With fresh snow on the ground, get ready to rent some cross country skis or snow shoes this weekend. With hockey, basketball and a community praise service, there is plenty to do both indoors and outdoors this weekend.

1. Free Cross Country Ski and Snow Shoe Rental

3-6 p.m. Thursday, Jay C. Hormel Nature Center

Start exploring the great outdoors during winter with a chance to rent some snow shoes and cross country skis if snow conditions allow, for free on Thursdays and available other days as well. The rentals are for adults and children, and the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center does not require the Minnesota Ski Pass on its trails. For more information, call 507-437-7519 or email info@hormelnaturecenter.org.

2. Austin vs Albert Lea boys basketball

7:30 p.m. Friday, Packer Gym

The I-90 rivalry is back. Get ready to cheer on your favorite team as Austin and Albert Lea boys basketball teams go head to head in an exciting game to start the new year.

3. Austin Bruins vs Aberdeen Wings

7-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Riverside Arena

Get ready to watch the Bruins take on the Aberdeen Wings this weekend, both Friday and Saturday. For more information, call 507-434-4978.

4. Community Praise Service

5:30-6:15 p.m. Saturday, First United Methodist Church, 204 First Ave NW

Listen to some contemporary music and worship during this community praise service. The service will take place the second Saturday of each month. Everyone is welcome. Each month there will be a collection of non-perishable food items for the local food shelf. Everyone is welcome to join the adult /teen Community Praise Choir, and Austin High School students can earn Scarlet Cord hours by participating. For more information, call Sarah at 507-219-8200.