Though we’re typically modest Minnesotans, the Twin Cities doesn’t shy away from its fairs and festivals. We’ve got hundreds of options for Minnesota Festivals & Fairs to attend all year long.
We celebrate our communities and traditions all year round. From Winter Carnival in January, to the legendary Minnesota State Fair in August, to the Holidazzle Festival in December, we love to get outside and explore this awesome state. Browse our master list of monthly Twin Cities festivals and fairs to find old favorites and new ideas to add to your own calendar. Most of the events on this calendar have free admission; when they don’t, we highlight ticket prices. You will find more details about individual events in our monthly Twin Cities festival articles.
Meet FFTC's Partner in Play
Lundstrum Performing Arts is Minnesota's premier training program for dance, voice and drama. Our teachers are Broadway veterans and industry professionals with the expertise to guide students to launch professional careers. We are passionate about helping students of all ages discover their gifts in mind, body and spirit. Lundstrum Performing Arts works with students of all skill levels in a supportive community that welcomes all and recognizes each student's unique talents. Our classes start at $190 for a 10 week session.
We're located at 1617 North Second Street, Minneapolis, MN 55411
January
JANUARY 2024 – MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
Festivals aren’t just for the holidays and the summertime in Minnesota – we embrace our chilly weather by getting out and playing in the ice and snow! Find more details about these events on our TWIN CITIES WINTER FESTIVAL CALENDAR.
What we are Watching for 2024
We had a great time in 2023 with all these winter festivals. Watch for them coming back in 2024.
2024 TBA: Bloomington Winter Fete
Bloomington, Minnesota
Family friendly: Winter lights tour, open skate, medallion hunt, Pond Dakota Winter History festival, luminary walk. (Dec 9, 2022 – Jan 21, 2023)
2024 TBA: Eden Prairie Winter Blast
Staring Lake Park, 14800 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, Minnesota 55347
Family friendly: Ice skating, sledding, snowshoeing, art activities, carriage rides. Free use of outdoor winter equipment and more free activities. (January 7, 2023)
2024 TBA: Edina Winter Ice Festival
Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave S, Edina, MN 55435
Family friendly: Ice skating, kicksledding, wagon rides and more. (January 8, 2023)
2024 TBA: Ice Castles
Long Lake Regional Park, 1500 Old Highway 8, New Brighton, MN 55112
2023 Tickets: $11-$22/pp. Use our exclusive promo code — FunTwinCities23 — for 15% discount.
Family friendly: Learn more about Ice Castles Family Fun here. (Jan 14 2023-Feb 20 2023)
2024 TBA: Vadnais Heights Winter Shindig
Family friendly: hot chocolate, cookies, ice skating and snowshoeing. 2-4pm, FREE. (January 14, 2023)
2024 TBA: Eagan Frosty Festival
Eagan Community Center Festival Grounds, 1501 Central Pkwy, Eagan, MN 55121
Family friendly: Sled to the music, build a snowman, enjoy hot cocoa and cookies. (January 20, 2023)
2024 TBA: Fire & Ice at Hiawatha Park
Hiawatha School Park, 4305 42nd St E., Minneapolis, MN, US 55406
Family friendly: Ice skating & s’mores. (January 20, 2023)
2024 TBA: Fire & Ice at McRae Park
McRae Park, 906 47th St E., Minneapolis, MN, US 55407 (January 20, 2023)
2024 TBA: Excelsior Arctic Fever
Downtown Excelsior, MN 55331
Freeman Park, 6000 Eureka Road, Shorewood, MN 55331
Manitou Park, 5418 Manitou Road, Tonka Bay, MN 55331
Family Friendly: Ice sculptures, snow fun and snow science. (January 20-21, 2023)
2024 TBA: Art Shanty Projects
4135 W Lake Harriet Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55409
Family friendly: Art Shanty Projects is an annual pop up festival mixing art with us hardy, lake-loving Minnesotans. The public is invited to bundle up and venture onto frozen Lake Harriet to explore these unique icehouses designed by local artists. Weekends only. (Saturdays and Sundays, January 21 – February 12, 2023)
2024 TBA: Springbrook Nature Center Winterfest
Springbrook Nature Center, 100 85th Ave NW, Fridley, MN 55432
Family friendly: Almost too many activities to count – kicksleds, snowshoeing, ice bowling, campfires with smores, snow painting, a candy cane hunt, storytime and more. 11am-2pm, FREE. (January 21, 2023)
2024 TBA: St. Paul Winter Carnival and Medallion Hunt
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Family friendly: Saint Paul Winter Carnival: Top Family Activities (January 26-February 5, 2023)
2024 TBA: Lake Harriet Winter Kite Festival
Lake Harriet Park, 4135 W Lake Harriet Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55409
Family friendly: Kite-flying. (January 28, 2023)
2024 TBA: St Louis Park Winter Fun Day
Oak Hill Park, 3201 Rhode Island Ave S, St Louis Park, MN 55426
Family friendly: bonfires, skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, cocoa, hayrides, s’mores and music. (January 28, 2023)
2024 TBA: Powderhorn Park Art Sled Rally
Powderhorn Park, 3400 15th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55407
Family friendly: Family Fun at the Annual Art Sled Rally (January 28, 2023)
2024 TBA: Golden Valley Winterfest
Wesley Park, Wesley Drive and Orkla, Golden Valley, MN 55427
Family friendly: Sledding, ice skating, hayrides, DJ, bonfire, cocoa, marshmallow roasting, and a visit from a snow queen. (January 28, 2023)
2024 TBA: Wargo Nature Center Snow Day
Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St, Lino Lakes, MN 55038
Family friendly: Outdoor activities, winter crafts & live animals. (January 28, 2023)
MORE TWIN CITIES FAMILY FUN IN JANUARY
February
FEBRUARY 2024 – MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
February is still going strong with Minneapolis-St Paul area winter festivals that make the best of our cold and snow. If you can’t beat it, join it, right? Bundle up and head out; spring is right around the corner. Find more details about these events on our TWIN CITIES WINTER FESTIVAL CALENDAR.
February, 10, 2024: Buffalo Kites on Ice Festival
Frozen Buffalo Lake – Downtown Buffalo, 505 2nd Ave S, Buffalo, MN 55313
Family friendly: Free kites for kids, dog sled rides, family activities.
What we are Watching for 2024
We had a great time in 2023 with all these winter festivals. Watch for them coming back in 2024.
2024 TBA: Ice Castles
Long Lake Regional Park, 1500 Old Highway 8, New Brighton, MN 55112
2023 Tickets: $11-$22/pp. Use our exclusive promo code — FunTwinCities23 — for 15% discount.
Family friendly: Learn more about Ice Castles Family Fun here. (Jan 14 2023-Feb 20 2023)
2024 TBA: Art Shanty Projects
Lake Harriet, 4135 W Lake Harriet Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55409
(Weekends Only) Read more: Art Shanty Projects. (January 21 – February 12, 2023)
2024 TBA: Saint Paul Winter Carnival
Saint Paul, Minnesota
See our list of the best for kids and family including the FREE snow and ice sculpture parks: Saint Paul Winter Carnival: Top Family Activities (January 26 – February 5, 2023)
2024 TBA: Fire & Ice at Matthews Park
Matthews Park, 2318 29th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Family friendly: Ice Skating, hot chocolate, bonfire with marshmallows to roast. (February 3, 2023)
2024 TBA: Scandia Vinterfest
Scandia, MN 55073
(February 4, 2023)
2024 TBA: Apple Valley Mid-Winter Fest
Johnny Cake Ridge Park West, 14255 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd, Apple Valley, MN 55124
(February 4, 2023)
2024 TBA: Luxton Park Fire & Ice
Luxton Park, 112 Williams Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
Family friendly: Hayrides, music, crafts and a bonfire.
