Photograph by Caitlin Abrams
Grand Old Day
All Summer
St. Paul Music in the Parks
Tap your toes to the sounds of summer in St. Paul with the annual Music in the Parks series, featuring live music at the Como Park Pavilion and Mears Park. stpaul.gov
Minneapolis Music and Movies in the Park
Beginning Memorial Day weekend, this annual outdoor event series brings concerts varying from classic rock, jazz, hip hop, folk, classical, and concert bands to a slew of Minny parks, as well as popular movies, courtesy of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. Don’t miss the delish food trucks! minneapolisparks.org
Pride
Pride isn’t just for June. Celebrate LGBTQ history and impact all summer long, with local and regional festivals, camps, and events including the new “Going Out, Coming In” exhibit at the Mill City Museum, the Queer Woman’s Pride Dance, drag shows, picnics, and more. tcpride.org
Under the Canopy
Originating from the early days of the pandemic, this intimate, outdoor setting encourages folks to settle in and experience live music, with acts including Indigenous, The Steepwater Band, The Alarmists, Elno, Mark Joseph and American Soul, and more. thehookmpls.com/under-the-canopy
Marketfest
Every Thursday, June 15–July 27
Located in White Bear Lake, this family-oriented event features a kiddie parade, live music (including from Minty Hippo, Sawyer’s Dream, The Bad Companions), and over 180 street vendors from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Take a step back in time with the classic car show from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. marketfestwbl.com
Open Streets Mpls
This festival transforms the streets of Minneapolis into a lively environment, where people walk, bike, rollerblade, and connect with others in their community, without cars. openstreetsmpls.org
Wild Nights at the Minnesota Zoo
Every other Thursday, May 25—September 14
The Minnesota Zoo is offering a roarin’ concert series all summer long. Jam out to some music while visiting the animals and eating some good food. With acts such as Kiss the Tiger, The Cactus Blossoms, Kat Perkins, and more, you’ll see why the zoo rocks. mnzoo.org/wildnights-3
Surly Field Concerts
Surly Brewing Co. hosts a number of concerts this summer in partnership with First Avenue. So crack open a cold one (Preferably one made by Surly Brewing Co.) and rock out to the likes of Young the Giant, Jordan Carr, Nathaniel Rateliff, and Train. surlybrewing.com
Como Park Zoo Groovin in the Garden
This (free!) summer concert series features artists like Innocent Reggae Band, 13 Arrows, Red Eye Ruby, and many more. Every Wednesday, these concerts will be accompanied by ice cream, beer, and hot dogs. So groove to the music this summer at Como Park Zoo. comozooconservatory.org
Bauhaus Brew Labs Sparkyard Sound Series
All ages are welcome at this concert series hosted by Bauhaus Brew Labs. Throughout the Summer musicians Grace Potter, Shakey Graves & Lucius, and St. Paul and the Broken Bones will take the stage. There will of course be beer on tap as well as yummy food. bauhausbrewlabs.com/sparkyardsoundseries
Keg and Case Market's 2023 Summer Sessions
(Saturdays, June 3-August 26)
Light up your Saturdays with talented artists coming to the Keg and Case Market this Summer. Headliners include Sarah Morris, Turn Turn Turn, Elour, and more. All Summer Sessions are free and open to all ages, so don’t miss out to have a rockin’ summer. kegandcase.com
Under the Lex
The new Under the Lex outdoor concert series strays from a typical venue, with a variety of intimate performances set beneath the Lexington Ave. Bridge in St. Paul on select Wednesdays this summer. underthelex.org
June
Flint Hills Family Festival
June 1–2
Downtown St.Paul’s Rice Park and the Ordway light up with nationally renowned artists and performers with free public transportation fare, Latin dancing, live music from The String Queens, Koo Koo Kanga Roo, and The ReMINDers, and an electrifying performance from Lightwire Theater. ordway.org/festival
St. Anthony Park Arts Festival
June 3
