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TWIN CITIES, MN (October 11, 2026).
The second weekend of October reaches its final day with plenty still happening across the Twin Cities. From the riverfront in Stillwater to neighborhood streets in Minneapolis, from Brooklyn Park's corn maze to the historic Highland Park Water Tower in Saint Paul, residents and visitors have a wide selection of ways to spend Sunday.
Indigenous People's Weekend continues at Battle Creek Regional Park ahead of Monday's Indigenous Peoples Day observance. Downtown Stillwater welcomes another day of giant-pumpkin festivities, while Open Streets Hennepin Avenue invites people to experience a busy Minneapolis corridor without its usual traffic.
Sunday also brings museums, live theater, farmers markets, orchards, autumn festivals and family activities. For residents of the North Metro, Brooklyn Park, Blaine, Ham Lake, Andover and neighboring communities offer alternatives to traveling into the central cities.
This Sunday-only edition of This Weekend in the Twin Cities™ removes activities that ended Friday or Saturday, retains continuing attractions and adds Sunday-specific opportunities identified through regional event calendars.
All times are Central Daylight Time. Admission prices and event schedules are subject to change. Where a public telephone number, email address or accessibility arrangement could not be reliably established, readers are directed to the organizer rather than given unverified information.
When: Sunday, October 11. Confirm individual activity times.
Where: Battle Creek Regional Park and Recreation Center, 2076 Upper Afton Road, Saint Paul, MN 55119.
Admission: Confirm whether individual activities require registration or payment.
This Native-led gathering combines basketball, community engagement, cultural activities and food. Advertised programming includes youth skills activities, three-on-three and five-on-five basketball, an MMIW/R awareness game, an art expo, a vendor market and public-health activities.
The Native American Food Truck Festival is also part of this year's celebration.
Accessibility: Contact organizers regarding accessible viewing areas, restrooms and event-specific accommodations.
Phone/email: Event-specific public contact not independently confirmed.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Where: Lowell Park, 101 Water Street South, Stillwater, MN 55082.
Admission: Free general admission; food and selected attractions may cost extra.
Stillwater's popular autumn celebration continues with enormous pumpkins, live entertainment, vendors and the highly anticipated pumpkin regatta. The event draws substantial crowds to the St. Croix River waterfront.
Sunday's advertised musical performances include Marv & Kaat from 10 a.m. to noon, PK Mayo Band from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. and Joe Cruz & Scenic Roots from 3 to 5 p.m.
Accessibility: Riverfront paths and festival viewing areas may vary. Contact organizers for specific accommodations.
Email: stillwaterharvestfest@gmail.com
Website: https://www.harvestfeststillwater.com
Visitor advice: Expect significant parking demand. Check the organizer's schedule for the regatta and any weather-related adjustments.
When: Sunday, beginning at 11 a.m.; confirm closing time.
Where: Hennepin Avenue between West 26th and West 36th streets, Minneapolis.
Admission: Free.
Open Streets transforms part of Hennepin Avenue into a community gathering space where residents can walk, cycle, meet neighborhood organizations and enjoy a different experience of the street.
Accessibility: Street-level access is generally available, but individual activity areas and temporary facilities may differ.
Information: https://www.citypulsemn.com
Visitor advice: Expect traffic restrictions. Public transportation, walking or cycling may be more convenient than driving directly to the corridor.
When: Sunday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: Snelling Avenue and Ford Parkway, Saint Paul, MN.
Admission: Free.
Visitors have a rare opportunity to climb the 151-step spiral staircase inside Saint Paul's historic Highland Park Water Tower. Designed by architect Clarence Wigington, the landmark offers views across the surrounding neighborhood and Mississippi River landscape.
Accessibility: The observation experience requires climbing 151 steps and is not suitable for visitors unable to manage stairs.
Website: https://www.stpaul.gov
Visitor advice: Allow time for lines and avoid the climb if stairs present a medical or mobility concern.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: West side of Bde Maka Ska, near 3700 Thomas Avenue South, Minneapolis.
Admission: Free.
