Scoop up sales
Get 10 to 70 percent off Marimekko at FinnStyle (through July 15, 160 Glenwood Av, Mpls, 612-333-2127). At Cliche (10 a.m. to 7 p.m., 2403 S Lyndale Av, Mpls, 612-870-0420), shop the one-day-only (July 4) tent sale with mega discounts, including $5, $10 and $15 racks. While you're getting your Three Buck Chuck at Trader Joe's, stop in at Shorty's Loft (4590 Excelsior Blvd, St. Louis Park, 952-473-0404) for 30 to 70 percent off clothing and accessories.

Be an Uptowner
Yes! With the opening of Uptown Cafeteria and Support Group, Parasole has just about taken over Uptown. (Insert evil, but delighted, cackle here.) Take advantage of the dominance by dining or drinking at all three establishments (Cafeteria, Chino Latino and Il Gatto) by August 15, get a stamped passport and score a free drink (up $12). Details here.

Look up!
Sunday will be the Fourth of July and if you don't get to take off Monday, you'll want to stay closer to home on Sunday night (or take advantage of the many festivities on Saturday night). Get your free oohs and aahs during Red, White and Boom!. Fireworks start at 10 p.m., but as you know, patient early birds are rewarded with the best views, especially on the Stone Arch Bridge. And that's how America works, people.

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