Family events in St. Paul, MN

Celebrate Irish culture at the Twin Cities Irish Fest on Harriet Island in St. Paul, featuring live music, dance, family activities, and plenty of good craic. This is a family-friendly festival run by the Irish Fair of Minnesota, and kids 12 and under are free. Admission is $30.

This family-friendly weekend bus getaway takes you from Milwaukee to Minnesota for a fun-filled trip packed with music, laughs, and plenty of good vibes. You’ll stay at SpringHill Suites and enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast each morning, plus there will be surprises along the way. In Minnesota, get time to explore the Mall of America and options like Nickelodeon Universe and SEA LIFE Aquarium, with additional choices such as a visit to Paisley Park or sightseeing on your own at your own pace. Seats are for all ages (0+) and pets aren’t allowed.

The world of Gabby’s Dollhouse returns to Minnesota Children’s Museum for a weekend filled with playful discovery. Brought in collaboration with DreamWorks Animation and the Association of Children’s Museums, this experience invites families to explore St. Paul with imagination, creativity, and plenty of hands-on fun. Tickets include a scheduled photo meet and greet with a costumed Gabby character, along with cat themed craft stations where kids can make their own kitty ears, create hamster kitty fairy projects, and take home a printable memory game. Gabby inspired activities pop up throughout the museum, including story time, a lively dance party, and a scavenger hunt. Museum admission or a current membership is required to take part in Gabby’s Dollhouse MEOWseum Discovery Days.

Join Gibbs Farm for Friday Volunteer Days, a free, hands-on outdoor volunteer session from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Volunteers help with rotating seasonal projects like planting, watering, weeding, harvesting, and light landscape or orchard work, led by Gibbs Farm staff. This is a great fit for ages 6 and up, including students, families, small groups, and individuals. No experience is needed. Parking is available in the Gibbs Farm public parking lot off Cleveland Ave, and you’ll enter through the wooden gates. Wear close-toed shoes and work-ready clothes, and there are bathrooms and a drinking fountain on site.

Get ready for the new school year at the Roseville Back To School Craft & Vendor Market. This in-person weekend event brings together local vendors with handmade items, school essentials, treats, and other back-to-school must-haves, all geared toward students, teachers, and parents. Stop by and browse practical finds, thoughtful gifts, and fun surprises as you prep for what’s next.

A 0.65-mile route at Taft Lake. Strollers are welcome.

Enjoy a high-energy outing while giving back during Spirit Night at Urban Air Adventure Park in Coon Rapids. For $29.99, an Ultimate Play Ticket unlocks the attractions, and 20 percent of all play ticket and café purchases made during the event will support Manna Market Food Rescue Ministry. Tickets are sold in person at the park during the event, and guests should mention "Manna Market Spirit Night" at the time of purchase so their visit counts toward the fundraiser. Each jump and snack helps recover food that might otherwise be wasted and share it weekly with thousands of local families.

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.

Connect and Play is a drop-in early literacy program for children of all ages and their caregivers. It’s a relaxed time to connect with your child while exploring simple literacy activities. The program is suitable for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Brooklyn Park Voices and The Wood at Zanewood Recreation Center are teaming up for a summer flag football series on the Zanewood Elementary school field, contingent on the weather. The program welcomes participants ages 8 to 18, whether experienced with the game or giving it a try for the first time. Snacks and drinks are provided. Expect a relaxed, friendly setting that encourages staying active, having fun, and connecting with peers.

A recurring community gathering organized by the Black Business Network, Food Truck Fridays brings together local food trucks and retail vendors while fostering neighborhood connections and supporting entrepreneurs. Attendees can purchase meals and goods from participating businesses, meet neighbors, and learn about BBN programs, membership, and upcoming opportunities. Expect a rotating mix of food trucks and vendors, resources with QR sign ups, a community survey, and clearly marked areas for parking, the food truck zone, vendor parking, and shared seating. This event is free to attend, and the vendor lineup varies by date. Food trucks and retail vendors may apply to take part in future dates.

Spend time in the garden with others while learning how to grow your own produce. Pick up practical cooking techniques and recipe ideas, then leave with the harvest you gathered. All materials are provided, including seeds, plants, and tools. Friends and family are welcome to participate.