Did someone say “plant sale”? This St. Paul art fair includes more than 60 juried artists, one of the best book sales in the area, family-friendly art activities, and musicians, creating a charming outdoor celebration on the first Saturday in June. sapfest.org
Art in the Hollow
June 3
Explore this gem in the art community, wandering through the “reimagined ruins of city history,” to find tons of local art. Park your car at Saint Paul Brewing, then search for the art, food, and community you’ll find at this fest from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (It won’t take you long to find it!) artinthehollow.org
WaterFest
June 3
Make a splashin’ impact on local lakes at this zero-waste event at Lake Phalen Park, offering opportunities to learn about land and water conservation, wildlife, and clean water. Paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks are available to check out, then there’s fishing lessons and a fishing contest (with prizes!), climbing walls, a jump castle, arts and crafts, face painting, lawn games, water games, and a water bar with water flights. rwmwd.org/events/waterfest
Twin Cities West Metro Asian Fair
June 3
Celebrate Asian culture and community at this annual festival at Plymouth’s Hilde Performance Center from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., featuring Asian food, performances, family-friendly activities, cultural displays, and traditional Chinese dance and folk music. tcasianfair.org
The Rhubarb Festival
June 3
This fest celebrates everything about Lanesboro’s favorite veg. Catch the return of beloved events including the Rhubarb Run and Rhubarb Tasting Event, but don’t miss recurring favs including a rhubarb fashion show, arts and crafts, and even goats! rhubarbfestival.org
Train Days
June 3–4, Union Depot
Choo choo! All aboard for Union Depot’s annual Train Days, a free fest that celebrates all things trains and transportation. Take a tour of train equipment, check out model trains, and chomp on yummy concessions. Kids will love the steam locomotive photography exhibit and family-friendly activities. It’s full-steam ahead! uniondepot.org/traindays
Grand Old Day
June 4
After three years, St. Paul’s Grand Old Day is back and better than ever! Kick off your summer on Grand Avenue with a parade, two-mile fun run, car show, and live music from acts including The Jayhawks, Bad Bad Hats, Sophia Eris, and more. grandave.com/events/grandoldday
Judy Garland Festival
June 8–11
Celebrate the life and legacy of Grand Rapids’s magical actress, whose twinkly shoes still inspire awe in children around the globe. Check out museum tours, a tea party, bus tour, and musical tributes. Plus, every day has a dress-up theme, ranging from Summer Stock to Hollywood Glam. judygarlandmuseum.com
Paisley Park Celebration
June 8–11
It’s time to party like it’s 1999 at Prince’s own Paisley Park, celebrating 7 years since his passing. Learn why 7 is such an important number for Minnesota’s very own with a tour of Paisley Park, celebrity panels, and live music. There’s no better way to celebrate Prince’s legacy. paisleypark.com/celebration2023
Rosé Fest
June 10
Bigger. Better. Bubblier. That’s this year’s Rosé Fest, where Mpls.St.Paul Magazine encourages you to bring your crew for a bubbly brew and #DrinkPink. Tune into summer beats by DJ Shannon Blowtorch, snap a pic at the pink carpet, check out the local makers market, and chomp on snacks and sip rosé all day. mspmag.com/eat-and-drink/rosefest
Deutsche Tage (German Days)
June 10–11
Guten tag, and welcome to the 65th annual German Days—the Germanic–American Institute’s summertime German celebration, including food, Paulaner beer, live music, dancing, and plenty o’ vendors, right on St. Paul’s historic Summit Avenue. This year’s theme, “German Innovation,” focuses on education and sustainability. gaimn.org
St. Paul Summer Beer Fest
June 10
Live music, good food, and a silent auction accompany a wide range of beer samples from over 50 breweries, right on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Whether you’re a casual beer enthusiast or a true connoisseur, this festival is for you. stpaulsummerbeerfest.com
Excelsior Art on the Lake
June 10-11
