The Ultimate Guide to Festivals Near You in Minnesota 2025
Welcome to the Land of 10,000 Lakes, where festivals are as abundant as the lakes themselves! Minnesota’s vibrant festival scene offers something for everyone, whether you’re a local searching for “festivals near me” or a visitor eager to explore the state’s rich culture. From the world-famous Minnesota State Fair to charming small-town celebrations like the Lanesboro Rhubarb Festival, this guide covers the best festivals in 2025, complete with dates, locations, and insider tips to make your experience unforgettable.
Our comprehensive guide is designed to help you navigate Minnesota’s diverse events, including music, food, art, cultural, and sports festivals. We’ve organized the content by season and region, included a quick-reference table for easy scanning, and provided practical advice for finding festivals near your location. Whether you’re in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, or a rural community, let’s dive into the heart of Minnesota’s festival culture and plan your next adventure!
Explore Top Festivals NowQuick Look: Top Festivals in Minnesota 2025
Need a quick overview? This table highlights some of Minnesota’s most popular festivals for 2025, perfect for AI-driven search summaries or planning on the go.
| Festival Name | Dates | Location | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota State Fair | August 21 - September 1 | St. Paul | State Fair / Cultural |
| Minneapolis Aquatennial | July 16 - July 19 | Minneapolis | Community / Summer |
| Twin Cities Jazz Festival | June 20 - June 21 | St. Paul | Music |
| Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon | October 4 - October 5 | Minneapolis-St. Paul | Sports / Cultural |
| Grand Marais Arts Festival | July 12 - July 13 | Grand Marais | Art |
| St. Paul Winter Carnival | January 23 - February 2 | St. Paul | Winter / Cultural |
| Hopkins Raspberry Festival | July 12 - July 20 | Hopkins | Community / Food |
| Ely Winter Festival | February 6 - February 16 | Ely | Winter / Art |
| Lanesboro Rhubarb Festival | June 7 | Lanesboro | Food / Community |
| Bayfront Blues Festival | August 8 - August 10 | Duluth | Music |
Summer Festivals in Minnesota
Summer in Minnesota is synonymous with festivals, as the warm weather and long days create the perfect setting for outdoor celebrations. From massive urban events to quaint small-town fairs, here are the top summer festivals to experience in 2025.
Minneapolis Aquatennial
Dates: July 16 - July 19, 2025
Location: Various locations, Minneapolis, MN (Downtown, Lake Calhoun, and Mississippi Riverfront)
Description: The Minneapolis Aquatennial, often called the “Best Days of Summer,” is the city’s official civic celebration, running since 1940. This free festival celebrates Minneapolis’s connection to its lakes and rivers with a mix of parades, fireworks, and water-themed activities. The Torchlight Parade lights up downtown with vibrant floats, while the Fireworks Spectacular over the Mississippi River draws thousands. Families will enjoy canoe races, sandcastle competitions, and local food trucks, while music lovers can catch live performances across multiple stages.
Key Activities:
- Torchlight Parade with colorful floats and marching bands
- Fireworks Spectacular, one of the largest displays in the Midwest
- Aqua Jam water sports, including canoe and kayak races
- Community markets with local artisans and food vendors
- Live music at venues like Lake Harriet Bandshell
Insider Tip: For the best fireworks view, head to the Stone Arch Bridge early to secure a spot. Bring a picnic to enjoy the show.
More Info: Official Minneapolis Aquatennial Website
Twin Cities Jazz Festival
Dates: June 20 - June 21, 2025
Location: Mears Park, St. Paul, MN
Description: The Twin Cities Jazz Festival is a free, two-day celebration of jazz music in the heart of St. Paul’s historic Lowertown district. Featuring world-class artists and local talents, the festival transforms Mears Park into a vibrant music hub. Past lineups have included Grammy winners and jazz legends, and 2025 promises an equally stellar roster. Food trucks, craft vendors, and pop-up concerts in nearby venues add to the festive atmosphere.
Key Activities:
- Main stage performances by international and local jazz artists
- Pop-up concerts at Lowertown bars and restaurants
- Food trucks offering global cuisines
- Jazz workshops and artist meet-and-greets
Insider Tip: Bring a lawn chair or blanket for comfort in Mears Park, and check the festival website in spring for the 2025 lineup.
