Coon Rapids MN
7-24-2026 6:57am

MINNEAPOLIMEDIA PRESENTS | This Weekend in the Twin Cities: Entertainment Guide: July 24 to July 26, 2026 Edition

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (July 24, 2026)

The Twin Cities enter one of the busiest weekends of the summer with an expansive slate of regional public life. Caribbean culture, international music, major art festivals, professional golf, baseball, soccer, Broadway theater, circus performance, comedy, outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and family celebrations unfold from Minneapolis and Saint Paul to Blaine, Anoka, Shoreview, St. Louis Park, and Bloomington.

The closing weekend of the Minneapolis Aquatennial provides an organizing thread through several Minneapolis events. Carifest brings Caribbean music, food, and culture to the Mississippi riverfront. The Loring Park Art Festival transforms one of the city’s signature public spaces into an outdoor marketplace. The Minneapolis International Festival gathers cultural performers at Lake Harriet, while the Northside Jazz & Heritage Festival closes the weekend with a free celebration of Black American music.

Professional sports are equally prominent. The 3M Open continues at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine with World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler scheduled to compete. The Minnesota Twins host the Athletics for three games at Target Field, and Minnesota United welcomes the Vancouver Whitecaps to Allianz Field.

Families can choose among Slice of Shoreview, the W.E. Chalk Festival, Dude Perfect, Circus Juventas, farmers markets, and free park concerts. Theater audiences have “Wicked” at the Orpheum Theatre and “The Prom” at Lyric Arts in Anoka. Comedy audiences can see K.P. Anderson at Acme Comedy Company or choose from three different weekend programs at House of Comedy.

One critical factor will influence nearly every outdoor plan: the heat. Temperatures are expected to rise sharply Saturday and Sunday, with afternoon heat-index readings potentially approaching 100 degrees. Visitors should plan around the hottest part of the day, carry water, and verify event updates before leaving home.

Here is MinneapoliMedia’s complete reader-service guide to the festivals, concerts, cultural gatherings, sports, family attractions, markets, and neighborhood experiences taking place from Friday, July 24, through Sunday, July 26.

HOW TO USE THE BUDGET ESTIMATES

The estimates below are practical planning tools, not official event packages or guaranteed prices.

Unless otherwise stated:

  • An individual estimate assumes one admission, modest food or beverage spending, and basic transportation or parking.
  • A family estimate assumes two adults and two children.
  • Art, merchandise, alcohol, autographs, premium food, and optional upgrades are excluded.
  • Ticketing fees, dynamic pricing, and secondary-market prices can increase the total.
  • Free admission does not necessarily create a completely free outing once parking, food, carnival rides, or vendor purchases are added.

Readers should check current prices through official ticketing channels before purchasing.

MAJOR WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS

Minneapolis Aquatennial Closing Weekend

  • Primary Locations: Government Plaza, Water Works Park, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, Target Field
  • Website: mplsaquatennial.com
  • Dates: Friday, July 24 to Sunday, July 26
  • Admission: Most public activities are free; independently operated events vary
  • Best For: Minneapolis traditions, families, outdoor recreation, first-time visitors

The Minneapolis Aquatennial concludes with activities at downtown, riverfront, and park locations.

Friday’s schedule includes the Minneapolis Model Sailboat Pond at Government Plaza from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., lawn games at Water Works from 3 to 8 p.m., and CorePower Yoga at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Aquatennial Night at Target Field begins when the Minnesota Twins face the Athletics at 7:10 p.m. The game will be followed by postgame fireworks.

Aquatennial organizers say the Target Field fireworks replace the separate annual Aquatennial fireworks presentation. Visitors should not arrive along the riverfront expecting an additional large fireworks show.

Saturday brings another session of the Model Sailboat Pond alongside Carifest and other closing-weekend activities.

The Aquatennial has long presented Minneapolis as a city defined by water, parks, and public gathering. The closing weekend extends that tradition across spaces ranging from Government Plaza to the Mississippi riverfront.

Downtown visitors should expect overlapping demand from Target Field, Target Center, Hennepin Avenue theaters, and Loring Park. Public transportation will generally be easier than moving a vehicle between multiple event locations.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Free for the civic activities before transportation, food, or purchases. Allow approximately $15 to $40 for a meal, transit, and incidental expenses.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Approximately $25 to $100 for a family attending only free activities, depending on transportation and food. Twins tickets would increase the total substantially.
  • Complete Schedule: minneapolis.org/calendar/festivals/spring-summer/minneapolis-aquatennial/

Carifest 2026

  • Venue: Caribbean American Cultural Center of Minnesota festival grounds
  • Address: 1815 West River Road North, Minneapolis, MN 55411
  • Website: carifest.org
  • Date: Saturday, July 25
  • Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Admission: $20 in advance; $30 at the gate; children 12 and younger free; VIP admission $70
  • Best For: Caribbean culture, live music, dancing, food, community connection

Carifest brings Caribbean music, food, dance, art, costumes, and community celebration to the Mississippi riverfront.