(February 4, 2023)
2024 TBA: Plymouth Fire & Ice Festival
Parkers Lake Park, 15205 County Rd 6 & Niagara Lane, Plymouth, MN 55447
Family friendly: Games, entertainment, food and fireworks. (February 4, 2023)
2024 TBA: Columbia Heights SnowBLAST
Huset Park, 40th Ave, Columbia Heights, MN 55421
Family friendly: Ice skating, sledding, puppet wagon, music, hot beverages and treats. (February 4, 2023)
2024 TBA: City of Lakes Loppet Ski Festival
Theodore Wirth Park, 1301 Theodore Wirth Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55422
Family friendly: Youth Ski & Kubb tournament. (February 4-5, 2023)
2024 TBA: Chanhassen February Fest (Feb Fest)
Lake Ann Park, 1456 W 78th St, Chanhassen, MN 55317
2024 TBA: Maple Grove Wonders of Winter
Maple Grove Central Park, 2000 Central Park Way, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Family friendly: horse-drawn wagon rides, snowshoeing, a scavenger hunt, skating on the loop, s’mores, kite flying. (February 4, 2023)
2024 TBA: Anoka Winterfest
George Enloe Park, 631 Lund Blvd, Anoka MN (11am-2pm).
(February 4, 2023)
2024 60th Anniversary TBA: Coon Rapids Snowflake Days
Coon Rapids, MN 55433
(February 4 – 11, 2023)
2024 TBA: Minnetonka Kids Fest
Minnetonka Community Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55345
(February 5, 2023)
2024 TBA: Burnsville Polar Fest
Civic Center Parkway, Burnsville, MN 55337
Family friendly: Skating, sledding, horse & carriage rides, ice bowling & music. (February 5, 2023)
2024 TBA: Brooklyn Park Winterfest
Norwood Park, 8100 Newton Avenue N., Brooklyn Park, MN 55444
Family friendly: Sledding, skating, snowshoeing & bonfire. (February 11, 2023)
2024 TBA: Stillwater Winterfest
Downtown Stillwater, MN 55082
Family friendly: Torch Parade, fireworks, winter games and events. (Feb 13-20, 2023)
2024 TBA: Embrace the North Festival
Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, 10360 West River Road, Brooklyn Park, MN 55444
Family friendly: Winter games, snowshoeing, fat tire biking and more. (February 18, 2023)
2024 TBA: Dodge Nature Center Winter Fun Festival
Dodge Nature Center, Main Property, Farm Entrance 3, 1701 Charlton Street, West St. Paul, MN 55118
Family friendly: Hot air balloon rides, bonfires, music and outdoor winter activities. (February 18, 2023)
2024 TBA: Blizzard Bash at Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park
9653 Keats Avenue South, Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Family friendly: Ice fishing demo, snowshoeing, kick sledding, bonfire, food trucks and ice luminary. FREE with vehicle permit ($7/day). (February 18, 2023)
MORE FAMILY FUN IN FEBRUARY
March
MARCH 2023 MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
Spring arrives mid-way through March and the Twin Cities jumps out of its thermal layers excited! We open the festival season with St Patrick’s Day events. Find more information on our TWIN CITIES SPRING FAMILY FESTIVAL CALENDAR.
March 1-3, 2024: International Festival of Owls
International Owl Center, 126 E Cedar St., Houston, MN 55943 ($4-$10/pp + extra for some activities)
Family Friendly: Kids activities, live owls and face painting. Learn more about the International Owl Center Here.
March 16, 2024: St. Paul’s St. Patrick Day Parade
Parade at Noon (one-day early due to St. Paddy’s day falling on a Sunday)
425 Rice Street, St. Paul, MN 55103
What we are Watching for 2024
Watch for these St. Patrick’s Day festivals to return in 2024.
2024 TBA: Minneapolis St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Parade at 6pm
40th Avenue NE & Van Buren St, Columbia Heights MN (March 17, 2023)
2024 TBA: St. Patrick’s Day Irish Celebration
Landmark Center, 75 W 5th St, St Paul, MN 55102 ($7-$9)
Family Friendly: Celtic dance, music and vendors (March 17, 2023)
2024 TBA: An Irish Day of Dance
Landmark Center, 75 W 5th St, St Paul, MN 55102 ($7-$9/pp)
Family Friendly: Celtic dance, music and vendors (March 19, 2023)
MORE TWIN CITIES FAMILY FUN IN MARCH
April
APRIL 2023 – MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
In April, We celebrate by going all out for our Twin Cities seasonal festivals: TWIN CITIES EASTER EGG HUNTS & ACTIVITIES continue into April and EARTH DAY observations and other celebrations of spring start popping up. Find all the details on our SPRING FAMILY FESTIVAL CALENDAR.
2024 TBA: Spring Babies
Twin Cities Festivals, 8001 109th Ave N, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445 (Closed Easter Sunday) (Weekends April 7 – 30, 2023)
2024 TBA: Saint Paul Art Crawl (Pt. 1)
West 7th, St. Paul 55102
Schmidt Artists Lofts, 900 W 7th Pl, St Paul, MN 55102
Friedli Gallery, 943 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102
(April 21-23, 2023)
2024 TBA: Wargo Nature Center Family Earth Day Celebration
Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St, Lino Lakes, MN 55038
Family friendly: Games, activities, service projects and environmental education. (April 22, 2023)
2024 TBA: Harriet Alexander Nature Center Earth Day Celebration
Harriet Alexander Nature Center, 2520 Dale St N, Roseville, MN 55113 (10am-2pm)
Family friendly: Kids band, tours, games, crafts, birthday cake. (April 22, 2023)
2024 TBA: Earth Day Birding Festival
Carpenter Nature Center, 12805 St Croix Trail S, Hastings, MN 55033 (12pm-5pm) ($5/pp or $15/with box lunch)(April 23, 2023)
Family friendly: Bird-banding demos, raptor presentations, and a free Youth Birding Competition.
2023 TBA: Eden Prairie Arbor Day Walk & Green Fair
Staring Lake Park, 14800 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347 (10am-1pm)
Family friendly: Walk around Staring Lake and green-themed activities. (April 29, 2023)
2024 TBA: Minneapolis Arbor Day Festival
Windom Northeast Park, 2251 Hayes St. NE
Family friendly: Tree-themed activities for all ages. (April 29, 2023)
Festival of Nations??
RiverCenter, St Paul
Stay tuned. This festival has been on hiatus for a few years, but the creators are reimagining the festival and it may still come back in 2024.
MORE TWIN CITIES FAMILY FUN IN APRIL
May
MAY 2023- MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
The spring festivals are still going strong as we ease into one of Minnesota’s most beautiful months – May. The sun is shining, the bugs aren’t a force yet, and summer vacation is on the horizon. You can get started planning those May weekends on our SPRING FAMILY FESTIVAL CALENDAR.
