What’s up, Oles? Sometimes it feels as though the only way to hear some really good music is to hop on a bus and head up to the Twin Cities to take in a concert at First Avenue or the Target Center. However, this can quickly become expensive – between paying for transportation, tickets and food, you can rack up quite a bill for a night of fun. Hold on to some of those bills and catch a show in Northfield instead at one of these lesser-known venues. You’ll hear some great local music and still have enough money to treat yourself to ice cream afterwards!
The Tavern (212 Division Street)
Overlooking the scenic Cannon River, The Tavern hosts a variety of local musicians and area talent most Thursday and weekend nights. Grab an appetizer and a drink (if you’re 21) and head to the lounge’s deck to relax while taking in some great tunes. Located on Division Street, The Tavern is in the heart of Northfield and is an easy walk from campus.
The Contented Cow Pub and Wine Bar (302B Division Street South)
The Contented Cow is a favorite among students and locals alike, providing them with a unique British pub experience on the banks of the Cannon River. You can wander in almost any night and expect to hear some live music; student bands from St. Olaf and Carleton are regular performers along with other local groups. The Contented Cow is notable for hosting numerous music festivals on its patio during the summer, including the Vintage Band Festival and JuneBug.
The Chapel (310 ½ Division Street)
A fairly recent addition to the Northfield music scene, The Chapel serves as both a concert venue and a music production office. The small room creates a sense of intimacy among the audience and the artist, making concerts more personal and laid-back with most people sitting on the floor or on folding chairs. Despite its size, The Chapel has already made a name for itself by bringing in established acts such as Caroline Smith, Charlie Parr and Haley Bonar as well as other bands from across the country.
The Cave (Carleton College)
Carleton’s answer to the Pause, The Cave is a student-run entertainment venue that offers frequent concerts, coffee nights and other special events. While the larger concerts are often open to the public, you must be accompanied by a Carleton student to attend any other evening. The Cave has served as a stage for many national acts as well as student bands, local groups and bands from around Minnesota.
The Pause (St. Olaf)
We’re lucky enough to have one of Northfield’s greatest concert venues right on our own campus; the Pause has hosted several major recording artists, from Andy Grammer and Local Natives to Matt & Kim and Ingrid Michaelson. Modelled after First Avenue in Minneapolis, the Pause provides students with a true club experience, whether they’re listening to student bands or Lupe Fiasco. Most of the shows are free, with the exception of the Fall and Spring concerts.
Photos
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