Welcome to the Twin Cities, the vibrant and bustling metropolitan area of Minneapolis and St. Paul, where every year, a bevy of festivals and fairs attract visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, an art enthusiast or simply looking for some family fun, there is something for everyone in our community.
As we head into 2023, the Twin Cities is gearing up for another exciting year of festivals and fairs, with a diverse lineup of events that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty and vibrant arts scene. From the world-renowned Minnesota State Fair to the electrifying Twin Cities Jazz Festival, and everything in between, there’s a ton of options that are sure to suit your style.
For visitors and residents alike, we’ll help you navigate the vibrant festival scene and discover all the best that the Twin Cities has to offer. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best festivals and fairs that the Twin Cities has to offer in 2023.
Art-A-Whirl
Date: May 19-21, 2023
Location: Northeast Minneapolis, MN
More information: nemaa.org/art-a-whirl
Art-A-Whirl, the largest open studio tour in the country, is returning for its 28th year in Northeast Minneapolis this May. The event features over 1,000 member artists, galleries and businesses spread out across 60 locations in Northeast Minneapolis, giving visitors an opportunity to connect with artists in their own creative spaces. Attendees can browse and purchase artworks from new artists, enjoy demonstrations and interactive activities, listen to live music, and indulge in delicious local cuisine and beer. Art-A-Whirl is free and open to the public, making it an accessible and inclusive event for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to experience the creativity of Northeast Minneapolis’ art scene at this year’s Art-A-Whirl!
WaterFest
Date: June 3, 2023
Location: Lake Phalen Park | St. Paul, MN
More information: rwmwd.org/events/waterfest
Mark your calendars for June 3rd for the upcoming WaterFest – a free, family-oriented festival dedicated to celebrating clean lakes and promoting outdoor learning about clean water and conservation. At WaterFest, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a variety of water-based activities, including Voyageur canoe and sailboat rides, paddle boating, kayaking and fishing lessons. Stop by the Water Bar to sample water flights from different communities, participate in the Passport Odyssey for a chance to win amazing prizes, and enjoy performances by talented artists. Delicious food trucks will be on site to keep you energized throughout the day. Don’t miss out on the fun and educational experience at WaterFest 2023.
Open Streets Minneapolis
Date: Starting June 10, 2023, continuing once per month through September
Location: East Lake Street | Minneapolis, MN
More information: openstreetsmpls.org
Open Streets is a series of free, family-friendly events hosted by local nonprofit Our Streets Minneapolis and the City of Minneapolis. During these events, major roads are temporarily closed to car traffic, creating a pedestrian-friendly environment where people can bike, walk and roll, while interacting with their community and local businesses. By temporarily transforming congested streets into bustling pedestrian-friendly boulevards, these events aim to shift your perception of city streets and inspire new ways of thinking about urban spaces.
Each Open Streets event features local businesses, artists, and community groups showcasing the culture of Minneapolis. Come discover what makes the Twin Cities unique and connect with your community at their kick-off event on East Lake Street this June.
Stone Arch Bridge Festival
Date: June 17-18, 2023
Location: W. River Parkway | Minneapolis, MN
More information: stonearchbridgefestival.com
Get ready for a thrilling showcase of talent at this year’s Stone Arch Bridge Festival, featuring a wide array of musicians and traditional artists. Browse through vendor booths displaying unique works of art, and catch live performances by local and international acts. Take a break to savor delicious food along River Parkway and admire the stunning views of the Mississippi.
Although the music lineup is yet to be revealed, the Stone Arch Bridge Festival is dedicated to providing a space for artists to showcase and sell their work while bringing the community together. With over 200 artists and culinary artists slated to participate, there will be a wide range of artistic mediums to explore, ensuring that there is something for everyone at this Twin Cities festival.
Twin Cities Jazz Fest
Date: June 23-24, 2023
Location: Mears Park | St. Paul, MN
More information: twincitiesjazzfestival.com
The Twin Cities Jazz Fest is an annual event held every June at Mears Park in St. Paul, and features a weekend of free jazz performances and music clinics. With multiple stages, the festival showcases both local and national jazz musicians, making it an ideal destination for enthusiasts of all levels. In addition to the festival, many venues throughout St. Paul host jazz performances into the wee hours of the night, creating a lively and immersive experience for attendees. The festival offers an opportunity to experience the dynamic world of jazz music in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
4th In The Park
Date: July 4, 2023
Location: St. Anthony Park | St. Paul, MN
More information: 4thinthepark.org
Get ready to celebrate the USA with The 4th In The Park celebration, a fun-filled, all-ages event held annually in St. Anthony Park. The festival in West St. Paul features a lively parade, followed by musical performances, as well as food vendors and a beer garden. Fun activities for the kids include a petting zoo, bounce houses, face painting and carnival games. The evening culminates with a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky. The 4th In The Park celebration is free and open to the public, and it provides a great opportunity for families and friends to come together and enjoy a day of festivities in a welcoming place. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, this celebration is a must-attend event for anyone looking to celebrate the Fourth of July in style.
