Family events in Coon Rapids, MN

Step into a museum-wide adventure inspired by Gabby’s Dollhouse as MEOWseum Discovery Days returns to Minnesota Children’s Museum in St. Paul, presented with support from DreamWorks Animation and the Association of Children’s Museums. Enjoy a meet and greet photo opportunity with a costumed Gabby character with timed entry. Creative making includes kitty ears, hamster kitty fairies, and a printable memory game. Across the museum, Gabby themed activities such as story time, a dance party, and a scavenger hunt encourage imagination and hands-on play. Museum admission or a membership is required to attend.

Achieve Services hosts its second annual community car wash in the Achieve parking lot. The event welcomes family, friends, and neighbors to stop by for a scrub, with donations supporting a special treat for participants. Last year’s contributions made an ice cream sundae bar possible. Achieve Services is a nonprofit based in Blaine, Minnesota that provides employment opportunities and day programming for adults with disabilities, including work in the community, in-house jobs, and life enrichment programs.

Jump, play, and support a local cause at Spirit Night at Urban Air Adventure Park in Coon Rapids. An Ultimate Play Ticket costs $29.99, and 20 percent of all play ticket and café purchases during Spirit Night benefit Manna Market Food Rescue Ministry. Tickets are sold on site during the event, and mentioning the phrase Manna Market Spirit Night when purchasing ensures the visit counts toward the donation. Every jump and snack helps rescue food that would otherwise go to waste and share it with local families each week.

Brooklyn Park Voices and The Wood at Zanewood Recreation Center are teaming up each Friday, weather permitting, to host casual flag football on the Zanewood Elementary school field. Youth ages 8 to 18 are welcome to participate, and snacks and drinks will be provided. Whether new to the game or already experienced, participants can enjoy friendly play, stay active, and connect with peers in a relaxed setting.

Feeding Frogtown hosts Grocery Gatherings at West Minnehaha Recreation Center, welcoming everyone from the community. Attendees can enter the recreation center and line up to receive complimentary groceries along with pet food. Organizers encourage kindness among participants and a spirit of growth for the future.

Connect through community gardening while discovering how to grow your own produce. Pick up cooking tips and simple recipes, then head home with the harvest you cultivated. All materials are supplied, including seeds, plants, and tools. Friends and family are welcome.

Spend an evening at the beach for the Summer Beach Series wrap-up with Beaches, Bands and Brews. There will be yard games, plus live music from Sparrow Catcher, and food and beverages available for purchase from local vendors. The event is free and open to the public, and attendees should bring cash or credit for purchases, along with blankets or lawn chairs for seating. Parking is limited at East Medicine Lake Park, with an alternative option at West Medicine Lake Park connected by a 2-mile path.

MNUFC2 faces San Jose Earthquakes II at the National Sports Center, with matchday extras that include free parking, tailgating, autograph alley, postgame PKs, and more. Complimentary parking is available in Lots F and G, open all day on a first come, first served basis. Tailgating is welcome, and Lot F is suggested for pre match gatherings, though there is no designated area. Please avoid glass and charcoal, do not feed wildlife, dispose of trash and recycling properly, and keep alcohol within Lots F and G. Fans should enter through the North Gate only, which opens one hour before kickoff. It is a chance to see emerging players on their way to the top level.

Join the Minnesota All State Showcase softball tournament in Coon Rapids. This one-day USSSA Fast Pitch event features divisions for 12U, 14U, 16U, and 18U. Games are held at Sand Creek Park.

The Northeast Farmers Market offers a lively, family-friendly setting with fresh local produce, handmade goods, and delicious food accompanied by live music. Visitors can support local farmers and small businesses while exploring a variety of offerings with something for everyone. Free parking is available, and EBT with Market Bucks is accepted. The market takes place rain or shine. Please note that pets are not permitted.

The 5th Annual Flea Market Event Show brings bargains, hidden gems, and an upbeat market vibe. Admission for the public is free, with opportunities to browse, chat, shop, eat, and enjoy time outdoors. The market operates at two locations, with Saturday at Ken Yackel-West Side Arena and Sunday at Aldrich Ice Arena. Find food trucks and food stands alongside baked goods and cottage foods, plus brand new and secondhand merchandise, unique handcrafted pieces, collectibles such as Hot Wheels and Pokemons, vintage items, antiques, toys, Amazon resellers, and more. With a bustling atmosphere and a broad mix of vendors, treasure hunters can explore for that special find. Only vendors purchase tickets, and sellers offering food have a separate application and fee.

Big Minneapolis Anime brings a new family-friendly anime show to Minneapolis at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Tickets are available, and artist and vendor booths are currently for sale.

Fans of adorable miniatures and collectibles can explore a back to school themed edition of OK Little Trinket Market at Backstory Coffee Roasters. The event centers on tiny treasures and cute finds, with chances to shop, sell, showcase, or swap favorites like Sonny Angels, Calico Critters, Labubu, plushies, and more. Expect handmade pieces, kawaii-inspired collectibles, curated small business vendors, and plenty of photo-ready moments, all paired with a cup of coffee as you browse. Picture fresh notebooks, cozy study energy, tiny cuties, and sweet little discoveries gathered in one place.