Scheduled performers include Raymond Ramnarine and Dil-E-Nadan, Irie Sol, Samantha Moon, Innocent, Singing Tony, and Charanga Tropical.

The festival is presented by the Caribbean American Cultural Center of Minnesota. Its importance extends beyond the entertainment schedule. Carifest creates a public space for Caribbean Minnesotans to celebrate their identities while allowing the wider community to experience the music, food, and social traditions of the Caribbean.

Festivals such as Carifest also demonstrate how immigrant communities build cultural institutions. Music and food may bring visitors through the entrance, but the gathering also creates opportunities for connection across generations, national origins, and neighborhoods.

VIP admission includes reserved amenities and parking. A separate cooler charge applies under the organizer’s published policies. Parking near the grounds may be limited. Visitors should consider rideshare, cycling, or a combination of public transportation and walking.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Approximately $40 to $75 with advance admission, one meal, beverages, and transportation. VIP attendance and merchandise increase the total.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Approximately $80 to $160 for two adults and two children 12 or younger, assuming advance adult admission, food, and transportation. Older children requiring paid admission would increase the total.
  • Tickets: zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/carifest--2026

Loring Park Art Festival

  • Venue: Loring Park
  • Address: 1382 Willow Street, Minneapolis, MN 55403
  • Website: loringparkartfestival.com
  • Dates & Hours: Saturday, July 25 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) | Sunday, July 26 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
  • Admission: Free
  • Best For: Art buyers, couples, families, collectors, casual browsers

Loring Park becomes an outdoor gallery featuring painting, photography, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, printmaking, textiles, and other original work.

The festival has brought visual art, food, live entertainment, and community gathering together since 2000. Visitors can speak directly with artists, learn about their creative processes, and purchase work without the formality of a traditional gallery.

The setting is one of the festival’s strengths. Loring Park’s gardens, pathways, water, and downtown skyline create an environment that supports both serious art buying and casual browsing.

The downtown location also allows audiences to combine the festival with the Walker Art Center, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, downtown dining, or a performance of “Wicked” at the Orpheum Theatre.

Paved park paths provide general circulation, but grass, crowds, and temporary festival surfaces may affect visitors with limited mobility. Anyone requiring specific accommodations should contact the organizer before arriving.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Free to enter. Allow approximately $15 to $45 for parking, food, and beverages before any art purchase.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Approximately $30 to $100 for food and transportation. Art purchases can raise the total considerably.

Slice of Shoreview

  • Venue: Island Lake County Park
  • Address: 3611 Victoria Street North, Shoreview, MN 55126
  • Website: sliceofshoreview.com
  • Dates & Hours: Friday, July 24 (4 to 10 p.m.) | Saturday, July 25 (10 a.m. to 10 p.m.) | Sunday, July 26 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
  • Admission: Free; carnival rides, food, and selected activities cost extra
  • Best For: Families, children, community celebrations, multigenerational groups

Slice of Shoreview offers three days of carnival rides, food, art and commercial booths, children’s attractions, live entertainment, and community programming.

Friday includes carnival activities, food service, and fireworks. Saturday begins with the Victoria Street parade at 10 a.m. and continues with a Lake Johanna Fire Department open house, Kidtopia, a petting zoo, children’s rides, and a performance of “Frozen Jr.” Fireworks are scheduled at approximately 10 p.m. both Friday and Saturday nights.

Free senior and accessible shuttles operate throughout the park from 4 to 9:45 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Pets are permitted under the festival’s published policy, but owners should consider the expected heat, crowds, carnival noise, and fireworks before bringing an animal.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Free for someone attending the parade, entertainment, or fireworks without making purchases. Allow approximately $20 to $60 for food and carnival activities.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Approximately $75 to $200 for two adults and two children purchasing food and carnival rides. A family attending only free programming can spend substantially less.
  • Complete Schedule: sliceofshoreview.com/schedule/

3M Open

  • Venue: TPC Twin Cities
  • Address: 11444 Tournament Players Parkway, Blaine, MN 55449
  • Website: 3mopen.com
  • Dates: Friday through Sunday, July 24 to 26 (Second round Friday, Third round Saturday, Final round Sunday)
  • Admission: Ticket and hospitality prices vary by day and package
  • Best For: Golf audiences, families with older children, North Metro visitors

The PGA TOUR returns to Blaine for Minnesota’s premier professional golf tournament. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is scheduled to make his 3M Open debut, giving the 2026 event one of the strongest headline attractions in its history.

