Outdoor concert at Lake Winona
Highlights this week include:
June 14-17, Winona
Steamboat Days
June 14-18, Buffalo
Buffalo Days
June 10-18, Hutchinson
Hutchinson Jaycee Water Carnival
June 17, Frazee
Frazee Rib Fest
June 17-18, Virginia
Land of the Loon Arts & Crafts Festival
Southern Minnesota
June 11-18, Montevideo
Fiesta Days Celebration
Fiesta Days includes a Fly-in & Pancake Breakfast, live music, senior & junior coronations, community picnic, kiddie parade, bean bag tournament, RibFest & Beer Garden, Fireman's Dance, and Grande Day Parade! And on Saturday, June 17, check out the Milwaukee Road Heritage Center Craft & Vendor Festival on Main Street across from Casey's Gas Station. 320-269-5527
June 14-17, Winona
Steamboat Days
The 70th Annual Steamboat Days Festival features live entertainment & concerts, the Best Dressed Cowboy L& Cowgirl, Kids' Pedal Pull, Kids' Fishing Contest, Race for A Cause, Kiddie Parade, car show, Grande Parade, and fireworks over the Mississippi River. Various Winona venues. 507-452-0735
June 17, Lanesboro
Art in the Park Fine Art Festival
The annual Art in the Park Fine Art Festival returns for its 37th year with 90-plus fine art & craft booths, along with delicious and locally-prepared foods and ongoing live music by four acts. Sylvan Park. 507-467-2446
June 17, Peterson
Gammel Dag Fest
Gammel Dag (Norwegian for Good Old Days) is a Scandinavian Midsummer Festival featuring more than 15 Scandinavian artists demonstrating their folk art. Dine at the bandstand while enjoying Nordic dancers, live music, and bands. Also enjoy wagon rides, a scavenger hunt, medicine man, crafters, puzzle contest, evening dance, museum tours, parade, vintage baseball games, drawings, and lefse, waffles, rommegrot, shortcake and pie! 507-875-2658
June 17-24, Rochester
Rochesterfest
Rochesterfest is a huge celebration with countless activities. Highlights include a treasure hunt for the medallion, country breakfast on the farm, 5K Relay for Life, Rochester Hangar Fly In & Dance, K-9 Carnival, Juneteenth Celebration, MPR Open House, live music, beer gardens & food vendors, ice cream social, book sale, Bubbleball, World Culture at the Fest, Family Fun Night, KidDISCO, Hot Air Balloon Glow, TGIF Bash!, Mayor's Hot Air Balloon Rally, Root River Wagon Rides, Grand Parade, and Party in the Park! Venues throughout Rochester. 507-285-8769
June 22-24, Pipestone
Watertower Festival
The 28th Annual Watertower Festival commemorates the restoration of the city's 1921 concrete water tower -- one of only two structures of its kind remaining in the United States. Enjoy three days of theatre performances, street dance & live music, arts & crafts fair, Ghost Walks, classic car show, inflatables, kids' and adult pedal pulls, fun runs, and one of the largest parades in southwest Minnesota! Downtown Pipestone. 507-825-3316
June 22-24, Granite Falls
Western Fest and Stampede Rodeo
The 29th Annual Western Fest includes three nights of non-stop PRCA rodeo action, mutton bustin' challenges for the little cowboys and cowgirls, free pony rides, a Grande Parade, and street dances on Friday and Saturday. LeeMar Ranch. 320-564-4039
June 23-24, Mankato
Solstice Outdoor Music Festival
Solstice is Mankato's major outdoor summer event with music by local and regional musicians playing Rock, Americana & Country Music. Also enjoy the 4th Annual Mankato’s Kids Got Talent Contest, and lots of arts, crafts and food vendors. Festival and camping at Land of Memories Park & Campground. 507-340-6809
June 30 - July 4, Austin
Freedom Fest
Celebrate our Independence Day with parades, Mini Piggy Fun run, the Golden Duck Hunt, arts & craft vendors, kids' fishing contest, 25-mile bike race, street dance, live music by numerous acts, Parking Lot Party, car show, outdoor movie, free rides & slides, and giant fireworks display. 507-437-4561
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
June 14-18, Buffalo
Buffalo Days
Buffalo Days carnival rides and games run Wednesday through Sunday. Also enjoy a showing of The Secret Life of Pets in the park, live music, Grande Parade, Kiddie Parade, Buffalo Sings contest, fireworks, beer gardens, Fishing Klinic for Kids, and Royalty Coronation. Sturges Park. 763-682-4902
June 14-18, North Branch
Midsummer Days
The 92nd Annual Midsummer Days celebration includes street dances, carnival & midway, Family Fun Shows, Grande Parade, Kiddie Midsummer Olympics, Kiddie Parade, water fight, and more! Central Park. 651-674-4077
June 16-18, Minneapolis
Stone Arch Bridge Festival
Enjoy a full weekend of art and music on the Minneapolis Riverfront with more than 200 artists, concerts on three stages, the Art of the Car Show, the Stone Arch Beer Sampler, and Family Activities Stage. 952-473-6422
June 16 – July 4, White Bear Lake
White Bear Lake Manitou Days
