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Minnesota boasts more than 90 county fairs, each with its own distinct flavor and personality. Carnival rides, agriculture and livestock displays, and plenty of food are among the many things that make these events fun outings for the whole family. Learn more!
Event highlights this week include:
July 27-29, Montgomery
Kolacky Days - Czech Festival
July 27-28, Minneapolis
Twin Cities Carifest
July 25-29, Glenwood
Waterama
July 28-29, East Grand Forks
Cats Incredible Catfish Days
July 27-29, Ely
Blueberry Art Festival
Southern Minnesota
July 27-28, Wabasha
Riverboat Days
Riverboat Days is one of the biggest parties of the summer on the Upper Mississippi! Enjoy 5K & 10K runs along the scenic Mississippi River, live music, craft fair, farmers' market, Rubber Ducky Derby, children's activities, bounce houses, performance of "Tom Sawyer," Boat & Grande parades, Wabasha Sings, car show, beer tent and more! Heritage Park (under the bridge). 651-565-4158
July 27-29, Montgomery
Kolacky Days - Czech Festival
The 84th Annual Kolacky Days celebrates Montgomery's Czechoslovakian heritage and culture by blending the Czech traditions of the past with today's festival favorites including authentic Kroj costumes, Czech dancing, Bohemian tractor pull, Kolacky eating contest, Grand Day & Kiddie parades, U.S. National Prune-spitting Championships, beer gardens, amazing Czech food, live music acts, Rock-N-Roll in the Park, demonstrations and sporting events. Memorial Park and downtown Montgomery. 507-953-0094
July 28-29, Owatonna
Art on the Hills
"Art on the Hills" is a juried event featuring original fine handcrafted items by roughly 50 artists, as well as live music, children's activities and food concessions at the Historic State School Orphanage & Owatonna Arts Center grounds. On July 28, be sure to check out all of the fun Crazy Days festivities and special sales in downtown Owatonna. 507-451-0533; 507-451-7970
Aug. 2-5, Mankato
Mankato Ribfest!
Award-winning rib chefs from across the country gather in Mankato to provide sticky, spicy eats each year during Ribfest with chefs competing for Best Ribs, Best Pulled-Pork, and People’s Choice. In addition to some of the best BBQ in the nation, enjoy music by a wide variety of bands, and games for the kids. Riverfront Park & Vetter Stone Amphitheater. 507-389-3000
Aug. 3-5, Red Wing
River City Days
River City Days, Red Wing's annual summer festival, features live entertainment, a large arts and crafts fair, Taste of Red Wing, River City Ramble 5K & Kids' Fun Run, Super Retrievers, parade, Antique Boat & Motor Show, beer garden, and Human Foosball. Children's activities & entertainment include a Kids' Entertainment Tent, bounce houses, bungee trampoline, mini golf, kiddie train rides, Goldfish Game, dunk tank, soccer, skee-ball, splatter painting, hands-on museum, pop-up museum, face painting, Red Wing Parks naturalist, and pets. Bay Point & Levee parks. 651-388-5934
Aug. 3-5, Lanesboro
Buffalo Bill Days
Buffalo Bill Days commemorates the first Buffalo Bill Cody world-famous Wild West Show performed in Lanesboro, Minnesota in 1900! Enjoy golf, softball & volleyball tournaments, plays at the Commonweal Theatre, beer and brat tents, barbecue chicken, live music, bingo, Baggo, dancing, karaoke and, of course, an Old West Show. In addition, there will be Saturday night fireworks off the bluffs, and a Grande Parade Sunday afternoon. Venues throughout town. 507-467-2696
Aug. 11-12, Pipestone
Pipestone Civil War Days
Civil War Days is a celebration of Pipestone's past with Infantry and Artillery maneuvers, an authentic re-enactment of a Civil War battle with hundreds of re-enactors from all over the United States, and numerous demonstrations of historic life, all in a beautiful historic setting. The military camps are open to the public -- walk through the camps to share the 1860's with the re-enactors. Hiawatha Pageant Park. 507-825-2563