More Info: Official Twin Cities Jazz Festival Website
Hopkins Raspberry Festival
Dates: July 12 - July 20, 2025
Location: Downtown Hopkins, MN
Description: The Hopkins Raspberry Festival celebrates the city’s history as a raspberry-growing hub with a week of community-focused events. Highlights include the Grande Day Parade, a raspberry recipe contest, live music, and a craft fair. Families will enjoy the kids’ activities, while foodies can indulge in raspberry pies, jams, and smoothies. The festival’s small-town charm makes it a favorite for Twin Cities residents seeking a local escape.
Key Activities:
- Grande Day Parade with floats and community groups
- Raspberry Run 5K and kids’ fun run
- Raspberry recipe contest and tastings
- Craft fair with handmade goods
- Live music and street performances
Insider Tip: Try the raspberry pie at the food stalls—it’s a local legend! Arrive early for the parade to get a good viewing spot.
More Info: Official Hopkins Raspberry Festival Website
Grand Marais Arts Festival
Dates: July 12 - July 13, 2025
Location: Downtown Grand Marais, MN
Description: Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Superior, the Grand Marais Arts Festival is a juried art fair showcasing works by regional artists. From paintings and ceramics to jewelry and photography, the festival highlights the creativity of Minnesota’s North Shore. Live music, artist demonstrations, and local food vendors add to the experience, making it a perfect weekend getaway for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Key Activities:
- Juried art fair with over 70 artists
- Live music by local and regional bands
- Artist talks and hands-on demonstrations
- Food stalls featuring North Shore specialties like smoked fish
Insider Tip: Plan a weekend trip and visit nearby attractions like the Grand Marais Lighthouse or Artist’s Point.
More Info: Official Grand Marais Arts Festival Website
Bayfront Blues Festival
Dates: August 8 - August 10, 2025
Location: Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth, MN
Description: The Bayfront Blues Festival is one of the Midwest’s premier music festivals, drawing blues fans to Duluth’s scenic waterfront. This three-day event features national and regional blues artists performing on multiple stages, with Lake Superior as a stunning backdrop. Food vendors, craft beer tents, and a lively atmosphere make it a summer highlight.
Key Activities:
- Performances by top blues artists (2025 lineup TBD)
- Food vendors offering BBQ, seafood, and local specialties
- Craft beer and wine tents
- Merchandise booths with festival gear
Insider Tip: Book accommodations in Duluth early, as hotels fill up quickly during the festival.
More Info: Official Bayfront Blues Festival Website
Fall Festivals in Minnesota
Fall in Minnesota brings vibrant foliage, crisp air, and a lineup of festivals that celebrate the harvest season and community spirit. Here are the top fall festivals for 2025.
Minnesota State Fair
Dates: August 21 - September 1, 2025
Location: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, 1265 Snelling Ave N, St. Paul, MN
Description: The Minnesota State Fair, known as the “Great Minnesota Get-Together,” is one of the largest state fairs in the U.S., attracting over 2 million visitors annually. This 12-day extravaganza offers a dizzying array of food (from deep-fried pickles to Sweet Martha’s Cookies), grandstand concerts, carnival rides, livestock shows, and educational exhibits. It’s a cultural institution that showcases Minnesota’s agricultural heritage, culinary creativity, and community pride.
Key Activities:
- Grandstand concerts featuring top artists (2025 lineup TBD)
- Food stalls with unique offerings like cheese curds and Pronto Pups
- Livestock shows and 4-H competitions
- Midway rides and games for all ages
- Daily parades and street performers
Insider Tip: Purchase a Blue Ribbon Bargain Book for discounts, and visit early in the morning to avoid peak crowds.
More Info: Official Minnesota State Fair Website
Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon
Dates: October 4 - October 5, 2025
Location: Minneapolis to St. Paul, MN
Description: The Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon, dubbed the “Most Beautiful Urban Marathon in America,” is a fall highlight that combines athleticism with festival fun. The weekend includes a marathon, 10K, 5K, and family races, along with a health and fitness expo. Spectators can enjoy live music, food vendors, and cheering stations along the scenic route from Minneapolis to the Minnesota State Capitol. The fall foliage adds a vibrant backdrop to this community-driven event.