2024 TBA: Saint Paul Art Crawl (Pt. 2)
Historic Lowertown, St Paul, MN 55101 (May 5-7, 2023)
2024 TBA: Powderhorn MayDay Parade & Festival
Powderhorn Park, 3400 15th Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Community organizations such as ArtCars, ArtBikes and Wearable Contraptions, Battle Train, Stilt Walkers and Cardboard Camp Artists of Minnesota have teamed up to revive the annual MayDay Parade at Powderhorn Park. Don’t miss this spring tradition! 12-4pm, FREE. (May 7, 2023)
2024 TBA: Springtime & Sunshine Festival
Anoka County Fairgrounds, 3200 St Francis Blvd NW, Anoka, MN 55303
Family-Friendly: Kids activities, live music, rides, fair food. (May 11-14, 2023)
2024 TBA: Shepherd’s Harvest Sheep & Wool Festival
Washington County Fairgrounds, 12300 N. 40th St., Lake Elmo, MN 55042 ($5/Ages 6+; Free 5 and under)
Family friendly: Free activities for kids, sheep sheerinig and dog herding demos. (May 12-14, 2023)
2024 TBA: Art-A-Whirl
Northeast Minneapolis, Minnesota (Fri: 5-10pm; Sat: 12-8pm; Sun: 12-5pm)
Family friendly: 3D Printing, DIY Button Pins, Banksy selfie station, dance demos, art demos, kids fashion design activity and more. (May 19-21, 2023)
2024 TBA: Eidem Homestead Spring on the Farm
Eidem Homestead, 4345 101st Ave N, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443
Family friendly: Baby farm animals, self-guided walking tours of the farm. (May 20, 2023)
2024 TBA: Dodge Nature Center Rock the Barn
Main Property, Farm Entrance 3, 1701 Charlton Street, West St. Paul, MN 55118
Farm animals in the barnyard, hayrides around the nature center and live bands on the lawn. 3-6pm. $8/pp advance, $10/door. (May 20, 2023)
2024 TBA: Wayzata Spring Splash
Park Plaza, downtown Wayzata
Summer camp games with the YMCA, outdoor activities with Three Rivers Parks and Minnesota DNR, story and art activities. 11am-1pm, FREE. (May 20, 2023)
2024 TBA: Belwin Bison Festival
Belwin Conservancy, 15601 Hudson Rd. N, Lakeland, MN
Activities for all ages including eco-art, food trucks, music and the always-exciting bison herd release at noon. 10am-2pm. $10/car. (May 20, 2023)
2024 TBA: Hopkins Mainstreet Day
Downtown Hopkins, MN 55305 (9am-4pm)
Family friendly: Kids activities and live entertainment. (May 20, 2023)
2024 TBA: Holz Farm Spring Festival
Holz Farm Park, 4669 Manor Drive, Eagan, Minnesota 55123 ($3/pp)
Family friendly: Hay rides, farm and house tours, live music. (May 21, 2023)
May 27-28, 2023: Minnesota Songkran Festival (Thai New Year)
Minnesota State Capitol, 75 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard., St Paul, MN 55155 (Saturday 10am-9pm; Sunday 10am-6pm.)
Family friendly: Music, dance and cultural performances, food vendors and kids activities.
May 29, 2023: Memorial Day at Lakewood Cemetery
3600 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Family Friendly: Streetcar rides ($3) and activities for the whole family.
Events We Are Watching
TBA 2023: Art Start’s EcoArts Fest
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, 3815 American Blvd E, Bloomington, MN 55425 (May 20, 2022 was cancelled)
MORE TWIN CITIES FAMILY FUN IN MAY
- TWIN CITIES MAY FAMILY GUIDE
- OPENING IN MAY: Twin Cities Events & Attractions
- OPENING IN MAY: Greater Minnesota Attractions
June
JUNE 2023- MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
Summer in the Twin Cities is off to a bang with community festivals springing up every weekend on the calendar. How to choose from all the family activities? Bookmark our handy TWIN CITIES JUNE FESTIVAL CALENDAR and our live music calendar: FFTC’s Guide to FREE Summer Concerts in the Twin Cities. Start planning the Best Summer EVER!
June 1-2, 2023: Flint Hills Family Festival
Ordway Center for the Arts, 345 Washington St, St Paul, MN 55102
Rice Park, 109 W 4th St, St Paul, MN 55102
Family Friendly: Read more about attending Flint Hills Family Festival with kids here.
June 2-4, 2023: Edina Art Fair
50th & France, Edina, MN 55424
June 2-4, 2023: Eden Prairie Schooner Days
Round Lake Park, 16691 Valley View Rd., Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Family Friendly: Carnival with rides, games and food.
June 3, 2023: Art in the Hollow
Swede Hollow Park, 665 Greenbrier St, St Paul, MN 55106
Family Friendly: Make it a family day with a bike ride along the Bruce Vento Bike Trail. Music by Todd’n’Tina 11am-12pm.
June 3, 2023: Maple Plain Party in the Park
Veterans Memorial Park, 5050 Independence St, Maple Plain, MN 55359
Family Friendly: Live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. 5pm-11pm
June 3, 2023: Lake Phalen Waterfest
Phalen Regional Park, 1600 Phalen Drive, St Paul, MN 55106
Family Friendly: Canoeing, water games, climbing walls, jump castle, lawn games and arts and crafts celebrating water.
June 3, 2023: Saint Anthony Park Arts Festival
St Anthony Park neighborhood, Como & Carter Avenues, St Paul, MN 55108
Family Friendly: Children’s activities, live music, used book sale and plant sale.
June 3, 2023: Celebrate Brooklyn Park Parade & Market
Noble Sports Park, 4701 97th Ave, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443
Family Friendly: Parade, vendors, food trucks. (Formerly tater days)
June 3-4, 2023: Union Depot Train Days
214 4th St E, St Paul, MN 55101
Family Friendly: Model trains, real trains and activities for the family.
June 4, 2023: Grand Old Day
Grand Avenue, St Paul MN 55105
Family Friendly: A great chance to check out some of our favorite Grand Avenue kid-friendly businesses: Red Balloon Bookshop & Mischief Toy Store.
June 4, 2023: New Brighton Rhubarb Fest
New Brighton History Center in Long Lake Park, 700 Park Drive, New Brighton, MN 55112
The historic train depot formally known as the NEW BRIGHTON HISTORY CENTER will be open and delicious rhubarb treats will be available for purchase. Come jump aboard the caboose! 1-4pm.
June 7-11, 2023: Albertville Friendly City Days
Albertville Central Park, 5801 Lander Avenue North East, Albertville, MN 55301
Family Friendly: Carnival rides & games, live music, fireworks and parade.
June 8, 2023: June Party on the Plaza
Nicollet Commons Park, 12550 Nicollet Ave, Burnsville, MN 55337
Family Friendly: Games, live entertainment, vendors and, of course, the Best Twin Cities Splash Pad is at Nicollet Commons Park!