Artists and makers gather near the lake to display and sell original work. The outdoor setting offers an opportunity to combine art browsing with a lakeside walk.
Accessibility: Outdoor pathways and temporary vendor areas may vary.
Information: https://www.citypulsemn.com
Visitor advice: Dress for the weather and allow additional time for parking.
When: Sunday, beginning at 10 a.m.; confirm closing time.
Where: Community Park, Savage, MN.
Admission: Listed as free.
A community art gathering featuring local creativity and opportunities to browse artwork.
Accessibility: Contact the organizer about paths, parking and vendor access.
Information: https://www.citypulsemn.com
Phone/email: Not independently established.
When: Sunday, approximately 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Where: 8901 101st Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445.
Admission: Previously advertised around $20; confirm current rates and age-based pricing.
One of the Northwest Metro's major fall attractions offers a corn maze, petting zoo, inflatables, train rides, magic shows, straw-bale maze and children's play areas.
Phone: 952-992-9326.
Accessibility: Farm surfaces may be uneven, especially after wet weather.
Visitor advice: Food, animal feed and selected attractions may cost extra.
When: Sunday; individual game times vary.
Where: National Sports Center, 1750 105th Avenue NE, Blaine, MN 55449.
Admission: Free for spectators.
The National Gay Flag Football League championship tournament concludes its weekend of competition, bringing teams and supporters from across the country to Blaine.
Email: outreach@ngffl.org
Website: https://ngffl.org/gaybowl
Accessibility: Contact the tournament or National Sports Center about field access.
Visitor advice: Consult the tournament schedule for field assignments and championship game times.
When: Sunday, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Where: Animal Humane Society, Coon Rapids. Confirm the precise program entrance with the organization.
Admission: Registration requirements should be confirmed.
This children's reading activity is listed on the Northwest Metro family calendar. Families should verify age eligibility, available spaces and participation arrangements before visiting.
Website: https://www.animalhumanesociety.org
Accessibility: Contact the organization for accommodations.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Where: Anoka County Farms, Ham Lake, MN.
Admission: Check current farm admission and attraction prices.
The seasonal pumpkin festival offers a North Metro farm outing for families interested in pumpkins and autumn activities.
Accessibility: Expect outdoor farm terrain.
Information: https://www.familyfuntwincities.com/family-fun-events-calendar/
Visitor advice: Confirm the farm's address, activity availability and weather policy before leaving home.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Where: Eveland Family Farm, Andover, MN.
Admission: Confirm directly with the farm.
The farm's Sunday opening provides another North Metro opportunity to enjoy the harvest season.
Accessibility: Agricultural terrain may be uneven.
Information: https://www.familyfuntwincities.com/twin-cities-northwest-metro-family-calendar/
Visitor advice: Check which activities are included in admission.
When: Sunday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Where: Dehn's Pumpkin Patch, Dayton, MN.
Admission: Confirm admission and activity charges.
Families can visit the pumpkin patch for a seasonal outing outside the central cities.
Accessibility: Outdoor field conditions may present mobility challenges.
Information: https://www.familyfuntwincities.com/twin-cities-northwest-metro-family-calendar/
When: Sunday, approximately 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Where: 3121 150th Street West, Shakopee, MN 55379.
Admission: Ticketed; check current prices.
Sever's offers corn mazes, animal encounters, play areas, entertainment and seasonal food.
Website: https://www.seversfestivals.com
Accessibility: Contact the festival about accessible routes and outdoor terrain.
Visitor advice: Some food and attractions may cost extra.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Where: Afton Apple Orchard, 14421 90th Street South, Hastings, MN.
Admission: A regional calendar lists approximately $7; verify current rates.
Visitors can enjoy apple-season activities, a large corn maze, games and seasonal entertainment.
Website: https://www.aftonapple.com
Accessibility: Orchard fields and pathways may be uneven.
Visitor advice: Apple-picking availability depends on crop conditions.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center, 12805 St. Croix Trail South, Hastings, MN.
Admission: Free general admission; purchases and selected activities may cost extra.
The annual Apple Festival features apple picking, cider-making demonstrations, live music, live-animal programs, children's activities, seasonal food and hayrides when conditions permit.
