Events and festivals keep the fun times going all year long, especially in the warmer months. Sun-drenched music festivals, celebratory beer gardens, and artisan marketplaces, just to name a few. Whether your schedule is booked or not, these local events are the ones you don’t want to miss.
Here’s what’s coming your way this spring and summer season.
MSP International Film Festival
May 5th – 19th
Founded in 1962, MSP Film is Minnesota’s foremost film exhibition organization. The best of international and independent films are showcased right here in our town. Starting April 5th, the MSP Film brings through the best annual centerpiece, the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival, exhibiting more than 250+ films from 70 countries each year.
You can download the full festival schedule here to stay up to date on what’s screening.
Twin Cities Pride
June 25th – 26th
Celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, the Twin Cities Pride Festival brings all LGBTQ+ people and their allies together to Loring Park. This free festival is brought to you by 501c3, a nonprofit organization that runs the pride celebration.
This year’s festival introduces OUT Venture, a new outdoor activity hosted by local LGBTQIA+ community members and allies. Taking place on May 21st at Boom Island Park following the Rainbow Run 5K, enjoy a beer garden, food stations, a DJ, a drag show, and local vendors.
Twin Cities Summer Jam
July 21st – 23rd
Whether you’re a country, rock, or pop fan, get lost in the music over a weekend of outdoor summer jams with friends. Enjoy over a dozen musical acts, vendors, and festival food without leaving the city. With a new spin on Thursday’s activities, enjoy the music and give back at the same time with #TCSJGivesBack, featuring local Minnesota bands and artists. By giving back, Minnesota Music Night will raise awareness for and benefit the Community Action Partnership with fans’ opportunities to give back.
Minnesota Renaissance Festival
August 20th – October 2nd
A yearly festival you don’t want to miss. Over 250 artisans will fill the festival marketplace to display and sell their handcrafted items for your unique shopping experience. View live armored jousting and interact with hundreds of memorable characters roaming the village streets. There’s fun for all ages at the festival grounds, spread out over seven full-themed weekends. Shop, eat and be entertained.
Minnesota State Fair
August 25th – September 5th
Wrap up the summer months at the best Minnesota get-together. Free live music, rides and attractions, shopping and food, and animals are all inside the state fairgrounds in St. Paul. Bring the whole family to the most popular tourist destination in the region for a full day of entertainment and fun.