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From the Great Minnesota Get-Together and Renaissance Festival to free movies, neighborhood gatherings, concerts, theater, markets, sports and family activities, here is MinneapoliMedia’s exhaustive verified guide to August 28 through August 30.
By Tom Akaolisa, Editor
MINNEAPOLIS, MN (August 28, 2026) The first full weekend of the Minnesota State Fair has arrived, bringing one of the busiest entertainment and community calendars of the year to Minneapolis, Saint Paul, the North Metro and surrounding communities.
The Minnesota State Fair leads the weekend with agriculture, food, competitions, rides and performers ranging from “Weird Al” Yankovic and Vertical Horizon to Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Margo Price, Sierra Ferrell and Tanya Tucker.
Beyond the fairgrounds, the Minnesota Renaissance Festival begins its Highland Fling weekend. Brooklyn Park hosts two community celebrations. Saint Paul brings music to Raspberry Island, roller skating to Rice Park and Wicked to Lake Phalen. The Guthrie Theater opens its doors for a free anniversary celebration, while Minneapolis parks offer concerts, markets, nature programs, volunteer opportunities and a free outdoor screening of In the Heights.
Professional baseball, soccer and lacrosse share the weekend with comedy, theater, museums, historical tours and live music extending from neighborhood parks to Target Center.
MinneapoliMedia reviewed official municipal, county, park, library, venue, museum, league, transit and organizer calendars across Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Columbia Heights, Coon Rapids, Anoka, Blaine, Fridley, Andover, Ramsey and the remaining Anoka County municipalities.
The guide includes publicly promoted events that could be independently verified. Routine meetings, closed programs, private gatherings, expired announcements, sold-out events and listings without dependable confirmation were excluded.
Schedules and ticket availability can change. Readers should consult the linked organizer before traveling.
Mostly sunny with a high near 84 degrees and an overnight low near 66. Outdoor events should have favorable conditions, although visitors should bring water and prepare for afternoon heat.
Clouds and sun, humid conditions and a possibility of thunderstorms. The expected high is near 78, with an overnight low near 68. Outdoor organizers may delay or modify programming if storms develop.
Humid with filtered sunshine and a chance of an afternoon thunderstorm. The high is expected to reach approximately 85, with an overnight low near 71.
Visitors attending outdoor events should check updated forecasts and organizer announcements on the day of attendance.
THE MINNESOTA STATE FAIR
The Great Minnesota Get-Together enters its first weekend with livestock, agriculture, creative activities, food, rides, demonstrations and free entertainment throughout the grounds.
When: Friday through Sunday, August 28 through August 30
Gate admission: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Fairgrounds: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Mighty Midway: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Kidway: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, 1265 Snelling Avenue N., Saint Paul
Admission: Adults ages 13 through 64, $20; seniors 65 and older, $18; children ages 5 through 12, $18; children 4 and younger, free
On-site parking: $25, subject to availability
Accessibility: Accessible entrances, parking, mobility-equipment rentals, assistive-listening services and sensory resources are available.
Friday is Governor’s Fire Prevention Day. Activities at Dan Patch Park, the North End and DNR Park will focus on fire prevention and emergency safety.
Friday’s Grandstand performance features “Weird Al” Yankovic with Puddles Pity Party at 7 p.m. Free evening entertainment includes Vertical Horizon at 8:30, Nur-D at 8 and Free and Easy at 8.
Saturday is 4-H Day and Hubbard Hometown Day. Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis perform at the Grandstand at 7 p.m. Free evening performances include Margo Price, The Honeydogs and Good for Gary.
Sunday is Indigenous Peoples Day. Sierra Ferrell and Tanya Tucker perform at the Grandstand at 7 p.m.
Grandstand tickets are separate from fair admission.
Friday schedule
Saturday schedule
Sunday schedule
Accessibility guide
Metro Transit State Fair Express buses operate from suburban park-and-ride locations, including Blaine, Maplewood, Minnetonka, Bloomington, Cottage Grove and, on weekends, Maple Grove.
Service begins: 8 a.m.
Frequency: Approximately every 30 minutes
Last return bus: Midnight
Fare: $6 round trip with exact cash or $5 through the Metro Transit app
Children: Ages 4 and younger ride free
The METRO A Line also serves the fairgrounds along Snelling Avenue, with planned service approximately every 10 minutes between 8 a.m. and 11:30 p.m.
State Fair Express information
NORTH METRO AND COMMUNITY EVENTS
Families can obtain physicals, screenings and community-resource information for students from preschool through high school.
When: Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Zanewood Recreation Center, 7100 Zane Avenue N., Brooklyn Park
Admission: Free
Additional services: Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park during COSA Fest
Brooklyn Park community bulletin
The gathering includes complimentary hot dogs, chips and lemonade, a toy giveaway, basketball, lawn games and music from a disc jockey.
