MINNEAPOLIMEDIA WEEKEND GUIDE | Saturday and Sunday in the Twin Cities: August 15-16, 2026

More than 40 remaining weekend activities span Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Brooklyn Park, Anoka County and surrounding communities, with food festivals, cultural celebrations, concerts, professional sports, theater, markets and free family programs

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (August 15, 2026) The Twin Cities weekend moves into its second day with a crowded Saturday schedule followed by a smaller but still substantial collection of Sunday attractions.

Saturday’s major events include Ed Sheeran at U.S. Bank Stadium, IndiaFest at the Minnesota State Capitol, the Anoka Food Truck Festival, the Minnesota Twins, Nitro Circus, Game Fair, the Nowthen Threshing Show and community celebrations in Lino Lakes and Vadnais Heights.

Sunday’s leading choices include the Como Park Japanese Obon Festival, Minnesota Fringe’s final day, the Twins’ Sunday Kids Day, the Coon Rapids school-supply and children’s-clothing swap, classic rock at Mystic Lake Amphitheater and the final day of several weekend festivals.

All Friday-only activities have been removed from this updated guide.

Schedules, admission, ticket inventory, weather plans and transportation arrangements can change. Readers should confirm final information through the official links before leaving home.

EDITOR’S PICKS

Best Major Saturday Attraction

Ed Sheeran at U.S. Bank Stadium, with Myles Smith, Lukas Graham and Ellie Banke.

Best Saturday Cultural Experience

IndiaFest at the Minnesota State Capitol, featuring more than 100 cultural, community, food and merchandise booths.

Best Saturday Food Experience

Anoka Food Truck Festival, with more than 50 vendors, entertainment and activities in downtown Anoka.

Best Saturday Family Celebration

Vadnais Heights Days, with markets, inflatables, a parade, public-safety vehicles, music and fireworks.

Best North Metro Tradition

The 55th Annual Nowthen Threshing Show, featuring antique machinery, working demonstrations and Minnesota agricultural history.

Best Free Sporting Event

Gus Macker Twin Cities at North Hennepin Community College in Brooklyn Park.

Best Sunday Family Activity

Minnesota Twins Sunday Kids Day, including a limited back-to-school backpack giveaway for children.

Best Sunday Cultural Experience

Como Park Japanese Obon Festival, culminating with illuminated lanterns on the garden ponds.

MAJOR FESTIVALS AND COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS

1. Anoka Food Truck Festival

More than 50 food trucks are expected to serve meals, desserts and beverages alongside live entertainment and family activities.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Downtown Anoka and Riverfront Memorial Park
Primary address: 2201 Second Avenue, Anoka, MN 55303
Admission: Free
Food and beverages: Sold separately
City information: 763-576-2700
Official information: https://anokapolice.com/anoka-food-truck-festival/

Best for: Families, groups and visitors looking for a flexible food-centered outing.

Downtown parking will become more difficult during the afternoon and dinner periods. Arriving near opening time should provide shorter lines and better parking availability.

Vendors establish their own payment policies. Bring both a payment card and some cash.

Alcohol brought from home is prohibited in Riverfront Memorial Park. Alcohol consumed within Anoka’s social district must be purchased from a participating licensed establishment or organization and carried in an authorized cup.

2. Game Fair

Game Fair continues at Armstrong Ranch with hunting-dog events, outdoor-sports exhibitors, archery, fishing instruction, shooting demonstrations, seminars and merchandise.

Dates: Saturday and Sunday, August 15-16
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Location: Armstrong Ranch Kennels
Address: 8404 161st Avenue NW, Ramsey, MN 55303
Official website: https://gamefair.com/

Admission:

• Adults: $20
• Adults 62 and older: $15
• Veterans with identification: $15
• Children ages 6-14: $5
• Children 5 and younger: Free
• Active-duty military with identification: Free

Best for: Hunters, anglers, dog owners, outdoor-sports families and sporting-equipment shoppers.

The event operates outdoors, rain or shine. Expect grass, dirt, uneven ground, loud demonstrations and substantial walking. Closed-toe shoes and hearing protection for children are advisable.

Review the official rules concerning parking, firearms, pets and personal vehicles before attending.