Website: https://carpenternaturecenter.org
Accessibility: Contact the nature center about trail conditions and accommodations.
Visitor advice: The event is advertised as taking place rain or shine.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; individual activities may have shorter schedules.
Where: Minneapolis Institute of Art, 2400 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55404.
Admission: Free.
Family activities inspired by the museum's fashion programming include opportunities to explore creative design and a children's fashion show involving Lovely's Sewing Collective.
Phone: 888-642-2787.
Website: https://new.artsmia.org
Accessibility: Contact the museum about accessible facilities and activity accommodations.
Visitor advice: Confirm individual program times and capacity.
When: Sunday, 1–3:30 p.m.
Where: Minnesota History Center, 345 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, MN 55102.
Admission: Confirm museum admission or event-registration requirements.
The program explores hip-hop's cultural history and influence in the Twin Cities.
Phone: 651-259-3000.
Website: https://www.mnhs.org/historycenter
Accessibility: Contact the History Center for program-specific accommodations.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; early-bird entry begins at 9 a.m.
Where: North End Event Center, Minnesota State Fairgrounds, Saint Paul, MN.
Admission: Cash: adults $10, children ages 5–10 $5, children 4 and younger free. Card: adults $12, children ages 5–10 $5.
The show features reptiles, exotic animals, equipment, supplies and vendors.
Website: https://coldbloodedexpos.com
Accessibility: Contact organizers for entrance and accommodation information.
Visitor advice: Parents should supervise children and follow vendor instructions around animals.
When: Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Where: Grandstand, Minnesota State Fairgrounds, 1265 Snelling Avenue North, Saint Paul, MN.
Admission: Advertised at $15 for adults, covering both days; children ages 9 and younger free.
Comic-book creators, artists, collectors and vendors gather for a weekend featuring more than 300 tables, panels, activities and collectibles.
Website: https://www.mncba.org
Accessibility: Contact organizers about accessible entrances and facilities.
When: Sunday; aquarium listing begins at 10 a.m. Confirm demonstration time.
Where: SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, Mall of America, Bloomington, MN.
Admission: Listed as included with aquarium admission.
The aquarium's seasonal programming features underwater pumpkin carving, combining a Halloween theme with a marine-life visit.
Website: https://www.visitsealife.com/minnesota/
Accessibility: Contact the aquarium for specific visitor accommodations.
Visitor advice: Confirm the demonstration time before purchasing admission.
When: Sunday, 2 p.m.
Where: Children's Theatre Company, Minneapolis, MN.
Admission: Ticketed; earlier published prices began around $25.
This performance is designed to offer a more accommodating theater environment for audience members with sensory needs.
Website: https://childrenstheatre.org
Accessibility: Ask about sound and lighting adjustments, movement policies and quiet spaces.
When: Sunday, 7 p.m.
Where: State Theatre, Minneapolis, MN.
Admission: Ticketed; previously advertised prices approximately 45–120.
A production of the classical ballet accompanied by live orchestral music.
Website: https://hennepinarts.org
Accessibility: Accessible seating should be arranged through the ticketing service.
When: Sunday; confirm performance time.
Where: Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403.
Admission: Ticketed.
The Minnesota Orchestra performs John Williams' score alongside a screening of Return of the Jedi.
Phone: 612-371-5656.
Website: https://www.minnesotaorchestra.org
Accessibility: Accessible seating and assisted-listening information are available through visitor services.
When: Sunday, 1 p.m. according to the regional event calendar.
Where: State Theatre, Minneapolis, MN. Confirm the theater and performance on the ticketing page, as earlier weekend listings identified a different venue.
Admission: Ticketed; a regional listing advertises 39–150.
A touring stage comedy inspired by the familiar mystery story and board game.
Website: https://hennepinarts.org
Accessibility: Check accessible seating through the official ticketing service.
When: Sunday; confirm curtain time.
Where: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, 345 Washington Street, Saint Paul, MN 55102.
Admission: Ticketed; previously advertised starting prices around $45.
The musical production inspired by the film concludes its scheduled engagement.