Featuring over 120 vendors, this art fair highlights the creativity and handicraft of local artists. Surrounded by beautiful Lake Minnetonka and tasty local eateries, this must-see spectacular garners over 18,000 art admirers. excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com/art-on-the-lake/
Chalkfest
June 10–11
You may recall a childhood spent scribbling chalk drawings on your parents’ driveway as a kid, but that’s nothing compared to the incredible art pieces that local chalk artists create at the 8th annual Chalkfest at Arbor Lakes in Maple Grove. chalkfestmaplegrove.com
Manitou Days
June 15–July 4
This three-week summer fest is a rite of passage for White Bear Lake ‘burbians, kicking off with Marketfest and finishing things off with explosive fireworks on July 4. 50 plus events include a parade, beach dance, kiddie parade, community garage sale, medallion hunt, and so much more. manitoudays.com
Marketfest
June 15–July 27
Check out more than 180 street vendors and live musicians every week on Thursday from 6–9 p.m. as part of the 33rd annual Marketfest, celebrating downtown White Bear Lake. marketfestwbl.com
Cottage Grove Strawberry Festival
June 15–18
Chomp on this sweet summer festival—a four-day, family-friendly event with a strawberry pie-eating contest, a doggie dash, beer gardens, live music (including CoConut Tiger, Rhino, Ladies of the 80s, and Tom Sigler), a parade, and—of course—tons of strawberries to boot. Stop by the margarita bar, and stay for the fireworks. cottagegrovestrawberryfest.com
Parktacular
June 16–20
Sure, there’s the big Grand Day Parade, but don’t miss the other events, including a Splash into Summer poll event, expo, Kidtacular, Ecotacular, and a concert—all in St. Louis Park’s Wolfe Park. Plus, don’t miss Sunday’s Juneteenth celebration, plus the Ambassador Coronation on Tuesday. parktacular.org
American Swedish Institute Midsommar Celebration
June 17
Celebrate the longest day of the year at the American Swedish Institute’s annual festival by making flower head wreaths, singing along to live music, and dancing around the midsommarstång (maypole). Don’t miss performances by Lynx Lynx, Hanneke Cassel, Mike Block, plus a dance party featuring Jake Rudh, founder of Transmission. asimn.org
Stone Arch Bridge Festival
June 17-18
More than 200 artists, musicians, and food vendors return to this Minny mainstay, offering a true downtown experience. stonearchbridgefestival.com
Loons on the Lake Comedy Festival at Crooners
June 21–24
It’s comedians galore at Crooners this summer with headliners such as Erica Rhodes, Jaimie Kennedy, Jimmie Walker and Don McMillan delivering their hilarious stand-up routines. You can also watch 8 comedians compete for a cash prize. So head down to Crooners for 4 nights of laughter. loonsonthelake.com
Summerfest
June 22–24
It’s not summer without Summerfest in Oakdale, kicking off with a parade, followed by a carnival and fireworks show, plus a golf tournament, food trucks, live music, a skateboard comp, and a 5K run. What more do you need to celebrate the warmest time of year? Oh yeah, a beer garden. There’s that too. oakdalesummerfest.com
Dew Days
June 22–25
Did you know that the residents of Farmington drink more Mountain Dew per capita than any other city? It’s true. That’s what inspired the name of their citywide festival, which offers family-friendly musical, artistic, historic, and cultural learning opportunities every summer. farmingtondewdays.com
Roseville Rosefest
June 22–28, July 4
With a parade, the Run for the Roses race, a car show, fireworks, and the culminating party in the park, there may not be much time to stop and smell the roses. cityofroseville.com
Twin Cities Jazz Festival
June 23–24
Twin Cities Jazz Fest celebrates 25 years of finger-snappin’ music in Mears Park, with plenty of tunes that are sure to get you dancing. twincitiesjazzfestival.com
Twin Cities Pride
June 23–25
The 51st annual Twin Cities Pride Festival brings a splash of color to Minny, celebrating the LGBTQ community and allies with food, beer, music, and BIPOC and LGBTQ vendors at Loring Park and Parade Park in Minneapolis. Don’t miss the spectacular Pride March on June 25, and dress up in all kinds of colors for the Rainbow Run 5K on June 25. (Racers aged 21+ get a free beer at the end of the race!) tcpride.org
