1. Casi Joy concert

Albert Lea’s sweetheart, Casi Joy, returns for her fourth concert this year in her grandparents’ town. Joy’s name came to the forefront with an appearance on “The Voice,” where she joined Blake Shelton’s team. While she leans toward country, she is unafraid to tackle pop, rock, oldies and the occasional yodel. Joy will play from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday at Three Oak Vineyard and Winery. Tickets cost $10 and are available at the Albert Lea Convention and Visitors Bureau.

 

2. Pumpkin patch opens

Now that October is here, it’s time to bust out the carving knife. Pick your perfect pumpkin at Albert Lea’s own pumpkin patch, which opens for the season from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. It is open weekends in October. Visitors can also do a rope maze and children’s activities.

 

3. Live music at the Bend

The Bend in the Road brings more live music to Manchester as it hosts Jeremy Johannsen. Johannsen is influenced by the blues, vintage outlaw country and Americana music. He will play from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday. There is no cover charge.

 

4. The Met: Live in HD opera

The stage is set — and full of cast members — for the opening opera of The Met: Live in HD. “Aida” is a love story set in ancient Egypt and, through the vessels of three protagonists, explores the conflict between personal desires and public responsibility. The opera begins at 11:55 a.m. Saturday at Marion Ross Performing Arts Center. Set in ancient Egypt, “Aida” follows three protagonists in a love story that explores the conflict between personal desires and public responsibility.

 

5. Big Island Rendezvous

For 31 years, Albert Lea has celebrated its early American heritage with food, artisanal crafts and reenactments. This year is no exception. For the 32nd annual Big Island Rendezvous, over 250 white tipis, lodges and shelters will host over 1,000 reenactors. Crafts for sale include pottery, woodworking, clothing, jewelry, artwork, blacksmithing, candles and more, while food ranges from homemade root beer to grilled turkey legs and funnel cakes. The Big Island Rendezvous opens at 9 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $14 at the gate or $12 in advance.