Minnesota Orchestra performing at Lake Winona
Highlights this week include:
July 7-23, Winona
Great River Shakespeare Festival & Minnesota Beethoven Festival
July 2-9, Lakeville
Pan-O-Prog
July 6-9, Litchfield
Litchfield Watercade
July 7-8, Remer
Bigfoot Days
July 7-9, Deer River
World's Largest Wild Rice Festival
Southern Minnesota
June 21 - July 30, Winona
Great River Shakespeare Festival
The Great River Shakespeare Festival (GRSF) 2017 plays are "Richard III" and "Comedy of Errors." Also enjoy symposiums, conversations with the company, and Concerts on the Green featuring an evening of free music in front of the theater, giant yard games, and food trucks -- perfect before or after a GRSF show. 507-474-7900, 507-474-9376
July 6-23, Winona
Minnesota Beethoven Festival
Since 2007, the Minnesota Beethoven Festival has celebrated the music and legacy of Ludwig van Beethoven, in an unequaled environment of performance, discovery, and community, nestled in the quaint bluffs of southeast Minnesota. Complete schedule of performances. 507-474-9055
July 7-8, Rochester
Hambone Music Festival
This annual 2-Day Roots/Blues Music Festival will again be held on the beautiful grounds of the History Center of Olmsted County. Featured are a dozen amazing local, regional, and national music acts, as well as free educational workshops for children and adults inside the History Center, face painting, and an expanded Artists Village filled with local artists and crafters. History Center grounds. 507-932-4419
July 8, Red Wing
Summer Celebration of the Arts
This summertime tradition is one of the premier arts festivals in the state, showcasing the work of more than 100 local and regional artists, craftspeople, writers and musicians. Anderson Center artists will also open their studios to the public for tours and demonstrations. In addition, enjoy a Kids Zone, tile making, arts fun with ArtReach, henna tattooing, face painting, and golf cart and vintage WWII Jeep tours of the Center’s 8-acre Sculpture Garden! While in Red Wing, check out the Prairie Island Indian Community Pow Wow as well! 651-388-2009
July 13-16, New Ulm
Bavarian Blast
Bavarian Blast is New Ulm's largest festival of the summer! Celebrate Bavarian heritage and culture with all things German and enjoy a wide variety of German food, German-American music, Schell’s Beer, Bavarian Blast 5K & 10K, the famous Bavarian Blast Parade, and uniquely German contests such as Weiner Dog races and Sauerkraut-eating contest. Brown County Fairgrounds. 507-233-4300
July 14-29 (Fridays & Saturdays), Walnut Grove
Wilder Pageant
The 40th Anniversary Wilder Pageant is a family-oriented outdoor drama based on the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder in Walnut Grove. Laura narrates the story, reflecting on her life in Walnut Grove in the 1870s. The hillside amphitheater has been developed to allow for extensive lighting, sound, and special effects. Each nightly performance is preceded by the Pageant Singers. 507-859-2174
July 21-23, Franklin
Catfish Derby Days
Weekend festivities during the annual Catfish Derby Days celebration include a fishing contest, street dances, live music, Kiddie Tractor pull, 5K Fun Run, food and beer stands, and a great Sunday afternoon parade. 507-557-2259
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
July 2-9, Lakeville
Pan-O-Prog
Pan-O-Prog, Lakeville's celebration of its progress, includes a wide array of festivities such as Beer, Brats & Bingo, a pet show, Plein Air Painting, Big Wheel Race, Pedal Tractor Pull for Kids, cribbage, bean bag & euchre tournaments, huge Street Market, Summer Art Sale, craft fair, Family Bowl, Music & Movie in the Park, Fun Fair Carnival rides, concerts, Ping Pong Ball Drop & Youth Play Day, and fireworks display! 952-985-4400
July 6-9, Isanti
Isanti Rodeo Jubilee Days
The Isanti Rodeo Jubilee Days is an annual community celebration featuring a parade, live music & entertainment, street dances, outhouse races, turtle races, children's activities, craft market, food vendors, and of course, a rodeo! 763-689-2505
July 6-9, Robbinsdale
Robbinsdale Whiz Bang Days