The tournament has grown into a major summer event for Blaine and the North Metro. In addition to bringing professional golf to Minnesota, it draws visitors, volunteers, corporate partners, and national media into the region.

Friday’s second round determines which golfers make the weekend cut. Saturday positions the contenders, while Sunday concludes with the final round and trophy presentation.

General spectator parking is at the National Sports Center with shuttle service to TPC Twin Cities beginning at 6:15 a.m. Accessible parking and ADA shuttle buses serve the course. Spectators should review the tournament’s bag, mobile-device, and permitted-items policies before leaving home.

The expected heat is particularly important at a golf tournament, where spectators may walk long distances across areas with limited shade. Water, sunscreen, comfortable footwear, and scheduled rest periods will be essential.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Official ticket price plus approximately $25 to $60 for parking, food, and beverages. Premium hospitality costs substantially more.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Four paid tickets, parking, and food can place the outing above $250. Families should verify youth-ticket policies and parking charges before purchasing.
  • Visitor Information: 3mopen.com/spectators/know-before-you-go

LIVE MUSIC, CONCERTS AND NIGHTLIFE

Megan Moroney: Cloud 9 Tour

  • Venue: Target Center
  • Address: 600 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55403
  • Website: targetcenter.com
  • Date & Time: Saturday, July 25 | Doors at 6 p.m., Show at 7 p.m.
  • Special Guests: JP Saxe and Solon Holt
  • Admission: Ticket prices vary by seat and availability
  • Best For: Contemporary country and singer-songwriter audiences

Country singer-songwriter Megan Moroney brings the Cloud 9 Tour to Target Center, adding a major arena attraction to a downtown calendar already filled with baseball, Broadway theater, art, and Aquatennial activities.

Concertgoers should arrive early and leave additional time for parking, walking, and security screening. Accessible seating is available through the venue ticketing system. The METRO Blue and Green lines stop near Target Center and may provide a more predictable arrival than driving into the event district.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Ticket price plus approximately $25 to $70 for fees, parking, food, and beverages.
  • Couples Budget Estimate: Two tickets, fees, dinner, and parking could place the evening between approximately $150 and more than $400, depending on seat location.

Minneapolis Pops Orchestra

  • Venue: Lake Harriet Bandshell
  • Address: 4135 West Lake Harriet Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55419
  • Website: mplspops.org
  • Dates & Hours: Movie Night: Saturday, July 25 (7:30 p.m.) | People’s Choice: Sunday, July 26 (5:30 p.m.)
  • Admission: Free
  • Best For: Families, picnics, classical-music newcomers, relaxed dates

The Minneapolis Pops Orchestra offers two different outdoor programs at the Lake Harriet Bandshell. Saturday’s “Movie Night” explores music associated with film, while Sunday’s “People’s Choice” program gives the audience a direct role in shaping the concert.

The performances provide an accessible entry point for listeners who may not regularly attend orchestral concerts. The outdoor environment removes formality while preserving the experience of live ensemble performance.

Bandshell benches are available, but popular concerts draw large crowds. Visitors may bring blankets or portable chairs for lawn seating. Parking around Lake Harriet is limited; walking, bicycling, rideshare, and bus service are recommended.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Free before transportation and food. A picnic and bus fare can keep the outing below $25.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Approximately $20 to $70 for a family bringing or purchasing picnic food.

Sleepytime Gorilla Museum with Wendy Eisenberg

  • Venue: The Cedar Cultural Center
  • Address: 416 Cedar Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55454
  • Website: thecedar.org
  • Date & Time: Saturday, July 25 at 8 p.m.
  • Admission: Ticketed; verify current pricing and availability
  • Best For: Experimental, progressive, and art-rock listeners

Sleepytime Gorilla Museum combines progressive rock, experimental composition, and theatrical presentation. Composer, guitarist, and improviser Wendy Eisenberg joins the bill for one of the weekend’s most adventurous music choices.

The Cedar-Riverside station provides Blue and Green Line access. Street and paid-lot parking are limited.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Ticket price plus approximately $15 to $40 for fees, transportation, and refreshments.
  • Couples Budget Estimate: Approximately $90 to $180 for two tickets, dinner, and transportation.

THEATER, COMEDY AND PERFORMING ARTS

“Wicked”

  • Venue: Orpheum Theatre
  • Address: 910 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403
  • Website: hennepinarts.org
  • Dates & Hours: Friday, July 24 (7:30 p.m.) | Saturday, July 25 (2 and 7:30 p.m.) | Sunday, July 26 (1 and 6:30 p.m.)
  • Sensory-Friendly Performance: Sunday, July 26 at 6:30 p.m.
  • Admission: Prices vary by seat and performance
  • Best For: Broadway audiences, families with older children, musical-theater fans

“Wicked” tells the story of Elphaba and Glinda before Dorothy’s arrival in Oz, reframing familiar characters through friendship, power, public reputation, and societal expectations.