3. 55th Annual Nowthen Threshing Show

The Nowthen Historical Power Association presents antique tractors, steam engines, small engines, historic buildings and working agricultural demonstrations.

The grounds also include food vendors, a flea market, crafts, children’s activities, train rides and a petting zoo.

Saturday, August 15: 7 a.m. to approximately 9 p.m.
Sunday, August 16: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Address: 7415 Old Viking Boulevard NW, Nowthen, MN 55303
Official information: https://www.nowthenthreshing.com/

Best for: Families, machinery enthusiasts, photographers and visitors interested in agricultural history.

Expect natural surfaces and extensive walking. Golf carts, ATVs and other small personal vehicles must be registered at the west gate. The association lists a $20 registration fee for each small vehicle.

Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, rain protection and closed-toe shoes.

4. IndiaFest 2026

The India Association of Minnesota presents a free celebration of Indian culture and India’s Independence Day.

More than 100 nonprofit, cultural, food and merchandise booths are expected, with music, dance and community performances.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Festival grounds open: 11 a.m.
Cultural performances: 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Evening music and open dance floor: 6 to 9 p.m.
Location: Minnesota State Capitol grounds
Address: 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Saint Paul, MN 55155
Admission: Free
Official information: https://iamn.org/indiafest/

Best for: Families, cultural exploration, food, shopping and live performances.

Food and merchandise are sold separately. Payment methods vary among vendors.

Capitol-area parking will be heavily used. Metro Transit, carpooling or ride services may be easier than parking immediately beside the Capitol.

5. Como Park Japanese Obon Festival

The annual Obon Festival features Japanese music, taiko drumming, dance, martial arts, food, vendors, cultural exhibits and family activities. Illuminated lanterns are expected to float on the garden ponds near the end of the evening.

Date: Sunday, August 16
Festival hours: 3 to 9 p.m.
Lantern illumination: Approximately 8 p.m.
Vendor closing time: Approximately 8 p.m.
Location: Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
Address: 1225 Estabrook Drive, Saint Paul, MN 55103
Customer service: 651-487-8201
Recorded information: 651-487-8200
Official information: https://comozooconservatory.org/como/obon-festival/

Admission:

• Adults ages 13 and older: $8
• Children ages 3-12: $5
• Adults 65 and older: $5
• Children younger than 3: Free
• Tickets are nonrefundable

Admission must be purchased electronically. Cash will not be accepted at the entrance.

A complimentary wheelchair- and stroller-accessible shuttle will operate from the Saint Paul Public Schools District Service Facility, 1930 Como Avenue.

Pets are prohibited except for service animals. The Japanese Garden will close from approximately 6 to 8 p.m. for lantern preparations. Flash photography is prohibited after the garden reopens.

6. Blue Heron Days

Lino Lakes’ community celebration continues with a parade, free swimming, an American Legion picnic and children’s carnival.

Saturday, August 15:

• Parade: 11 a.m. to noon
• Free open swimming: Noon to 6:30 p.m.
• American Legion picnic and children’s carnival: Noon to 5 p.m.

Sunday, August 16:

• Waldoch Farm garden tour and corn feed: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Main venue: The Rookery Activity Center
Address: 7690 Village Drive, Lino Lakes, MN 55014
Telephone: 651-982-2468
Event contact: 651-982-2442
Official information: https://www.linolakes.us/

The Saturday parade begins near Centennial Middle School and travels through neighborhoods near Sunrise Park. It no longer follows Lake Drive.

Families planning to swim should bring swimsuits and towels and confirm pool capacity, flotation-device rules, changing facilities and accessibility with the Rookery.

7. Vadnais Heights Days

Saturday programming includes food, markets, children’s entertainment, public-safety vehicles, music, a parade and fireworks.

Date: Saturday, August 15

Schedule:

• Kickball tournament: 9 a.m.
• Car show: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Food trucks: 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Family Fun Zone: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Raptor Center meet-and-greet: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Makers Market: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Children’s Market: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• The Jolly Pops: 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
• Free inflatables: Noon to 9 p.m.
• Bingo: Noon to 3 p.m.
• Line dancing: 1 to 2:30 p.m.
• Parade: 4 p.m.
• Touch-a-Truck: 6 to 7:30 p.m.
• Life Link helicopter: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., if operational conditions permit
• The White Keys: 7:30 to 10:30 p.m.
• Fireworks: Approximately 9 p.m.

