Things to do over MEA break during the pandemic

It’s officially MEA break in Minnesota. Typically, it’s a big weekend for travel but, like most things, the pandemic has changed that. The good news is there are still plenty of things to do with the family.

On Thursday, there was a lot of energy in Plymouth, though it’s not the typical MEA weekend many parents had planned.

"We came up because it’s MEA weekend and we had the break from going to school and teaching, and just having a good time," said Rebecca Lembke, from Tracy.

At "Urban Air," they’ve extended their hours this weekend to make sure there’s extra time for kids to play.

"It’s awesome to be able to celebrate with these families that are ready to get out again," said Tanja Kaiser, with Urban Air.

This is just the first stop, for some.

"After we leave the trampoline park at 4 p.m. today, we’re going to go up to Elk River to stay at the Holiday Inn. They have that little holiday park over there, so we’re going to stay there and we’re going to venture around Mall of America tomorrow," said Lembke.

Meanwhile, some 30 miles away in Shakopee, Sever’s Fall Festival is also keeping kids active, and giving some parents a little bit of a break from the distance learning lifestyle.

"They’re enjoying the fresh air, and I always joke with the parents that I guarantee I will tire your children out if you bring them out," said Nicola Peterson, with Sever’s Fall Festival.

It may look different than years past, but it doesn’t mean families aren’t looking forward to making new memories, too.

"Just trying to do things kind of like normal, but obviously face masks and social distancing and all the things we got to do to stay safe," said Shawnte Perry, from Minneapolis.