Family events in Minneapolis, MN

Grammy-winning guitarist Pat Donohue leads a night of top-tier live music at The Midway Saloon in St. Paul, MN, joined by a changing lineup of his talented friends. Each performance features a different guest, ranging from standout local musicians to touring professionals, so every show brings something new. Expect brilliant guitar playing, easygoing stories, and a relaxed vibe that helps you unwind. Admission is free and the setting is family friendly.

This is an open, drop-in playtime designed for children from birth to age five and their caregivers. The format is flexible, so families can stay for the full session or stop in briefly.

The Minnesota Lynx host the Indiana Fever at Target Center in Minneapolis for a Thursday night showdown. This cross-conference meeting spotlights differing approaches, with attention to tempo, physical defense, and late-game execution in a large-arena setting. Attendees can watch how each team adjusts to these contrasts as the game unfolds.

Support the Zephs on the road at this away game and help fill the stands with team spirit.

Explore Summit Avenue on a 90-minute walking tour that pairs grand architecture with true tales of hauntings and local lore. Hear about apparitions, footsteps, and unexplained knocks tied to a 1969 séance at the Griggs Mansion, where attending journalists later vowed never to return alone. Stories highlight the haunted history of the James J. Hill House, the sorrowful tale of Molly at Forepaugh’s Mansion, the enigmatic William Butler House, and the life of legendary madame Nina Clifford, along with threads connecting to Amelia Earhart, spiritualism, and unsolved mysteries. Guided by expert storyteller Dangerous Linda, this experience focuses on the people behind the stone walls and the history that lingers in the night air. The tour costs $34.21 per person with all taxes and fees included and is recommended for ages 13 and up. Walking is easy to moderate. Wheelchair access is available with advance notice, and service animals are welcome. Tours proceed in cold temperatures and light rain, so plan attire for the conditions.

This free, hands-on construction experience invites kids and their families to spark curiosity and creativity while discovering how the world of building works. At the Mall of America East Lot, children can see big construction equipment up close, try interactive building activities, and explore STEM and trade-focused exhibits in a safe, family-friendly setting. On-site demonstrations and conversations with professionals from the field add real-world insight to the learning. Designed with ages 4 to 12 in mind, the event includes special guests and surprises, and food will be available for purchase. Admission is free, and registration is required. The event is open to the public and showcases how exciting it can be to build with your hands.

Now in its 27th season, the Northeast Farmers Market brings together farm-fresh produce, artisan-made goods, tasty food, and live music in a welcoming setting for all ages. It highlights local farmers and small businesses, creating a lively place to shop and connect with the community. EBT and Market Bucks are accepted, free parking is available, and pets are not permitted. The market takes place rain or shine.

Now in its fifth year, this lively flea market brings together a broad mix of vendors and bargain hunters at Ken Yackel-West Side Arena, with events also taking place at Aldrich Ice Arena. Admission is free for the public, while vendors purchase spots. Browse food trucks and food stands, baked and cottage foods, brand-new and secondhand goods, distinctive handmade items, vintage and antique finds, toys, Hot Wheels and Pokemon collectibles, Amazon resell offerings, and more. Friendly conversations, casual networking, and a bustling atmosphere set the scene for an in-person treasure hunt, with plenty to eat and plenty to discover while enjoying the weather.

The Refuge’s 50th anniversary is being marked with a day celebrating nature, community, and the legacy of the Minnesota Valley Refuge. Activities include birdwatching, archery, and hands-on arts and crafts. A panel of former refuge leaders will share stories and memories from across the years. Winners of the Find Your Wild Nature Art Contest will be announced, and their artwork will be displayed during the celebration. The event honors five decades of conservation, wildlife, and outdoor adventure.

Twin City Cat Fanciers present their Annual CFA Allbreed Cat Show at the Saint Paul RiverCentre in Exhibit Hall B. Celebrating its 93rd show, this family friendly event showcases more than 100 cats representing over 30 breeds, including Maine Coons, Sphynx, Oriental Shorthairs, Russian Blues and more. Explore local vendors with a wide range of cat themed items. Children can enjoy a dedicated activity area with coloring and games that offer chances to win prizes. There will be one round of stuffed animal and plushie cat judging each day. A raffle table will feature a variety of items each day. Tickets are available for purchase at the door.

POP Cats Twin Cities transforms Saint Paul Union Depot into an immersive celebration where feline culture meets pop flair. This annual festival fills the weekend with creative environments to explore, adoption catios that spotlight rescue efforts, hands-on workshops, original art, and plenty of themed activities. Attendees can browse hard-to-find cat merchandise, meet exhibitors and cat rescue organizations, discover unique cattoos, and capture countless photo moments. It is designed for a wide range of interests, offering a playful mix of shopping, learning, and picture-perfect fun.

A relaxed cruise-in gathering for car enthusiasts takes place near Wildflower Coffee in St Paul. Spread over several consecutive weeks, it offers a simple setting to park, display vehicles, and enjoy a laid-back car show atmosphere.

Enjoy a community movie night featuring Wicked 2 at Browndale Park. This outdoor screening is free and welcoming to all ages. Bring something to sit on, such as a chair or blanket, and pack your own snacks. No registration is required.

Educator Amy Simso Dean leads a calm, informative birding outing at Lakewood that welcomes participants of every age and skill level. The experience begins with a short overview of birding techniques and common local species, followed by a shared walk to spot and learn about birds. Binoculars are available for use. This is a walking-only program covering roughly 1.5 miles at a gentle pace on easy to moderate terrain, so comfortable closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended. Seating is not provided. The route is planned near Jo Pond, the lake on the grounds, situated about half a mile from the main gate, and directional signs will be posted.

Sunday Fundays returns to Gustavus Lutheran Church for its seventh season, bringing a full day of delicious options, live music, and plenty of tables and chairs for comfort. Food trucks scheduled to serve include Hydration Shuttle, Long’s combo Roll cuisines, California Dip & Eat, Xai the corn guy, El Mexicano, Twin Cities Gyros, Casanova Rice and Shawarmin, Fire Cream, and Eggroll Queen, with more vendors expected. This gathering is free for both the public and participating food trucks. Vendors should avoid sending money or personal information in response to unsolicited invitations.

The Finnish Bistro Cafe & Coffee in St. Anthony Park hosts a family-friendly, all-ages open mic that welcomes musicians, poets, and performers at every experience level. The stage is equipped with a full sound system and an 88-key electric keyboard to make performing simple and enjoyable. Participants typically share two or three songs, with the number adjusted based on how many people sign up. A rotating team of experienced local musicians leads the event, including Ry Edwards, Caley Factorial, Lexi Modica, and Jun Sugiyama. Throughout the season, the lineup also features 30-minute sets from standout guest artists. The cafe offers a full menu of food, drinks, and desserts to enjoy alongside the performances.