June 8-11, 2023: Spring Lake Park Tower Days
Lakeside Lions Park, 7840 Pleasant View Dr., Spring Lake Park, MN 55432
Family Friendly: Parade & Fun Run June 8th, City Wide Garage Sale June 8-10, Lakeside Lions Park events June 10-11.
June 9-11, 2023: Champlin Father Hennepin Festival
Chandler Park, Champlin, MN 55316
Family Friendly: Parade, carnival, fireworks, ice cream social, kids BINGO, princess party, family trivia, karaoke, and youth fishing contest.
June 9-11, 2023: Hugo Good Neighbor Days
Hanifl Fields, 7032 137th St N, Hugo, MN 55038
Family Friendly: Carnival rides, craft fair, parade and pony rides.
June 10, 2023: Open Streets East Lake
East Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Family Friendly: Performances and activities.
June 10, 2023: National Get Out Doors Day
Find ways to celebrate around the Twin Cities at the link above.
June 10-11, 2023: Germanic American Institute Deutsche Tage
Twin Cities Germanic-American Institute, 301 Summit Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
Family-friendly: German food and drinks, music, dancing and cultural activities.
June 10-11, 2023: Chalkfest at Maple Grove Arbor Lakes
Main Street in Maple Grove, MN between Elm Creek Boulevard and Arbor Lakes Parkway. 10am-5pm
Family Friendly: Professional and amateur chalk drawing along with family fun.
June 11-18, 2023: Buffalo Days
Sturges Park, 505 2nd Ave S Buffalo, MN 55313
Family Friendly: Carnival, fireworks and grand parade.
June 15-17, 2023: Fridley ’49er Days
Commons Park, 555 61st Avenue Northeast, Fridley, MN 55432
Family Friendly: Parade on 15th; Outdoor Movie on the 16th, Festival on the 17th with entertainment, kids activities and fireworks.
June 15-17, 2023: Faribault Heritage Celebration
Central Park, 430 2nd Ave NW, Faribault, MN 55021
Family Friendly: Parade, soap box races and craft fair.
June 15-18, 2023: Cottage Grove Strawberry Fest
Kingston Park, 9195 75th St S, Cottage Grove, MN 55016
Family Friendly: Carnival, fireworks, parade, hot air balloon rides, petting farm and kids tractor pull and more.
June 15-July 4, 2023: White Bear Lake Manitou Days
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Family Friendly: Fireworks, sandcastles, kiddie parade.
June 15-July 27, 2023: White Bear Lake Marketfest
Downtown White Bear Lake, MN 55110 (6-9pm Thursday nights only)
Family Friendly: Music, vendors & theme weeks.
June 16-18, 2023: St. Louis Park Parktacular
Wolfe Park, 3700 Monterey Drive, St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Family Friendly: Friday pool event. Saturday parade, Kidtacular & Ecotacular, food trucks, concert, art hunt. Sunday Juneteenth celebration.
June 17, 2023: American Swedish Institute Midsommar Celebration
2600 Park Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407 (Admission: $6-$15/pp)
June 17, 2023: Taste of Shakopee
Huber Park, 600 Bluff Avenue, Shakopee, MN 55379
Family Friendly: Plenty of activities for Kids. 10am-4pm.
June 17-18, 2023: Minneapolis Stone Arch Bridge Festival
West River Parkway, Minneapolis Riverfront
Family Friendly: Family activities and live music.
June 19, 2023: Juneteenth Festival
Centennial Park, 6301 Shingle Creek Parkway, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430
June 21-25, 2023: Columbia Heights Lions Jamboree
Huset Park, 3965 Jefferson St NE, Columbia Heights, MN 55421
Family Friendly: Carnival, parade and fireworks.
June 22-24, 2023: Oakdale Summerfest
Walton Park, 1584 Hadley Avenue, Oakdale MN
Family Friendly: Music, pony rides, kids activities, Fireworks.
June 22-25, 2023: Farmington Dew Days
Downtown Farmington, MN 55024
June 22-28 & July 4, 2023: Roseville Rosefest
Central Park, 2520 North Dale St., Roseville, MN 55113
Family Friendly: Parade, theatrical events, music and more, culminating with 4th of July fun.
June 23-24, 2023: Twin Cities Jazz Festival
Mears Park, 221 5th St E, St Paul, MN 55101
June 23-25, 2023: Blaine Festival
Aquatore Park, 9191 Lincoln St NE, Blaine, MN 55434
Family Friendly: A full weekend of family fun.
June 23-25, 2023: South St Paul Kaposia Days
South St. Paul, MN 55075
Parade, Kaposia Kids Stuff, kids fishing clinic, kite fly, pancake breakfast and fireworks.
June 24, 2023: Midsommar Dag
Gammelgarden Museum, 20880 Olinda Trail N, Scandia, MN 55073
Midsummer fair at this Swedish “old farm” museum north of the Twin Cities metro.
Family friendly: Children’s Activities: 11:30-12:30
June 24, 2023: Minnetonka Summer Festival
Minnetonka Civic Center Campus, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd.
Inflatables, live music, food trucks and fireworks. All activities are free except food! 4pm-10:30pm.
June 24, 2023: Hopkins Food Truck Festival
Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
June 24-25, 2023: Eagan Art Festival
Eagan Festival Grounds, 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan MN
June 24-25, 2023: Afton Strawberry Festival
3418 St. Croix Trail South, Afton, MN 55001
June 30, 2023: Richfield Lil’ Sparkler Celebration
Veterans Memorial Park Bandshell, 636 East 66th Street, Richfield, MN 55423
Family Friendly: Touch-a-Truck, Ice Skating, kids dance, and movie in the park.
June 30-July 4, 2023: Apple Valley Freedom Days
Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, Apple Valley American Legion & Apple Valley Community Center
Events We Are Watching for in 2023
Some of these festivals are run by volunteers and are announced late. Check last year’s link for more information.
TBA 2023: Discover Aviation Days
Anoka County Airport, 8891 Airport Rd NE, Blaine, MN 55449
(June 4-5, 2022)
TBA 2023: Scandinavian Summer Fest
Minnehaha Regional Park, Minneapolis MN
(June 26, 2022. Often not announced until early June)
Northern Spark has announced that 2022 was its last year.
MORE TWIN CITIES FAMILY FUN IN JUNE
July
JULY 2023 – MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
July bursts with family festivals all month long – take notes with this handy list of local celebrations around the Twin Cites. Jump over for our complete listing of Twin Cities INDEPENDENCE DAY EVENTS & FIREWORKS.
June 15-July 4, 2023: White Bear Lake Manitou Days
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Family friendly: Fun downtown and on the beach ending with fireworks on the 4th.
June 29-July 2, 2023: Hudson Booster Days
Lakefront Park, First Street, Hudson, WI 54016
Family-friendly: A full weekend of family fun on the lake, ending with fireworks to celebrate Independence Day.
July 1-4, 2023: Apple Valley Freedom Days
Johnny Cake Ridge Park East, Apple Valley, MN 55124
July 2-4, 2023: Coon Rapids 4th of July
Boulevard Plaza, 2880 Coon Rapids Blvd NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433
Family-Friendly: Games, rides, parade, live music and fireworks.
Monday, July 3, 2023: Bloomington Summer Fete
Normandale Lake Park, W 84th St & Chalet Rd, Bloomington, MN 55437 (5pm-10:30pm)
Family fun: An evening of family-friendly entertainment capped off with fireworks. Bring the bug spray and a blanket.