Blaine Festival
June 23–25
This is not your average summertime festival. There’s minnow racing, a tractor pull, an Oreo stacking contest, a Not So Ugly Dog contest, a parade, food, and the opportunity to learn to curl. blainefestival.org
South St. Paul Kaposia Days
June 23–25
Let’s go fly a kite… at this annual St. Paul festival. Check out the grand parade, medallion hunt, open skate, pancake breakfast, cornhole tournament, classic car show, and fireworks. kaposiadays.org/site
Summer Fest
June 24
Minnetonka’s annual Summer Fest features all the hallmarks of a memorable warm-weather outing: water wars, food trucks, inflatables, a climbing wall, beer and wine (for adults, of course), a pickleball tournament, live music from The Okee Dokee Brothers and Synergy, and fireworks that end the night with a bang. minnetonkamn.gov
Eagan Art Festival
June 24–25
Besides the exceptional art available to view and purchase from more than 100 artists and makers, this annual art fair features tasty treats including corn dogs, gyros, mini donuts, and fresh-squeezed lemonade. Plus: art demonstrations at the Art Experience Tent offer an up-close look at the creation and curation of local art. eaganartfestival.org
Afton Strawberry Festival
June 24–25
While many come for the fresh, local strawberries, more stay for the live music, yummy food, and inflatables. This festival is bound to be fun for both parents and kiddos alike. exploreafton.com/strawberry-festival
Apple Valley Freedom Days
June 30–July 4
There’s a car show, fun run, live music, parade, and—of course—food trucks. Finish off the night with a bang with the annual fireworks display on July 4 from 6–10 p.m. avfreedomdays.com
July
Taste of Minnesota
July 2-3
Coming back for the first time since 2015, the free two-day Taste of Minnesota festival will feature local food, vendors, and live music on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis, with headliners Big Boi and Third Eye Blind. tasteofmn.com
Lakeville Pan-o-Prog Summer Festival
July 4, 9–16
1, 2, 3, go! Head over to Lakeville for a festival that has just about everything. Satisfy your competitive side with a cribbage, softball, or pickleball tournament, your exercise side with fitness classes in the park, or even just your hunger with the numerous food vendors around. panoprog.org
Karl Oskar Days
July 5–8
You might be wondering: Who is Karl Oskar? Karl Oskar and Kristina are characters from a book by author Vilhelm Moberg about Swedish emigration to America. This annual festival in Lindström commemorates the town’s largely Swedish heritage with a car show, parade, food vendors, and more. cityoflindstrom.us/karl-oskar-days
Whiz Bang Days
July 6–9
Escape the big city for the small-town charm of Robbinsdale’s annual community celebration, including a block party, parade, and fireworks. robbinsdalewhizbangdays.org
Maple Grove Days
July 12–16
There’s always something to do at this annual Maple Grove event, whether it’s playing bingo, vibing out with outdoor yoga, watching an outdoor movie, or kicking back and watching the fireworks. mgco.org
Hopkins Raspberry Festival
July 12–16
While the raspberry fields are gone, the celebration of Hopkins still remains. From Bingo to hair fashion shows, marketplace fairs and pickleball tournaments, food vendors (with raspberry everything of course), join Hopkins for an action-packed week. raspberrycapital.com
Sinclair Lewis Days
July 12–16
There’s no better way to celebrate the roaring 20s (the 2020s of course) than at Sinclair Lewis Days. Dress up to experience history exhibits, outdoor movies, and live music.
https://www.saukcentrechamber.com/events/details/sinclair-lewis-days-14541?calendarMonth=2022-07-01
Spirit of the Lakes Festival
July 13–15
Just like its name, this festival in Mound truly captures the spirit of the lakes, situated on Lake Minnetonka. Do lakeside yoga, watch boat-in movies, and celebrate the 10,000 reasons why Minnesota—and its 10,000+ lakes—are great. spiritofthelakes.com
TC Summer Fest at Target Field
July 14–15
