Free events in Chanhassen, MN

Explore the market and stay for live music from Lakes & Rivers, a Twin Cities duo noted for tight vocal harmonies and a varied set covering songs from across the decades. Their performance brings together selections from different eras and highlights their harmony-driven sound.

Connect with neighbors while you walk or roll along Victory Memorial Parkway. This casual Tuesday gathering has no formal agenda, just simple hellos and a spirit of kindness. People of all ages are welcome, and phone-free interaction is encouraged. Come for a short visit or linger as long as you like. You can bring a picnic, a blanket, or chairs if you would like to relax beside the path. There is no planned end date, and it will continue on Tuesdays for as long as neighbors wish.

A weekly party fills the Lyndale bar at the Uptown VFW with DJs mixing modern and classic hip hop and R&B, paired with two-for-one drink specials. Curated by DJ Dimitry Killstorm of Cheap Thrills, this event keeps the energy high with no cover charge.

Tunes on the Plaza brings live music to Peavey Plaza with a rotating lineup of local talent spanning Americana, jazz, soul, hip hop, and more. This edition spotlights Minneapolis singer songwriter Hibah Hassan, whose storytelling-forward songs pair crisp lyrics with lilting, sometimes punchy melodies and offer a window into the perspective of a twenty-something romantic. Her debut album, "hopeless romantic," is available now. Admission is free. The series is presented in partnership with the City of Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District, and the Minneapolis Downtown Council, with talent booking managed by Ostrom Entertainment LLC.

Work on painting, building, or any other personal project in a relaxed, creative setting. Beginners can get helpful tips, and experienced hobbyists can share their work and connect with others. There is no cost to participate, and outside food is welcome.

Enjoy a trivia night in the VFW Karaoke Bar with plenty of prizes, including gift cards to the Uptown VFW. Take advantage of the drink special with $5 Jack Daniels in all flavors, including Jack Daniels, Tennessee Fire, Tennessee Honey, and Tennessee Apple. There is no cover.

Set inside James Ballentine "Uptown" VFW - Post 246, this long-running club night caters to music fans who enjoy a wide-ranging playlist spanning electro, synth-pop, post-punk, punk, garage, funk, indie rock, new wave, British pop, and related sounds. There is no cover charge. The concept also lives on the air as a weekly show on Minnesota Public Radio’s 89.3 The Current, with each installment built around a fresh theme.

On Fridays, table space is free for board gamers. Attendees can arrive with a group, look for new players, or enjoy a solo game. Open to all board gaming enthusiasts.

Registration is open for Watermark Sketch Minneapolis 2026, a free two-day sketch weekend hosted by Urban Sketchers Twin Cities. Registration and tickets are required. Guest artist Jenny Jing Zhang will be featured throughout the weekend. Her practice embraces creative exploration, shifting perspectives, and playful mixed media. She works freehand in ink and pencil with gentle watercolor washes, allowing lines to wander, and is an artist, illustrator, architectural designer, and educator based in Chicago. The weekend begins with an evening presentation at the A-Mill Performance Hall titled Mixed Media: Changing Gears Based on the City’s Essence. The next day brings morning demos around the Mill District led by Jenny and four Urban Sketchers Twin Cities artists. Several morning options are available, and some require a separate ticket. Afternoon sketch walks will head to various locations, followed by time to socialize, and the day wraps up in the evening. Please review the registration page carefully when selecting sessions. Watermark graphic credit: Colin Klotzbach.

Salsa Brava is back at Eat Street Crossing and the ESC Bar with a lively Latin dance party. The celebration moves between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating an energetic atmosphere for social dancing. The soundtrack spans salsa, bachata, timba, cumbia, merengue, reggaeton and more. Admission is free.

A community farmers market takes place at Bloomington Civic Plaza. Enjoy the lively plaza setting and welcoming neighborhood atmosphere as you explore this local gathering.

Neighborhood Roots hosts the Southwest Farmers Market in South Minneapolis, where local farmers and makers offer fresh produce, meats, fish, eggs, artisan cheeses, baked goods, flowers, handmade goods, natural hygiene and body care items, pantry staples, and more. Shoppers can enjoy ready-to-eat food, coffee, and other beverages while they explore the market. Each market features live music from a changing roster of local musicians and artists, creating a friendly setting for all ages. The Power of Produce (POP) Club gives kids opportunities to learn about local food through fun activities and includes a $2 token to spend on fruits and vegetables.

Kids Building Minnesota is a free, hands-on construction experience for families that encourages curiosity, creativity, and interest in the building trades. Children can step into the world of construction by getting close to real equipment, trying interactive exhibits, and discovering how things are built in a safe, family-focused setting. The day includes numerous exhibits, live demonstrations, and opportunities to meet industry professionals, creating a lively learning environment for young builders. Expect big machines to explore, make-and-build activities, and STEM and skilled trade stations designed with ages 4 to 12 in mind. Surprise appearances are planned, and food will be available to purchase on site. This public event takes place at the East Lot of Mall of America and is free to attend with registration. It is well suited for families seeking an educational outing that shows how exciting it can be to create with your hands.