The production runs approximately two hours and 45 minutes, including intermission, and is recommended for ages 8 and older. Sunday evening’s sensory-friendly presentation includes adjustments intended to welcome audience members with sensory, social, or cognitive needs.

Ticket buyers should use official channels and allow additional travel time for downtown traffic and parking.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Ticket price plus approximately $20 to $60 for fees, parking, and refreshments.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Four tickets, fees, parking, and a meal could range from approximately $300 to more than $700, depending on seating.

Circus Juventas Presents “Whimsy”

  • Venue: Circus Juventas Big Top
  • Address: 1270 Montreal Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55116
  • Website: circusjuventas.org
  • Dates & Hours: Friday, July 24 (7 p.m.) | Saturday, July 25 (noon and 6 p.m.) | Sunday, July 26 (noon)
  • Admission: $25 to $55 plus fees; family four-pack starts at $95
  • Best For: Families, circus enthusiasts, visual-performance audiences

“Whimsy” enters a magical world through aerial performance, acrobatics, balancing, movement, and youth circus artistry.

Circus Juventas offers families a form of live performance distinct from Broadway theater or conventional plays. The physical skill and visual storytelling can engage children of all ages. A discount is offered for qualifying first responders on July 24 through the official box office.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Approximately $35 to $80 with ticketing fee, transportation, and refreshments.
  • Family Budget Estimate: The published family four-pack begins at $95. With fees, parking, and refreshments, allow approximately $120 to $180.

“The Prom”

  • Venue: Lyric Arts Main Street Stage
  • Address: 420 East Main Street, Anoka, MN 55303
  • Website: lyricarts.org
  • Dates & Hours: Friday, July 24 (7:30 p.m.) | Saturday, July 25 (7:30 p.m.) | Sunday, July 26 (2 p.m., followed by a talkback)
  • Admission: $50 to $57 (inclusive of ticket fees); children under 5 not admitted
  • Best For: Musical-theater audiences, teens, adults, North Metro residents

“The Prom” follows four Broadway performers who travel to a small Indiana town after learning that a student has been prevented from bringing her girlfriend to prom.

The musical combines comedy and show-business satire with a story about acceptance and community support. Sunday’s matinee includes a post-show discussion. The production gives North Metro audiences a substantial local theater option without requiring travel into downtown Minneapolis.

Free parking is available near the theater. Wheelchair and companion seating are offered subject to availability.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Approximately $50 to $80, including admission and modest refreshments.
  • Couples Budget Estimate: Approximately $130 to $220 for two tickets and dinner. Free area parking helps control costs.
  • Ticket Information: lyricarts.org/ticket-information

K.P. Anderson at Acme Comedy Company

  • Venue: Acme Comedy Company
  • Address: 708 North First Street, Minneapolis, MN 55401
  • Website: acmecomedycompany.com
  • Dates & Hours: Friday, July 24 (7 and 9:30 p.m.) | Saturday, July 25 (7 p.m.)
  • Admission: Ticketed (18-and-older venue)
  • Best For: Stand-up audiences, date night, Twin Cities comedy followers

K.P. Anderson is an Emmy Award-winning writer and producer who began performing stand-up in Minneapolis and became a regular Acme headliner before building a television career.

His return places a performer with direct Twin Cities comedy roots inside one of Minneapolis’ longest-established stand-up venues. Acme assigns seats when tickets are claimed; dinner-and-show guests receive priority seating under club procedures.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Ticket price plus approximately $20 to $60 for fees, food, drinks, and parking.
  • Couples Budget Estimate: Approximately $90 to $200 for two tickets, food, drinks, and transportation.

House of Comedy Weekend

  • Venue: House of Comedy at Mall of America
  • Address: 408 East Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425
  • Website: moa.houseofcomedy.net
  • Admission: Ticketed; prices and age policies vary by performance
  • Best For: Stand-up audiences, couples, groups, multilingual comedy

House of Comedy presents three distinct weekend programs:

  • Robert Baril: Friday, July 24 at 7:30 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.)
  • Chris Andrade (M.U.T.A.R., En Español): Saturday, July 25 at 7 p.m. (doors at 6 p.m.)
  • Ashli Henderson and the Homies Comedy Show: Sunday, July 26 at 7 p.m. (doors at 6 p.m.)

The Spanish-language Saturday performance adds an important multilingual option to the weekend calendar, demonstrating that cultural accessibility extends into nightlife and stand-up comedy.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Ticket price plus approximately $25 to $70 for food and beverages.
  • Couples Budget Estimate: Approximately $100 to $220 for two tickets, dinner, and beverages. Mall of America parking avoids downtown ramp fees.