White Bear Lake's three-week summer festival serves up more than 70 events, including Marketfest, a medallion hunt, Beach Dance, Grande Parade, concerts, Yogadevotion on the Beach, Sandcastles & Creatures Building Contest, movie in the park, 12th Annual White Bear Lake Classic & Vintage Boat Show, contests, and fireworks. Venues throughout White Bear lake. 651-653-5122
June 17, St. Paul
Minnesota Children's Museum Block Party
The Block Party includes games, dancing, music and a trapeze! The museum, which also open to the public, features 10 new exhibits that put children and their imaginations in the driver’s seat. The block party and museum admission are free, but reserved tickets are required for the museum. Minnesota Children's Museum. 651-225-6000
June 18, Taylors Falls
Father's Day Brunch
The Father's Day Brunch Cruise is a two-hour narrated scenic tour through the Dalles of the St. Croix, along with live entertainment for easy listening, and a buffet style meal. 651-465-6315, 651-465-6365
June 22–24, St. Paul
Twin Cities Jazz Festival
The Twin Cities Jazz Festival is a three-day music festival with headline acts on multiple public stages in and around Mears Park, plus performances at over 20 area clubs, bars and studio venues. Recognized as one of the region's premiere music festivals, Jazz Fest brings top Jazz artists to Saint Paul to share the joy of jazz with thousands of people. 612-308-5785
June 22-25, Oakdale
Oakdale Summerfest
The annual Oakdale Summerfest includes fun carnival rides & games, beer gardens, free concerts, sports demonstrations, a Grande Parade, and 5K & 10K runs. Venues throughout Oakdale. 651-730-2722
June 24, Minneapolis
Twin Cities Pride Festival
The 2017 Twin Cities Pride Festival features over 400 exhibitors, 4 stages with music and entertainment, and 40 food and beverage booths. The Pride Parade will take run along 3rd Street from Willow/Loring Park to Portland Avenue on Sunday, June 25. Loring Park. 612-255-3260
June 24-25, Eagan
Eagan Art Festival
The Eagan Art Festival is a two-day show featuring fine art and original handmade crafts by over 100 artisans. Visitors will also enjoy music performances, children's activities, and a variety of tasty foods. Central Park Festival Grounds. 651-675-5500
June 25, Minneapolis
Scandinavian Summer Fest
The popular, annual Midsommer Celebration has joined with Norway Day and Svenskarnas Dag to create a huge celebration called Scandinavian Summer Fest! Highlights include Scandinavian music, food, vendors, demonstrations, a 5K Fun Run, Royalty Coronation, outdoor church service, the raising of the maypole, and a dancing and singing program. Minnehaha Falls Park. 612-861-4793, 612-825-8808
Upcoming Twin Cities' concerts and performances:
Motown - The Musical at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, June 11-16
The Total Package Tour: NKOTB with Paula Abdul & Boyz II Men at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, June 14
Seth Meyers at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, June 16
Demetri Martin: Let's Get Awkward Tour at the Historic State Theatre, June 17
Seu Jorge Presents The Life Aquatic: A Tribute To David Bowie at the Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis, June 17
Don Henley at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, June 18
Bethel Music - A Night of Worship at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium at St. Paul RiverCentre, June 19
Adam Sandler: Here Comes the Funny Tour at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, June 21
Lionel Richie at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, June 22
Tig Notaro with special guest Fortune Feimster at the Historic State Theatre, June 22
Joe Rogan - Strange Times 2017 Tour at the Historic State Theatre, June 23
Led Zeppelin 2 at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, June 25
King Crimson at the Historic State Theatre, June 26
The Moody Blues: Days of Future Passed 50th Anniversary Tour at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, June 27
Dancing with the Stars: Live! at the Historic State Theatre, June 30
Journey at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, July 1
Ed Sheeran at the Xcel Energy Center, July 1
Motown the Musical (Touring) at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, July 11-16
Rick Springfield at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, July 13
Santana at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, July 13
X Games X Fest Harley Davidson Flat Track Racing at the Mall of America East Lot, July 13
Queen + Adam Lambert at the Xcel Energy Center, July 14
Weezer with Special Guest Cold War Kids at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, July 14
X Games X Fest at the U.S. Bank Stadium, July 14-16
All Time Low at the Palace Theatre in St. Paul, July 16
Guns N' Roses at the U.S. Bank Stadium, July 17
Tickets available through Eventful or Ticketmaster.