July 3-4, 2023: Eagan’s July 4th Funfest
Eagan Central Park, 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55121
Family-Friendly: Carnival, parade & kids bike parade, entertainment, activities and fireworks.
Tuesday, July 4, 2023: Forest Lake 4th of July
Forest Lake, MN 55025
Family Friendly: Parade & fireworks.
July 4, 2023: Roseville Rosefest July 4 Celebration
Central Park, 2540 Lexington Avenue North, Roseville, MN 55113
Family Friendly: Carnival games, inflatables, live music, food vendors, fireworks.
July 4 & 9-16, 2023: Lakeville Pan-o-Prog Summer Festival
Lakeville, MN 55044
Family Friendly: Fireworks: July 4th; Events: July 9-16th – carnival, parade, kiddie parade, ice cream social, live music, family tailgate party.
July 5-8, 2023: Lindstrom Karl Oskar Days
Lions Park, 13292 Sylvan Avenue, Lindstrom, MN 55045
Family Friendly: Live music, games for kids, activity zone, fireworks, parade.
July 6-9, 2023: Robbinsdale Whiz Bang Days
Sanborn Park, 4237 Shoreline Drive, Robbinsdale, MN 55422
Family Friendly: Fireworks, parade.
July 15, 2023: International Festival of Burnsville
Nicollet Commons Park, 12550 Nicollet Ave, Burnsville, MN 55337
3pm-9m.
Family-Friendly. Kids village and live entertainment. Don’t forget to pack swimsuits!
Thursdays through July 27, 2023: White Bear Lake Marketfest
Downtown White Bear Lake, MN 55110 (Thursdays 6-9pm).
Family Friendly: Music, vendors & theme weeks.
July 7-8, 2023: Andover Family Fun Fest
Andover, MN 55304
July 11-16, 2023: Centerville Fete Des Lacs
Centerville, MN 55038
Family-Friendly: Carnival, parade, and activities in parks.
July 12-16, 2023: Maple Grove Days
12951 Weaver Lake Rd, Maple Grove, MN 55369
Family-Friendly: Medallion hunt, outdoor movie, kiddie games and fireworks.
July 12-16, 2023: Hopkins Raspberry Festival
Hopkins, MN 55305
Family-Friendly: Parade, medallion hunt, chalk art, live music and fireworks.
July 13-15, 2023: Mound Spirit of the Lakes Festival
Surfside Park, 2670 Commerce Blvd, Mound, MN 55364
Family-Friendly: Kids Activities, live music, parade, fireworks.
July 13-16, 2023: Monticello Riverfest
Pioneer Park, 9165 Fallon Ave NE, Monticello, MN 55362
Family-Friendly: Kids games, Home Depot kids building clinic, fireworks, live music & parade.
July 14-15, 2023: Chaska Fire & Ice Festival
Firemen’s Park, 3210 Chaska Blvd, Chaska, MN 55318
Family-friendly activities, and fireworks.
July 14-16, 2023: Minnehaha Falls Art Fair
Minnehaha Regional Park, 4801 S Minnehaha Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417
July 14-16, 2023: Stillwater Lumberjack Days
Downtown Stillwater, MN 55082
July 14-16, 2023: Wannigan Days
Taylors Falls, MN 55084
Bonus fun: Top 10 Things To Do In Taylors Falls, Minnesota with Kids
July 15, 2023: Lake Phalen Dragon Festival
Phalen Regional Park, 1600 Phalen Dr., Saint Paul, MN 55106
Family-Friendly: Asian-Pacific cultural activities, fooods and dragon boat races.
July 15, 2023: Minnesota Scottish Fair Street Party
Celtic Junction, 836 Prior Ave N, St Paul, MN 55104
Celtic music & bagpipes, Highland games, dancing, exhibits and food.
July 16, 2023: Open Streets Glenwood
Glenwood Avenue, Minneapolis, MN
July 19-22, 2023: Minneapolis Aquatennial
Downtown Minneapolis, MN 55402
Family-Friendly: Torchlight parade and fireworks.
July 20, 2023: July Party on the Plaza
Nicollet Commons Park, 12550 Nicollet Ave, Burnsville, MN 55337
Family Friendly: Games, live entertainment, vendors and, of course, the Best Twin Cities Splash Pad is at Nicollet Commons Park!
July 21-23, 2023: Hastings Rivertown Days
Levee Park & Jaycee Park, Hastings MN
Family-Friendly: Carnival rides, live music and family events around Hastings.
July 22, 2023: St Paul Food Truck Festival
Mears Park, 221 5th St E, Saint Paul, MN 55101
July 22, 2023: Midtown Blues & Funk Fest
Dual Citizen Brewing, 725 Raymond Avenue, St Paul, MN
July 21-23, 2023: Slice of Shoreview Days
Island Lake County Park, 3611 Victoria St N, Shoreview, MN 55126
Family-Friendly: Carnival, Kids climb area (not free), art and food vendors.
July 21-23, 2023: Excelsior Crazy Days
Downtown Excelsior, MN 55331
July 22-29, 2023: Rosemount Leprechaun Days
Central Park, 2893 145th St W, Rosemount, MN 55068
Family-Friendly: Kids activities and events, parade.
July 25-30, 2023: Anoka County Fair
3200 St Francis Blvd NW, Anoka, MN 55303
Family-Friendly: Kids activities, live music, rides, fair food, Fireworks. Gate admission charged.
July 26-August 9, 2023: Eden Prairie PeopleFest
Staring Lake Park, 14800 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347 (Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm)
Family-Friendly: Family activities, movies in the park, night to unite celebration, storyteller.
July 26-30, 2023: Scott County Fair
7151 190th St W #145, Jordan, MN 55352
Family-Friendly: Kids activities, live music, rides, fair food. Parking Fee $10/vehicle. Thursday: Cars with kids get free parking.
July 27-30, 2023: Crystal Frolics
Becker Park, 5530 Douglas Dr N, Crystal, MN 55429
Welcome Park, 4800 Douglas Dr. N. Crystal, MN 55429
Family-Friendly: Inflatables, llamas, live music, food vendors, fireworks.
July 28-29, 2023: St George Greek Summer Festival
St. George Church, 1111 Summit Avenue, St Paul, MN 55105
Family-Friendly: Greek food and dancing.
July 29, 2023: Elk RiverFest
Orono Park, 18599 Gary Street, Elk River, MN 55330
Family-Friendly: Orono Park Family Zone 10am-2pm.
July 29-30, 2023: Loring Park Art Festival
Loring Park, 1382 Willow St., Minneapolis, MN 55403
Family-Friendly: Art & craft activities for all ages, kid-friendly entertainment.
July 29-30, 2023: Chaska River City Days
City Square Park, 300 N Chestnut St., Chaska MN 55318
July 30-August 5, 2023: Eden Prairie PeopleFest
Staring Lake Park, 14800 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
Events We Are Watching for in 2023
Some of these festivals are run by volunteers and are announced late. Check last year’s link for more information.