Minneapolis-St. Paul Area
July 27-28, Chanhassen
The Beatles' Abbey Road: An Album Tribute
Join Collective Unconscious as they "drop the needle" on the Beatles' Abbey Road. Enjoy a complete performance of one of the greatest rock albums of all time with hits like "Here Comes the Sun," "Come Together," "Something," and "Octopus's Garden." Fireside Theatre at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre. 952-934-1525
July 27-28, Minneapolis
Twin Cities Carifest
Carifest is a multicultural festival centered on all the cultures of the Caribbean Islands and its related areas. The event kicks-off with a lively and colorful Friday night concert party and culinary delights of the islands. On Saturday, enjoy the full taste of Caribbean culture at a family-friendly festival including vendors and food booths, dancers, singers and musicians offering all-ages entertainment, a costume marchand full Caribbean–themed parade! Mississippi River Parkway. 612-239-8384
July 27-29, Roseville
RoVival in Roseville
The first annual RoVival event will features timed 5K and 1 Mile Fun Runs, a local Makers Market, Block Party with music from The Purple Xperience (Prince Tribute) and Kat Perkins (The Voice Season 6 semifinalist), sunset and morning yoga sessions, photo booth, and great food and refreshments. Special VIP and Weekend Package tickets available. Southwest corner of Rosedale Center. 651-633-3002
July 27-29, Shoreview
Slice of Shoreview
The Slice of Shoreview is an annual festival celebrating life in Shoreview, MN. Highlights include a wide variety of family-oriented activities including a carnival, parade, arts and crafts fair, food vendors, rubber ducky races, petting zoo, pony rides, various displays and demonstrations, talent show, live music and fireworks on Friday and Saturday nights. Island Lake County Park. 651-483-2416
July 28, Minneapolis
Owamni Falling Water Festival
Owamni means "falling water" in the Dakota language, making it an apt name for a festival beside the only waterfall on the Mississippi River. This free, family-friendly event celebrates indigenous Minnesota culture with music, art, food and more. Musicians, bands and performers include: Hoka-Hey Drum Group, Darren Sipity, Kitto, Annie Humphrey and Jackie Bird. Father Hennepin Bluff Park. 612-230-6400
July 28-29, Minneapolis
Loring Park Art Festival
The annual Loring Park Art Festival brings you stunning, handcrafted items by 140 juried fine artists and fine craftspeople. Also enjoy festive live music & performances, delicious treats, specialties & refreshments from roughly 20 local food trucks, and fun, interactive children's activities, all amidst lovely wildflowers and formal gardens circling a large pond. Loring Park. 612-203-9911
Aug 2-12, Minneapolis/St. Paul
Fring Fest
Minnesota Fringe connects adventurous artists with adventurous audiences during the annual Fringe Festival. As one of the largest performing arts festivals in North America, Minnesota Fringe fills 45,000 seats for 700-plus performances by more than 1,000 artists on over a dozen stages. Fringe shows are 60 minutes or less with a half hour break between each performance. Attendees can purchase a day pass that allows for entry into any show at any venue on that particular day. Multiple locations in Minneapolis and St. Paul. 612-872-1212
Aug 3-5, Minneapolis
Uptown Art Fair
This award-winning fine arts festival is ranked the #1 art show in Minnesota. It features 350 artists, 80 youth artists, a culinary competition, family activities, demonstrations and a large variety of food and beverage vendors. The new Party Plaza offers music and dance performances, a Fun Zone, live radio broadcasts, DJ entertainment, and a cocktail competition. Metro Transit offers free rides through its Art Pass
www.metrotransit.org/ArtPass.