Sunday, August 16:

• Fire Relief Association booya: Begins at 8 a.m. and continues until sold out

Locations:

• Community Park, 641 East County Road F, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
• Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 East County Road F, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127

City information: 651-204-6000
Recreation information: 651-204-6060 or 651-204-6061
Official schedule: https://www.cityvadnaisheights.com/

The parade route is expected to close from approximately 3:15 to 6 p.m.

8. Dakota County Fair

The Dakota County Fair concludes with livestock, 4-H activities, carnival rides, competitions, exhibits, food and family entertainment.

Saturday hours: Activities continue into the evening, with the grounds generally operating until approximately 11:30 p.m.
Sunday hours: Approximately 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: 4008 220th Street W., Farmington, MN 55024
Telephone: 651-463-8818
General admission: Free
Official schedule: https://www.dakotacountyfair.org/

Carnival rides, food, games and selected attractions require separate payment.

Expect unpaved surfaces, livestock areas, crowds and extended walking. Confirm accessible parking and mobility assistance before arrival.

9. Corcoran Country Daze

The outdoor country-music festival concludes Saturday at the Corcoran Lions Park area.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Location: Corcoran Lions Park area
Address: 7205 County Road 101, Corcoran, MN 55340
Official schedule and tickets: https://tickets.corcorancountrydaze.org/

The festival prohibits patrons from bringing chairs and does not permit re-entry after leaving.

Confirm Saturday’s performers, doors, show times, age requirements, bag restrictions, VIP options and remaining ticket inventory before traveling.

CONCERTS, LIVE MUSIC AND NIGHTLIFE

10. Ed Sheeran: LOOP Tour

Ed Sheeran brings the LOOP Tour to Minneapolis with Myles Smith, Lukas Graham and Ellie Banke.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Show time: 5:30 p.m.
Venue: U.S. Bank Stadium
Address: 401 Chicago Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55415
Stadium information: 612-777-8700
Official tickets: https://www.livenation.com/

Ticket prices vary by section, demand and availability. Buyers should distinguish standard admission from resale, VIP and other packages.

The stadium is served by the METRO Blue and Green lines. Transit is strongly recommended because numerous events will compete for downtown parking.

Review mobile-ticket, bag, cashless-payment, camera, outside-food and re-entry rules before departure.

11. Lynyrd Skynyrd and Foreigner

Lynyrd Skynyrd and Foreigner bring their Double Trouble Double Vision Tour to Mystic Lake Amphitheater with Six Gun Sally.

Date: Sunday, August 16
Doors: 5:30 p.m.
Show: 6:30 p.m.
Age policy: All ages
Address: 2400 Mystic Lake Boulevard NW, Prior Lake, MN 55372
Telephone: 952-445-9000
Official tickets: https://www.livenation.com/

Lawn and reserved-seat prices vary. Check chair, blanket, bag, umbrella, smoking, weather and re-entry policies before traveling.

12. Rabeca Album-Release Concert

Minneapolis quintet Rabeca celebrates its third full-length album with Full Catholic, Third Date and additional guests.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 8 to 11 p.m.
Venue: The Cedar Cultural Center
Address: 416 Cedar Avenue S., Minneapolis, MN 55454
Telephone: 612-338-2674
Official information: https://www.thecedar.org/

Confirm age designation, doors, seating format, accessibility and remaining tickets.

13. The Crane Wives at First Avenue

The Michigan indie-folk and alternative-rock group performs in downtown Minneapolis.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Published start time: 7:30 p.m.
Venue: First Avenue
Address: 701 First Avenue N., Minneapolis, MN 55403
Telephone: 612-332-1775
Official calendar: https://first-avenue.com/

Confirm the age requirement, ticket inventory, accessibility seating, bag limits and re-entry policy.

14. American Football at First Avenue

American Football concludes its announced 2026 tour with Afternoon Bike Ride opening.

Date: Sunday, August 16
Venue: First Avenue
Address: 701 First Avenue N., Minneapolis, MN 55403
Telephone: 612-332-1775
Official calendar: https://first-avenue.com/

Confirm doors, show time, age requirement and remaining tickets through the official listing.

