In 2025, Minneapolis Aquatennial runs from July 23rd through July 26th. This Minneapolis annual summer party began in 1940 and, while it is not as long as it once was, you won’t want to miss the most popular fun and FREE events including the Torchlight Parade and Target Fireworks. These four days are packed with several free options to enjoy (minus parking fees when and where they apply).
Thanks to our Summer Fun Guide Partner
Nicollet Commons Just Outside the Stadium often hosts summertime fun
Family Fun at Aquatennial
Check back often, we expect more fun family-friendly events to be added through the summer. We also share our favorite events on our Family Fun Calendar each year.
Daily:
- Explore the We Are Water Exhibit at RSM Plaza.
June 19 – August 10, 2025; 11am-8pm.
Wednesday, July 23, 2025:
- Hang out at Hennepin County Government Center Plaza for live music and family fun. 11:30am-1pm
- See the amazing Twin Cities River Rats perform waterski stunts @ 6:30pm.
- Line up to watch the Torchlight Parade @ 7:30pm
Thursday, July 24, 2025:
- Check out the activities of Downtown Thursdays: 10 Free Things To Do With Kids In Downtown Minneapolis in Summer
- Another chance to catch a Twin Cities River Rats Water Ski Show
- End the night with a Movie in the Park at Target Field: Surf’s Up (Rated PG)
Friday, July 25, 2025:
- AlleyJam Skateboarding @ Fair School 6-8pm.
- Take in a Twins Game – Twins v. Washington Nationals – Some tickets include Peanuts swag!
Saturday, July 26, 2025:
- Stop by the Loring Park Art Festival between 10am-6pm
- Twin Cities Carifest @ West River road 10am-10pm
- Tour the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock & Dam
- Take in a Twins Game – Twins v. Washington Nationals – First 10K fans receive a special Bailey Ober City Connect jersey!
- Enjoy the AquaJam concert near the Stone Arch Bridge from 4-7pm
- Stick around after the concert to catch some fireworks on the Mississippi River
Find the complete line up of family events and more information about Aquatennial on the Aquatennial website.
Here is a little secret. With some special exceptions, most Aquatennial events are held all summer. So squeeze it all in on one Aquatennial weekend or spread out the fun throughout the summer – it’s your choice.
*Feature Image courtesy of Minneapolis Downtown Council.
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Thank you for your sharing.
It’s good to see someone thkining it through.
Thanks, Lakeisha.
We appreciate your feedback. Did you have a favorite Aquatennial family event?