The Fresh Faschings Friday is brought to you by my wacky German heritage. Faschings (fahhsh-inks) is the German version of Mardi Gras and as stoic as we Krauts can be, when we let loose, we let loose (like hammerschlagen isn’t an indication of that). You might want to head down to Bockfest at the Schell’s Brewery in New Ulm this weekend for a ton of beer, live music, and general frivolity that may or may not include a parade. Or think about celebrating all weekend through Tuesday at Black Forest Inn with live music, food specials, carnival masks, and beer. But if you really want to see some Teutonic fun, tonight’s Fasching at the Gasthof features the traditional gender bending craziness where women dress as men and men dress as women. There’s a cash prize at midnight, fraulein, better find some XL stockings.

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OPENS

Smack Shack, the real boy, opens today on the corner of 6th and Washington in the North Loop. Lobster boil, two bars, rolls, and po’ boys to your hearts desire, finally.

CLOSES

Joy says that Cat Man Do in the Mac-Groveland area is closed.

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The Chinese lunar new year kicks off on Sunday. The Year of the Snake is being celebrated all over town. Rainbow Chinese has a special menu that will run through the 14th. United Noodles is a great source if you want to pick up ingredients for your own feast (and frozen potstickers just to thrown in a ringer). David Fong’s will be hosting a traditional Chinese Lion Dance performed by the Fong family tonight and tomorrow along with special menus to ring it in.

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Looks like there are still some spots at the Wayzata Chilly Open on Saturday. It’s a fun time, pre-register for $40 and play nine holes of ice golf, eat unlimited amounts of chili, listen to some live music, and enjoy this year’s ’80′s theme-fueled costumes. It’s BYOB, btw.

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Liftbridge is releasing the new Silhouette Imperial Stout this weekend with a blowout at their outdoor “ice taproom”. The dark dark beer features coffee and molasses notes, and will be available for purchase that night. There will be fire, food, and fun at this free event, but tell them you’re coming. It’s polite.

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Mill City Farmers Market is holding a winter market this Saturday, perfect for your pre-Valentine’s shopping if you have a locavore cutie. Honey for your honey? Kim chi to keep things spicy? Chocolates for your sweet? See, I’m working for YOU, people.