gift boutique The Grand Hand is clearing out their stock to make room for new art for the New Year. Save 20 percent on Sarah Wieben paintings, Michael Tonder glass, Tom Homann pottery, and Jemerick pottery. UPDATED: New additions to the sale include 75 percent off Lori O’Neill jackets and Mary Lynn O’Shea jackets and bags, as well as jewelry at 20 to 75 percent off. (Ongoing through Jan. 31. The Grand Hand Gallery, 619 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-312-1122.)

Through Sunday: Deals at 526 Salon
Kick off your 2010 right with new deals 526 Salon. Now through January, this happening salon and gallery is offering a facial or massage for only $49 (originally $65). A selection of Bumble & Bumble hair treatments are on clearance through January. Take 20 percent off one item, 25 percent off two, and 30 percent off three. (Ongoing through Jan. 31. 526 Salon, 526 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-3839.)

[Sale items at Picky Girl]

Ongoing: Picky Girl Winter Sale
St. Paul boutique Picky Girl is kicking off its winter sale with 25 to 60 percent off all regular-priced clothing, shoes and accessories, with offerings from national lines like Kenzie Girl and Covet, and local darlings Calpurnia Peach. (Ongoing while supplies last. Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107.)

Ongoing: Winter Sale at Stephanie’s
What: Both of Stephanie’s locations in Highland Park and 50th & France are taking 50 to 70 percent off fall and winter merchandise. In other news, the store is planning to close its 50th & France location, opting to keep open its popular Highland Park boutique and focus on opening an online shop. No blowout sale is planned for the closing storefront.
When: Ongoing while supplies last
Where: Highland Park: 758 Cleveland Ave. S., St. Paul. 651-690-3802; 50th & France: 5005 France Ave. S., Mpls. 612-929-2087.

[F-Troupe at BlackBlue]

Ongoing: BlackBlue Shoe Sale
UK brand F-Troupe, represented out of the Opening Ceremony showroom in NYC, is now on sale at St. Paul boutique BlackBlue. Take 25 percent off any pair of F-Troupes in both men’s and women’s styles, while supplies last, as well as men’s Generic Surplus footwear. (While you’re there, check out new men’s denim line, A.P.C. from France.) (Ongoing while supplies last. BlackBlue, 614 Selby Ave., St. Paul.)

This week in St. Paul, a new lingerie shop opens its doors to all sizes, the semi-annual clearance sale kicks off at My Sister’s Closet, plus more sales and deals:

[A look from Aubade at Allure]

Lingerie shop Allure opens on Grand Avenue
Busty ladies tired of boring basics when it comes to bras, this news ought to make your eyes light up. New shop Allure, recently opened along Grand Avenue’s shopping district, stocks romantic, stylish lingerie for all sizes. Its shelves are stocked with an eclectic assortment of bras from noteworthy lines like Aubade, LeMystere, and Cosabella that mix support with style - meaning colors, lace, and embellishments. The locally-owned shop also features a chic selection of undies, pajamas, swoon-worthy cashmere robes, sweaters, yoga wear, and bridal lingerie, as well as a knowledgeable staff that will help you find the perfect fit. (Allure, 1051 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-493-6773.)

[My Sister's Closet]

Beginning Monday: My Sister’s Closet Winter Clearance Sale
A longtime favorite of this writer, My Sister’s Closet is having its bi-annual blowout sale. The sister-owned shop housed in one of Grand Avenue’s historic houses will be taking 50 percent off everything in stock, including vintage and designer consignment. (Jan. 18-30. My Sister’s Closet, 1136 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-222-2819.)

Friday: Face à Face eyewear trunk show at InVision
Local eyewear shop InVision is hosting a trunk show by French eyewear brand Face à Face at its three Metro locations. (11 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri. InVision Grand Ave.: 867 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-291-0318.)

[Painting by Sarah Wieben]

[Details Style Lab]

Through Jan. 31: Details Style Lab Deal
What: Bring two or more non-perishable food items and receive a 10 percent discount at spa and men’s clothing boutique Details Style Lab. The store plans to donate 800 pounds of food this year, providing 150 meals to a family of four. (Ongoing through Jan. 31. 346 St. Peter St., St. Paul, 651-251-8700.)