CULTURE, COMMUNITY AND INTERNATIONAL CONNECTIONS

Minneapolis International Festival

  • Venue: Lake Harriet Bandshell
  • Address: 4135 West Lake Harriet Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55419
  • Website: minneapolisparks.org
  • Date & Hours: Saturday, July 25 from 1 to 5 p.m.
  • Admission: Free
  • Best For: Families, newcomers, international communities, cultural performance

The Minneapolis International Festival gathers cultural organizations and performing groups for an afternoon of music, dance, art, exhibits, and participatory activities.

Scheduled participants include Spirit Boy Singers, Rince Na Chroi, Titambe West African Drum and Dance Ensemble, Blue Lotus Bellydancers, TaikoArts Midwest collaborators, Ritmo Latino MN, and CAAM Chinese Dance Theater. A K-pop finale closes the program.

Its strength comes from presenting international culture as an organic part of Twin Cities civic life. Families can move from Indigenous song to Irish dance, West African drumming, Chinese dance, Latin rhythm, and contemporary Korean popular culture within a single public park.

Visitors should carry water and prepare for the heat. Parking around Lake Harriet is limited.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Free before transportation and food. A visitor using transit and bringing water can keep the outing below $15.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Approximately $20 to $70 for transportation, snacks, or a picnic.

Northside Jazz & Heritage Festival

  • Venue: North Minneapolis riverfront festival area
  • Location: West Broadway Avenue and West River Parkway, Minneapolis
  • Website: minneapolis.org/calendar/northside-jazz-festival/
  • Date & Hours: Sunday, July 26 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Admission: Free
  • Best For: Jazz, Black culture, families, community connection

The Northside Jazz & Heritage Festival honors jazz and its connections to gospel, soul, rhythm and blues, and the broader Black American musical tradition.

Live performances are joined by food, art, and community programming. The gathering provides an opportunity to experience North Minneapolis through the music, history, and cultural work of the communities that continue shaping it.

Placing the event in North Minneapolis directs visitors toward a part of the city whose cultural influence is immense. Neighborhood parking may be limited; visitors should allow additional arrival time and monitor heat conditions.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Free before food and transportation. Allow approximately $15 to $45 for a meal, beverage, and travel.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Approximately $40 to $120, depending on food and transportation.

Additional Cultural Highlights

  • Carifest 2026: For complete venue, schedule, admission, and budget information, see Major Weekend Highlights.
  • Chris Andrade (En Español): For full details on this Spanish-language stand-up performance at Mall of America, see Theater, Comedy and Performing Arts.

FESTIVALS, ART AND COMMUNITY GATHERINGS

Twin Cities Tattoo Festival

  • Venue: Saint Paul RiverCentre
  • Address: 175 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, MN 55102
  • Website: twincitiestattoofestival.com
  • Dates & Hours: Friday, July 24 (1 to 10 p.m.) | Saturday, July 25 (11 a.m. to 10 p.m.) | Sunday, July 26 (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
  • Admission: Single-day and weekend passes available; prices vary
  • Best For: Tattoo collectors, artists, body-art audiences

More than 300 tattoo artists and over 30 vendors gather for three days of tattooing, live art, competition, and shopping. Visitors can review portfolios, arrange tattoos, watch artists work, and purchase merchandise.

The festival expands the definition of visual art beyond framed gallery walls to the human body. Anyone receiving a tattoo should budget separately for the artist’s fee, gratuity, and aftercare supplies, as festival admission does not include tattoo work.

RiverCentre provides accessible entrances, elevators, and adjacent parking ramps.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Festival admission plus approximately $20 to $60 for parking, food, and fees before any tattoo or merchandise purchase.
  • Tattoo Planning Estimate: Tattoo prices vary widely by artist, size, and complexity. Establish pricing directly with the artist and budget separately for gratuity.
  • Venue Information: rivercentre.org/events/detail/tattoo-fest-twin-cities-2026

W.E. Chalk Festival

  • Venue: The Shops at West End
  • Address: 1621 West End Boulevard, St. Louis Park, MN 55416
  • Website: westopolis.org/events/w-e-chalk-festival/
  • Dates & Hours: Saturday, July 25 & Sunday, July 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Admission: Free
  • Best For: Children, photographers, artists, families

Professional artists transform the streets into an outdoor gallery of two-dimensional and three-dimensional chalk art. Children and amateur artists can create their own work, while visitors can contribute to a public chalk mandala.