Minnetonka Public Schools and the Minnetonka Alumni Association present the Annual Alumni Awards at Minnetonka High School, recognizing the accomplishments of outstanding alumni and former faculty. A complimentary brunch is part of the program, and free tickets are available to secure a seat. Distinguished Alumni honorees include Paul Huber, class of 1973, who has guided Huber Funeral Homes for more than four decades while caring for Lake Minnetonka families and supporting local organizations, events, youth programs and service efforts through volunteerism and philanthropy, and Kerry Olsen, class of 1968, a leader in head and neck oncologic surgery whose career at Mayo Clinic advanced patient care, research and surgical education while mentoring generations of medical professionals. The Distinguished Service honor goes to Charlotte Bell, class of 1965, an artist, photographer and organizer who since 1999 has helped elevate the work of Las Rancheritas in rural Mexico by securing materials, promoting their art, organizing exhibits and sharing their story to empower the community and expand educational opportunities. The Young Alumni Achievement award recognizes Brooke Wassenaar Marren, class of 2014, a Medtronic leader at the intersection of healthcare and engineering who has driven major medical technology initiatives, contributed to a clinical study in peripheral vascular health and mentors future STEM professionals. The Skippers Hall of Fame welcomes Janet Harrington Jopp, class of 1961, a pioneer for girls athletics whose leadership in the Girls Athletic Association helped launch intramural sports for girls and who became the first female Minnetonka student to earn a varsity letter. The Faculty Hall of Fame honors John Jack Streed, posthumous, an English teacher known for dynamic instruction, high expectations and deep care for students that made classic literature engaging while building confident readers, thinkers and writers, and Loren Nelson, a math teacher and mentor who over 34 years made complex concepts accessible through real-world applications and steadfast belief in every student, extending his influence through mentorship, family outreach and a lifelong commitment to education, literacy and service. The program salutes all of this year’s honorees.

Outdoor movie nights return with a free film under the stars. Bring a blanket or lawn chair for comfortable seating and pack your own snacks. Everyone is welcome, from kids to adults. Admission is free and no registration is required.

AmberTree brings a wide selection of sterling silver jewelry to the Farmers Market Annex of Minneapolis. Look for the booth by the big rooster landmark near Lyndale, which is their usual spot at the market. This marks their 23rd year participating. Last year they did not miss a single market day despite rough weather, including an August Saturday with rain blowing sideways. They are aiming for the same strong turnout again, without the wild winds.

Stevens Square Farmers Market returns with a weather-permitting market set up in the parking lot near the Village Center. For questions, contact the market manager, Ryne.

Linden Hills Farmers Market features a changing lineup of roughly 50 farmers, artisanal food makers, chefs, and artists, with live music adding to the atmosphere. The market is held regardless of weather and takes place in the parking lot of Settergrens of Linden Hills.

Explore Twin Cities Vintage Flea, a pop-up marketplace created by the organizers of Totally Rad Vintage Fest in collaboration with 56 Brewing in NE Minneapolis. Browse a carefully curated selection of vintage clothing, accessories, and collectibles from many eras. Admission is free, making it easy to hunt for standout pieces, support local vendors, and connect with other vintage enthusiasts while enjoying a 56 Brewing beer.

Break Bread is a free community lunch that has welcomed everyone since 2016. Guests may enjoy a meal on site or take it to go, and they can pick up extra portions for friends or family who are unable to come. The menu rotates monthly and there is no cost. The effort centers on building connection and care within the neighborhood. Most dietary needs can be accommodated on request. Donations help sustain the meals.

Give blood at the Annunciation blood drive, where a mobile donation bus will be set up in the church parking lot. Hospitals rely on volunteer donors to keep a steady supply for patients, and healthy community members are needed to help. The donation process remains safe and straightforward, and it plays an important role in community readiness. All blood types are welcome, with a particular need for O negative and O positive.

On the last Monday of each month, a free class welcomes people of any gender, ages 5 to 100, to reduce stress and nurture relaxation and healing. Expect gentle movements rooted in ancient Chinese Qigong, meditation, and other simple practices to support well-being in challenging times. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and arrive a few minutes early. Free parking is available in the rear lot accessed via the alley off 38th, and free street parking is also available.

Drag Queen Bingo hosted by Jamie Monroe brings an energetic night of games and laughs to James Ballentine "Uptown" VFW - Post 246. There is no cover, and the event is sponsored by Absolut. Seating can fill quickly, so arriving early is recommended.