Discover a jam-packed schedule of fairs and festivals that offer fun for the whole family. From art festivals to cultural celebrations, there's something for everyone. Mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy a summer filled with fun, food, music, and culture at these exciting events!
April: Fraser Festival and Capital City Village Bazaar Extravaganza
( Credit to: Twincities )
Kick off the spring season with two exciting events in April. The Fraser Festival at RiverCentre is a day of inclusive fun with music, games, food, and animals. Not only will you have a great time, but you'll also be supporting the nonprofit Fraser. Be sure to preregister at fraser.org/events with a minimum donation of $1.
( Credit to: Twincities )
Head over to Union Depot for the Capital City Village Bazaar Extravaganza. This event showcases local businesses, artists, and food vendors. It's a fantastic opportunity to support the community while enjoying live music and entertainment.
April: Solar Big Year Eclipse Celebration and Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival
( Credit to: Twincities )
Experience the wonders of the solar eclipse at the Solar Big Year Eclipse Celebration hosted by the Bell Museum. While Minnesota won't witness a total eclipse, we'll still enjoy 75% coverage. Join in the sunny activities and learn more about our solar system.
( Credit to: Twincities )
Movie enthusiasts won't want to miss the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival. With over 200 films, panel discussions, and filmmaker talkbacks, this event is a must-attend. Screenings take place at The Main Cinema in Minneapolis and Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul.
April: The St. Paul Art Crawl
( Credit to: Twincities )
Art lovers, get ready for the biannual St. Paul Art Crawl. Explore open studios, enjoy live music, and indulge in delicious food across various locations. Check stpaulartcollective.org for specific hours and locations.
( Credit to: Twincities )
May: Minnesota Songkran Festival and Kickoff to Summer at the Fair
( Credit to: Twincities )
Celebrate the Thai new year at the Minnesota Songkran Festival. Head to the State Capitol for live music, dance performances, vendors, and even a spicy papaya-eating contest. Admission is free, so don't miss out on the festivities.
Get a taste of the upcoming Minnesota State Fair at the Kickoff to Summer event. Held at the fairgrounds, you can enjoy food, beer, vendors, and even participate in a 5K race. Best of all, parking is free. Stay tuned for ticket sales at mnstatefair.org.
May: Flint Hills Family Festival
The Flint Hills Family Festival at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts is a fantastic event for the whole family. Enjoy performances by various artists and plenty of activities. Outdoor events are free, but be sure to grab tickets for the indoor performances at ordway.org/festival.
June: St. Anthony Park Arts Festival and Train Days
Immerse yourself in art, books, plants, food, and music at the St. Anthony Park Arts Festival. This neighborhood festival centered around the St. Anthony Park Branch Library is a vibrant celebration of creativity.
Calling all train enthusiasts! Union Depot is hosting Train Days, where you can explore model train setups, tour real rail cars, and enjoy family activities like a bounce house and crafts. It's a dream come true for train lovers of all ages.
June: Grand Old Day and Asian Street Food Night Market
Don't miss the iconic St. Paul event, Grand Old Day. Join the parade, enjoy live music, and witness street performances on Grand Avenue. It's a fantastic opportunity to support local businesses and have a great time.
Experience the flavors and culture of Asia at the Asian Street Food Night Market. Located on Rice Street and Aurora Ave, this vibrant night market offers delicious street food, music, dancing, and even a talent show. Don't miss out on this unique event.
June: Deutsche Tage and St. Paul Pride
Celebrate German culture at Deutsche Tage. The Germanic American Institute hosts this event filled with food, beer, music, dancing, and more. It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in German traditions and have a great time.
Join the festivities at St. Paul Pride in Rice Park. This annual event celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with a parade, all-day activities, music, and delicious food. It's a day of love, acceptance, and celebration.
June: Midsommar Celebration and Little Mekong Night Market
The American Swedish Institute hosts the Midsommar Celebration, a traditional Swedish event held on the year's longest day. Enjoy making flower crowns, dancing around the maypole, and live performances. It's a magical celebration of summer.
After a hiatus due to COVID-19, the Little Mekong Night Market is back! Explore the vibrant atmosphere along University Avenue, filled with food, arts, cultural performances, and small business events. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the rich culture of the Mekong region.
June: Kaposia Days
South St. Paul's community celebration, Kaposia Days, is back with a variety of events for everyone. From a parade to a craft flea market, bean bag tournament, and fireworks, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss out on the fun.
July: West St. Paul Pride and St. Paul Food Truck Festival
Celebrate LGBTQ+ pride at West St. Paul Pride. Join the Roll Into WSP Pride Skate Party and the main Pride in the Park event at the West St. Paul Sports Complex. It's a day of love, acceptance, and celebration.
Indulge in delicious food from over 50 food trucks at the St. Paul Food Truck Festival. Held at Union Depot's Lot C, this event offers a wide variety of culinary delights. Enjoy other attractions like a mechanical bull and henna artists.
July: Dragon Festival
Experience the beauty of traditional Chinese Dragon Boats at the Dragon Festival in Phalen Regional Park. This festival celebrates Asian-Pacific cultures with food, cultural activities, and of course, the dragon boat races. It's a vibrant and exciting event for the whole family.
August: Little Africa Parade and Festival and Irish Fair of Minnesota
Head to Hamline Park for the Little Africa Parade and Festival. Enjoy live music, art, vendors, and an African fashion showcase. It's a fantastic opportunity to celebrate African culture and support the local community.
Immerse yourself in Irish culture at the Irish Fair of Minnesota. Held at Harriet Island Regional Park, this event features food, dance, music, cultural programming, and a marketplace. Get ready to experience the luck of the Irish.
August: The Minnesota State Fair
The highlight of the summer is undoubtedly the Minnesota State Fair. With a wide range of entertainment options, including concerts, comedy shows, and various attractions, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on this annual tradition. Check the official website for updates on the lineup and ticket information.
Conclusion: A Summer Filled with Fun and Festivals
Get ready for a summer filled with fun, food, music, and culture at these exciting events. From art festivals to cultural celebrations, there's something for everyone. Mark your calendars and make the most of the warm weather by attending these vibrant fairs and festivals. Whether you're a foodie, art lover, or simply looking for a good time, these events offer a fantastic opportunity to explore and enjoy the community. Don't miss out on the chance to create lasting memories with your family and friends. It's time to embrace the spirit of summer and experience the joy of these incredible events.