Get ready for a rockin’ weekend hosted by Target field! Headliners The Killers and Imagine Dragons will light up the stage, along with AJR and Chelsea Cutler. So head down to Target field for the biggest rock weekend of the year. tcsummerfest.com
International Festival of Burnsville
July 15
Travel the globe while staying in Minnesota at this summer fest. Experience the traditions and practices of many different cultures with demonstrations from Colombian, Ukrainian, Somalian, and Irish organizations. Here, you can truly celebrate the diversity of Minnesota. intlfestburnsville.org
Dragon Festival
July 15
Yes, you read that right, a dragon festival! Celebrate Pan-Asian culture while dragon boats race across Lake Phalen. That’s not all though—there are martial arts demonstrations, a dragon dance parade, and other family-friendly activities. facebook.com/MSPDragonFest
27th Annual Raspberries and Wine Festival
July 15
It’s a bit of paradise right in your backyard. Join Chisago City’s Winehaven Winery for hourly vineyard tours, wine-tasting events, and the release of their new raspberry wine (!), all with no admission fee. winehaven.com
Minnehaha Falls Art Fair
July 14–16
Artists sell their woodworking, jewelry, and photography at this Minneapolis-based art festival, while you take a bite (or two… or three…) from one of the many mouthwatering options available from food vendors. minnehahafallsartfair.com
Lumberjack Days
July 14–16
Embrace Minnesota’s lumberjack history (and culture!) at Stillwater’s annual Lumberjack Days, including lumberjack shows, parade, downhill derby, a 5K and 10K race, and boat cruise. Plus: don’t miss the live music lineup including Honeybutter, Clay Fulton and The Lost Forty, Yam Haus, and Koo Koo Kanga Roo. lumberjackdays.com
Bean Hole Days
July 18–19
This rootin’ tootin’ fun festival in Pequot Lakes offers a craft fair, kid’s activities, food vendors, and yes, plenty of beans. Witness cast-iron skillets filled with beans as they are buried to cook overnight. Then join the other 3,000 visitors as they enjoy the delicious result the following day. business.brainerdlakeschamber.com
Excelsior Crazy Days
July 21–23
Crazy deals, crazy cool, crazy days. Water Street will be lined with stores and restaurants supporting limited-time offerings. Sales so good you’ll be thinking, I must be going crazy! excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com
Hastings Rivertown Days
July 21–23
Although “days” may be in the title, there is still so much to do at night. Take a walk by the Mississippi River, dance to the live music, or hit the carnival for games and rides. Here, you’ll truly understand why Hastings is the Rivertown. rivertowndaysmn.com/
Minneapolis Aquatennial
July 19–22
Come see why so many people love Minneapolis, with a torchlight parade and fireworks display. The Aquatennial is a perfect way to celebrate all that Minnesota’s biggest city has to offer. aquatennial.com
Slice of Shoreview Days
July 21–23
There’s a slice of fun for everyone at Shoreview’s annual summer party with a parade, food, and the Taste of Shoreview. Sliceofshoreview.com
Rosemount Leprechaun Days
July 22–29
While leprechauns are purportedly small, this festival is sure to be big fun. From yoga, rollerskating, chess, ice cream, and more, this festival will feel like the pot o’ gold at the end of the rainbow. leprechaundays.org
Anoka County Fair
July 25–30
Don’t miss all that the Anoka Fair has to offer, from the grandstand shows of motocross and Tyler Carr to kid’s games and face painting. anokacountyfair.com
PeopleFest
July 30–August 5
Experience the cultural diversity of Eden Prairie with live music and dance performances from people representing numerous different backgrounds and experiences. Do crafts, watch movies, and attend the PeopleFest Party to round out your day. edenpr.org
Kolacky Days
July 28–30
Yes, this is a festival dedicated solely to dessert, and it’s as good as it sounds! Stuff your face with this delicious pastry as you watch parades and play games all weekend long in Montgomery. montgomerymn.org
Blueberry/Arts Festival
July 28–30 in Ely
There’s no feeling blue at this annual blueberry festival. Join over 30,000 visitors as they shop local artisans and eat tons of—you guessed it—blueberry pie. It’s sure to be a sweet time.
