Free events in Coon Rapids, MN

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.

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.

Roadside Park behind The Roadside hosts a monthly summer series of Fireside Friday nights with local artists providing live music. For this installment, Run Lucy Run performs while fire pits glow, s’mores are available by the fire, and cocktails and smokehouse bites are served throughout the evening. This is a free event with no tickets required. Seating is limited, so bringing lawn chairs or blankets is encouraged. For questions or reservations, call 763-710-4804.

Neighborhood Roots presents a lively farmers market in South Minneapolis, highlighting goods from area farmers and makers. Find seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats and fish, eggs, artisan cheeses, baked treats, flowers, handmade crafts, natural hygiene and body care items, pantry staples, and more. Shoppers will also discover a range of ready-to-eat foods along with fresh coffee and refreshing beverages. Live music with a rotating lineup of local musicians and artists creates a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. The Power of Produce Club offers kids hands-on ways to engage with local food and includes a $2 market token to spend on fruits and vegetables.

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.

Enjoy an outdoor Nia class on the grass at Hidden Falls Regional Park in St. Paul, co-taught by Beth Giles and Andrea Weiss and offered through St. Paul Fitness in the Park. Nia blends nine movement forms from dance, martial arts, and healing arts to move the whole body in a sustainable way that emphasizes sensing joy and pleasure rather than pain. Suitable for all ages and fitness abilities, the practice can feel like a vigorous aerobic workout or a gentle session, depending on the intensity each participant chooses. The class is free, with optional donations by cash or Venmo, or by using class packages on Momence. Parking is available next to the picnic pavilion at the North Gate entrance off Mississippi River Blvd, and the group meets in the little valley just below the pavilion. Wear comfortable clothing. Nia is typically practiced barefoot, though clean, soft soled shoes are an option. Bring a water bottle and a mat or towel for the end of class. Bug spray and sunscreen will be available.

Step into a pop-up marketplace devoted to all things vintage as Twin Cities Vintage Flea arrives at North Loop Green. Hosted by the team behind Totally Rad Vintage Fest, this event brings together retro enthusiasts and collectors under one spot. Browse a thoughtfully curated mix of clothing, accessories, collectibles, and other nostalgic finds from a range of eras. Admission is free, offering an easy way to hunt for rare pieces, support local vendors, and connect with fellow vintage fans.

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.

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.

Celebrate the vibrant sound of Trinidad and Tobago with two free concerts featuring more than 100 steel drum performers from six ensembles alongside special guest Liam Teague. His virtuosity has drawn comparisons to Paganini, and as a native of Trinidad and Tobago who leads steelpan studies at Northern Illinois University, he has introduced the instrument to audiences around the world. The music begins in the afternoon with a featured set by Teague. In the evening, the program opens with League Night Jazz, continues with the Chops Pan Camp Ensembles performing with Teague to share what they learned during camp, and concludes with sets by local steel drum bands Panatics, Tin Cups, and Pan-Handlers.

Now in its fourth year, this free, all-ages K-pop celebration fills The Commons Park in Minneapolis with music, dancing, shopping, and food trucks. The program features Random K-pop Dance Play, activities and games, a variety of vendors, and plenty of dancing as day turns to night. Vendor and food truck applications will open soon.

Part of a free outdoor dance series in Saint Paul parks, this session welcomes dancers of every level and does not require a partner or prior experience. Led by Icelandic Latin Dance Champion Mariusz Kujawski (he/him), the class focuses on moving with ease, learning fundamentals, and connecting with community in a friendly outdoor setting. Participants can explore styles like cha cha, samba, jive, rumba, and Viennese waltz. Bring water and comfortable shoes to make the most of the music and movement. Presented by the St. Paul Art Collective, sponsored by the Saint Paul Downtown Alliance, in partnership with Saint Paul Parks and Recreation.

Enjoy a free, all-levels yoga class with YogaFit set among the greenery at Sunnyside Gardens. This 60-minute session blends mindful movement and breath for a calm summer start in community. Check in takes place at the West Co-op gate. No registration is required. Suitable for participants aged 16 and older. Please bring a yoga mat and a water bottle. The practice is planned for the plaza, with the greenhouse serving as the backup if weather changes. Arriving a little early makes settling in easy, and the garden center is available to explore after class.