This 4-day city festival hosts a variety of events including Kick-Off parties, Whiz Bang Days Block Party, Dance Party at the Lodge, Bistro on Broadway, Baby Boomers & Beyond Workout, Three Rivers Park District Activity Sampler, car show, talent show, family games, concerts, and Whiz Bang Days Parade & Fireworks Show! Sites throughout Robbinsdale. 763-531-1212
July 6-9, Corcoran
Hamel Rodeo & Bull Ridin' Bonanza
Professional rodeo cowboys and cowgirls will compete for prize money and the championship belt buckle during the Hamel Rodeo & Bull Ridin' Bonanza. Each performance will include bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling, team roping, ladies barrel racing and the Bull Ridin' Bonanza, plus World Champion John Harrison. Other festivities include a huge flea market, pony rides, parade, and dance under the stars! 763-478-6611
July 8, St. Paul
Art at St. Kate's
This 10th annual Art Fair features exceptional artwork and fine crafts by local artists. Presented by Artists' Circle and Textile Center. St. Kate's at Cleveland and Randolph Avenues. 651-399-7073
July 8-9, St. Paul
Dragon Festival
Dragon Festival is an opportunity for all cultures to come together and celebrate cultural heritage and showcase the diversity and rich traditions of Asian cultures. From booming drums to Asian dances, the variety of cultural performances are guaranteed to captivate. Other fascinating activities include dragon boat races, martial art demonstrations, authentic ethnic foods, and Asian arts and crafts. Admission and parking are free. Near Lake Phalen.
July 15, Burnsville
International Festival
The 10th Annual International Festival celebrates Burnsville's rich cultural diversity with free live performances, family activities, free art & cultural exhibits, and ethnic foods. Nicollet Commons Park. 952-895-4509
July 15, St. Paul
Rondo Days
Spend the day experiencing the exhibits, music and food of Rondo Days! This year’s festival will feature an expanded festival grounds and stage, parade, 5K walk/run, and a separate "mature adult stage" featuring old school R&B, jazz, blues, soul and top 40 music. Rondo Education Center Field & MLK Recreation Center Park. 651-315-7676
July 15-16, Eden Prairie
AirExpo
This is Minnesota's premier aviation event. See up close over 50 World War II, vintage and modern airplanes both flying and on display. Meet and visit with over 60 aviation heroes from Vietnam Aces to Shuttle Astronauts in the Hall of Heroes. Ride in a historic WWII B17 Flying Fortress Bomber, 1929 Travelaire Biplane, helicopter or private aircraft. In addition, enjoy food vendors, a children's area and fun displays. Don't miss this educational and entertaining event! 952-746-6100
Upcoming Twin Cities' concerts and performances:
Motown the Musical (Touring) at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, July 11-16
Rick Springfield at Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, July 13
Santana at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, 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 in St. Paul, 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 in Minneapolis, 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
Blondie & Garbage: The Rage and Rapture Tour at Mystic Lake Casino, July 21
Loretta Lynn at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, July 22
Steve Miller Band with Peter Frampton at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, July 23
Vans Warped Tour at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, July 23
Roger Waters: Us + Them at the Xcel Energy Center, July 26
Earth, Wind & Fire and CHIC ft. Nile Rodgers at the Xcel Energy Center, July 27
Billy Joel at the Target Center, July 28
WWE Presents NXT Live! at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium at St. Paul RiverCentre, July 29
Dancing with the Stars: Live! at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, July 30
Guns N' Roses: Not In This Lifetime Tour at the U.S. Bank Stadium, July 30
War on the Catwalk at the Pantages Theatre, July 30
Shawn Mendes: Illuminate the World Tour at the Xcel Energy Center, Aug. 6
Tickets available through Eventful or Ticketmaster.