15. Amsterdam Bar and Hall Weekend Shows

The Toxhards:

Date: Saturday, August 15
Doors: 6 p.m.
Show: 6:30 p.m.
Age policy: All ages

Johnny Manchild:

Date: Sunday, August 16
Doors: 5 p.m.
Show: 6 p.m.
Age policy: All ages

Venue: Amsterdam Bar and Hall
Address: 6 Sixth Street W., Saint Paul, MN 55102
Telephone: 612-285-3112
Tickets: https://events.amsterdambarandhall.com/

Parents should confirm minor-supervision rules and which areas of the venue allow younger patrons.

16. Scarlet Goodbye at the Hewing Hotel

Date: Sunday, August 16
Doors: 6:30 p.m.
Show: 7 p.m.
Venue: Hewing Hotel
Address: 300 Washington Avenue N., Minneapolis, MN 55401
Telephone: 651-468-0400
Information: https://www.exploreminnesota.com/

Confirm admission, age policy, seating and whether the performance will be indoors or on the rooftop.

17. Free Minneapolis Park Concerts

Som Fest:

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Lake Harriet Bandshell
Address: 4135 W. Lake Harriet Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55409
Admission: Free
Genre: International music

Wren + Wilde:

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Water Works at Mill Ruins Park
Address: 425 West River Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Admission: Free
Genre: Americana

Park Board information: 612-230-6400
Official calendar: https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities-events/music-movies/

Bring a portable chair or blanket where permitted. Performances may be postponed or canceled because of weather.

THEATER, DANCE AND PERFORMING ARTS

18. Minnesota Fringe Festival

Minnesota Fringe enters its final weekend with independent theater, dance, storytelling, comedy and experimental productions at venues throughout Minneapolis.

Final festival date: Sunday, August 16
Individual ticket: $20
Passholder reservation: $5
Box office: 612-517-3787
Email: boxoffice@fringefestival.org
Complete schedule: https://minnesotafringe.org/

Online ticket sales close two and one-half hours before a performance. Any remaining tickets may be available at the venue box office.

Festival-managed venues are physically accessible. Selected performances offer American Sign Language interpretation, audio description or open captioning. Accessibility assistance is available at access@fringefestival.org.

19. Private Lives at the Guthrie Theater

Noël Coward’s comedy follows a divorced couple who unexpectedly meet while honeymooning with their new spouses.

Saturday, August 15: 1 and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, August 16: 1 and 7 p.m.
Running time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including two intermissions
Recommended age: 12 and older
Tickets: $35 to $94, including handling fees
Address: 818 South Second Street, Minneapolis, MN 55415
Box office: 612-377-2224
Official tickets: https://www.guthrietheater.org/

The Saturday 1 p.m. performance is open-captioned. Wheelchair locations and companion seating are available through the box office.

20. The Butler Did It

This theatrical production continues with performances Saturday and Sunday.

Dates: Saturday and Sunday, August 15-16
Official listing: https://www.exploreminnesota.com/

The available public listing did not provide enough dependable information to recommend traveling without confirmation. Verify the presenting theater, address, performance time, admission, age recommendation, accessibility and ticket availability before leaving home.

COMEDY

21. Josh Johnson’s Comedy Band Camp

Josh Johnson combines topical stand-up comedy and live music during a weekend engagement at the Orpheum Theatre.

Saturday, August 15: 5 and 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, August 16: 5 and 8:30 p.m.
Address: 910 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Telephone: 612-339-7007
Ticket limit: Six per purchaser
Official tickets: https://hennepinarts.org/

Some VIP packages are add-ons and do not include admission. Buyers should verify exactly what their selected package includes.

22. Jeff Leeson at Laugh Camp Comedy Club

Date: Saturday, August 15
Show time: 8 p.m.
Venue: Laugh Camp Comedy Club at Camp Bar
Address: 490 Robert Street N., Saint Paul, MN 55101
Telephone: 651-292-1844
Official schedule: https://camp-bar.net/

Confirm age restrictions, food or beverage minimums, seating and late-arrival rules.