TBA 2023: FLOW Northside Arts Crawl
Minneapolis (July 29-31, 2021)
Cancelled for 2023: Ramsey County Fair
MORE FAMILY FUN IN JULY
- JULY FAMILY EVENTS GUIDE
- ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER IN THE TWIN CITIES
- TWIN CITIES WATER FUN GUIDE: BEACHES, WATERPARKS, POOLS & SPLASH PADS
August
AU
GUST 2023 – MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
GUST 2023 – MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRSKicking off with neighborhood fetes and culminating with summer’s fair-well bash (the great Minnesota State Fair, of course), August is ripe with family festivities to keep summer good until the last drop. If you don’t believe us, jump over to our August Festival Calendar to get all the details.
July 30–August 5, 2023: Eden Prairie PeopleFest
Staring Lake Park, 14800 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, MN 55347
August 3-13, 2023: Fringe Festival
Venues around the Twin Cities.
Family Friendly: In 2019, Fringe Fest, introduced “Family Fringe”. We are hoping they will bring it back in 2023.
August 4-6, 2023: Uptown Art Fair
2815 Hennepin Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Family Friendly: Look for hands-on activities and a Youth Art Fair.
August 4-6, 2023: Canadian Days
Spooner Park, 350 Eli Rd, Little Canada, MN 55117
August 4-6, 2023: St Anthony VillageFest
3503 Silver Lake Rd NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
August 5-6, 2023: Slavic Experience
West End Festival Site, 5376 Gamble Drive St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Family friendly: Free family activities, music and food.
August 5-6, 2023: Powderhorn Art Fair
Powderhorn Park, 3400 15th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55407
Family Friendly: Visit the immersive art exhibits and enjoy beautiful Powderhorn Park.
August 14-20, 2023: Vadnais Heights Heritage Days
Vadnais Community Park, 661 County Rd F E, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 County Rd F E, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
Family Friendly: Children’s activities, parade and entertainment.
August 11, 2023: Eagan Food Truck Festival
Eagan Festival Grounds, 1507 Central Pkwy, Eagan, MN 55121
Family Friendly: Live music. Sensory bags available to borrow.
August 11-13, 2023: New Brighton Stockyard Days
Long Lake Park, 1500 Old Hwy 8, New Brighton, MN 55112
August 11-13, 2023: Irish Fair of Minnesota
Harriet Island Park, 200 Dr. Justus Ohage Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107 (Adults $20; Teens 13-17 $15; Kids under 13 Free)
August 12, 2023: IndiaFest
Minnesota State Capitol, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55155
August 13, 2023: Newport Pioneer Day
Parade begins at Newport Fire Hall, 155 20th Street. 2nd Avenue to 17th Street , then 4th Avenue to Pioneer Park.
Family friendly: Parade, live entertainment, all-you-can-eat corn on the cob!
August 17, 2023: Plymouth Kids Fest
Hilde Performance Center, 3500 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, Minnesota 55447
August 17-20, 2023: Lino Lakes Blue Heron Days
Community Green, Lino Lakes, MN 55014
August 17-20, 2023: Ki Chi Saga Days
Vilhelm Moberg Park, 10656 Railroad Ave, Chisago City, MN 55013
Family friendly: Children’s area at Paradise Park, skateboard competition, fireworks.
August 18-19, 2023: Mounds View Festival in the Park
Silver View Park, Mounds View, MN 55112
August 18-20, 2023: North Hudson Pepper Fest
North Hudson, WI 54016
August 18-20, 2023: Woodbury Days
Ojibway Park, 2695 Ojibway Dr, Woodbury, MN 55125
August 18-20, 2023: Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Wacipi
Wacipi Grounds, 3212 Dakotah Pkwy, Shakopee, MN 55379
August 18-20, 2023: St Paul Park Heritage Days Festival
Downtown Saint Paul Park, MN 55071
August 19, 2023: Anoka Food Truck Festival
Downtown Anoka
August 19, 2023: Eden Prairie Arts in the Park
Purgatory Creek Park, 13001 Technology Dr., Eden Prairie, MN 55344
August 19, 2023: Scandia Spelmansstämma
Gammelgarden Museum, 20880 Olinda Trail N, Scandia, MN 55073 (10am-4pm)
August 19, 2023: Buffalo Arts & Craft Festival
Downtown Buffalo, 505 2nd Ave S, Buffalo, MN 55313
August 19-October 1, 2023: Minnesota Renaissance Festival
3525 145th St W, Shakopee, MN 55379
This 16th century European village is open weekends 9am-7pm. Tickets: $16.95-$25.95.
August 20, 2023: Open Streets Cedar
Cedar Avenue, Minneapolis, MN
August 20, 2023: Como Park Japanese Obon Festival (Lantern Festival)
Como Park Conservatory, 1225 Estabrook Dr, St Paul, MN 55103
Advance tickets only: $5-$10/pp
August 24, 2023: August Party on the Plaza
Nicollet Commons Park, 12550 Nicollet Ave, Burnsville, MN 55337
Family Friendly: Games, live entertainment, vendors and, of course, the Best Twin Cities Splash Pad is at Nicollet Commons Park!
August 24-27, 2023: Norwood Young America Stiftungsfest
Main Street, Norwood Young America, MN 55397
August 24-September 4, 2023: Minnesota State Fair
1265 Snelling Ave N, St Paul, MN 55108
Tickets for the “Great Minnesota Get Together”: $14+, under 5 FREE.
Events We Are Watching in 2023
2023 TBA: St. Louis Park Summer Reading Festival
St Louis Park, MN 55416 (August 8-13, 2022)
Family Friendly: Story strolls, kids music, meat local children’s book authors, art stations, and more.
2023 TBA: Rockford River Days
Riverside Park, 8220 Elm Street, Rockford MN 55373 (August 12-14, 2022)
2023 TBA: Twin Cities Polish Festival
Old Main Street, Minneapolis (tentatively set to return in 2023)
MORE AUGUST FAMILY FUN
September
SEPTEMBER 2023 – MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
With the ending of summer comes the harvest – get ready for a bumper crop of Twin Cities fall festivals! Get all the details in our Fall Family Festival Calendar and Labor Day Weekend Family Fun.
Weekends through Oct. 1st, 2023: Minnesota Renaissance Festival
3525 145th St W, Shakopee, MN 55379
This 16th century European village is open weekends 9am-7pm. Early Bird Tickets: $12-$19.
September 5-9, 2023: Burnsville Festival Fire Muster
Nicollet Commons Park & Civic Center Park, Burnsville MN
2023 TBA: Inver Grove Heights Days
Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077
September 8-9, 2023: St. Paul Oktoberfest
Germanic American Institute, 301 Summit Avenue
St Paul, MN 55102
September 8-10, 2023: James J. Hill Days
Lake Street, Downtown Wayzata, MN 55391
2023 TBA: St Patrick’s CountryFest
St Patrick’s Catholic Church, 19921 Nightingale Street NW, Oak Grove, MN 55011 (Sept 9-11, 2022)
2023 TBA: Golden Valley Arts & Music Festival
Brookview Park, 200 Brookview Pkwy N, Golden Valley, MN 55426
2023 TBA Victoria Volksfest
Steiger Lake Ln, Victoria, MN 55386 (September 10, 2022)
September 9, 2023: Minneapolis Monarch Festival
Lake Nokomis, 49th & Woodlawn, Minneapolis MN
September 9, 2023: St. Louis Park Art Fair
St Louis Park Rec Center, 3700 Monterey Blvd, St Louis Park, MN 55416
Family-Friendly: Community art projects for the whole family, live music and art demos.