Central Minnesota
July 6-9, Litchfield
Litchfield Watercade
Don't miss the incredible number of festivities during the 61st Annual Litchfield Watercade. Highlights include Watercade Idol, Beach Party, street dance, Grande Parade, Lip sync Contest, Queen's Banquet, and Art in the Park! Complete details. 320-693-8184
July 7-8, Brainerd
Iconic Fest
This national live music festival features iconic bands from the 70s, 80s and 90s, with outside concerts by the Georgia Satellites, TG Sheppard and Joe Diffie, just to name a few! Onsite camping available. The Green Lantern. 218-764-2151
July 7-9, Menahga
Menahga Midsummer Festival
The Menahga Midsummer Festival includes a wide array of activities including carnival rides & games, arts & crafts fair, mini golf, grand parade, St. Urho runs, kids' bike & ATV raffles, fireman water fights, antique car show, beer gardens and numerous live music acts! 218-564-4141
July 8-9, Underwood
Phelps Mill Festival
The Phelps Mill Festival, the area's largest arts and crafts event of the summer, is two full days of fine art from more than 100 juried artists, ethnic and American foods, live stage entertainment and children's activities in a beautiful setting. 218-867-2285
July 12-15, Sauk Centre
Sinclair Lewis Days
Enjoy five days of activities during Sinclair Lewis Days including the Sauk Centre Amazing Race Medallion Hunt, Wacky Water Night, Sinclair Lewis Days Kiddie & Pet Parade, Sinclair Lewis Days Kick-Off Ceremony & Music in the Park, Poker Walk, music & fireworks at Sinclair Lewis Park, Crazy Days Deals, Sauk Centre Historical Craft Fair & Flea Market, and Family Fun Day in the Park! 320-352-5201; 855-444-SAUK
July 13-16, New London
New London Water Days
Highlights of New London Water Days is are the Little Crow Water Ski Show, Street Dance with Jonah & The Whales, Doggie Costume Contest, Grande Day Parade, hog roast, medallion hunt, live music, church service on the pond, paddle board yoga, coronation, vendor market and book sale. 320-292-6944
July 13-16, Richmond
River Lake Days
The 127th Annual River Lakes Days celebration includes a pie baking contest, live music, parade, crafts, garage sales, horse show and more! 320-597-2075
July 21-23, Garrison
Garrison Play Days
Play Days, Garrison's annual family festival, features live music, arts & crafts, petting zoo, pony rides, medallion hunt, car show, all-you-can eat BBQ dinner, bounce houses, raffles, showing of The Shack, and a wide array of sporting events and tournaments! 218-764-2151
Northwest Minnesota
July 7-8, Remer
Bigfoot Days
The 2nd Annual Bigfoot Days celebration includes Minnesota Bigfoot Research Team, She Squatchers Live Storytelling, live music, adult & kids' Bigfoot Calling Contests, children's games, ATV rides, kids' scavenger hunt, live music, beer wagon & Bloody Mary Bar, BBQ Contest, Bigfoot Geocache competition, Bigfoot 5K and more! 218-566-1680
July 8, Bagley
Bagley Art in the Park
Bagley Art in the Park features a wide array of items by local artists and crafters, as well as great food vendors, live entertainment and children's art projects. Bagley City Park. 218-533-0120, 218-766-2261
July 8-12, Hackensack
Sweetheart Days
Just some of the many festivities taking place during Sweetheart Days include a car show, fire department BBQ, kids' fishing contest, flea market & craft sale, garage sales, bingo, meat raffles, and fireworks display. 218-675-6135
July 13-16, Barnesville
Clay County Fair
The Clay County Fair is a free-gate fair filled with family fun and entertainment, as well as livestock shows, 4-H, FFA and Open Class exhibits, crafters and vendors, children activities and carnival rides. Grandstand events include a Demolition Derby, performance by Redline and Ranch Rodeo. Clay County Fairgrounds. 701-403-0483