[Sale items at Picky Girl]

Ongoing: Picky Girl Winter Sale
St. Paul boutique Picky Girl is kicking off its winter sale with 25 to 60 percent off all regular-priced clothing, shoes and accessories, with offerings from national lines like Kenzie Girl and Covet, and local darlings Calpurnia Peach. (Ongoing while supplies last.  Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107.)

Ongoing: Deals at 526 Salon
Kick off your 2010 right with new deals 526 Salon. Now through January, Stephen Trevino’s happening salon and gallery is offering a facial or massage for only $49 (originally $65). A selection of Bumble & Bumble hair treatments are on clearance through January. Take 20 percent off one item, 25 percent off two, and 30 percent off three. (Ongoing through Jan. 31. 526 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-3839.)

[F-Troupe at BlackBlue]

Ongoing: BlackBlue Shoe Sale
UK brand F-Troupe, represented out of the Opening Ceremony showroom in NYC, is now on sale at St. Paul boutique BlackBlue. Take 25 percent off any pair of F-Troupes in both men’s and women’s styles, while supplies last, as well as men’s Generic Surplus footwear. While you’re there, check out their latest addition, men’s denim line, A.P.C. from France. (Ongoing while supplies last. BlackBlue, 614 Selby Ave., St. Paul.)

The holidays are over, and you know what that means - stores take huge discounts on the remaining fall and winter stocks. We still have at least three months of cold weather left, so take advantage of the deals at St. Paul’s eclectic selection of shops and stock up on your winter wardrobe.

[Painting by Sarah Wieben]

Through January 31: The Grand Hand Winter Sale
Art and gift boutique The Grand Hand is clearing out their stock to make room for new art for the New Year. Save 20 percent on Sarah Wieben paintings, Michael Tonder glass, Tom Homann pottery, and Jemerick pottery. (The Grand Hand Gallery, 619 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-312-1122.)

January 16-18: Arc’s Value Village Customer Appreciation Sale
Get half off everything at all four locations during Arc’s Value Village’s Customer Appreciation Sale. Revenues from Arc’s Value Village help fund Arc Greater Twin Cities, a nonprofit agency serving the intellectually and developmentally disabled and their families. (Fri.-Sun. 1650 White Bear Ave. N., St. Paul, 651-788-8300.

[Details Style Lab]

Through January 31: Details Style Lab Deal
Bring two or more non-perishable food items and receive a 10 percent discount at spa and men’s clothing boutique Details Style Lab. The store plans to donate 800 pounds of food this year, providing 150 meals to a family of four. (346 St. Peter St., St. Paul, 651-251-8700.)

Deals at 526 Salon
Kick off your 2010 right with new deals 526 Salon. Now through January, the happening salon is offering a facial or massage for only $49 (originally $65). A selection of Bumble & Bumble hair treatments are on clearance through January. Take 20 percent off one item, 25 percent off two, and 30 percent off three. (526 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-3839.)

651 shirts at Stella.blu
Area code t-shirts have been popping up all over the country as of late, and St. Paul isn’t excluded from the action. T-shirts emblazoned with “651″ are available at Stella.blu. Online, Zazzle.com has a “651>612″ shirts and hoodies, and the graffiti-inspired 651 St. Paul t shirt. (Stella.blu, 1104 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-644-4830.)

Through January 15: Stephanie’s Winter Sale
All fall and winter apparel is 50 to 70 percent off at chic boutique Stephanie’s, including evening dresses, premium denim, coats, sweaters and more. (758 Cleveland Ave. S., St. Paul. 651-690-3802.)

[Picky Girl]

Ongoing: Picky Girl Winter Sale
St. Paul boutique Picky Girl is kicking off its winter sale with 25 percent off all regular-priced clothing, shoes and accessories, plus 10 percent off already marked-down items, with offerings from national lines like Kenzie Girl and Covet, and local darlings Calpurnia Peach. (949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107.)