When: Friday, 5 to 7 p.m.
Where: Zanewood Recreation Center, 7100 Zane Avenue N., Brooklyn Park
Admission: Free
Audience: All ages
Brooklyn Park event information
The Cities of Service Alliance presents cultural performances, food, storytelling, vendors, family activities and community resources under the theme “Rooted in Healing, Growing in Unity.”
When: Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.
Where: Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, 10360 West River Road, Brooklyn Park
Admission: Free
Accessibility: Accommodation requests may be made at 763-424-8000 or access@brooklynpark.org.
The program offers interactive books, songs, music and sensory activities in an environment designed for children who benefit from a sensory-conscious format.
When: Friday
Exact time: Confirm through the library registration page
Where: Northtown Library, 711 County Road 10 NE, Blaine
Admission: Free
Registration: Consult the library event page
Residents can meet public-safety personnel during a family event offering conversation and activities.
When: Friday, 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: 1650 Oakdale Avenue, West Saint Paul
Admission: Not specified by the organizer.
Families can receive free backpacks, meals and community resources.
When: Saturday, noon to 3 p.m.
Where: 1063 Iglehart Avenue, Saint Paul
Admission: Free
MAJOR FESTIVALS AND COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS
The festival’s Highland Fling weekend celebrates Scottish culture through music, performances, competitions, food, artisans, demonstrations and costumed entertainment.
When: Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Weather: Rain or shine
Where: 12364 Chestnut Boulevard, Shakopee
Admission: Adult, $29.95; senior, $27.95; child, $19.95; children 4 and younger, free
Parking: A parking pass is required. On-site parking costs $15 in advance or $30 on the day of attendance, subject to availability.
Park-and-ride: $6 round trip
Telephone: 952-445-7361
Accessibility: Consult the festival’s accessibility guide before attendance.
Minnesota Renaissance Festival
Raspberry Island hosts an outdoor hip-hop and community-arts celebration featuring Chali 2na, Cut Chemist, Juice Lord, Big Zach, Student 1, Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Band and emerging performers ages 14 through 24.
When: Saturday, 2 to 10 p.m.
Where: Raspberry Island, Saint Paul
Admission: Free
Weather: Outdoor event
Rice Park becomes an outdoor skating floor with music from a disc jockey.
When: Friday, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Rice Park, 109 West Fourth Street, Saint Paul
Admission: Free
Skates: Bring personal skates or use complimentary rentals while supplies last
Audience: All ages
The annual late-summer celebration includes a crayfish dinner, music and aquavit for eligible guests.
When: Friday, 6 to 9 p.m.; dinner begins at 7 p.m.
Where: American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Avenue, Minneapolis
Admission: $85 for the general public; $75 for members
Registration: Advance registration required
Age restriction: Aquavit is limited to guests 21 and older
Weather: Planned outdoors when conditions permit
Collectors display muscle cars, antiques, street rods, exotic cars, specialty vehicles and vintage motorcycles.
When: Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon
Show-car entry: 8 a.m.
Where: Chanhassen AutoPlex, 8150 Audubon Road, Chanhassen
Admission: Free
Audience: Family-friendly
FREE MOVIES, FAMILY PROGRAMS AND NATURE
Minneapolis Parks presents the musical drama outdoors at Lake Hiawatha.
When: Friday, 8 p.m.
Where: Lake Hiawatha Park, 2701 East 44th Street, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
Rating: PG-13
What to bring: Blanket or portable seating
Weather: Subject to cancellation
Minneapolis Movies in the Parks
Saint Paul Parks presents an outdoor screening near Lake Phalen.
When: Friday at dusk
Where: Phalen Beach House, Lake Phalen, Saint Paul
Admission: Free
Weather: Subject to cancellation or delay
Visitors can learn about lunar science and exploration, create moon-related art, hear stories and use binoculars when weather permits.
When: Friday, 8 to 10 p.m.
Where: Carl W. Kroening Nature Center, 4900 Mississippi Court, Minneapolis
Admission: Not specified by the organizer.
Weather: Telescope or binocular observation depends on sky conditions.
A naturalist leads participants through the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Theodore Wirth Park to identify birds by sound and sight.
When: Saturday, 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.
Meeting point: Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden parking lot
Admission: Free
Registration: Not required
What to bring: Binoculars, water and weather-appropriate clothing
A naturalist leads a short, nature-centered story program.
When: Sunday, 10 to 10:30 a.m.
Where: Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden
Admission: Free
OUTDOOR RECREATION AND VOLUNTEERING
The paddling event supports youth education and includes competitive activity and opportunities for spectators.
When: Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Hidden Falls Regional Park, 1313 Hidden Falls Drive, Saint Paul
Admission or registration: Not specified by the organizer.