July 15, Longville
Summerfest Family Fun Festival & Community Garage Sales
Celebrate summer with live music, children's activities, arts & crafts, special games & art activities for the kids, great food and community-wide garage sales. 218-363-2630
July 20-22, Walker
Moondance Jam
The 26th Annual Moondance Jam brings you performances by over 50 classic rock and roll bands on four stages. Just some of the national acts include Melissa Etheridge, Starship, the Steve Miller Band, Peter Frampton, Halestorm, and Better Than Ezra! Moondance Fairgrounds. 877-666-6586
Northeast Minnesota
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
July 6-9, Two Harbors
Two Harbors Heritage Days
The Heritage Days festival offers arts & crafts, numerous stage acts, live music at the park, a street dance, two parades, children's games, Lutefisk Toss, 5K Run/Walk, car show, Kids' Bubble Party, Scavenger Hunt, and more! 218-830-0897
July 6-9, Crane Lake
Voyageur Days
Take part in an unforgettable experience with fresh fish cooked over an open flame next to crystal clear waters, the Portage-Paddle Adventure Race, Trading Post Poker Run, Art Show at Nelson's Resort, live music, and bingo. On July 8, don't miss the wide array of children's activities at Voyagaire Lodge beach including minnow races, arts & crafts, face painting, prizes, and paddles in the 22-foot Voyageur canoe. 218-993-2901, 800-362-7405
July 7-9, Deer River
World's Largest Wild Rice Festival
The 69th Annual World’s Largest Wild Rice Festival includes a myriad of festivities including live entertainment, midway rides, Pow Wow, a large flea market, Sawdust Scramble, parade, Kiddie Tractor Pull, Amateur Music Competition, open air concert & street dance, Wild Rice dinner, concert at the White Oak Casino, and Fireworks Extravaganza! 218-246-8302
July 8, Hinckley
Iconic Grand Country Music Fest
Don’t miss this all-star lineup featuring truly classic artists that helped shape country music: Connie Smith, BJ Thomas, Marty Stuart, John Anderson and Tanya Tucker! Grand Casino Hinckley. 800-745-3000
July 12-16, Proctor
South St. Louis County Fair
In addition to a variety of vendors and exhibits, the annual South St. Louis County Fair features lots of fun family activities including live music, an Amateur Talent Contest, stock car races, toddler races, a petting zoo, Kids Coin Scramble, kids' pedal tractor pull, Lake Superior Radio Control Club competition, and a concert by the White Sidewalls! Proctor Fairgrounds. 218-591-6274
July 15, Duluth
Bayfront Reggae & World Music Festival
The Bayfront Reggae & World Music Festival is a celebration of world music whose artists spread the message of love, hope, and equality for all people worldwide! Bring your flag and wave it proudly! Artists include Capleton, Wayne Wonder, Cham, Nkulee Dube, Socaholix, the International Reggae All Stars, Indika, and DJ Sound of Fujun. Bayfront Festival Park. 218-525-8099
July 15, Hinckley
Kiss in Concert!
Get ready to rock and roll all night with this hall of fame group! Known for their face paint and wild outfits, their live performances are a crazy experience with fire breathing, blood spitting, guitars that emit smoke and drum kits that levitate off the ground! Grand Casino Hinckley. 800-745-3000
July 20-23, Hoyt Lakes
Hoyt Lakes Water Carnival
The Hoyt Lakes Water Carnival draws thousands of people to Hoyt Lakes each year. Enjoy parades, fireworks, old-fashioned water ski shows, live music, Fireman Olympics, Kids' Lip Sync Contest, kids' sand pile, family games, Stunt Dog Show, 5K race, turtle races, bingo, queen coronation, beer gardens and great food. 218-225-2654
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