Unlike an exhibition of completed work, the chalk festival allows audiences to watch the creative process unfold. Saturday provides an opportunity to see artists developing perspective and detail, while Sunday offers views of finished pieces.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Free before food and transportation. Allow approximately $10 to $40 for refreshments or nearby dining.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Approximately $25 to $100, depending on food and optional shopping.
  • Artist Information: canvasconvergence.com/we-chalk-festival

SPORTS AND OUTDOOR RECREATION

Minnesota Twins vs. Athletics

  • Venue: Target Field
  • Address: 1 Twins Way, Minneapolis, MN 55403
  • Website: mlb.com/twins
  • Dates & Hours: Friday, July 24 (7:10 p.m.) | Saturday, July 25 (6:10 p.m.) | Sunday, July 26 (1:10 p.m.)
  • Admission: Ticket prices vary
  • Best For: Baseball fans, families, downtown visitors

The Minnesota Twins host the Athletics for a three-game weekend series at Target Field.

Friday is Aquatennial Night and includes postgame fireworks. Saturday’s promotion is a Kirby Puckett jersey (subject to distribution rules and quantities). Sunday features a Hello Kitty Day ticket package with a co-branded item for eligible package holders.

Target Field is served directly by the METRO Blue and Green lines and Northstar service. Sunday’s afternoon game will expose spectators to high heat; fans should stay hydrated and utilize shaded concourse areas.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Ticket price plus approximately $25 to $75 for fees, transportation, food, and beverages.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Approximately $150 to $400 for four tickets, food, and transportation.
  • Promotions: mlb.com/twins/tickets/promotions

Minnesota United vs. Vancouver Whitecaps

  • Venue: Allianz Field
  • Address: 400 Snelling Avenue North, Saint Paul, MN 55104
  • Website: allianzfield.com
  • Date & Time: Saturday, July 25 | 7:30 to approximately 9:45 p.m.
  • Admission: Ticket prices vary
  • Best For: Soccer supporters, families, high-energy evening crowds

Minnesota United welcomes the Vancouver Whitecaps to Allianz Field for a Major League Soccer match presented by Allina Health. The match marks Minnesota United’s return to Allianz Field after more than two months on the road.

Match-day parking can be reserved in advance and is strictly cashless. The METRO Green Line, A Line, and local bus routes serve the stadium directly.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Ticket price plus approximately $20 to $60 for fees, transit or parking, and concessions.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Approximately $140 to $350 for four tickets, transportation, and food.
  • Parking & Transit: allianzfield.com/plan-your-visit/parking-transportation

Dude Perfect: Squad Games Tour

  • Venue: Target Center
  • Address: 600 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55403
  • Website: targetcenter.com
  • Date & Time: Sunday, July 26 | Doors at 5 p.m., Show at 6 p.m.
  • Admission: Ticket prices vary
  • Best For: School-age children, teens, family groups

Dude Perfect brings the Squad Games Tour to Target Center alongside Trickshot Queen, Insane Shayne, Brodie Smith, and That’ll Work.

The entire arena floor functions as part of the performance area, creating a 360-degree production centered on trick shots, challenges, competition, and sports comedy.

  • Individual Budget Estimate: Ticket price plus approximately $25 to $70 for fees, parking, and refreshments.
  • Family Budget Estimate: Approximately $200 to more than $500 for four tickets, fees, food, and transportation.

REGIONAL COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHTS

North Metro Spotlight: Three Major Choices

North Metro families can build an entire weekend without traveling into central Minneapolis or Saint Paul:

  1. 3M Open (Blaine): The region’s largest professional sporting event continues through Sunday at TPC Twin Cities.
  2. “The Prom” (Anoka): Lyric Arts presents evening performances Friday and Saturday, followed by a Sunday matinee and talkback.
  3. Slice of Shoreview (Shoreview): A free community festival featuring a parade, carnival, petting zoo, food, live entertainment, and fireworks.

Suggested North Metro Plans

  • Friday: Attend the second round of the 3M Open, visit Slice of Shoreview after 4 p.m., or see “The Prom” at 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday: Begin with the Slice of Shoreview parade at 10 a.m., spend the afternoon at the 3M Open, and choose between “The Prom” or Shoreview fireworks at night.
  • Sunday: Attend the final round of the 3M Open, visit closing day at Slice of Shoreview, or see “The Prom” at 2 p.m.

North Metro Budget Guidance

  • Free Outing: Slice of Shoreview parade, entertainment, and fireworks without rides or vendor purchases.
  • Under $75 for Two: Attend Slice of Shoreview and purchase a modest meal.
  • Family Splurge: Four 3M Open tickets, parking, and food (may exceed $250).
  • North Metro Theater Night: Two tickets to “The Prom,” dinner, and free parking ($130 to $220).

West Metro Spotlight: W.E. Chalk Festival and the West End

The W.E. Chalk Festival gives St. Louis Park a significant free family attraction during a busy weekend.