Phone: 651-224-4222.
Website: https://ordway.org
Accessibility: Accessible seating can be arranged through the venue.
When: Sunday, 6 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: 312 East Lyndale Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN.
Admission: Free entry.
A longstanding destination for seasonal produce, plants, flowers and locally produced foods.
Website: https://www.mplsfarmersmarket.com
Accessibility: Market aisles and outdoor surfaces may vary.
When: Sunday, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: 290 East Fifth Street, Saint Paul, MN.
Admission: Free entry.
Local growers and producers offer seasonal fruits, vegetables, food products and other market goods.
Website: https://stpaulfarmersmarket.com
Accessibility: Contact market management about accessible entrances and parking.
When: Sunday, 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: 4055 Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis, MN.
Admission: Free entry.
The neighborhood market brings together growers, food producers and other local vendors.
Visitor advice: Vendor selection changes weekly.
Information: https://twincitiesfamily.com/calendar/2026-10-11/
When: Sunday, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: Settergren's of Linden Hills, West 43rd Street, Minneapolis, MN.
Admission: Free entry.
The market features local growers, makers, food vendors and musicians.
Information: https://twincitiesfamily.com/calendar/2026-10-11/
When: Sunday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: Riverplace, 1 SE Main Street, Minneapolis, MN.
Admission: Free entry.
An outdoor market featuring vintage goods, flowers, artists and makers in the historic Saint Anthony Main neighborhood.
Accessibility: Plaza access and vendor arrangements may vary.
Information: https://twincitiesfamily.com/calendar/2026-10-11/
Visitors looking for more choices can consider the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, the Minnesota Zoo's seasonal Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in Apple Valley, Valleyfair's Tricks and Treats in Shakopee, and fall chairlift rides at Hyland Hills in Bloomington.
The regional calendar also identifies Sunday concerts by MUNA with Hemlocke Springs at the Palace Theatre, Karina Rykman at 7th St Entry, Mike Dawes at Dakota and Sawyer Hill at Fine Line. Individual showtimes, ticket availability and age restrictions should be confirmed through the venues.
These are additional options rather than fully verified listings. Readers should not travel to a particular performance or attraction without checking the official schedule.
Best free experiences: Stillwater Harvest Fest, Open Streets Hennepin Avenue, Highland Park Water Tower, the City of Lakes Art Fair, Carpenter Nature Center Apple Festival and the farmers markets.
Best North Metro options: Twin Cities Harvest Festival & Maze in Brooklyn Park, Gay Bowl XXVI in Blaine, Anoka County Farms in Ham Lake, Eveland Family Farm in Andover and Dehn's Pumpkins in Dayton.
Best indoor activities: Minneapolis Institute of Art Family Day, Minnesota History Center, Cold Blooded Expos Reptile Show, FallCon and the day's theater performances.
Accessibility: Visitors should be particularly cautious about the Highland Park Water Tower's 151 steps, uneven orchard terrain, corn mazes, temporary festival surfaces and long walking distances. Families needing sensory accommodations should contact the Children's Theatre Company about its designated Pinocchio performance.
Weather: Outdoor events can be affected by rain, wind, wet ground or changing temperatures. Check event announcements before departure. No real-time cancellation or weather-clearance guarantee is implied by inclusion in this directory.
Parking and traffic: Stillwater's downtown riverfront, the Minnesota State Fairgrounds and Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis may experience substantial traffic or parking restrictions. Allow extra travel time.
Tickets: Prices listed are published or previously advertised rates, not live ticket quotes. Ticketed events may sell out or change prices.
The final day of the weekend is far from an afterthought. Sunday offers a chance to experience Indigenous cultural programming, support neighborhood markets, enjoy Minnesota's autumn harvest, explore historic landmarks and spend time with family and friends.
For visitors watching their budgets, free festivals, markets, art events and public attractions provide strong choices. For those looking for a more elaborate outing, the region's theaters, museums, orchards and seasonal attractions offer options well into the evening.
This Weekend in the Twin Cities™ is designed to help residents and visitors discover those opportunities, compare practical details and support the organizations and communities that make the region a place worth exploring.
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