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8-30-2026 3:56am
MINNEAPOLIMEDIA WEEKEND GUIDE | What Remains This Sunday: State Fair, Festivals, Theater, Music, Sports and Community Events
Tom Akaolisa
Editor
From Indigenous Peoples Day at the Minnesota State Fair and the Renaissance Festival to a free Guthrie open house, markets, sports, music, theater, museums and volunteer opportunities, here is MinneapoliMedia’s updated verified guide to Sunday, August 30.
MINNEAPOLIS, MN (August 30, 2026) The final day of the weekend brings another full calendar across Minneapolis, Saint Paul and the surrounding Twin Cities region as the Minnesota State Fair enters its fourth day.
Sunday’s largest gathering is Indigenous Peoples Day at the State Fair, where cultural programming will share Indigenous language, art, food and relationships. Sierra Ferrell and Tanya Tucker headline the Grandstand, while Margo Price performs on a free fair stage.
Beyond the fairgrounds, the Minnesota Renaissance Festival continues its Highland Fling weekend. The Guthrie Theater marks 20 years in its Mississippi River building with a free open house, and the Twin Cities Miles for Melanoma 5K brings runners, walkers and supporters to Harriet Island.
The Minnesota Twins and Saint Paul Saints complete the weekend home series. Minneapolis parks offer a nature storytime, invasive-species removal, a Lake Harriet market and two free concerts. KPOP MINNECON continues at Saint Paul RiverCentre, while museums, historical tours, theater and comedy round out the day.
This is the Sunday edition of MinneapoliMedia’s August 28 through August 30 Weekend Guide. Every expired Friday and Saturday listing has been removed. Continuing events have been updated for their remaining Sunday hours.
Schedules, weather and ticket availability can change. Readers should consult the linked organizer before traveling.
SUNDAY WEATHER
Sunday will be warm and humid, with intermittent clouds and temperatures rising from the upper 60s in the morning to the middle or upper 80s late in the afternoon.
An isolated afternoon thunderstorm is possible, particularly around 3 p.m. Visitors attending outdoor activities should carry water, use sun protection and monitor weather alerts.
Outdoor programming may pause, move or be canceled if lightning develops. Move into a substantial building or enclosed vehicle when thunder is heard.
SUNDAY AT A GLANCE
- Minneapolis Farmers Market, 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Minnesota State Fair, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Miles for Melanoma site opens, 7:30 a.m.; race at 9 a.m.
- Saint Paul Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Minnesota Renaissance Festival Highland Fling, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Garden Storytime, 10 to 10:30 a.m.
- Minnehaha Regional Park Buckthorn Removal, 10 a.m. to noon
- KPOP MINNECON, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Summit Avenue Walking Tour, 10:15 a.m.
- Guthrie Theater Open House, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Minnesota Twins vs. Chicago White Sox, 1:10 p.m.
- Matty and the Subtle Validation, 2 p.m.
- Saint Paul Saints vs. Toledo Mud Hens, 2:07 p.m.
- Lake Harriet Park Market, afternoon through early evening
- Nooks and Crannies State Capitol Tour, 3:15 p.m.
- Pickup Truck Opera, 5 p.m.
- The Long Honeymoon, 5:30 p.m.
- Sierra Ferrell with Tanya Tucker, 7 p.m.
- Brickhaus Comedy Drag Review, 7 p.m.
- Margo Price, 8:30 p.m.
THE MINNESOTA STATE FAIR
Minnesota State Fair: Indigenous Peoples Day
The Great Minnesota Get-Together enters Day Four with livestock, agriculture, creative competitions, food, rides, shopping, demonstrations and entertainment across its 322-acre fairgrounds.
Sunday is Indigenous Peoples Day at Dan Patch Park. Programming celebrates Indigenous peoples’ relationships to place and nature through language, culture, food and art under the theme Mitákuye Owás’iŋ, meaning “All My Relations.”
The Grandstand presents Sierra Ferrell: Heavy Petal Tour with special guest Tanya Tucker, The Current’s Music-On-A-Stick show, at 7 p.m.
Margo Price performs free at the Luther Auto Bandshell at 8:30 p.m. Other performances, demonstrations, competitions and family activities take place throughout the day.
When: Sunday, 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.; closing time may vary
Kidway: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; closing time may vary
Where: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, 1265 Snelling Avenue N., Falcon Heights
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.