SPORTS AND ACTION ENTERTAINMENT

23. Minnesota Twins versus Philadelphia Phillies

Saturday, August 15:

First pitch: 6:10 p.m.

Promotions:

• $2 beer at participating locations from gate opening until scheduled first pitch
• All-you-can-eat option with qualifying Legends Landing tickets
• Alcohol-free family section with a hot dog and Pepsi included in qualifying Section 324 tickets

Sunday, August 16:

First pitch: 1:10 p.m.

Promotions:

• Back-to-school backpack for the first 5,000 children ages 12 and younger
• Sunday Kids Day
• Half-price children’s meals
• Free ice cream for children ages 12 and younger
• All-you-can-eat option with qualifying Legends Landing tickets

Venue: Target Field
Address: 1 Twins Way, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Ballpark information: 612-659-3400
Tickets: https://www.mlb.com/twins/

Families seeking Sunday’s backpack should arrive well before first pitch. Promotional merchandise is limited and not guaranteed.

Target Field is served by METRO Blue and Green lines and Northstar commuter rail.

24. Nitro Circus 2.0

Nitro Circus brings freestyle motocross, BMX, scooters, large ramps and action-sports stunts to CHS Field.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Gates: 6 p.m.
Show: 7 p.m.
Address: 360 North Broadway Street, Saint Paul, MN 55101
Telephone: 651-644-3517
Official tickets: https://www.chsfield.com/

The program may include loud engines, amplified sound, pyrotechnics, fire effects and intense visual stunts. Hearing protection is strongly recommended for children.

Contact the venue before purchasing if wheelchair seating, companion seating or sensory accommodations are required.

25. Gus Macker Twin Cities Basketball Tournament

North Hennepin Community College hosts three-on-three basketball, contests, food trucks, coaching demonstrations and family programming.

Dates: Saturday and Sunday, August 15-16
Location: North Hennepin Community College
Address: 7411 85th Avenue N., Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
Spectator admission: Free
Event email: GusMacker@MplsNW.com
Official information: https://macker.com/

Promoted activities include a mascot game, three-point contest, slam-dunk competition, coaching demonstrations, food trucks and Sunday car-show programming.

Team registration has closed. Spectators should follow posted campus parking instructions and prepare for outdoor conditions.

MUSEUMS, ART AND CULTURAL EXHIBITIONS

26. Bell Expeditions

Bell Museum researchers and students demonstrate how natural-history specimens are measured, cataloged, processed and preserved.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Program hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Museum hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Address: 2088 Larpenteur Avenue W., Saint Paul, MN 55113
Telephone: 612-626-9660
Program admission: Free
Accessibility: 612-625-4511 or bellaccess@umn.edu
Official information: https://www.bellmuseum.umn.edu/

The demonstration is held outdoors on the Learning Landscape and may be affected by weather. Regular admission may be required for other museum attractions.

27. Sensory Friendly Saturday at the Bell Museum

The museum offers adjusted sensory conditions for visitors who benefit from a quieter and less stimulating experience.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Address: 2088 Larpenteur Avenue W., Saint Paul, MN 55113
Telephone: 612-626-9660
Accessibility: 612-625-4511 or bellaccess@umn.edu
Official calendar: https://www.bellmuseum.umn.edu/events/

Confirm program hours, admission, registration, lighting and sound adjustments and quiet-space availability.

28. Solar Observing at the Bell Museum

Museum staff use filtered solar telescopes and safe projection equipment to help visitors observe the sun.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: Noon to 2 p.m.
Address: 2088 Larpenteur Avenue W., Saint Paul, MN 55113
Admission: Included with regular museum admission
Official information: https://www.bellmuseum.umn.edu/

The activity requires suitable weather and may be altered or canceled if viewing conditions are poor.

29. Suzanne Jackson: What Is Love

The Walker Art Center presents the first major museum retrospective devoted to Suzanne Jackson, featuring more than 50 works spanning approximately six decades.

Open Saturday and Sunday
Address: 725 Vineland Place, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Information and tickets: 612-375-7600
Accessibility: 612-375-7564 or access@walkerart.org
Official information: https://www.walkerart.org/

Visitors ages 18 and younger receive free gallery admission. Adults should confirm current admission and weekend hours.