Audience: Family-friendly
Participants gather for the Scandinavian lawn-game tournament.
When: Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m.
Location: Consult the Minneapolis Parks event page for the tournament field
Admission: Not specified by the organizer.
Registration: Consult the organizer
Volunteers assist with invasive-plant removal.
When: Saturday, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Where: Roberts Bird Sanctuary, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
What to bring: Work gloves and suitable clothing
Registration: Consult the organizer
Volunteers support habitat and park restoration.
When: Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon
Where: Father Hennepin Bluff Park, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
Registration: Consult the organizer
When: Sunday, 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Minnehaha Regional Park, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
Registration: Consult the organizer
Minneapolis Parks weekend calendar
THEATER, FILM AND POPULAR CULTURE
The Guthrie celebrates two decades in its riverfront building with backstage tours, workshops, trivia, storytimes, a musical-theater singalong, food trucks and activities for children and adults.
When: Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Guthrie Theater, 818 South Second Street, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
Reservation: RSVP requested
Telephone: 612-377-2224
Accessibility: Accessible seating, assisted-listening devices and patron accommodations are available.
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 p.m.
Where: Ordway Music Theater, 345 Washington Street, Saint Paul
Recommended age: 12 and older
Admission: Varies by performance and seat
Telephone: 651-224-4222
The convention brings performances, fan programming, vendors, activities and a Saturday concert to downtown Saint Paul.
When: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Saint Paul RiverCentre, 175 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul
Two-day admission: Adults from $50 plus fees; children 11 and younger from $35 plus fees
One-day admission: Adults from $30 plus fees; children from $25 plus fees
Saturday concert: From $71 plus fees
Telephone: 651-265-4800
Parking: RiverCentre ramp and surrounding downtown facilities
Mixed Precipitation presents an outdoor production using a mobile stage and public park setting.
When: Sunday, 5 p.m.
Where: Garden of the Seasons, Loring Park, 1382 Willow Street, Minneapolis
Admission: Suggested donation of $5 to $50; free for guests younger than 18
Reservation: Encouraged
Accessibility: ASL interpretation and amplified sound scheduled
The Parkway presents a late-night screening with a live shadow cast, costumes and audience participation.
When: Saturday, 11:30 p.m.
Where: The Parkway Theater, 4814 Chicago Avenue, Minneapolis
Admission: Not specified by the organizer.
Content: Mature themes and audience participation
HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURE
The 90-minute tour examines Saint Paul’s architecture, social history and preservation questions along a 1.5-mile route.
When: Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10:15 a.m.
Starting point: James J. Hill House, 240 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul
Admission: Not specified by the organizer on the public event summary.
Accessibility: The route is generally accessible, although cobblestone streets and historic curbs may create difficulties.
The guided experience explores areas and architectural details not normally included in a standard visit.
When: Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 3:15 p.m.
Length: 90 minutes
Where: Minnesota State Capitol, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Saint Paul
Admission: Not specified by the organizer on the public summary.
Reservation: Recommended because capacity is limited
LIVE MUSIC
When: Friday; doors at 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m.
Where: Target Center, 600 First Avenue N., Minneapolis
Admission: Prices vary
Telephone: 612-673-1300
When: Friday and Saturday at 6:30 and 9 p.m.
Where: Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis
Admission: Prices vary
Telephone: 612-332-5299
When: Saturday; doors at 5:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m.
Where: Surly Festival Field, 520 Malcolm Avenue SE, Minneapolis
Age restriction: 18 and older
Admission: Prices vary
Weather: Rain or shine
First Avenue event information
When: Saturday; doors at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m.
Where: Fine Line, 318 North First Avenue, Minneapolis
Age restriction: 18 and older
Admission: Prices vary
First Avenue event information
When: Saturday; doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Grand Casino Arena, 199 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul
Admission: Prices vary
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Admission: Free
Weather: Subject to cancellation
COMEDY AND NIGHTLIFE
Michael Che records a televised comedy special at First Avenue.
Friday performances: 7 and 9:30 p.m.
Saturday performances: Consult the official ticket calendar for exact availability
Late-show doors: 9 p.m.
Where: First Avenue, 701 North First Avenue, Minneapolis
Age restriction: 21 and older
Identification: Government-issued photo identification required
Seating: Mostly seated general admission
Important: Late arrivals may be denied admission because of filming. Tickets purchased through unauthorized resellers will not be honored.
When: Friday and Saturday; doors at 7:30 p.m., show at 8 p.m.
Where: Laugh Camp at Camp Bar, 490 North Robert Street, Saint Paul
Admission: $29.75, including listed fees
Telephone: 866-687-8525
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 7 and 9:30 p.m.