Central Minnesota
June 10-18, Hutchinson
Hutchinson Jaycee Water Carnival
Started in 1942, the Hutchinson Water Carnival has evolved into a multi-event celebration. Enjoy fireworks, live music performances, a medallion hunt, Run by the River, performance by the Little Crow Ski Team, Miss Hutchinson Pageant, Grande Day Parade, Kiddie Parade, Painting in the Park, Kids' Fun Day, Queen's Dance, and much more! 320-587-5252
June 14-18, Perham
Perham Turtle Fest
Turtle Fest, Perham's large summer celebration, includes a parade, rodeo, turtle races, magic and fun shows, vendors, train rides, inflatable games, hog roast, live music, children's activities, and much more! Downtown Perham and fairgrounds. 218-346-7710
June 16, Onamia
Commodores
The funky sounds of Motown are coming this summer! Don't miss the legendary Commodores performing their #1 singles like "Easy," "Three Times a Lady," and "Brick House." They've sold over 70 million albums, and their 1985 hit "Nightshift" won a Grammy for Best Vocal R&B Performance! Grand Casino Mille Lacs. 800-745-3000
June 16-17, Willmar
Studio Hop
Visit 10 local artist studios, meet 20 artists, and check out an eclectic mix of artwork including paintings, sculpture, pottery, photography, and mixed-media during the 13th Annual Studio Hop. 320-235-8560
June 24, Alexandria
Awake The Lakes Ribfest
The Awake The Lakes Ribfest features live music, beer gardens, fireworks, a Family Fun Zone, craft vendors, demonstrations, and of course, amazing BBQ ribs! Big Ole Park. 320-808-5083
June 24, Onamia
Purple Reign: Tribute to Prince
Don't miss Purple Reign, a Tribute to Prince at Grand Casino Mille Lacs. 800-745-3000
July 1-4, Spicer
Spicer 4th of July Celebration
Spicer's 4th of July Celebration includes activities for all ages including an arts and crafts fair, amazing flea market, kiddie pedal tractor pull, competitive 12-mile run, street dance, and volleyball, basketball & softball tournaments. On July 4, also enjoy a Grande Day Parade featuring over 100 participants, music and candy. 320-796-8066
Northwest Minnesota
April 26 - June 17, East Grand Forks
Hope and Freedom: Mending the Soul by Christine Foster
Christine's artwork tells the stories of abuse survivors who have not only survived but have experienced hope and freedom. Riverwalk Centre. 218-399-0162
June 17, Moorhead
Everclear "So Much for the Afterglow 20th Anniversary Tour" with Vertical Horizon & Fastball
It's been 20 years since Everclear released their 1997 multiplatinum smash So Much For The Afterglow, yet the album remains a beloved fan favorite, and continues to inspire new generations of musicians & fans today. Everclear is about to embark on a highly anticipated tour celebrating its milestone anniversary, with plans to perform the album front to back, including some tracks the band has never played live. Bluestem Amphitheater. 866-300-8300
June 17, Frazee
Frazee Rib Fest
Enjoy amazing ribs and all the fixings during the third annual Frazee Rib Fest, with a street dance and live outdoor music by Destiny and Thunder Ridge. Frazee-Vergas VFW. 218-334-2124
June 18, Moorhead
Buddy Guy & Jonny Lang
Don't miss Buddy Guy & Jonny Lang live! Buddy Guy has received 7 Grammy Awards, a 2015 Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award, 34 Blues Music Awards (the most any artist has received), the Billboard Magazine Century Award for distinguished artistic achievement, a Kennedy Center Honor, and the Presidential National Medal of Arts. At the age of 16, Jonny Lang found incredible success with the release of his major label debut album Lie To Me. Lang has shared the stage with The Rolling Stones, B.B. King, Aerosmith, Sting, and Buddy Guy. Bluestem Amphitheater. 866-300-8300
June 23-24, Moorhead
Scandinavian Hjemkomst & Midwest Viking Festival