Grandstand admission is separate from fair admission. Visitors should use the official schedule or State Fair app to confirm individual performance locations and times.
Sunday State Fair schedule
Sierra Ferrell and Tanya Tucker
Accessibility guide
Record Crowds During First Two Days
The fair established attendance records on both Thursday and Friday.
Opening-day attendance reached 155,185, surpassing the previous Thursday record of 138,875. Friday drew 204,065 visitors, exceeding the former first-Friday record of 171,233.
Combined attendance for the opening two days reached 359,250. Large Sunday crowds should be expected, particularly during the afternoon and before the evening concerts.
State Fair Transportation
Metro Transit State Fair Express buses operate from free park-and-ride locations in Maple Grove, Blaine, Maplewood, Minnetonka, Bloomington and Cottage 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
Accessibility: Express buses are wheelchair accessible.
The METRO A Line serves the fairgrounds along Snelling Avenue. Minnesota Valley Transit Authority provides service from Eagan, Burnsville and Shakopee. SouthWest Transit serves Eden Prairie, Chanhassen, Chaska and Carver.
State Fair Express information
FESTIVALS AND POPULAR CULTURE
Minnesota Renaissance Festival Highland Fling
The Highland Fling celebrates Scottish heritage through music, dancing, athletic competitions, food, artisans, demonstrations and costumed entertainment.
When: Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Weather: Rain or shine, although severe weather may affect individual activities
Where: 12364 Chestnut Boulevard, Shakopee
Admission: Adults, $29.95; seniors, $27.95; children, $19.95; children 4 and younger, free
Parking: A pass is required. On-site parking costs $15 in advance or $30 on the day, subject to availability.
Park-and-ride: $6 round trip
Telephone: 952-445-7361
Minnesota Renaissance Festival
KPOP MINNECON
The convention’s final day brings K-pop performances, fan programming, vendors and activities to downtown Saint Paul.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Saint Paul RiverCentre, 175 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul
One-day admission: Adults from $30 plus fees; children 11 and younger from $25 plus fees
Telephone: 651-265-4800
Parking: RiverCentre ramp and surrounding downtown facilities
FAMILY, NATURE AND VOLUNTEERING
Garden Storytime
A naturalist presents a short nature-centered story program for children and families.
When: Sunday, 10 to 10:30 a.m.
Where: Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden, Theodore Wirth Park, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
Minnehaha Regional Park Buckthorn Removal
Volunteers assist with removing invasive buckthorn and restoring native habitat.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Minnehaha Regional Park, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
Registration: Consult the organizer
What to bring: Work gloves, closed-toe footwear, water and suitable clothing
Minneapolis Parks Sunday calendar
THEATER AND OPEN HOUSES
Guthrie Theater Open House: 20 Years on the River
The Guthrie celebrates two decades in its Mississippi River 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 other accommodations are available.
Pickup Truck Opera
Mixed Precipitation presents an outdoor production using a mobile stage in a public garden 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 are scheduled.
HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURE
Summit Avenue Walking Tour
The 90-minute tour examines Saint Paul’s architecture, social history and preservation questions along a 1.5-mile route.
When: Sunday, 10:15 a.m.
Starting point: James J. Hill House, 240 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul
Admission: Confirm through the Minnesota Historical Society
Accessibility: Cobblestone streets and historic curbs may create difficulties.
Nooks and Crannies Tour
The guided experience explores architectural details and portions of the State Capitol not normally included in a standard visit.
When: Sunday, 3:15 p.m.
Length: 90 minutes
Where: Minnesota State Capitol, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Saint Paul
Admission: Confirm through the Minnesota Historical Society
Reservation: Recommended because capacity is limited
FREE MUSIC
Minneapolis Music in the Parks
Two free performances remain Sunday at the Lake Harriet Bandshell.
- Matty and the Subtle Validation, folk, 2 p.m.
- The Long Honeymoon, rock, 5:30 p.m.
Where: Lake Harriet Bandshell, 4135 West Lake Harriet Parkway, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
Weather: Performances may be delayed or canceled during severe weather.
COMEDY AND NIGHTLIFE
Brickhaus Comedy Drag Review
When: Sunday; doors at 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m.