Key Activities:
- Marathon, 10K, 5K, and family races
- Health and fitness expo with vendor booths
- Live music and entertainment along the race route
- Post-race festival with food and activities
Insider Tip: Spectators should head to Lake Harriet or the St. Paul Cathedral for prime viewing spots.
More Info: Official Twin Cities Marathon Website
Stillwater Harvest Fest
Dates: October 11 - October 12, 2025
Location: Downtown Stillwater, MN
Description: Stillwater Harvest Fest is a quintessential fall festival in the historic town of Stillwater, set along the scenic St. Croix River. The event celebrates the harvest season with giant pumpkin weigh-offs (some pumpkins exceed 1,000 pounds!), a chili cook-off, craft beer tastings, and live music. Families will enjoy kids’ activities like pumpkin painting and hayrides, while foodies can sample local flavors.
Key Activities:
- Giant pumpkin weigh-off competition
- Chili cook-off and public tastings
- Craft beer and wine tastings
- Live music and kids’ activities
Insider Tip: Arrive early for the pumpkin weigh-off, as seating is limited. Explore Stillwater’s charming downtown shops after the festival.
More Info: Official Stillwater Harvest Fest Website
Winter and Spring Festivals in Minnesota
While summer and fall dominate Minnesota’s festival calendar, winter and spring offer unique events that embrace the state’s snowy landscapes and emerging warmth. Here are the top festivals to explore in early 2025.
St. Paul Winter Carnival
Dates: January 23 - February 2, 2025
Location: Downtown St. Paul and Rice Park, MN
Description: The St. Paul Winter Carnival, dating back to 1886, is one of the oldest winter festivals in the U.S. This celebration of Minnesota’s winter spirit features snow and ice sculptures, a grand parade, and the crowning of the Winter Carnival royalty. Held in Rice Park and surrounding areas, the festival includes live music, ice skating, and hot cocoa stations to keep visitors warm. The Vulcan Snow Park, with its snow slides and sculptures, is a highlight for families.
Key Activities:
- Snow sculpture competition with intricate designs
- Grand Day Parade through downtown St. Paul
- Ice skating and winter games
- Vulcan Snow Park with snow slides and activities
Insider Tip: Dress in layers and bring hand warmers to enjoy the outdoor events comfortably.
More Info: Official St. Paul Winter Carnival Website
Ely Winter Festival
Dates: February 6 - February 16, 2025
Location: Whiteside Park, Ely, MN
Description: The Ely Winter Festival, set in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, celebrates northern Minnesota’s rugged beauty. The festival features the Snow Sculpture Symposium, where artists create stunning works from snow, along with dog sled rides, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Local vendors offer crafts and food, making it a perfect winter escape for adventurers and art lovers.
Key Activities:
- Snow Sculpture Symposium with professional artists
- Dog sled rides and demonstrations
- Winter market with local crafts and food
- Guided snowshoe and ski tours
Insider Tip: Book accommodations early, as Ely’s lodging options are limited. Bring snow boots for easy exploration.
More Info: Official Ely Winter Festival Website
Lanesboro Rhubarb Festival
Dates: June 7, 2025
Location: Sylvan Park, Lanesboro, MN
Description: The Lanesboro Rhubarb Festival is a quirky, one-day celebration of the tart vegetable in the charming town of Lanesboro. Attendees can enjoy rhubarb pies, jams, smoothies, and even rhubarb wine, alongside live music, games, and a rhubarb recipe contest. The Rhubarb Olympics, with events like rhubarb tossing, add a playful twist. This small-town festival is ideal for foodies and families seeking a unique experience.
Key Activities:
- Rhubarb recipe contest and tastings
- Rhubarb Olympics with fun games
- Live music and street performances
- Local craft and food vendors
Insider Tip: Sample the rhubarb wine for a memorable souvenir, and explore Lanesboro’s bike trails after the festival.
More Info: Official Lanesboro Rhubarb Festival Website
How to Find Festivals Near You in Minnesota
Searching for “festivals near me” in Minnesota? Whether you’re in the Twin Cities, Duluth, or a rural town, these tips will help you locate the best events near your location:
- Use Map Apps and Event Platforms: Apps like Google Maps, Eventbrite, or Meetup allow you to filter events by location and date. Enter “festivals” and your city (e.g., Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, or Rochester) to find nearby events instantly.