[F-Troupe at BlackBlue]

Ongoing: BlackBlue Shoe Sale
UK brand F-Troupe, represented out of the Opening Ceremony showroom in NYC, is now on sale at St. Paul boutique BlackBlue. Take 25 percent off any pair of F-Troupes in both men’s and women’s styles, while supplies last, as well as men’s Generic Surplus footwear. (While you’re there, check out new men’s denim line, A.P.C. from France.) (614 Selby Ave., St. Paul. www.blkblu.com)

On tap this weekend in St. Paul: a new residency from DJ Jonathan Ackerman, First Friday Happy Hour in Lowertown, a men’s fashion show, and Mark Mallman at the Turf Club.

Jonathan Ackerman

THURSDAY: DJ Jonathan Ackerman at Barrio Lowertown
Prolific beatmaker Jonathan Ackerman hops over the river for his first weekly residency - at the newly-minted Barrio Lowertown, natch. The hip Mexican fusion bar and eatery should provide the perfect backdrop for Ackerman’s eclectic sound, alternately hard-rocking and gently-grooving. While you’re there, take advantage of the night’s drink specials: $3 Barrio margaritas and $4 Red Bull vodkas. (9 p.m.-1 a.m. Free. 235 6th St. E., St. Paul. 651-222-3250.)

Artists' Quarter

FRIDAY: Lowertown First Friday Happy Hour
Every first Friday of the month, St. Paul’s independent art galleries and studios join forces for the First Friday open studio. Afterward, a bunch of Lowertown clubs and bars get into the mix with an evening happy hour. This month, the Artists’ Quarter will open early just for us Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. Enjoy live jazz music from McNally Smith College of Music students and free pizza compliments of Wild Tymes. The Artists’ Quarter is located in the basement of the Hamm Building. As usual, you can expect two-for-ones on select tap beers at The Blackdog Wine Bar & Cafe, The Bulldog Lowertown, Rumours/Innuendo, Senor Wong, Station 4, and Trattoria da Vinci. Just say “FIRST FRIDAY” to receive your discount. (6-9 p.m. Free. Various locations. Click HERE for more info.)

Also recommended: The 8hz label releases its first compilation with a lineup including many of the featured bands: Me and My Arrow, Fort Wilson Riot, Economy Team, Buildings, Phantom Tales, and Speed’s The Name. (9 p.m. $5. 21-plus. 1601 University Av. W., St. Paul. 651-647-0486.)

SATURDAY:

A look from Flirt boutique

Hunting Opener Party at Flirt
To celebrate the men being out of town for hunting opening, lingerie boutique Flirt is hosting a cheekily-named Hunting Opener Party. Indulge in champagne, cupcakes and 20 percent off one item, and sample products from Sunrider skin care and cosmetics. (3-7 p.m. 177 Snelling Av. N., St. Paul.)

A Ben Sherman look at Details

Men’s Fall Fashion Mingle
One of the very few all-men’s boutiques in the Twin Cities, Details Style Lab hosts a Men’s Fall Fashion Mingle. Male models will don the latest in fall and winter fashions, including looks from Ben Sherman, Skunk Funk, Cloth Logic, Bertigo, and the popular Bjorn Borg underwear line. (10-11:30 p.m. at Rumours & Innuendo, 213 4th St. E., St. Paul. 11:30 p.m.-1 a.m. at Camp Bar, 490 N. Robert St., St. Paul.)

Mark Mallman

Mark Mallman at Turf Club
Mark Mallman blows the lid off Turf Club with his madmen piano stylings. Boasting “the fastest piano in the Midwest,” Mallman should be up to his usual antics, which have included driving a motorbike onstage and playing from inside a refrigerator box for hours on end. He’s sure to dip mainly from his latest release, September’s The Invincible Criminal, as well as his catalog from over the past ten years. The Alpha Centauri and Total Babe open. (9 p.m. $6. 21-plus. 1601 University Av. W., St. Paul. 651-647-0486.)