Neighborhood Roots’ Kingfield Farmers Market brings a lively open-air experience to South Minneapolis with an emphasis on locally grown and locally made goods. Browse seasonal produce, meats and fish, eggs, artisan cheeses, baked treats, flowers, handmade crafts, natural body and hygiene items, and pantry staples from area farmers and makers. Shoppers can enjoy a variety of ready-to-eat foods along with fresh coffee and other refreshing beverages while exploring the stalls. Live music adds to the atmosphere at every market with a rotating lineup of local musicians and artists, creating a welcoming setting for all ages. Kids can take part in the Power of Produce (POP) Club, which features engaging activities about local food and provides a $2 token to spend on fruits and vegetables at the market.

Brother Ra leads a Sunday morning yoga session. Mats, blocks, and blankets are provided, and there is no cost to participate.

Part of Fat Beach Days, this relaxed public meetup brings fat folks together at Lake Nokomis Main Beach. There are no tickets and no scheduled programming, just a simple chance to spend time at the beach in community.

Zorongo Flamenco Dance Theatre brings flamenco to the Lake Harriet Bandshell, representing more than forty years in Minnesota. As one of the only American flamenco companies to perform both traditional and contemporary theatrical works, the ensemble highlights the range of the art form. This appearance is part of the Music in the Parks tradition, which since 1892 has offered residents and families opportunities to enjoy local music throughout the summer. Over the years, the series has presented thousands of free concerts across many genres, including classic rock, hip hop, international and funk. For weather-related cancellations, please check the organizer’s Facebook page for updates.

Experience a budget friendly, welcoming Kung Fu program that puts real world self defense at the center of training. Adults and teens of all backgrounds are invited to participate in a safe and supportive environment, whether you are brand new or already have experience. Instruction follows a Southern Dragon approach to Kung Fu, emphasizing practical application with the aim of improving personal safety. Movements are designed to be straightforward and powerful while still reflecting the grace, mindfulness, and discipline of traditional practice. Training is guided by principles that prioritize usefulness, efficiency, and results, with the goal of building skills that protect while also enriching everyday life. New participants can try one class at no cost, and observing a session is welcome. Details about costs after the free trial are available on the program’s website.

Fire flow artists and spectators gather at Dragons Lair Performing Arts for an open practice jam centered on safe fire spinning and flow arts. Watching and participating are both welcome. Admission is free, and there is ample free parking. Anyone planning to spin should bring personal fire props and fuel. The session is geared toward those with some experience, and newcomers can count on safety guidance from the organizers. Bring friends and a camera to capture the energy, and enjoy a relaxed practice environment rather than a formal show or party.

Enjoy a free outdoor yoga class at Summit Overlook Park led by instructor Sandy LeMay. Designed for all experience levels, the session emphasizes stretching, mindful breathing, and relaxing movement while encouraging a sense of community in an open-air setting. Bring a yoga mat, a water bottle, and comfortable clothing, and come with positive energy. Arriving a few minutes early makes it easier to get settled. This event is weather permitting. Newcomers and longtime practitioners are equally welcome, and bringing a friend can make it a peaceful way to close the day.

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.

A free community rhythm and drumming circle meets on the second Tuesday of each month at St Timothy Lutheran Church, ELCA in Saint Paul. Following the HealthRHYTHMS protocol, the session emphasizes drumming to support health, wellness, and joy. No prior experience is required, and all instruments are provided.

Yinglong offers affordable, inclusive Kung Fu instruction with a focus on real-world self defense. Adults and teens of any background or experience level are welcome to train in a supportive, safety minded environment. Newcomers may watch a session or participate in a free first class. Rooted in the Southern Dragon tradition, the curriculum prioritizes practical skill building. Training centers on movements that are straightforward, simple, and powerful, while also preserving the grace, mindfulness, and discipline of classical Kung Fu. The aim is to enhance personal safety and overall well being. Details about membership after the trial, including pricing, can be found through the tickets link on the event page.