September 9, 2023: Mac-Grove Fest
Edgcumbe Recreation Center, 320 Griggs St S, St Paul, MN 55105
2023 TBA: St Croix Vineyards Grape Stomp Festival
6428 Manning Ave N, Stillwater, MN 55082 (September 10-11, 2022)
September 9-23, 2023: Eagan Art Block
Eagan, MN 55123
September 9-10, 2023: Edina Fall into the Arts Festival
Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave S, Edina, MN 55435
10am-6pm Saturday; 10am-5pm Sunday
September 16, 2023: Fiesta Latina
CLUES St Paul, 797 E 7th Street, St Paul MN 55106. 12pm-4pm.
September 16-17, 2023: Bayport Derby Days
Lakeside Park, 95 Central Avenue, Bayport MN
2023 TBA: Linden Hills Fall Festival
Linden Hills Park, 3100 W 43rd St, Minneapolis, MN 55410 (September 17, 2022)
September 16, 2023: Open Streets West Broadway
Penn Ave N to Lyndale Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55411
September 16, 2023: Blaine World Fest
Tom Ryan Park, 10802 Town Square Dr NE, Blaine, MN 55449
September 16, 2023: Wild Rice Festival
Harriet Alexander Nature Center, 2520 Dale St N, Roseville, MN 55113
September 16, 2023: Waconia Nickle Dickle Day
Downtown Waconia, City Square Park, S Spruce St, Waconia, MN 55387
Saturday: 8am-5pm (Dance Friday evening)
September 16, 2023: Otsego Prairie Festival
Prairie Park, 13355 90th Street NE, Otsego, MN 55330
2023 TBA: Plymouth on Parade
Plymouth City Center, Plymouth Boulevard and 34th Avenue N., Plymouth, MN 55447 (September 17, 2022)
2023 TBA: Delano Oktoberfest
Delano Central Park, 650 River St N, Delano, MN 55328 (September 17, 2022)
2023 TBA: Bloomington Heritage Days
Nativity of Mary Church, 9900 Lyndale Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55420
September 16, 2023: Minnesota Children’s Book Festival
Anderson Center at Tower View, 163 Tower View Dr, Red Wing, MN 55066
September 16-17, 2023: Lakeville Art Festival
Lakeville Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044
September 16-17, 2023: Excelsior Apple Days
Downtown Excelsior, MN 55331
September 17, 2023: Twin Cities Veg Fest
Harriet Island Regional Park, 200 Dr Justus Ohage Blvd, St Paul, MN 55107
September 23, 2023: Holz Farm Harvest Festival
Holz Farm Park, 4665 Manor Dr, Eagan, MN 55123
2023 TBA: Sever’s Fall Festival
3121 W 150th St, Shakopee, MN 55379 ($16-$23/pp)
2023 TBA: Twin Cities Harvest Festival & Maze
SE corner of 109th Ave and Highway 169, Brooklyn Park MN (Weekends & MEA)
TBA 2023: Barten Pumpkins Family Fun Saturdays
Barten Pumpkins, 5716 W 280th St, New Prague, MN 56071 (September 21-October 31, 2022)
2023 TBA: Carpenter Nature Center Fall Raptor Release
12805 St. Croix Trail S., Hastings, MN 55033
2023 TBA: St. Louis Park Roctoberfest
Recreation Outdoor Center (ROC) 3700 Monterey Drive, St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55416
2023 TBA: Taco Tour
Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN
September 23-24, 2023: Afton Art in the Park
Town Square Park, west side of St. Croix Trail S between Upper 34th Street S and 34th Street Street, Afton MN
September 30, 2023: Gibbs Farm Apple Festival
2097 W Larpenteur Ave, Falcon Heights, MN 55113
Sept 30-Oct 1: Pahl’s Market Fall Festival
6885 160th St W, Apple Valley, MN 55124
9am-5pm.
Events We Are Watching in 2023
Shorewood Community Oktoberfest
Shorewood Community and Event Center, 5735 Country Club Rd, Shorewood, MN 55331 (2022 TBA)
Fulton Fall Festival
Pershing Park, 3523 W 48th St, Minneapolis, MN 55410 (Sept 11, 2021)
East Harriet Fall Fest
West 40th Street between Aldrich & Lyndale Avenues, Minneapolis (Sept 21, 2021)
Emma Krumbees Scarecrow Festival
311 E Enterprise Dr E, Belle Plaine, MN 56011 (Weekends in September & October, 2021)
MORE SEPTEMBER FAMILY FUN
October
OCTOBER 2022 – MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
It’s SCARY how huge our list of Twin Cities Halloween events is! Too large to list here, so jump over to our TWIN CITIES HALLOWEEN GUIDE (if you dare!) If you’re in search of fall festivals packed with apples and pumpkins, corn mazes and all other bounties of harvest time, keep scrolling. For all the details on these festivals, pop over to our complete FALL FAMILY FESTIVAL CALENDAR.
Last Day: October 1, 2023: Minnesota Renaissance Festival
3525 145th St W, Shakopee, MN 55379
This 16th century European village is open weekends 9am-7pm. Tickets: $16.95-$25.95.
Sept 30-Oct 1, 2023: Pahl’s Market Fall Festival
6885 160th St W, Apple Valley, MN 55124
9am-5pm.
October 8, 2023: Open Streets Lyndale
W 22nd St to W 42nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55409
October 14-15, 2023: Stillwater Harvest Fest
Downtown Stillwater, MN
Family Fun: Kids activities, giant pumpkin drop and pumpkin contest.
Saturday, October 14, 2023: Twin Cities Book Festival
Minnesota State Fairgrounds
Events We Are Watching in 2023
2023 TBA Barten Pumpkins Family Fun Saturdays
Barten Pumpkins, 5716 W 280th St, New Prague, MN 56071
2023 TBA: Afton Apple Fest
Afton Apple Orchard, 14421 90th Street South, Hastings, MN 55033
Weekends in October. Admission: $6-$8/pp.
2023 TBA: Owamni Falling Water Festival
Father Hennepin Bluff Park, 420 SE Main Street, Minneapolis (October 8, 2022)
2023 TBA: Eidem Homestead Fall on the Farm
4345 101st Ave N, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443
New in 2022: Not Free, $50/family of 4, $5 for additional members, but offerings have been expanded. (Oct 8, 2022)
2023 TBA: Carpenter St Croix Nature Center Apple Fest
12805 St. Croix Trail S. Hastings, MN 55033
2023 TBA: Wargo Nature Center Fall Festival
7701 Main St, Lino Lakes, MN 55038
MORE OCTOBER FAMILY FUN
November
NOVEMBER 2022 – MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
November brings many early holiday events to the Twin Cities including several tree lighting festivals and other events to kick off the season.