Celebrate the season in Brooklyn Park with a no cost, family friendly community gathering that is part of the new Summer at the Plaza Arts and Business Expo series. This edition centers on getting ready for the new school year with a community celebration that features artist showcases, vendor and resource booths, youth games and activities, hands on arts and crafts, and food trucks. Attendees can connect with neighbors, discover local talent and businesses, and find information about the Brooklyn Park Small Business Center along with resources that support entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Mactír Academy of Irish Dance returns to Harriet Island for Twin Cities Irish Fest with an all-school showcase. Dancers bring high-energy Irish steps to the stage across two performances, celebrating the rhythm and spirit of the tradition. The Mactír community booth features a sparkle bar, flower crowns, ribbon wands, and a mini leapstacle course for hands-on fun. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for seniors 55 and older, $25 for youth ages 13 to 17, and children 12 and under are free.

This lowrider-style picnic at Maccaron Lake welcomes clubs and independent riders alike, arriving in cars or on bikes. The focus is on a warm, family-friendly atmosphere where enthusiasts can gather and relax together.

Planning is underway for the Area Of Hope annual picnic, which will take place at the usual spot, the Como Park West Picnic Grounds.

Get ready for the new school year with a backpack giveaway at Wilder Recreation Center. Families can pick up free backpacks and school supplies and enjoy complimentary food, all available while supplies last. A child must be present to receive a backpack and supplies. This event is supported by Hope for the Brave, Target, Costco, Five Oaks Church, Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Saint Marks Evangelical Lutheran Church, and The Gnome.

Curated by Terrell X and Heidi Jeub, the Friends & Family Festival brings live music, visual art, and tasty food to 825 Arts in St. Paul, creating a warm, community-centered gathering where friends and families come together. Suggested donation is $10 to $20, and everyone is welcome.

A performance on the patio that welcomes all ages. Tips are appreciated.

The 8th season of Sunday Fundays at Gustavus Lutheran Church offers a full day of delicious eats, live music, and plenty of seating for a comfortable visit. An expected lineup of food trucks includes Hydration Shuttle, California Dip&Eat, El mexicano grill, Twin Cities Gyros, Xai The Corn Guy, Blue Moon Kitchen LLC, Casanova Rice and Shawarmin, Smoked Embers LLC, and Eggroll Queen, with additional vendors anticipated. Family friendly fun also features face painting by Fae Face Paint. Admission is free for both food trucks and the public. Be cautious of anyone requesting fees or personal information to participate as a vendor. For questions, contact Eggroll Queen or email EggrollQueenFoodTruck@gmail.com.

If the tap of tiny claws on the floor is getting a little loud, Fairy Tails Grooming offers quick, walk-in nail care for pets. No appointment is required, and guests are helped in the order they arrive. Prices are $12 for dog nail trims, $18 for dog nail grinding, and $18 for cat nail trims, plus tax. For questions, call or text 763-318-7685.

KOO KOO returns to Sociable with a family friendly day of music and activities. The high energy Minnesota duo is known for irresistibly catchy songs for kids that get everyone moving, creating a fun atmosphere for families and anyone looking for a good time. Northern Star Scouting will be on site with an activity for children and families, and live music from KOO KOO will keep the energy high. Additional details about the full lineup of kid friendly activities will be announced.

This charming tea gathering blends good manners with a sprinkle of magic. Designed for young girls, it builds confidence through gentle lessons in kindness, etiquette, and poise in a warm, welcoming setting.

This outdoor camp offers a caring experience for girls, encouraging a deeper bond with nature, growing confidence, and new friendships. Held in a wooded setting, it features nature exploration, creative projects, movement, and quiet mindfulness time. The camp runs rain or shine and weather-appropriate clothing is required, while lightning or other unsafe conditions may pause or cancel activities. Girls are encouraged to come ready to explore, get a little messy, and enjoy an inclusive, supportive space centered on empowerment, kindness, and connection.

Join a week of daytime camp fun at Tony Schmidt Regional Park, designed for kids ages 8 to 15. The classic format runs Monday through Friday, with activities scheduled each day from late morning into the afternoon.

Join Rocky and the recreation team for an evening of community fun at Lions Park. There will be chalk art, basketball and volleyball games, crafts, and more activities for neighbors to enjoy together.

Toddler Tuesday offers a dedicated jump session for children 5 and under. Young explorers can bounce, play, and discover in a kid friendly space created with little adventurers in mind. Parents can participate and jump for free. It is a simple way to burn off energy and make memories together.

A family-friendly story time returns for young families, offering a free outing where children can enjoy stories and songs followed by free play on the playground. Plans call for gathering on the grassy area by the playground when the weather is pleasant, with activities moving indoors if needed. Everyone is welcome, including neighbors, family, and friends. Those interested in enrollment information or a tour can speak with Preschool Director Rachel Otterness after the group portion concludes.