Where: House of Comedy, Mall of America, 408 East Broadway, Bloomington
Admission: Not specified by the organizer.
When: Sunday; doors at 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m.
Where: House of Comedy, Mall of America, 408 East Broadway, Bloomington
Admission: Not specified by the organizer.
SPORTS
Friday: 7:10 p.m.
Saturday: 1:10 p.m.
Sunday: 1:10 p.m.
Where: Target Field, 1 Twins Way, Minneapolis
Admission: Prices vary by game and seat
Friday promotion: Postgame fireworks and Yacht Rock ticket package
Saturday promotion: SpongeBob ticket package
Sunday promotion: Peanuts-themed programming
Transit: METRO Blue and Green lines serve Target Field.
When: Saturday
Pregame activities: 5 p.m.
Gates: 6 p.m.
Kickoff: 7:30 p.m.
Where: Allianz Field, 400 Snelling Avenue N., Saint Paul
Admission: Prices vary
Transit: The METRO Green Line and A Line serve the stadium area.
Friday: 7:07 p.m.
Saturday: 6:37 p.m.
Sunday: 2:07 p.m.
Where: CHS Field, 360 Broadway Street, Saint Paul
Admission: Prices vary
Telephone: 651-644-3517
When: Saturday
Denver Outlaws vs. California Redwoods: 5 p.m.
Maryland Whipsnakes vs. Boston Cannons: 7:30 p.m.
Where: TCO Stadium, 2685 Vikings Circle, Eagan
Admission: Single-session tickets begin at $35, plus applicable fees
When: Sunday
Site opens: 7:30 a.m.
Opening program: 8:30 a.m.
Race: 9 a.m.
Closing program: 10 a.m.
Where: Harriet Island Regional Park, 200 Dr. Justus Ohage Boulevard, Saint Paul
Registration: Price varies through the registration portal
MARKETS AND SHOPPING
When: Friday, 4 to 8 p.m.
Where: Minnehaha Regional Park, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
Offerings: Local vendors, makers and community programming
When: Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m.
Location: Consult the Minneapolis Parks event listing
Admission: Not specified by the organizer.
When: Sunday, 2 to 7 p.m.
Where: Lake Harriet, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
When: Saturday and Sunday, 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: 312 East Lyndale Avenue N., Minneapolis
Admission: Free
When: Saturday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: 750 South Second Street, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
Telephone: 612-341-7580
When: Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: 2225 East Lake Street, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
Saturday: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Outdoor market: 290 East Fifth Street, Saint Paul
Indoor market: 308 Prince Street, Saint Paul
Free parking: 420 Prince Street, subject to capacity
Admission: Free
MUSEUMS AND LAST-CHANCE EXHIBITIONS
Visitors can see the permanent collection and exhibitions including Take the Picture!, Immigrants and work by Ziba Rajabi.
Where: 2400 Third Avenue S., Minneapolis
General admission: Free
Special exhibitions: Separate admission may apply
Telephone: 888-642-2787
Weekend hours: Confirm through the museum’s daily calendar before traveling.
Sunday is the scheduled closing day for exhibitions featuring Christine Sun Kim and the Sculpture Court presentation. Skyline Mini Golf continues subject to weather and ticket availability.
Where: 725 Vineland Place, Minneapolis
Admission: Varies by exhibition and activity
Accessibility: Accessible entrances and visitor accommodations are available.
TRAVEL AND PLANNING ALERTS
Highway 169 at 109th Avenue in Brooklyn Park is scheduled to close from 8 p.m. Friday until 6 a.m. Saturday. The closure affects the Brooklyn Park and Champlin border area. Drivers should follow posted detours and allow additional travel time.
State Fair traffic will affect Snelling Avenue, Como Avenue, Interstate 94 and surrounding streets. Park-and-ride or regular transit service may be more dependable than attempting to park near the grounds.
Downtown Saint Paul will be busy with KPOP MINNECON, Saints baseball, Grand Casino Arena events and other attractions. Visitors should reserve parking in advance when possible.
Outdoor events may be affected by thunderstorms Saturday and Sunday. Bring water, sun protection and rain gear. Never remain in an exposed field, on the water or beneath an isolated tree during lightning.
Ticketed events may sell out without notice. Listed prices may exclude ticketing, facility, processing or parking fees.
Before leaving home, confirm:
The Twin Cities Weekend Guide helps readers discover meaningful ways to experience Minneapolis, Saint Paul, the North Metro and surrounding communities.
Attend a neighborhood gathering. Support an artist. Meet a farmer. Visit a market. Cheer for a local team. Volunteer in a park. Welcome someone experiencing Minnesota for the first time.
Wherever the weekend takes you, travel safely, respect event workers and fellow guests, and carry Minnesota kindness with you.
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