Must-See Events in Minnesota

This May event is a unique opportunity to see rehabilitated raptors being released into the wild. Organized by the State's University Raptor Center at Hyland Park, it offers much more than the raptor release, with educational activities for the kids and music featuring too. You'll also get the rare chance to get up close with live hawks, eagles, falcons, and owls.

Be wowed by dazzling artistic creations at this vibrant cultural event which takes place in the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Free for the public, it features over a hundred floral interpretations of works from the collection, while you're greeted by the amazing scents that permeate the venue. What's more, kids and adults alike can get hands on with flower arranging demonstrations.

This event is held on May 5th each year in remembrance of the 1862 victory of the Mexican army over the French Empire in the infamous Battle of Puebla. The Cinco de Mayo celebration occurs across many locations within the state, with the Saint Paul celebration being one of the most notable. Families get to relish in the exotic Mexican culture, complete with Mexican food, music, dance performances, and special kids' events.

Winters in Minnesota may be on the chilly side but that doesn't stop its residents throwing together this amazing winter event. Dating back to 1886 when a reporter from New York described St. Paul as a place that was virtually inhabitable and just ‘another Siberia’, this fun fixture in the calendar is actually a series of events, all pitched at families. Go and see amazing ice sculptures, take a ride down the snow slide, or test yourself in a barstool ski race.

This August event is one of the most popular state fairs in America, bringing in close to 2 million visitors. Its main objective is to raise funds for the maintenance of State Fair buildings and infrastructure. Beyond this, games, entertaining performances, auctions, and more abound. There really is never a dull moment at this mighty state fair.

A qualifier for Alaska’s Iditarod, this marathon invites participants and spectators alike to an unforgettable experience. The longest race in the lower 48 states, it usually takes place in late January. Expect plenty of adrenaline pumping action, a friendly crowd, and spectacular scenery.

This July event features a wide array of activities and is great for a family day out in the open-air. Founded by U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower to promote citizen diplomacy, the program has partnered with a dozen cities across the world. Kids will especially love the free ice cream, the community picnics, and dazzling fireworks.

The biggest one-day music event in the Midwest, Grand Old Day is a 'street party' like no other with food trucks, art, 6 festival gardens, and a family fun area.

Going on for close to two decades, this amazing Saint Paul festival celebrates jazz in all its forms, and brings together an eclectic group of people, whether they are Jazz fans or not. The vibrant atmosphere and silky sounds with definitely have you hooked.

This Minneapolis event originally began as a church fundraiser but evolved into a grand annual gathering. Featuring many of the state’s top music acts, it all takes place on the Basilica’s front lawn.

With a carefully curated line-up and happening across two stages, this intimate one-day festival brings together cutting-edge artists from the genres of rock, indie, jazz, and beyond. The setting is something truly special too, overlooking the Minneapolis sculpture garden and the city skyline.