Loring Park Art Festival
July 29–30
For two days, recognize the impact of local art, culture, entertainment, music, and food in the bustling downtown Minneapolis. There are over 140 vendors, live music, and kid-friendly activities, offering a number of great ways to fill up your summer afternoon. loringparkartfestival.com
Chaska River City Days
July 29–30
Live music, good food, and games—oh my! Join Chaska as area folks showcase their unique local organizations while giving back to their community. chaskarivercitydays.org
August
Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival
August 2–5
You’ll soar with excitement at the 17th annual Dragon Boat Festival this August. Watch as dragon boats race across the river, or participate in a 5K race yourself. This festival is sure to get you fired up. bemidjidragonboat.com
Uptown Art Fair
August 4–6
Experience art that is as lively as Minneapolis itself. Shop from over 340 local artists in the heart of Uptown. What’s more, many of the proceeds go directly back to the community. So do some good while looking at great art. uptownminneapolis.com/uptown-art-fair
Powderhorn Art Fair
August 5–6
Get your daily dose of art from over 150 vendors, spanning over 20 mediums from artists all over the nation, along with interactive art installations. powderhornartfair.com
Minnesota Fringe Festival
August 3–13
Minnesota Fringe Festival hits center stage for its 30th year, showcasing local theater and dance organizations. With over 600 performances, there are many ways to engage with the performing arts—just be sure to get there before curtain close. minnesotafringe.org
Irish Fair of Minnesota
August 11–13
You’ll be coming away with the luck o’ the Irish after you visit this annual fair. Bagpipes, Irish dancing, and even native Irish dogs will be the highlights of your trip while you sip on a traditional Irish pint. irishfair.com
Minnesota Garlic Festival
August 12
Crush, chop, and mince your way through the Garlic Festival with chef demonstrations, live music, and of course lots and lots of garlic. By stopping by this local fest, you’ll also support rural farmers in Minnesota. While garlic may be stinky, you’ll be doing something sweet. mngarlicfest.com
Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival
August 12–13
Celebrate the many mediums of street art by witnessing artists create pieces in real time! The festival features live music, arts & crafts, and of course food. The weekend is bound to be full of sun, smiles, and street art. mplsstreetartfest.com/
Vadnais Heights Heritage Days
August 14–20
Save the date for this community festival, with plenty of activities for kids including bean-bag toss and a medallion hunt. And yes, parents, there are even activities for you, including a car show and softball tournament. cityvadnaisheights.com
Kids Fest
August 17
Splash into summer with the annual Kids Fest hosted by the City of Plymouth. There will be inflatables, prizes, and (shh, parents, don’t tell your kids) just a little bit of learning. Reserve your wristbands now. plymouthmn.gov
Ki Chi Saga Days
August 17–20
Head to Chisago City for this energetic and action-packed festival. Start off by exploring food and art shows, then head over to watch the skateboarding competition or parades. Wrap up the day by participating in a pie-eating contest and fireworks. ci.chisago.mn.us/kichisaga
Woodbury Days
August 18–20
There’s a basketball tournament, beer tent, bingo tent, business fair, car show, carnival, fireworks, grand parade, kids activities, live music, a volleyball tournament, and the annual Taste of Woodbury event. Just don’t forget to catch your breath. Woodburydays.com
Heritage Days Festival
August 18–20
Nothing says “summer” more than spending your days under the sun. Join the first Heritage Days in two years, featuring outdoor movies, mud volleyball, and tractor pulls, right in beautiful St. Paul Park. stpaulpark.org/heritagedays
Eden Prairie Arts in the Park
August 19
If you just can’t get enough of Minnesota art shows, this one's for you. Buy local art, beauty products, and food dishes situated in the peaceful Purgatory Creek Park. eplocalnews.org/events-archive/arts-in-the-park-639-687/
Spelmansstämma Festival
August 19
This fine-fiddle festival in Scandia boasts a spirited collection of activities, all celebrating Swedish culture. Learn about stringed instruments, or participate in arts and crafts. You’ll soon realize this isn’t your typical Minnesota festival. gammelgardenmuseum.org
Minnesota Renaissance Festival
August 19–October 1
One of Minnesota’s most popular events is back for another year. Travel back in time while chomping on a turkey leg, watching old-fashioned jousting, riding a horse, or playing carnival games. You’ll never want to come back to the year 2023. renaissancefest.com
Como Park Japanese Obon Festival (Lantern Festival)
August 20
Como Park Conservatory hosts a celebration of Japanese culture, filled with martial arts, dancing, and crafts. Wrap up your visit by lighting a lantern to honor the Japanese tradition of the Obon holiday, which commemorates the return of deceased ancestors’ spirits. comozooconservatory.org
Minnesota State Fair
August 24-September 4
