Survival Kit: March 2011

What you need to stay culturally satiated this month.

Image credit: Tate Carlson

Recommended by the Editor

Survival Kit: December 2010

Survival Kit: January 2011

By: Chris Clayton and Dana Raidt |   March 2011   |  From the print edition

Patton Oswalt’s Werewolves and Lollipops LP, at fine local record stores

Because you’ll want to revisit this comedian, writer and actor’s standup before you see him perform with Grant-Lee Phillips and Paul F. Tompkins at the Fitzgerald Theater as part of MPR’s 2011 Wits series.  Fitzgerald Theater, 10 E. Exchange St., St. Paul; 651.290.1200

Owl-themed pendants, $16 each at Rewind Vintage

Because the International Festival of Owls, 3/4–6, will bring scientists, bird enthusiasts and an awards ceremony—honoring both humans and owls—to Houston, Minn. And, after watching Portlandia (see the blurb on the other side of this page), you just might find yourself wanting to put birds on things. Rewind Vintage, 2829 Johnson St. N.E., Mpls; 612.788.9870 

Tater Pot, $12 at Egg/Plant Urban Farm Supply

Because this cute, cartoon-faced potato guy doubles as an easy-to-use herb planter kit perfect for kids (and adults whose thumbs are less than green). Choose between oregano, basil and mint. Egg/Plant Urban Farm Supply, 1771 Selby Ave., St. Paul; 651.645.0818

Growler of Harriet Brewing Beer, $10 at Harriet Brewing

Because Minneapolis’s first brewery in nearly a decade makes complex but approachable Belgian-style beer such as West Side IPA, its spicy-fruity flagship, and the chocolate-y Dark Abbey brown ale. Grab a growler of owner Jason Sowards’s latest elixir at Harriet Brewing’s East Lake and Minnehaha digs, or a pint at select spots like Bryant-Lake Bowl, the Muddy Pig and Groveland Tap. Harriet Brewing, 3036 Minnehaha Ave., Mpls.; 651.491.8979

Tortoiseshell sunglasses, $38 at StyledLife

Because it’s spring break season, and these sassy shades will make you look like a celebrity whether you’re partying on the beach or trying to avoid snow-blindness on the slopes. StyledLife, 3510 Galleria, Edina; 952.928.8888

Portlandia, Fridays, 9:30 p.m. on IFC

Because this new sketch comedy show is an absurd and brilliant depiction of Portland, the city “where young people go to retire.” Creators Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein poke fun at everyone from dumpster divers to fanatical locavores to kitschy artists.