Where: House of Comedy, Mall of America, 408 East Broadway, Bloomington
Admission: Confirm through the venue
Parking: Mall of America parking is free, subject to availability.
SPORTS AND FUNDRAISING
Twin Cities Miles for Melanoma 5K
The run and walk raise awareness and support for melanoma research, education, advocacy and patient programs.
Site opens: 7:30 a.m.
Opening program: 8:30 a.m.
Race: 9 a.m.
Closing activities: Continue through approximately 11 a.m.
Where: Harriet Island Regional Park, 49 Harriet Island Road, Saint Paul
Registration: Consult the portal for same-day availability and price
Minnesota Twins vs. Chicago White Sox
When: Sunday, 1:10 p.m.
Where: Target Field, 1 Twins Way, Minneapolis
Admission: Prices vary by seat
Promotion: Peanuts-themed programming
Transit: METRO Blue and Green lines serve Target Field.
Saint Paul Saints vs. Toledo Mud Hens
When: Sunday, 2:07 p.m.
Where: CHS Field, 360 Broadway Street, Saint Paul
Admission: Prices vary
Telephone: 651-644-3517
MARKETS AND SHOPPING
Minneapolis Farmers Market
When: Sunday, 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: 312 East Lyndale Avenue N., Minneapolis
Admission: Free
Saint Paul Farmers Market
When: 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
Lake Harriet Park Market
Local makers and vendors gather near the bandshell alongside Sunday’s free concerts.
When: Sunday afternoon through early evening; confirm exact hours before traveling
Where: Lake Harriet Bandshell area, 4135 West Lake Harriet Parkway, Minneapolis
Admission: Free
MUSEUMS AND LAST-CHANCE EXHIBITIONS
Minneapolis Institute of Art
Visitors can explore 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
Sunday hours: Confirm through the museum’s calendar.
Walker Art Center
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
Southbound Highway 65 Closed at County Road 10
Southbound Highway 65 remains fully closed at County Road 10/Mounds View Boulevard in Spring Lake Park while crews replace a bridge girder damaged by an oversized load.
The highway is scheduled to reopen by 5 a.m. Monday, weather and construction progress permitting.
The signed detour travels west on County Road 10, south on Highway 47/University Avenue, east on Interstate 694 and north on Highway 65.
The loop ramp from westbound County Road 10 to southbound Highway 65 is also closed. The ramp from southbound Highway 65 to westbound County Road 10 remains open.
Mississippi Street Has Reopened
Mississippi Street, or County Highway 6, reopened Friday between East River Road and University Avenue following summer reconstruction.
Drivers may encounter minor finishing or restoration work, but the extended full closure has ended.
Anoka County construction update
New Blaine Turn-Lane Closure Begins Monday
Beginning Monday, the turn lane from southbound Highway 65 to westbound 113th Avenue will close while crews construct a pedestrian and bicycle bridge between 113th and 114th avenues.
Southbound Highway 65 itself will remain open at 113th Avenue. Drivers may use 117th Avenue and Ulysses Street or 109th Avenue and Ulysses Street to reach 113th Avenue. The turn lane is expected to reopen in early November.
State Fair and Downtown Saint Paul Traffic
State Fair traffic will affect Snelling Avenue, Como Avenue, Lexington Parkway, University Avenue and Interstate 94. On-site parking can fill early.
Continuing downtown Saint Paul restrictions include portions of Jackson Street, Kellogg Boulevard, Shepard Road, John Ireland Bridge and Lafayette Road. KPOP MINNECON, Saints baseball and Miles for Melanoma will add parking demand.
Before Leaving Home
Confirm:
- Exact start time
- Ticket or registration availability
- Weather-related changes
- Parking, transit and detour arrangements
- Age, identification, bag and security requirements
- Accessibility accommodations
- Refund or cancellation terms
STAY CONNECTED TO MINNEAPOLIMEDIA
The Twin Cities Weekend Guide helps readers discover meaningful ways to experience Minneapolis, Saint Paul, the North Metro and surrounding communities.
Visit the State Fair. Support an artist. Meet a farmer. Cheer for a local team. Volunteer in a park. Learn something new. Welcome someone experiencing Minnesota for the first time.
Wherever Sunday takes you, travel safely, respect event workers and fellow guests, prepare for heat and changing weather, and carry Minnesota kindness with you.
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