Nov 14, 2022: Shoreview Holiday Lighting Event
Shoreview Commons, 4580 Victoria St N, Shoreview, MN 55126
Nov 22, 2022: Apple Valley Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
7100 147th Street W., Apple Valley, MN 55124
Nov 23, 2022-Jan 1, 2023: GLOW Holiday Festival
CHS Field, 360 Broadway St. Saint Paul, MN 55101 (General Admission: $12.75-$20.75)
Nov 23, 2022: Burnsville Winter Lighting Ceremony
Nicollet Commons Park, 12550 Nicollet Ave, Burnsville, MN 55337
Nov 25, 2022: Waconia Community Tree Lighting
City Square Park Gazebo, S Spruce St, Waconia, MN 55387
Nov 25, 2022: Light Up the Lake Celebration
Downtown Wayzata, MN 55391
Nov 25-27, 2022: Christmas in Excelsior (Chriskindlsmarkt)
Downtown Excelsior, MN 55331
Nov 25-27, 2022: Taylors Falls Lighting Festival
Taylors Falls, MN 55084
Nov 25-Dec 18, 2022: Minneapolis Holidazzle
Loring Park, 1382 Willow St, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Nov 26, 2022: Edina Tree Lighting Ceremony
50th & France District
Nov 27, 2022: Blaine Winter Celebration
Tom Ryan Park, 10802 Town Square Drive NE, Blaine, MN 55449 (4:30-7:30pm)
Nov 29, 2022: Lakeville Holiday Lighting Ceremony
Downtown Lakeville, MN (5pm)
Nov 12, 2022: Rice Park Tree Lighting Ceremony
109 W 4th St, St Paul, MN 55102
Rosemount Community Tree Lighting
Steeple Center. 14375 S Robert Trail, Rosemount, MN 55068 (Nov 20, 2021)
MORE NOVEMBER FAMILY FUN
Our NOVEMBER FAMILY GUIDE has ideas for making the most of THANKSGIVING BREAK with family – whether you are traveling or staying cozy at home.
December
DECEMBER 2022 – MINNESOTA FESTIVALS & FAIRS
Our Twin Cities Holiday Festival Guide is filled with hometown festivals at their holiday best. Find holiday tree lightings, skating events, meet and greets with Santa and many more jolly ways to kick off the holiday season in 2022.
Nov 23, 2022-Jan 1, 2023: GLOW Holiday Festival
CHS Field, 360 Broadway St. Saint Paul, MN 55101 (General Admission: $12.75-$20.75)
Nov 25-Dec 18, 2022: Minneapolis Holidazzle
Loring Park, 1382 Willow St, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Dec 1, 2022: Savage Tree Lighting Ceremony
Savage City Hall
Dec 2, 2022: Rogers Holiday Tree Lighting
Dec 2, 2022: Osseo MiniDazzle Celebration
Boerboom Veterans Park, Central Avenue and 4th Street in downtown Osseo, 55369
Dec 2-3, 2022: Afton Village Holiday
Afton, MN 55001
Dec 2-10, 2022: Inver Grove Heights Holidays in the Heights
Veterans Memorial Community Center, 8055 Barbara Ave, Inver Grove Heights, MN 5507
Dec 3, 2022: Delano Old Fashioned Christmas
Delano, MN 55328
Dec 3, 2022: Plymouth Holiday at the Hilde
Hilde Performance Center, 3500 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, Minnesota 55447
Dec. 3, 2022: Chanhassen Tree Lighting Ceremony
City Center Plaza, 7700 Market Blvd, Chanhassen, MN 55317
Dec 3, 2022: Anoka Hometown Holiday
Downtown Anoka, MN 55303
Dec 3, 2022: Union Depot Holiday Tree Lighting
Union Depot, 240 E Kellogg Blvd #70, St Paul, MN 55101
Dec 3, 2022: Grand Meander
Grand Avenue Business District, St. Paul, MN 55105
Dec 3, 2022: Shakopee Holiday Fest
Downtown Shakopee, MN 55379
Dec 3, 2022: Chaska Hometown Holiday
City Square Park, 300 N Chestnut St., Chaska, MN 55318 (Dec 4, 2021)
Dec 3, 2022: Stillwater Twinkle Party & Tree Lighting
Lowell Park Riverfront Gazebo, Stillwater, MN 55082
Dec 3-4, 9-10, 11 & 16-18, 2022: The Northern Express – A Complete Christmas Wonderland
3300 Tanadoona Dr., Excelsior, MN 55331
Dec 4, 2022: Holz Farm Old-Fashioned Holiday
Holz Farm Park, 4665 Manor Dr, Eagan, MN 55123
Dec 6, 2022: Eagan Community Holiday Tree Lighting
Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Pkwy, Eagan, MN 55121
Dec 6, 2022: Robbinsdale Annual Tree Holiday & Sing-Along
Robbinsdale City Hall, 4100 Lakeview Ave., Robbinsdale, MN 554227
Dec 10, 2022: North St. Paul Holiday Hop
Downtown North St. Paul, MN 55109
December festivals we hope to return in 2022
MORE DECEMBER FAMILY FUN
- Browse more season events in our Twin Cities Christmas & Holiday Guide.
- December Family Events Guide
- Opening in December: Twin Cities Events & Attractions
Twin Cities Arts & Crafts Fairs
If you love perusing the booths of local artisans and makers, watch for these Annual Arts & Crafts Fairs:
- May: Saint Paul Art Crawl
- May: Art-A-Whirl | Minneapolis
- June: 50th & France Art Fair | Edina
- June: Saint Anthony Park Arts Festival | St Paul
- June: Eagan Art Festival | Eagan
- June: Art in the Hollow | St Paul
- July: Elmcrest Art Fair | Ramsey
- July: Minnehaha Falls Art Fair | Minneapolis
- July: FLOW Northside Arts Crawl | Minneapolis
- August: Loring Park Art Festival | Minneapolis
- August: Uptown Art Fair | Minneapolis
- August: Powderhorn Art Fair | Minneapolis
- August: Arts in the Park | Eden Prairie
- August: Buffalo Art & Craft Festival
- September: St. Louis Park Art Fair | St. Louis Park
- September: Eagan Art Block | Eagan
- September: Lakeville Art Festival | Lakeville
- September: Art & Apples on the Lake | Excelsior
- September: Fall into the Arts Festival | Edina
- September: Art in the Park | Afton
- September: Art on the Strip | Crystal
- September: Arts & Music Festival | Golden Valley
Twin Cities Food Vendors Festival
If you just love sampling new foods, watch for these events:
- June: Hopkins Food Truck Festival
- July: Saint Paul Food Truck Festival
- August: Discovery Anoka Food Truck Festival
- August: Eagan Food Truck Festival
- September: Twin Cities Veg Fest, St. Paul
For more ideas: FFTC’s Guide to Kid-Friendly Food Trucks
Duluth Family Festivals
Need some excuses to go to Duluth? These annual festivals and events are family-friendly.
- May: Homegrown Music Festival
- June: Grandma’s Marathon
- June: Chum Rhubarb Festival
- June: Duluth Air Show
- July: Fourth Fest
- September: Lake Superior Harvest Festival
- September: Duluth Oktoberfest
- November: Gales of November
- December: Bentleyville Tour of Lights
- December: Duluth Winter Village
More Duluth Family Fun:
Travel tips: It’s often easier to take public transit to fairs and festivals. In fact, Metro Transit offers free rides to some events. Joy offers suggestions on packing for an all-day outing and getting around by bus with kids in Get On the Bus! Public Transit with Kids.
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