The MVO Crewtet presents a lively plaza performance by an ensemble of 18 to 22 string players, delivering inventive moments that may make listeners do a double take. This rare Friday appearance offers a refreshed program, with about half the set newly added for returning fans and the performers as well, all presented with a lighthearted spirit that puts fun first.

A music event takes place at Kelley Park in Apple Valley.

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.

A festive race day at Lake Elmo Park brings together participants of every pace and fitness level for a family-friendly experience in the St. Paul area. Packet pickup starts the day, followed by a kids dash that meets at the start line where participants are guided to the starting area, then the National Anthem and the race start. Live results and awards are available at the registration tent once you cross the finish line. Every registration includes a designer shirt, a custom medal, chip timing with live results and awards, free photos, and complimentary Kona Ice at the finish line. Choose the distance that fits your goals. 5K, 10K, and 15K entries include a custom bib, a designer shirt, and a custom finisher medal. The 1 Mile option is untimed and includes a custom bib, a designer shirt, and a custom finisher medal. The kids dash is an untimed run for ages 10 and under with a mini bib, a youth-sized shirt, and a medal created specifically for the kids dash. Children who prefer to skip the swag may run the kids dash at no charge. Youth-based pricing is available for the 5K and 10K, with entries for ages 12 and under priced at $17. This event focuses on fun, affordability, and inclusion so you can participate in the way that suits you.

At Highlands Park, Coach Tesha Buck leads players of all ages through a session focused on basketball fundamentals, with drills designed to build core skills. Drawing on experience as both a coach and as a player at UWGB and New Mexico, she provides clear, practical instruction. Participants should bring a basketball and a water bottle labeled with their name, and a limited number of balls will be available for those who need one. Dress for the weather and wear footwear suitable for running and hooping. This event is free, with an optional opportunity to give back by bringing unexpired, non-perishable food items for the food shelf, as well as toiletries or school supplies. T-shirts will be available on a first come, first serve basis.

A vibrant community farmers market offers fresh locally grown produce, artisan-made goods, and tasty food, with live music creating a welcoming, family friendly vibe. Show support for area farms and small businesses while enjoying a relaxed neighborhood gathering. Complimentary parking is available, EBT is accepted with Market Bucks, and the event goes on rain or shine. For the comfort of all attendees, pets are not permitted.

Children’s Minnesota offers free car seat checkups to help families keep kids safe on the road. Certified technicians will review your car seat and provide guidance to ensure proper installation and fit. This event is held at Richfield Fire Station No. 1. Registration is requested. For details or to sign up, call 612-813-6053 or email carseats@childrensmn.org.

A back to school market centered on tiny treasures and kawaii collectibles takes place at Backstory Coffee Roasters on the West Side - STP. Collectors and fans of small items can browse handmade goods and finds from curated small business vendors, capture photo friendly moments, and sip coffee while exploring. There are chances to buy, sell, display, or trade favorites such as Sonny Angels, Calico Critters, Labubu figures, plushies, and more. The theme leans into fresh notebooks, cozy study vibes, and sweet little discoveries gathered in one place.

Experience a new, family friendly anime show in Minneapolis at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Built for fans of all ages, it offers a welcoming setting to celebrate anime together. Tickets are available, and artists and vendors can purchase booth space.

Cypher Rotunda returns to Mall of America, transforming the Rotunda into Minnesota’s biggest street dance showdown. Dancers from across the country converge for two high-energy competitions: a 2 v 2 Breaking bracket open to all ages with a $1,000 prize, and a 3 v 3 Open Styles contest offering $1,500. Prelims run for both categories, then the main event features the Top 8 through to the finals. Breaking is judged by Physicx for the main rounds, with Boogie B on prelims and Mass and El Nino handling both prelims and main event. Open Styles is judged by NO1NE, Hans, and Zeku. AMS serves as MC. Pre-registration is required, and sponsorship opportunities are available.

Mactír Academy of Irish Dance returns to Harriet Island for Twin Cities Irish Fest with a schoolwide showcase of lively Irish dance presented across two stage performances. A Mactír community booth is available throughout the weekend with a sparkle bar, flower crowns, ribbon wands, and a mini leapstacle course that offers a hands-on taste of the art form. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for seniors 55 and older, $25 for youth ages 13 to 17, and free for children 12 and under. The celebration highlights Irish culture, community, and dynamic dance.

