Shake and Shimmy for a Good Cause This Weekend

Take your charitable side out dancing this weekend, or take in a show that fits your interests, whether bridal, musical or horticultural.

1.

When/Where: 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday; in Apple Valley

Why Go: Support a student battling disease. will host a zumba workout in its main gym to raise money for Zachary Knuttila, who has Burkitts Lymphoma. If you have questions, or can't attend the event but would like to donate to Zach and his family, email Mia Hendrickson at mia.hendrickson@district196.org.

Cost: $8 for adults, $5 for students; purchase in advance or at the door

2.

When/Where: 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, in Eagan

Why Go: Hear live music for free while enjoying wine, pastries and other French cuisine. This duo of guitarist Chris Kachian and multi-instrumentalist Conrad Miska on flute and saxophone serves up a special blend of popular jazz instrumentals.

Cost: Free admission

3.

When/Where: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nicollet Inn in Burnsville

Why Go: See current trends in wedding fashion, flowers, photography and more at the second South of the River Wedding Expo. Models will walk the room from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a formal fashion show scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Silent auction is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and a live auction will start at 2:30 p.m.

Cost: Free with Facebook RSVP

4.

When/Where: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory in St. Paul

Why Go: The St. Paul Winter Carnival provides tons of activities (check here for the complete schedule), but a special one this weekend is a bit more tropical. See hundreds of orchid plants, most privately owned, and buy plants and other gardening items as well.

Price: $5 for adults, $3 for kids

5.

When/Where: 6 p.m./8 p.m. Thursday, , Apple Valley

Why Go: This event is a little in advance of the weekend, but it's local and for a good cause. The third annual Twin Cities Booty Ball is a dinner-dance event to raise awareness of and funds for colon cancer research. Dress up for the '80s theme and enjoy music from Brat Pack Radio. Jonathan Yuhas of KSTP hosts.

Price: $25 for dinner and dancing, $10 for dancing only