Suggested West Metro Plan

  • Arrive before midday to avoid peak afternoon heat.
  • Watch professional artists develop perspective and color.
  • Visit the children’s creation area and contribute to the public chalk mandala.
  • Return Sunday to see completed pieces, weather permitting.

West Metro Budget Guidance

  • Free Visit: $0 before transportation.
  • One Adult with Refreshments: Approximately $10 to $40.
  • Family of Four: Approximately $25 to $100 (excluding retail shopping or restaurant dining).

FAMILY CURATION & HEAT PLANNING

Best Choices by Age & Theme

  • Younger Children: Slice of Shoreview, W.E. Chalk Festival, Minneapolis International Festival, Circus Juventas (“Whimsy”), Minneapolis Pops Orchestra, Minneapolis Institute of Art, Science Museum of Minnesota.
  • Older Children & Teens: Dude Perfect, Minnesota Twins, Minnesota United, 3M Open, Twin Cities Tattoo Festival, “Wicked”, “The Prom”.
  • Free Family Outings: Loring Park Art Festival, Minneapolis International Festival, Northside Jazz & Heritage Festival, W.E. Chalk Festival, Slice of Shoreview general admission, Minneapolis Pops Orchestra, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, Minneapolis Institute of Art general collection.

Heat Safety Guidelines for Families

Outdoor temperatures could exceed mid-90s with heat indices near 100 degrees.

  • Schedule regular rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces.
  • Carry more water than normally needed and hydrate continuously.
  • Adults should monitor children for signs of heat illness: dizziness, nausea, headache, heavy sweating, unusual tiredness, or confusion.
  • Never leave a child or animal inside a parked vehicle.

MUSEUMS, GALLERIES AND CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS

Indoor alternatives during peak afternoon heat:

Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia)

  • Address: 2400 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55404 | artsmia.org
  • Admission: General collection is free; special exhibitions vary.
  • Overview: Mia’s permanent collection spans thousands of years of global art, making it one of the premier low-cost indoor experiences in the city.
  • Budget: Free before transit/food. Family outing with snacks: $10 to $50.

Walker Art Center & Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

  • Address: 725 Vineland Place, Minneapolis, MN 55403 | walkerart.org
  • Admission: Sculpture Garden is free; museum admission varies.
  • Overview: The outdoor Sculpture Garden pairs seamlessly with the Loring Park Art Festival, while the Walker provides air-conditioned contemporary galleries.
  • Budget: Garden is free. Museum entry + parking: $20 to $100 for families.

Science Museum of Minnesota

  • Address: 120 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, MN 55102 | smm.org
  • Admission: Ticket packages vary.
  • Overview: Hands-on science exhibits, natural history, and large-format Omnitheater films in downtown Saint Paul.
  • Budget: Individual: $15 to $40 after admission. Family: $150+ with Omnitheater films and parking.

Minnesota History Center

  • Address: 345 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, MN 55102 | mnhs.org
  • Admission: Standard museum rates apply.
  • Overview: Interactive exhibitions examining the people, communities, and events that have shaped Minnesota history.
  • Budget: Individual: $10 to $30 after admission. Family: $20 to $60 for parking and food.

FOOD, DRINK AND WEEKEND MARKETS

Minneapolis Farmers Market

  • Address: 312 East Lyndale Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55405 | mplsfarmersmarket.com
  • Hours: Friday to Sunday (6 a.m. to 1 p.m., opens 7 a.m. Friday) | Admission: Free
  • Overview: One of the region’s largest open-air markets featuring peak-summer produce, flowers, meats, baked goods, and prepared food.

Mill City Farmers Market

  • Address: 704 South Second Street, Minneapolis, MN 55401 | millcityfarmersmarket.org
  • Hours: Saturday, July 25 (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.) | Admission: Free
  • Overview: Focuses on local, sustainable agriculture along the historic riverfront district, featuring free outdoor market yoga at 8:30 and 10 a.m.

Saint Paul Farmers’ Market

  • Address: 290 Fifth Street East, Saint Paul, MN 55101 | stpaulfarmersmarket.com
  • Hours: Saturday (7 a.m. to 1 p.m.) | Sunday (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.) | Admission: Free
  • Overview: Lowertown direct-from-producer market offering free parking at 420 Prince Street East. Arrive early for the best produce selection.