The event explores spaces throughout the Minnesota State Capitol to reveal the work and methods behind its creation, highlighting the people involved from groundbreaking to the 1905 opening. It features the story of architect Cass Gilbert, who at 35 designed what became one of the nation's most magnificent public buildings. The program also examines the contributions of the Board of Capitol Commissioners, contractors, and construction workers across the nine year construction period, showing how each role helped shape a building celebrated in Minnesota and the nation.

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.

Clubs and independent riders are invited, whether arriving on two wheels or four. The atmosphere is very family friendly, creating a welcoming setting for all ages.

Spend a summer afternoon at Caponi Art Park for the Caponi Community Iron Pour, a community gathering in an outdoor sculpture setting. It’s a great chance to enjoy the park’s seasonal spaces while taking in an event that brings people together through art, creativity, and local tradition. Plan for accessible parking and shuttle service in the main visitor parking lot if needed.

Join the Twin Cities Irish Fest at Harriet Island for a fun, family-friendly celebration of Irish culture. Expect music, dance, and plenty of activities for kids, all with great atmosphere and good craic. Kids 12 and under are free. Tickets are $30.

This health fair centers on the relationship between civic participation and community health. It invites people to explore how engagement in public life contributes to stronger, healthier communities.

Wilder Recreation Center hosts a back to school backpack giveaway with complimentary food, backpacks, and school supplies available while quantities last. A child must be present to receive a backpack and school supplies. Support for this event is provided by Hope for the Brave, Target, Costco, Five Oaks Church, Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Saint Marks Evangelical Lutheran Church, and The Gnome.

Flavor World’s DIY arts and entertainment festival returns for its fourth edition at Indeed Brewing. Expect live music from local acts, plus visual art, local vendors, games, and food trucks. There will also be daytime activities including an Art Share and a Flavor Jam. This is an all-ages event, and admission is free.

Celebrate community at the Friends & Family Festival, curated by Terrell X and Heidi Jeub, at 825 Arts in St. Paul. Enjoy live music, art, and great food that set a lively, welcoming tone for all. Everyone is welcome. Suggested donation is $10 to $20.

Live music will be performed on the patio and is open to all ages. Tips for the performers are appreciated.

The Hounds of Finn return for a second performance at Twin Cities Irish Fest 2026 with a set on the Cub Pub Stage. This follow up complements an earlier show on the main stage during the festival. Tickets can be secured in advance to reserve a spot.

Honor disability joy and community at a Disability Pride festival in the parking lot at Arc's Value Village in Richfield. The event shines a light on businesses and organizations owned by people with disabilities and offers a welcoming space to connect. Attendees can expect tasty bites, live entertainment, hands-on crafts, immersive art displays, face painting stations, and more. Admission is free.

Mark the eighth season of Sunday Fundays at Gustavus Lutheran Church with a full day of food, live music, and a welcoming place to relax. A variety of food trucks are expected, including 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 more on the way, plus Fae Face Paint offering face painting. Tables and chairs will be available for comfortable dining. This is a free gathering for the public and for participating food trucks. Please be cautious of anyone requesting money or personal information in exchange for vendor invitations.

Now in its seventh year, the Black State Fair spotlights food at the outset, with culture as the reason to stay engaged. It blends a focus on food with a cultural experience in Minneapolis, MN.

Discover a lively bird-focused expo created for families, hobbyists, and anyone curious about feathered companions. Expect a colorful range of birds, along with vendors offering feed, toys, cages, and other essentials. Knowledgeable enthusiasts are available to chat, answer questions, and share tips, making it easy to learn more whether you are new to birds or a long-time fan. Admission is $5 for ages 13 and up, and free for children 12 and under. Vendor opportunities are available, with guidelines and an application provided through the event’s website.

Enjoy a family-friendly Funday at Sociable as KOO KOO returns with high-energy fun. This Minnesota duo serves up playful, catchy songs for kids that get everyone moving and smiling. A tentative plan includes an activity for kids and families hosted by Northern Star Scouting, followed by live music from KOO KOO. More kid-focused activities will be announced.

A charming tea gathering that blends good manners with a touch of enchantment. Designed for young girls, this uplifting experience helps build confidence while nurturing kindness, proper etiquette, and graceful behavior.