Paid underground parking, elevators, lifts and wheelchairs are available.

30. Queering Indigeneity

The Minnesota Museum of American Art presents an exhibition exploring Indigenous and queer identities.

Saturday and Sunday hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Address: 350 Robert Street N., Saint Paul, MN 55101
Telephone: 612-990-6962
Official calendar: https://www.visitsaintpaul.com/events-calendar/

Confirm admission, accessibility, photography and guided-program availability before visiting.

31. After the Rainbow

The Pride Cultural Arts Center presents its first community exhibition, featuring work by 20 LGBTQIA2S+ artists.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 5 to 8 p.m.
Official information: https://mplsartsandculture.org/

Confirm the center’s address, admission, parking, accessibility and reception details before traveling.

32. The Original People’s Garden

The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum’s living garden highlights plants used by Ojibwe people of the Woodlands and Great Lakes region for food and medicine.

Saturday and Sunday hours: Generally 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Address: 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska, MN 55318
Telephone: 612-624-2200
Admission: Free to approximately $20, depending on age, membership and program
Official information: https://arb.umn.edu/

Advance vehicle admission may be required. Confirm tickets, parking, accessible paths, tram service and the garden’s location before traveling.

FAMILY, LIBRARY AND EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES

33. Pathways to Wellness

The free East Side community-health initiative brings together more than 25 community organizations, healthcare providers and local partners.

Activities include health screenings, preventive-care information, wellness education, maternal and child-health support, school-supply giveaways, backpacks, youth activities, games, entertainment, raffles and prizes.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Arlington Hills Community Center
Address: 1200 Payne Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55130
Admission: Free
Telephone: 651-435-1785
Email: pathwaystowellnesschwevent@gmail.com

Everyone is welcome. School supplies, backpacks, prizes and other giveaway items may be limited and should not be assumed available throughout the entire event.

34. Brooklyn Park Back 2 School BBQ

Honored 2 Help presents a community barbecue with entertainment, food and school supplies.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: Park Center Pride Stadium
Address: 7501 Noble Avenue N., Brooklyn Park, MN 55443
Admission: Free with registration
Organizer: 612-305-8306
Registration: https://www.honored2help.org/

School supplies will be distributed while quantities last. Registration does not guarantee that every item will remain available.

35. Coon Rapids School Supply and Kids Clothing Swap

Residents can select school supplies and gently used clothing for children and teenagers.

Date: Sunday, August 16
Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Coon Rapids Civic Center
Address: 11155 Robinson Drive NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433
Admission: Free
Official rules: https://www.coonrapidsmn.gov/1531/Swap-Events

Clothing is intended for youth ages 6-18.

No donations will be accepted during Sunday’s swap. The advance donation period ended Friday.

36. Anoka County Family Child Care Resource Fair

The resource fair connects residents with information about starting, licensing, improving or expanding a family child-care operation.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Rum River Library
Address: 4201 Sixth Avenue NW, Anoka, MN 55303
Admission: Free
Registration: Not required
County information: 763-324-4000
Official information: https://www.anokacountymn.gov/

Best for current providers, prospective providers and residents exploring licensing or business resources.

37. Seed Saving at Mississippi Library

The program introduces participants to collecting and preserving seeds for future planting.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 2 p.m.
Location: Mississippi Library
Address: 410 Mississippi Street NE, Fridley, MN 55432
Library information: 763-324-1500
Official calendar: https://www.anokacountymn.gov/1758/Events

Confirm duration, registration, remaining capacity and whether participants should bring materials.

38. Write With a Quill Pen at the Pond House

Visitors can explore Bloomington history and practice writing with a traditional quill and ink.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Location: Pond-Dakota Mission Park and Gideon H. Pond House
Address: 401 East 104th Street, Bloomington, MN 55420
City information: 952-563-8877
Official information: https://www.bloomingtonmn.gov/

Confirm admission, parking, accessibility and registration requirements.

FREE COMMUNITY AND PARK EVENTS

39. Ballroom in the Park

A free community dance program comes to Mears Park in Lowertown Saint Paul.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Location: Mears Park
Address: 221 Fifth Street E., Saint Paul, MN 55101
Admission: Free
Official information: https://www.visitsaintpaul.com/events-calendar/

Confirm the program time, lesson format, music schedule and weather plan. Wear shoes suitable for outdoor dancing.