VISITOR INTELLIGENCE & LOGISTICS

  • Heat & Weather: Highs in the mid-90s with heat index values near 100 on Saturday and Sunday. Thunderstorms are possible Sunday afternoon. Monitor National Weather Service radar updates.
  • Downtown Transit Strategy: Overlapping crowds from Target Field, Target Center, Hennepin Avenue theaters, and Loring Park will saturate parking ramps. Park once and utilize the METRO Blue/Green lines or bus connections.
  • Lake Harriet Traffic: Parking near the bandshell fills rapidly during popular events. Consider biking, walking, or rideshare service.
  • 3M Open Shuttles: General spectator parking is located strictly at the National Sports Center in Blaine with shuttle service to TPC Twin Cities beginning at 6:15 a.m.
  • Ticket Security: Always purchase through primary venue sites to avoid secondary market surcharges or missing promotional eligibility.

EDITOR’S PICKS

WEEKEND INDEX BY BUDGET

Free

  • Loring Park Art Festival
  • Minneapolis International Festival
  • Northside Jazz & Heritage Festival
  • W.E. Chalk Festival
  • Slice of Shoreview general admission
  • Minneapolis Pops Orchestra
  • Selected Aquatennial activities
  • Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
  • Minneapolis Institute of Art general collection
  • Farmers markets (browsing)

Under $25

  • Farmers market breakfast or produce purchases
  • Transit-based visits to free events
  • Sculpture Garden or Mia visit with modest transit expenses
  • Picnic during the Minneapolis Pops Orchestra
  • Selected festival food options

$25 to $75

  • Carifest advance admission with food
  • Twin Cities Tattoo Festival single-day pass
  • Selected comedy show tickets
  • Circus Juventas standard seating
  • Standard Twins or Minnesota United tickets before fees
  • Museum admission with a meal
  • Single attendance at “The Prom”

$75 and Above

  • Premium “Wicked” seating
  • Megan Moroney at Target Center
  • 3M Open weekend admission and hospitality
  • Premium Twins or Minnesota United tickets
  • Dude Perfect premium seating
  • Four-person family attendance at ticketed arena events
  • Professional tattoo work at RiverCentre

WEEKEND INDEX BY GEOGRAPHY

  • Downtown Minneapolis: Minneapolis Aquatennial, Minnesota Twins, Megan Moroney, Dude Perfect, “Wicked”, Loring Park Art Festival, Mill City Farmers Market, Walker Art Center, Acme Comedy Company.
  • North Minneapolis & Riverfront: Carifest, Northside Jazz & Heritage Festival, Minneapolis Farmers Market.
  • South & Southwest Minneapolis: Minneapolis International Festival, Minneapolis Pops Orchestra, Lake Harriet, Minneapolis Institute of Art.
  • Cedar-Riverside: Sleepytime Gorilla Museum at The Cedar.
  • Downtown Saint Paul: Twin Cities Tattoo Festival, Science Museum of Minnesota, Minnesota History Center, Saint Paul Farmers’ Market.
  • Midway & Highland Saint Paul: Minnesota United at Allianz Field, Circus Juventas.
  • North Metro: 3M Open (Blaine), “The Prom” (Anoka), Slice of Shoreview (Shoreview).
  • West Metro & Bloomington: W.E. Chalk Festival (St. Louis Park), House of Comedy (Mall of America).

THE WEEKEND TAKEAWAY

July 24 through July 26 reveals the Twin Cities through several overlapping forms of public life.

Carifest, the Minneapolis International Festival, and the Northside Jazz & Heritage Festival demonstrate how culture is carried through music, food, dance, language, and community gathering. The Loring Park Art Festival, W.E. Chalk Festival, and Twin Cities Tattoo Festival show art moving between parks, streets, convention halls, and the human body.

The 3M Open brings international professional golf to Blaine. The Twins and Minnesota United give sports audiences major destinations in Minneapolis and Saint Paul. “Wicked,” “The Prom,” and Circus Juventas offer three substantially different forms of live performance, while Acme and House of Comedy bring stand-up into the weekend’s choices.

Families can build an inexpensive outing around free festivals, parks, markets, and concerts. They can also choose premium experiences at Target Center, Target Field, TPC Twin Cities, or the Orpheum Theatre. The difference depends not only on admission but also on food, parking, ticketing fees, and optional purchases. That is why event-specific budget estimates belong in this guide.

Heat will require planning. Outdoor audiences should carry water, schedule breaks, and identify an indoor alternative. Ticket holders should leave additional time for traffic, parking, and security.

Whether the weekend leads to Caribbean music beside the Mississippi, chalk art in St. Louis Park, professional golf in Blaine, Broadway on Hennepin Avenue, community fireworks in Shoreview, or jazz on the Northside riverfront, the Twin Cities offer choices across age, geography, culture, and budget.

OFFICIAL LINKS AND RESOURCES

Festivals, Culture and Community

Theater, Comedy and Music

Sports

Markets, Museums and Planning

Schedules, ticket prices, performers, promotions, and weather conditions can change. Readers should consult the applicable official source shortly before departure.

MinneapoliMedia | Community. Culture. Civic Life.

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