The Great Minnesota Get-Together, Minnesota's swan song of summer, will have all its iconic food and events from Pronto Pups to the Giant Slide, Grandstand performances, and more. mnstatefair.org
GreekFest
August 25–27
From gyros to pastitsio, baklava to sugar cookies, Rochester’s GreekFest has served up authentic Greek since 1963. greekfestrochester.com
September
Burnsville Festival and Fire Muster
September 5–9
This is must-attend Burnsviille event features a carnival, parade, and a fire truck display for the kiddos and a car show and beer tasting for the adults. Experience the new events this year, like the inflatable zone, and free skateboard lessons. Of course there will be live music, prizes, and delicious food. burnsvillefestival.org
Defeat of Jesse James Days (75th year)
September 6-10
Join thousands of visitors at this festival including reenactments of the infamous Jesse James bank robbery, a rodeo, car show, parade, food, and musical performances in Northfield. With so much to do, this festival will be a steal! djjd.org
St. Paul Oktoberfest
September 8–9
Grab a pint, or two, or three, as you munch on traditional German food such as bratwursts, pretzels, currywurst, and potato pancakes. It will be a wunderbar time. gaimn.org/calendar/oktoberfest
James J. Hill Days
September 8–10
Celebrate the history of the renowned James J. Hill, once the owner of the Great Northern Railroad Company, which transformed Wayzata into the bougie food-and-retail destination it is today. Check out the craft beer fest, carnival, logrolling, doggy Olympics, fireworks, parade, airshow, and live music. Jamesjhilldays.wayzatachamber.com
Minneapolis Greek Fest
September 8–10
Taste the flavors of Greek cuisine from many local vendors. From Pita appetizers to the baklava dessert, you’ll be transported to Greece all while staying right in Minneapolis. mplsgreekfest.org
Minneapolis Monarch Festival
September 9
Before they all head off for the winter, monarch butterflies will be a central theme for this festival, filled with arts and crafts, dances, and native plant sales. You can also get an up close and personal with the butterflies, offering a once-a-year kind of educational experience. monarchfestival.org
St. Louis Park Art Fair
September 9
Come for the art, and stay for the entertainment. Support youth artists at the MiniMarket, featuring original art from youth ages 8–18. slpfota.org/artfair
Edina Fall Into the Arts Festival
September 9–10
Fall in love with the arts at this festival in Edina. Shop local vendors under the sunny backdrop of Centennial Lakes Park. edinafallintothearts.com
Eagan Art Block
September 9–23
Block out time in your schedule for the Eagan Art Block. It’s a two-week celebration of art, culture, and learning for the whole family. Watch artists sculpt pottery right before your eyes, and even make something yourself. cityofeagan.com/artblock
Grape Stomp Festival
September 15–17
Enjoy a bottle of wine (or two) at this annual fest at Alexandria’s Carlos Creek Winery, featuring live music, food, art, beer, and of course grape stomping. ccwgrapestomp.com
Wild Rice Festival
September 16
Embrace autumn in Minnesota, and immerse yourself in Roseville’s annual celebration of wild rice and Native American culture. Check out dancers, apple cider pressing, storytelling, traditional wild rice harvesting, honey extraction demonstrations and delicious foods including wild rice (of course!) and fry bread. cityofroseville.com
CLUES Fiesta Latina
September 16
Celebrate Latino culture and art at this family-friendly festival, featuring art, music, dance, food, raffles (and prizes!), and more. clues.org
Waconia Nickle Dickle Day
September 16
There’s a duck race, craft fair, book sale, live music, 5K and 10K fun runs, and the Nickle Dickle Run for kiddos, plus a classic car and truck show, mechanical bull ride, and plenty of great chomps and chugs. nickledickle.com
Minnesota Children’s Book Festival
September 16
Marvel at the wonder of children’s literature—and the people behind some of the best books for kids—at the 24th annual Minnesota Children’s Book Festival in Red Wing. Meet authors and illustrators including Stephen Shaskan, Anika Fajardo, Lauren Stringer, Phyllis Root, and Erin Soderberg Downing, and stock up on books made available by St. Paul’s Red Balloon Bookshop. andersoncenter.org/bookfest
MinnesoThai Street Food Festival
September 16–17
Fire dancing, a papaya salad-eating contest, and a monk blessing—see that and so much more at St. Louis Park’s annual celebration of authentic Thai street food and cultural performances, featuring live music, art and souvenirs, a beer and wine garden, kids’ bouncy houses, Thai folk dance, and a fashion show. discoverstlouispark.com
Lakeville Art Festival
September 16–17
There’s the usual suspects of any local art fair—local artists, live music, food, and art demonstrations—but there’s also the wholesome community art project. lakevilleartscenterfriends.org/art-festival
Twin Cities Veg Fest
September 17
Omnivores, vegetarians, and vegans alike will appreciate the biggest plant-based festival in the Midwest at Harriet Island Park. Check out a slew of plant-based foods from multiple vendors, aiming to create more empathy for animals and help Minnesotans move toward a more plant-based diet. tcvegfest.com
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