FOOD, MARKETS AND TOURS

40. Minneapolis Farmers Market

Saturday: 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Sunday: Confirm the current daily vendor schedule
Address: 312 East Lyndale Avenue N., Minneapolis, MN 55405
Telephone: 612-333-1718
Admission: Free
Official information: https://www.mplsfarmersmarket.com/

Parking is available in surrounding lots and designated spaces but turns over quickly during peak hours. Bring reusable bags and multiple payment options.

41. Farmers Market Annex

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Address: 200 East Lyndale Avenue N., Minneapolis, MN 55405
Telephone: 612-573-0148
Admission: Free
Official information: https://www.farmersmarketannex.com/

Individual vendor payment methods vary.

42. Southwest Farmers Market

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Southwest High School area
Address: 3414 W. 47th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55410
Admission: Free
Official information: https://www.neighborhoodrootsmn.org/

Bring reusable bags and multiple payment options. Confirm pet rules and weather updates.

43. Kingfield Farmers Market

Date: Sunday, August 16
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Scheduled music: Approximately 10 a.m.
Location: Near Lake Country School
Address: 3755 Pleasant Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55409
Admission: Free
Official information: https://www.neighborhoodrootsmn.org/

Street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood. Do not block driveways or restricted areas.

44. Gangsterland Downtown Walking Tour

The tour explores Saint Paul’s Prohibition-era history and connections with nationally known gangsters.

Date: Saturday, August 15
Time: 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Meeting address: 380 Saint Peter Street, Saint Paul, MN 55102
Admission: $25
Accessibility: Promoted as fully accessible
Official information: https://www.exploreminnesota.com/

Wear comfortable shoes and bring suitable weather protection. Confirm the exact meeting point, refund policy and cancellation terms.

45. Gray Line Saint Paul City Tour

The approximately two-hour sightseeing tour introduces visitors to prominent Saint Paul locations.

Dates: Saturday and Sunday, August 15-16
Time: 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Official reservations: https://www.exploreminnesota.com/

Confirm the departure point, admission, parking, wheelchair capacity, restroom availability, child-seat requirements and cancellation policy before purchasing.

SEASONAL OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS

46. Waldoch Farm Sunflower Festival

The festival features sunflower fields and Adventure Farm activities.

Saturday and Sunday hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: 8174 Lake Drive, Lino Lakes, MN 55014
Telephone: 651-780-1207
Published pass range: Approximately $16.99 to $57
Payment: Cash, check, credit card, debit card and tap payment
Official tickets: https://waldochfarm.com/

Sunflower conditions depend on weather and the natural blooming cycle. Check the farm’s same-day field update before purchasing.

Expect grass, dirt, sun exposure and extended walking. Confirm stroller, wheelchair, wagon, pet, food and photography policies.

QUICK SATURDAY DECISION GUIDE

Best Free Saturday Choices

• Anoka Food Truck Festival
• IndiaFest
• Blue Heron Days
• Vadnais Heights Days general activities
• Gus Macker spectator areas
• Pathways to Wellness
• Brooklyn Park Back 2 School BBQ with registration
• Anoka County Family Child Care Resource Fair
• Bell Expeditions
• Minneapolis park concerts
• Farmers markets, excluding purchases

Best Saturday Choices Under $25

• Game Fair
• Minnesota Fringe individual performance
• Gangsterland Walking Tour
• Lowest Waldoch Farm pass
• Selected museum admissions

Best Saturday Choices for Younger Children

• Blue Heron Days
• Vadnais Heights Days
• Pathways to Wellness
• Bell Museum programs
• Brooklyn Park Back 2 School BBQ
• Gus Macker
• Anoka Food Truck Festival

Best Saturday Choices for Teenagers

• Ed Sheeran
• Gus Macker
• Nitro Circus
• Minnesota Fringe
• Minnesota Twins
• Game Fair
• Amsterdam’s all-ages concert