Neighbors will care for native plantings along Furness Parkway between Maryland and Larpenteur, focusing on a mix of light and more strenuous tasks. Work on the north side of Maryland includes the swale, a west stump area, and an east-facing slope, with hand weeding, edging, planting, and watering. On the south side, which becomes shady later in the afternoon, efforts include hand weeding, planting and watering, and pulling larger weeds. Invasive plants targeted include burdock, dandelions, creeping bellflower, and more. A few extra tools are sometimes available, though participants are encouraged to bring a shovel, trowel, and hand snips, along with gloves, a hat, water, sunscreen, and a snack. Plans may shift because of weather or other factors.

Curious about Irish dance but not ready to commit to a full session? This free introductory class from Rince na Chroi invites children to try a lesson with the studio’s teachers, while parents or guardians can speak with the Director and get questions answered. It offers a simple way to explore the program and see if it is the right fit for a future dancer.

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.

Experience lakeside salsa at Pimento on the Lake at the Bde Maka Ska stage. Rumba Eterna delivers live Latin music, and a beginner-friendly warm-up helps newcomers feel confident. Expect a welcoming crowd, scenic water views, and plenty of dancing. Admission is free, with donations and tips welcome. Food and beverages are available, creating a festive setting for music, community, and movement under the summer sky.

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.

Weekly free bar trivia is on tap at The Wild Hare - Blaine with Trivia Mafia. This Minneapolis-based trivia company presents trivia nights in bars, taprooms, distilleries, and private events across the Midwest and beyond, with occasional themed games and other pub entertainment. The venue sets a lively mood with 90s favorites and rock music videos in the bar, and serves a menu of flavorful, health-minded meals.

Settle in for a weekly taproom showcase featuring a changing lineup of live music. Admission is free. Families and dogs are welcome both indoors and outside, and there is a large free parking lot. So & So's MN Street Food will be on site serving, with vegan and gluten free options available.

The Rice Park Music Series returns in 2026 with free midday music and local food trucks in the heart of St. Paul, bringing a thoughtfully selected roster of Minnesota musicians to Rice Park for a relaxing break filled with great sounds and flavors. This edition spotlights Emmy Woods, who uses she and they pronouns, a Saint Paul based singer songwriter who grew up in rural North Dakota. Her music blends elements of country, folk, and blues, pairing vivid storytelling with an airy, expressive voice. Influences range from Billie Holiday and Emmylou Harris to Against Me, and she has shared stages with artists such as Melissa Carper, Sarah Morris, Ryan Young of Trampled by Turtles, and Cam Whitcomb. Although she began writing at 13, her recordings reached the public in 2023 with three collections, followed by several singles and an EP. She performs across a wide mix of settings, from neighborhood bars and markets to ballrooms and festivals, building momentum with a witty catalog, an easygoing presence, and a sound that crosses genres. The series is presented in partnership with St. Paul Parks and the St. Paul Downtown Alliance, with booking coordinated by Ostrom Entertainment LLC.

Brooklyn Park Farmers Market highlights healthy lifestyles, local agriculture, and community connection in a cheerful, welcoming setting. Farmers and other producers sell directly to shoppers, building one-to-one relationships with the people who make the goods. This year vendors are offering fresh fruits and vegetables, bakery offerings, honey, and floral arrangements.

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

Discover farm-fresh produce, delicious treats, and handcrafted goods at a weekly market that also offers hot food and live music at each gathering. Stroll the stalls, sample something warm, and enjoy the tunes while you browse.

Rince na Chroi is offering a free introductory Irish dance class for kids eager to try Irish dance. The session also includes a parent information segment where the Director will be available to answer questions about the program. Whether you first saw the group at Twin Cities Irish Fest or around Saint Patrick's Day, this is a simple way to learn more and connect with a studio that has been nominated as Minnesota's Best for two consecutive years.

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.

Put your knowledge to the test with a quiz spanning a wide range of topics. Participation is free. It offers a lighthearted way for families, groups of friends, and coworkers to enjoy time together.

As part of the Thursday Music Series, DJ Leon of Prime spins an upbeat patio set at Pizza Pub Blaine filled with summery grooves, popular favorites, and dance-ready tracks. Expect a laid-back atmosphere that makes it easy to settle in and enjoy the music. There is no admission charge.

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.

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.