Scottie Miller brings his band and a string quartet to St. Anthony Park Lutheran Church as part of the Durkee Summer Concert Series, celebrating the release of his fully orchestrated album Hello Pain, which features The Budapest Scoring Orchestra. The lineup includes Greg Schutte on drums, Dan Carpel on upright bass, Cierra Alise Hill and Lisi Wright on violins, Jesse Kellermann on viola, and Julia Floberg on cello. Admission is free and open to everyone. Attendees may bring lawn chairs and drinks. The new album can be heard on major streaming services, with vinyl and CD editions available.

Enjoy a free, family friendly water ski spectacular on the Mississippi River as the Twin Cities River Rats present an alumni show inspired by the world of Peter Pan. The Never River brings Peter, Wendy, and the Darling brothers to life on the water with fast-paced skiing, spins, and soaring stunts for an all-ages adventure. A pre-show sets the stage before the main performance. Plan for street parking only and consider arriving early for an easier spot. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair for seating, and take advantage of available concessions. Alumni who plan to attend are asked to complete the alumni form so organizers can get an accurate headcount.

Part of the 2026 Concert on the Lawn Summer Series, this outdoor performance on the CAC front lawn features the Percolators Band delivering rock from the 60s and later alongside country, blues, R&B, and ballads. The Brooklyn Park Lions will offer concessions with all-beef hamburgers or cheeseburgers for $7, hot dogs for $2, chips for $1, bottled water for $1, Propel for $3, and 12 oz Gatorade for $2, payable by cash or card. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, as only a limited number of chairs will be available. Open to all ages.

The Faribault Lakelanders present an evening of acoustic four-part harmony at the lakeside pavilion in Como Park. The program features barbershop standards, tender ballads, and lively uptempo songs, with harmonies carrying across the water. This family-friendly performance unfolds in an outdoor lakeside setting.

This unstructured, drop-in playtime is designed for children from birth to age five and their caregivers. Hosted at Hennepin County Library Brooklyn Park, it offers a relaxed setting for little ones to explore and play with a caregiver nearby. Attendees may stay for the full session or just a portion, depending on their schedule.

Presented by Minnesota People of Color Pride, this annual celebration in Minneapolis brings community, culture, and pride together over five days focused on connection and empowerment. The festival offers live performances, ballroom showcases and cultural programs, vendors and resources from the community, plenty of music and food, and activities suitable for families.

Shop local and eat fresh at the Coon Rapids Farmers Market. You’ll find locally grown produce like vegetables, berries, and more, plus honey, jams, and flowers. There’s also a rotating selection of crafters, artists, and cottage bakers each week.

Enjoy a weekly special where kids eat free on Wednesdays. For details and the menu, refer to the materials provided with this event.

Enjoy an easygoing night of exceptional live music at The Midway Saloon as Grammy winning guitarist Pat Donohue teams up with a rotating lineup of friends. Each performance features a new guest, ranging from standout local musicians to touring artists, so every show feels fresh. Look forward to intricate guitar playing, warm storytelling, and a relaxed atmosphere that eases you into the evening. Admission is free, and the event is family friendly.

Urban Roots partners with St. Paul Public Library to offer a weekly storytime paired with a garden activity at the Urban Roots Children’s Garden at the Rivoli Bluff Farm and Restoration Site. Enjoy read-alouds surrounded by growing plants, then take part in a simple, hands-on activity that connects stories with the garden.

Drop-in play sessions welcome children from birth through age five along with their caregivers. Families can stay for the full session or pop in for a shorter visit, choosing whatever fits their day best.

Djembe Diyamu, the Women’s Drum Center ensemble, leads an inclusive drum circle open to all genders as part of the Summer Thursdays in Highland Park: Music at Wandering Leaf series at Sibley Plaza. The rhythm session sets the tone for an evening of live entertainment, with The Space Force performing later on. Admission is free, and families will find activities for children along with food trucks offering Cold Front Ice Cream, Highland Popcorn, and Grumpy Claude’s Caribbean cuisine. Wandering Leaf Brewing Company will have beverages available for purchase. This community gathering is supported by Wandering Leaf Brewing, Paster Properties, Tierra Encantada, and VanGo Auto in partnership with St. Paul Parks and Recreation. For weather updates, check the Highland District Council website or the Facebook event hosted by Wandering Leaf Brewing.

The event features live music, activities for kids, and food trucks at Sibley Plaza off West 7th. It opens with a women’s drumming circle and continues with a set by The Space Force. Beverages will be available for purchase from Wandering Leaf Brewing Company. The food truck lineup and other details will be shared soon, and weather updates will be posted on Facebook the day of the event.

Enjoy a free, music-themed bingo experience with prizes given out during every game. All ages are welcome, making it a fun outing families can enjoy together.

The Bistro Showcase brings together two local voices for an evening of heartfelt music at the Finnish Bistro. Barbara Bow delivers country-leaning songs with an upbeat, welcoming presence. Also known as Katelyn Mayne, she works across online publishing, fashion design, and video production. Kira Dawn offers an intimate blend of indie folk and pop, drawing on personal experience and lyric-focused storytelling. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, free admission, and a setting open to all ages.