QUICK SUNDAY DECISION GUIDE

Best Sunday Family Choices

• Minnesota Twins Sunday Kids Day
• Como Park Japanese Obon Festival
• Coon Rapids school-supply and children’s-clothing swap
• Nowthen Threshing Show
• Game Fair
• Dakota County Fair
• Blue Heron Days garden tour and corn feed
• Gus Macker
• Kingfield Farmers Market
• Waldoch Farm Sunflower Festival

Best Sunday Music and Performing-Arts Choices

• Lynyrd Skynyrd and Foreigner
• American Football at First Avenue
• Johnny Manchild at Amsterdam Bar and Hall
• Scarlet Goodbye at the Hewing Hotel
• Josh Johnson at the Orpheum Theatre
• Private Lives at the Guthrie Theater
• Final Minnesota Fringe performances

PARKING, TRANSIT AND NAVIGATION

Saturday will place substantial pressure on downtown Minneapolis transportation. U.S. Bank Stadium, Target Field, the Orpheum Theatre, Guthrie Theater, First Avenue, Fringe venues and other destinations will operate simultaneously.

Downtown Minneapolis

• METRO Blue and Green lines serve U.S. Bank Stadium and Target Field.
• Reserve parking before leaving home when possible.
• Allow at least 45 to 60 additional minutes for congestion, security and walking.
• Confirm the final return trip before relying on transit after a late event.
• Photograph the ramp name, entrance and parking level.
• Do not leave valuables visible inside a vehicle.

Saint Paul

• IndiaFest visitors should consider transit, carpooling or remote parking.
• Obon Festival visitors may use the complimentary shuttle from 1930 Como Avenue.
• Mears Park, CHS Field, the Capitol and downtown venues will compete for parking.
• Read meter hours and event-rate signs carefully.

North Metro

• Downtown Anoka parking will fill during the Food Truck Festival.
• Game Fair and the Nowthen Threshing Show use outdoor parking and natural walking surfaces.
• Vadnais Heights parade closures will affect McMenemy Street and County Road F from approximately 3:15 to 6 p.m.
• Gus Macker visitors should follow North Hennepin Community College parking instructions.

ACCESSIBILITY AND FAMILY PLANNING

Visitors who need accommodations should confirm:

• Accessible entrances and drop-off locations
• Wheelchair and companion seating
• Accessible parking and restrooms
• Distance and terrain between parking and the event
• ASL interpretation, captioning or audio description
• Quiet areas and sensory supports
• Service-animal procedures
• Stroller and wheelchair availability
• Whether accommodations require advance notice

Families should verify:

• Age restrictions
• Whether children require tickets
• Stroller policies
• Family-restroom availability
• Noise, smoke, fireworks and flashing-light intensity
• Child-supervision requirements
• Bag and outside-food policies
• Re-entry restrictions

WEATHER AND OUTDOOR PLANNING

Outdoor schedules can change quickly. Check the National Weather Service Twin Cities forecast before leaving: https://forecast.weather.gov/

Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable footwear, rain protection, a charged phone, necessary medication and hearing protection for concerts, motorsports and fireworks.

During lightning, do not shelter under trees, tents or temporary stages. Move to a substantial building or enclosed vehicle and follow organizer instructions.

BROOKLYN CENTER CALENDAR NOTE

MinneapoliMedia reviewed Brooklyn Center’s official central city calendar. No qualifying citywide public entertainment or community event for August 15-16 was identified by the publication cutoff.

This does not exclude smaller neighborhood, library, business or privately organized events promoted through separate channels.

Official city information: https://www.brooklyncentermn.gov/

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY TAKEAWAY

Saturday provides the greatest variety but also carries the highest likelihood of congestion, parking pressure, long food lines and ticket shortages.

Readers looking for low-cost family activities have strong choices in Anoka, Lino Lakes, Vadnais Heights, Brooklyn Park, Ramsey, Fridley, Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

Sunday offers a calmer schedule led by the Como Park Japanese Obon Festival, Minnesota Twins Sunday Kids Day, the Coon Rapids swap, Game Fair, the Nowthen Threshing Show and Minnesota Fringe’s final performances.

Choose one primary event, confirm its official details, arrange parking or transportation and keep a weather-safe alternative available.

Research update: Saturday, August 15, 2026. Event schedules, admission, performers, ticket inventory, transportation, vendor participation and weather conditions remain subject to change.

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