Lake Street & Hennepin Avenue. 612-823-4581
Aug. 4-5, Minneapolis
Powderhorn Art Fair
Beauty and creativity abound in the 66-acre pastoral Powderhorn Park where more than 200 artists from across the country circle around Powderhorn Lake during the 27th Annual Powderhorn Art Fair. This regional fine arts and fine crafts fair is a multi-cultural and family friendly event with 20-plus food trucks, demonstrations, live music and activities. 612-767-3515
Aug. 5, St. Paul
Paws on Grand
St. Paul’s historic Grand Avenue celebrates the dog days of summer with its 13th Annual Paws on Grand when Grand Avenue businesses partner with local rescue groups to celebrate our four-legged friends. Gather up giveaways, relax on a pet-friendly restaurant patio, learn about pet adoption, support rescue groups, meet adoptable animals and pose for the popular pet photo contest! Grand Avenue. 651-699-0029
Upcoming Twin Cities' concerts and performances include:
Dan and Phil - Interactive Introverts Tour at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, July 26
Three Doors Down & Collective Soul at The Armory in Minneapolis, July 26
Live Nation Presents Journey & Def Leppard at Target Field in Minneapolis, July 27
International Champions Cup at the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, July 31
Drake at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Aug. 1
Zeds Dead at The Armory, Aug. 3
Jack White at The Armory, Aug. 6
Charlie Puth at the Xcel Energy Center, Aug. 8
Beyoncé and Jay-Z at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Aug. 8
Steve Martin & Martin Short at Treasure Island Casino in Welch, Aug. 10
Zac Brown Band: Down the Rabbit Hole at Target Field in Minneapolis, Aug. 10
Kid Rock at Treasure Island Casino, Aug. 11
Reba McEntire at Mystic Amphitheater in Prior Lake, Aug. 11
Sam Smith at the Xcel Energy Center, Aug. 14
Rod Stewart and Cyndi Lauper at the Xcel Energy Center, Aug. 15
Deadmau5 at The Armory, Aug. 17
The Smashing Pumpkins: Shiny And Oh So Bright Tour at the Xcel Energy Center, Aug. 19
Joan Jett & the Blackhearts at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, Aug. 24
Sugarland at the State Fair Grandstand in Falcon Heights, Aug. 24
Tickets available through Eventful or Ticketmaster
Central Minnesota
July 25-29, Glenwood
Waterama
Waterama is a multiple day festival on the beautiful shores of Lake Minnewaska. Just some of the many highlights include a 100-unit parade, kiddie parade, lighted pontoon parade, water shows, pageants, inflatables, water wars, dances, sporting events, running races, Crazy Day sales, arts and craft show, car show, Guys & Dolls performance, fireworks, community worship service, and street dances featuring the Johnny Holm Band and the Fabulous Armadillos. Most activities at Lake Minnewaska. 320-634-3636
July 25-29, Pine River
Pine River Summerfest
The Pine River Summerfest offers a wide array of festivities including live music, an arts & crafts fair, parade, duck races, tournaments, steak fry, sidewalk sales, flea market, classic car & tractor show and a Rhubarb Fest. Sites throughout Pine River. 218-587-4000
July 28-29, Alexandria
Art in the Park
This popular juried art festival features over 150 booths filled with fine art and quality, handmade crafts. Visitors will also enjoy a variety of ethnic and local foods, and live entertainment on two stages. Admission is free, but there is a fee for parking. Alexandria City Park. 320-762-8300
August 3-5, Silver Lake
Pola-Czesky Days
The annual Pola-Czesky Days celebration includes a wide array of fun events including Toilet Bowl races, live music, street dances, kids' pedal pull, crafts fair, flea market, carnival games, parade, tractor pull, and much more. 320-327-2752
Aug. 3-5, Lake Lillian
Lake Lillian Fun Days
Fun Days highlights include a kids' tractor pull, outdoor movie, pancake feed, children's activities, bingo, raffle, bean bag tournament, Grande Day parade, street dance and more. 320-664-4111
Aug. 9-12, Richmond
Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Festival
The Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Festival features top national touring acts as well as the best bands from the Upper Midwest region in four days and nights of music on multiple stages. Participants will also enjoy workshops, instrument showcases, dances, children's activities, demonstrations, good food and plenty of campground jam sessions. El Rancho Mañana Campground. 612-285-9133
Northwest Minnesota
July 11 - Aug. 23, Park Rapids
Jasper's Theater Music, Magic and Comedy
The Best of Jaspers takes you on a musical, magical ride with 2 fun-filled hours of live entertainment. Award-winning comedienne Auntie Kreamsaugen, Kathie Brekke and some of Minnesota’s finest musicians join the cast of Jasper's to bring you this family-friendly variety show. Jasper's Theater. 218-255-1333
July 27-28, Nevis
Muskie Days Music Festival