The Midwest Viking Festival and the 40th Annual Scandinavian Hjemkomst Festival have joined forces to celebrate Nordic culture from ancient times to today. Inside, find Icelandic, Norwegian, Swedish, Finnish, Saami, and Danish vendors, educators, and entertainers in the Scandinavian Village, along with dozens of delicious Nordic and Nordic-American dishes in the auditorium. The museum will be full of craft demonstrations and musical performances. Outside, checkout the many craftspeople, musicians, living historians, HammerHeart Brews, and Log the Mobile Sauna in Viking Village. Hjemkomst Center. 218-299-5452
June 23-25, Warroad
Pow Wow Seven Clans Casino
The 8th Annual Traditional Pow Wow features world-renowned drum groups, Grand Entries, and food vendors serving up fry bread tacos, Chippewa burgers, chicken wild rice soup, and other Native American favorites. Specialty vendors will offer traditional clothes, blankets, hats, jewelry, trinkets, and more. Seven Clans Casino. 800-815-8293
June 30 - July 3, Park Rapids
PRCA Xtreme Bulls Rodeo & Bull Ride
Enjoy exciting professional western events, including PBR bull rides, PRCA rodeos, WPRA barrel races, kids' sheep riding, concerts, dances, and much more during the 39th Annual PRCA-sanctioned Rodeo! Double J Events Center. 218-732-5587
Northeast Minnesota
June 16-18, Grand Marais
Wooden Boat Show & Summer Solstice Festival
Check out rows of handmade and unique watercraft, a boat parade, craft demonstrations, an evening square dance, boat and tool auction, chili and brats, all during the annual Wooden Boat Show and Summer Solstice Festival. Other highlights include workshops, courses, stories of boat builders, sailors and travelers, and assistance planning your next adventure! North House Folk School. 218-387-9762
June 17, Duluth
Grandma's Marathon
This scenic 26.2-mile runs follows the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior. Non-runners will enjoy live entertainment by Everclear, Snake Oil, and others, as well as a post-race celebration, the Essentia Health & Fitness Expo, and Michelina’s All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Dinner! 218-727-0947
June 17-18, Virginia
Land of the Loon Arts & Crafts Festival
The Land of the Loon Arts & Crafts Festival features hundreds of artisan, craft and food vendors in beautiful, historic Olcott Park. Start the morning with a good, old-fashioned parade, then stroll through pathways lined with unique, handcrafted items. 218-749-8161
June 23-25, Ely
Finnish Midsummer Weekend
Help celebrate Northern Minnesota’s Finnish traditions and Finland’s 100th Anniversary of Independence during Juhannus (Midsummer or summer solstice) with special classes and traditional games, music and dance. Ely Folk School. 218-235-0138
June 24-25, Lutsen
Lutsen 99er Moutain Bike Races
The Lutsen 99er is your chance to race through the beauty of Minnesota’s North Shore. With other distances like the 69er, 39er, 19er and kids' races, this weekend is packed with fun, adventure and killer mountain biking for everyone. Also enjoy a Friday night BBQ, and post-race party on Saturday night with live music in the courtyard. Lutsen Mountains. 952-229-7330
June 24-25, Duluth
Park Point Art Fair
The Park Point Art Fair features 120 juried artists displaying and selling their artwork, as well as live music and entertainment, food vendors, make-and-take crafts, and artist demonstrations. Park Point Recreation Area. 218-428-1916
July 2-23, Aurora and other communities
Northern Lights Music Festival
One of Minnesota’s largest music festivals, the Northern Lights Music Festival offers lovers of classical music three weeks of opera, chamber music and orchestra concerts presented by an international roster of guest artists, performing faculty and prize-winning young artists. Performances are offered in the communities of Aurora, Chisholm, Hibbing, Eveleth, Duluth, Bemidji, Virginia, Grand Marais and Ely. 218-780-2292
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