- Explore Major Cities and Regions: The Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area hosts major festivals like the Minnesota State Fair and Minneapolis Aquatennial. Duluth offers events like the Bayfront Blues Festival, while the North Shore (Grand Marais, Two Harbors) features scenic festivals like the Grand Marais Arts Festival.
- Check Local Tourism Websites: Visit Explore Minnesota for a comprehensive calendar of events, sorted by region and season. Local chamber of commerce websites also list community events.
- Leverage Social Media: Follow local event pages on platforms like X or Facebook for real-time updates. Search hashtags like #MinnesotaFestivals, #TwinCitiesEvents, or #DuluthEvents to discover trending festivals.
- Use This Guide: Our curated list above covers festivals across Minnesota, with links to official websites for the latest details on dates, locations, and tickets.
Regional Highlights:
- Minneapolis-St. Paul Metro: Major events include the Minnesota State Fair, Minneapolis Aquatennial, and Twin Cities Jazz Festival. Neighborhood festivals like Uptown Art Fair (July 2025, dates TBD) add local flavor.
- Duluth and North Shore: Festivals like the Bayfront Blues Festival and Grand Marais Arts Festival combine music and art with stunning Lake Superior views.
- Southern Minnesota: Lanesboro’s Rhubarb Festival and Rochesterfest (June 2025, dates TBD) offer small-town charm and unique experiences.
- Central Minnesota: Events like the St. Cloud Art Crawl (dates TBD) and Little Falls Arts & Crafts Fair (September 2025, dates TBD) showcase regional creativity.
By combining these tools with our guide, you can easily find festivals near your location and plan a memorable visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest festival in Minnesota?
The Minnesota State Fair is the largest festival in Minnesota, attracting over 2 million visitors annually. Held from August 21 to September 1, 2025, in St. Paul, it features extensive food offerings, live entertainment, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibits, making it a cultural cornerstone of the state.
Are there any free festivals in Minneapolis?
Yes, the Minneapolis Aquatennial (July 16-19, 2025) is a free festival featuring parades, fireworks, and community events. Other free events include the Twin Cities Jazz Festival in St. Paul and neighborhood art fairs like the Powderhorn Art Fair (August 2025, dates TBD).
What's the best time of year for festivals in Minnesota?
Summer (June to August) is the peak season for festivals in Minnesota, with events like the Minnesota State Fair, Minneapolis Aquatennial, and Bayfront Blues Festival. Fall (September to October) offers vibrant events like the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon, while winter brings unique festivals like the St. Paul Winter Carnival.
How can I find festivals near my location in Minnesota?
Use map apps like Google Maps or Eventbrite to filter events by location, check local tourism sites like Explore Minnesota, or refer to this guide for a curated list of festivals with detailed location information. Social media platforms like X can also provide real-time updates on local events.
What types of festivals are popular in Minnesota?
Minnesota’s festivals cover a wide range, including music (e.g., Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Bayfront Blues Festival), food (e.g., Hopkins Raspberry Festival, Lanesboro Rhubarb Festival), art (e.g., Grand Marais Arts Festival), cultural (e.g., Minnesota State Fair), and sports (e.g., Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon). There’s something for every interest and age group.
Are Minnesota festivals family-friendly?
Many Minnesota festivals are family-friendly, offering kids’ activities, games, and safe environments. The Minneapolis Aquatennial, Hopkins Raspberry Festival, and Minnesota State Fair include dedicated family zones with rides, crafts, and entertainment suitable for all ages.
Conclusion
Minnesota’s festival scene is a vibrant reflection of its diverse communities, rich history, and love for celebration. From the bustling Minnesota State Fair to the serene Grand Marais Arts Festival, there’s a festival for every taste and season. Whether you’re dancing to jazz in St. Paul, savoring rhubarb pie in Lanesboro, or marveling at snow sculptures in Ely, these events offer unforgettable experiences. Use this guide to find festivals near you, plan your visit, and immerse yourself in the Land of 10,000 Lakes’ cultural tapestry. Share your favorite festival moments on social media with #MinnesotaFestivals, and start your adventure today!
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