This annual celebration of the big lunker that once ruled Lake Belle Taine includes musical entertainment by nearly 20 music acts on 2 stages, street dances, Muskie Days & Kiddie parades, 5K Muskie Race, bounce houses, 50-foot obstacle course, climbing wall & slide, Muskie Market with arts, crafts & flea market treasures, casting contest, minnow races, tug of war, sack races, beer garden and lots of food stands. Locations throughout Nevis. 218-652-3115
July 27-29, Lake George
Lake George Blueberry Festival
The Lake George Blueberry Festival is all about blueberries, family fun and more blueberries. Other highlights include arts & crafts show, flea market, tractor pull, live music & dancing, free Kids' Carnival with free bike drawing, Fireman's Bean Feed, bake sale, Fireman's Blueberry Pancake Feed, Blueberry Festival parade, and gospel concert. Venues throughout Lake George. 218-266-3977
July 28-29, East Grand Forks
Cats Incredible Catfish Days
This annual catfishing tournament brings top anglers from all over North America. In addition to the tournament, there will be fun games and activities for the whole family, lots of food vendors and a beer garden. LaFave Park, adjacent to Cabela's. 701-746-0444
Aug. 1-4, Bemidji
Lake Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival
Dragon Boat racing is fun, fast-paced and engaging for spectators. It’s currently the fastest growing water sport in the nation! In addition to Dragon Boat racing, enjoy great food, live music, children’s activities, a parade of teams, cultural performances, camaraderie and more along the shores of beautiful Lake Bemidji. 218-444-3541, ext. 100
Aug. 2-4, Detroit Lakes
WE Fest
WE Fest is considered by many to be America's Best Camping and Country Music Festival! Since WE Fest's inception in 1983, it has been one of the leading country music festivals in the nation. Don't miss Jason Aldean, Carrie Underwood, Florida Georgia Line, Vince Gill and many other national acts as they take the stage in 2018! Soo Pass Ranch on the shores of Sallie Lake. 800-493-3378
Aug. 2-4, Thief River Falls
RiverFest - Thief River Falls
RiverFest includes a wide array of activities and events such as concerts by numerous acts, Movie in the Park, 5K Fun Run/Walk, pet parade, Street Wizards 17th Annual Cruise-In Car Show, Crazy Days sales, children's activities, craft & merchandise vendors, farmers' market, food vendors and Old Fashioned Days at Pioneer Village. 218-681-3720
Aug. 9-12, Park Rapids
Legends & Logging Days
Legends & Logging Days is Park Rapids' signature summer celebration. Just some of the many highlights include a Chainsaw Carving competition, carving auction, Lumber Jack & Jill Challenge, Sip N Paint, cornhole tournament, archery & tomahawk demonstrations, Candy Canon firings, water wars, live music, historic encampment, and so much more! Downtown Park Rapids. 218-732-4111
Northeast Minnesota
July 26-29, Hoyt Lakes
Hoyt Lakes Water Carnival
The 63rd Annual Hoyt Lakes Water Carnival is an old-fashioned water ski show. Highlights include the Shockwaves Water Ski Show, Beach Party, live music by numerous popular bands, turtle races, parade, contests, sand pile for kids, Kids' Sundae Sunday and giant fireworks display. Enjoy the Wild Things Zoo attractions, bounce houses, children's games, beer garden and concessions all weekend . 218-225-2654
July 27-29, Ely
Blueberry Art Festival
This three-day event features original artwork and handcrafted pieces by 300 exhibitors, as well as ethnic foods, a variety of musical entertainment, children's activities, pancake breakfasts served both Saturday and Sunday mornings, and of course, blueberry pies! Whiteside Park. 218-365-6123
July 28, Duluth
All Pints North Summer Brew Fest
Visit the beautiful shores of Lake Superior to celebrate craft beer from over 120 breweries and brewpubs of the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, plus select regional craft brands. Meet the brewers and enjoy craft beers, plus food vendors, live music, craft beer education and much more. Bayfront Festival Park. 218-722-4011
Aug. 3, Braham
Braham Pie Day
Braham Pie Day is all about pies with pies to eat, pie art to view, pie baking contests and pie eating contests! Other highlights include Kids 'N Berries Children's Tent, live music, Pie Tin Artwork contest, craft show, and Sweet As Pie Collectors' Car Show. Freedom Park. 320-396-4956
Aug. 3-5, Grand Rapids
Tall Timber Days
This year's annual Tall Timber Days celebration will include tons of fun for the whole family. Highlights include Lumberjack Shows, arts and crafts, demonstrations, children's activities, Pet & Grande parades, Chainsaw Carving, live entertainment, education tent, food vendors, beer garden and bands Friday and Saturday nights. Downtown Grand Rapids. 218-398-1242
Aug. 10-12, Duluth
Bayfront Blues Festival
The Bayfront Blues Festival is one of the largest annual outdoor music events in the upper Midwest. Just some of the international, national and regional music acts include Don Bryant featuring the Bo-Keys, Reverend Raven & The Chain Smokin' Altar Boys, William Bell, Johnny Rawls, and Bernard Allison. Bayfront Festival Park. 218-722-4011
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