Minnehaha Art Fair
Date: July 14-16, 2023
Location: Minnehaha Falls Park | Minneapolis, MN
More information: minnehahafallsartfair.com
Every year, artists and attendees gather for the Minnehaha Falls Art Fair at its namesake park in Minneapolis. The event brings together over 100 talented artists from across the Midwest, showcasing a diverse range of work, from pottery and jewelry to photography, sculpture, paintings and more. Visitors can browse through the booths and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces directly from the artists themselves. On top of that, this fair also features live music, delicious food from local vendors, and family-friendly activities like balloon art. If you’re searching for a way to explore local art, purchase one-of-a-kind pieces, or soak up the sunshine in a beloved Minneapolis park, then head to the Minnehaha Falls Art Fair.
Uptown Food Truck Festival St. Paul
Date: July 22, 2023
Location: Union Depot | St. Paul, MN
More information: uptownfoodtruckfestival.com
Attention foodies! The Uptown Food Truck Festival is planned to return to St. Paul in July 2023. Drawing thousands of culinary enthusiasts, enjoy a large selection of delicious food from some of the best food trucks in the Twin Cities. This year’s St. Paul edition of the festival promises to be just as exciting, featuring over 50 food trucks offering a wide variety of cuisines ranging from traditional American fare to international delicacies and so much more. Sample mouth-watering dishes, take-in local live music, or take the kids to the play area.
The Uptown Food Truck Festival in St. Paul offers a unique opportunity to experience a wide range of culinary delights, all in one place. The event is free and open to the public, making it accessible for all to enjoy. Whether you’re a food lover, a music fan, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, the Uptown Food Truck Festival in St. Paul is the place to be.
Irish Fair Of Minnesota
Date: August 11-13, 2023
Location: Harriet Island Park | St. Paul, MN
More information: irishfair.com
Don your favorite green attire and head to the Irish Fair of Minnesota to celebrate the area’s Irish heritage and culture. The festival takes place over an entire weekend in August and features a variety of traditional Irish music, dance, food and crafts. The festival grounds span across Harriet Island and the Mississippi Riverfront, offering plenty of space to enjoy the happenings. In addition to the main stage performances, event-goers can enjoy cultural exhibits, children’s activities and Gaelic sports demonstrations. The Irish Fair of Minnesota offers something for everyone, regardless of your background!
Great Minnesota Get Together State Fair
Date: August 24 – September 4, 2023
Location: Minnesota State Fairgrounds | St. Paul, MN
More information: mnstatefair.org
The Minnesota State Fair, one of the largest and most popular fairs in the country, is back in 2023, and it promises to be bigger and better than ever before. Spanning 12 days from late August to early September, this event is a celebration of everything that makes Minnesota great, from its rich agricultural heritage to its vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Some of the highlights this year include the Mighty Midway and Kidway, two areas packed with rides and games for visitors of all ages; the Grandstand, hosting music acts like The Chicks and Duran Duran, as well as other live performances; and the Miracle of Birth Center, where visitors can witness the miracle of new life as baby animals are born right before their eyes – so don’t miss the fun at this year’s Great Minnesota Get-Together.
Twin Cities Book Festival
Date: October 14, 2023
Location: Minnesota State Fairgrounds | St. Paul, MN
More information: twincitiesbookfestival.com
If you’re searching for something more intellectually stimulating, then reserve some time to attend this year’s Twin Cities Book Festival in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. This annual festival brings together thousands of book lovers and authors for a day-long event that includes author readings, panel discussions and book signings. Whether you’re a fan of fiction, non-fiction, poetry or children’s books, you’ll find something to love at this literary event. The festival features over 100 exhibitors and admission is free, so bring your family and friends and spend the day exploring the world of books. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a fantastic time at this extravaganza.
Minneapolis Holidazzle
Date: November 24 – December 17, 2023
Location: Loring Park | Minneapolis, MN
More information: holidazzle.com
Get into the holiday spirit by attending this year’s Holidazzle, a beloved Minneapolis holiday tradition! Running for four weekends from late November to mid-December, this festive event features a variety of holiday activities and attractions for everyone. Experience the magic of winter with outdoor skating, holiday movies and live music performances. Take a stroll through the European-style Holidazzle Market and browse unique gift items, crafts and delicious holiday treats from local vendors. Meet Santa and his reindeer, watch dazzling fireworks displays, and witness the lighting of the spectacular Holidazzle tree.
Are You Ready to Explore These Exciting Twin Cities Festivals & Fairs?
Don’t miss out on the vibrant culture and exciting events that the Twin Cities has to offer, whether you’re a local or a tourist. With a wide variety of festivals and fairs happening throughout the year, there’s something for everyone. And, for those who never want to miss an exciting event, learning to fly is the perfect way to gain complete control over your ability to travel wherever, whenever. If you’re interested in becoming a pilot and flying to your favorite festivals and fairs in Minnesota and throughout the world, then consider learning to fly with Inflight Pilot Training.
Our expert team of flight instructors can help you achieve your dreams of becoming a pilot and give you the ability to attend your favorite events in Minnesota and throughout the world. Whether you need private pilot training, certification refreshers or new certifications, we can help you reach your goals. So why wait? Contact Inflight Pilot Training today and start your journey towards the sky!
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