Music in the Trees turns the Zoo’s Treetop Trail into a summer soundtrack, blending fresh air and scenic views with performances by talented local artists. The series spans classical fusion, world rhythms, acoustic roots, pop, funk, jazz, and crowd favorites, inviting a relaxed stroll among the treetops or a burst of dancing to global beats. Locations vary along the trail depending on the elements. This edition features Cocktail Combo, known for reshaping familiar songs with playful genre mashups and live improvisation, from reggae-tinged takes on rock classics to ragtime twists on pop hits. Minneapolis String Project brings a modern string sound that weaves folk, jazz, world music, and contemporary favorites into a set that feels both elegant and welcoming.

Enjoy a live show at Maplewood Mall in St Paul, with performances scheduled in the afternoon. Ticket prices start at $15.00 and vary by seat. Seating accommodations are available, and you can contact the organizers directly to reserve the best option for your needs.

Enjoy a free concert by the First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, a Minnesota-based concert band that has been performing since 1970. The show takes place in the Centennial Lakes Park Maetzold Amphitheater at 7:00 PM, and you’re welcome to bring a blanket or lawn chairs to enjoy the music from the lawn. Picnics are allowed (no alcohol), and popcorn, ice cream, and beverages will be available for sale.

Celebrate Vadnais Heights Days, a fun, all-ages annual community celebration running through the week. The lineup includes a medallion hunt, senior picnic, food and merchandise vendors, live bands, a parade, Booya, bean bag tournaments, softball tournaments, and fireworks. Most activities are held at Community Park and the Vadnais Heights Commons.

Build hockey skills with a professional coaching staff offering more than a dozen hours of on ice instruction, complemented by focused dryland development. Skaters sharpen technique with Green Biscuit stickhandling and power skating sessions led by Wes Walz, while goalies receive dedicated training from MEGA Goaltending. The experience continues off the ice with a visit to Cascade Bay, golf at Victory Links, exclusive gear and signed keepsakes, plus opportunities to interact with players through autograph signings and Q&A sessions. Campers and their families also enjoy special extras, including a post camp skate at Xcel Energy Center and tickets to a Minnesota Wild preseason game.

A nurturing, nature-focused camp where girls connect with the outdoors, build confidence, and form friendships. Set in a wooded environment, the day features nature exploration, creative activities, movement, and brief mindfulness practices. It runs rain or shine, so weather-appropriate clothing is important, and activities will pause or be canceled if lightning or other unsafe conditions arise. Participants can arrive ready to explore, get a little messy, and enjoy the magic of the natural world. The environment is supportive and inclusive, with a focus on empowerment, kindness, and genuine 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.

A free, all-ages event will be held at Donaldson Park. There is no charge to attend.

This session introduces toddlers to aquatic life through gentle, hands-on exploration. Children scoop and observe to discover small water creatures and other animals that live in these habitats, nurturing curiosity about the world beneath the surface. Designed for families to experience nature together, the first hour offers a guided activity centered on the theme, followed by 30 minutes of open play for self-directed discovery. An adult must remain with each child at all times. Participation is limited to 30 children per session. Suitable for ages 1 to 5, with no fee for those under 1. The cost is $8 per child per session.

This level 5 sewing class centers on creating a quilt as a team. Participants discuss quilt design and fabric selection, practice classic and contemporary block styles, and take on a large scale piecing project. Everyone helps shape the overall look of the quilt top and chooses how they want to contribute. Each student takes home a sampler or mini quilt showcasing the techniques covered, and the finished full sized quilt is donated. Designed for students who have completed at least level 3.

Enjoy a free, family-friendly concert with Todd’n’Tina, a Minnesota-based music duo known for fun, goofy, and playful songs for kids and young-at-heart audiences. This is part of the Centennial Lakes Park Youth Entertainment Series, with concerts held at 10:00 AM on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Maetzold Amphitheater. Seating is tiered, and you can bring a blanket or lawn chair to relax on the lawn. Picnics are welcome, and there’s no alcohol allowed. Free parking is available near Hughes Pavilion and also across from the amphitheater in the Centennial Lakes Office Park on West 76th Street.

Enjoy a free kids concert in the park at the Richfield Bandshell as Entertainment in the Parks presents Will Hale and the Tadpole Parade. Children take the spotlight in this interactive show, encouraged to clap, dance, and sing along. The performance features festive drums, guitar, mandolin, and harmonica, plus spirited air guitar jam sessions with the kids, creating an upbeat setting with lots of participation and excitement. Will Hale has entertained thousands of children each year as a full-time kids musician since 1990, engaging young audiences through hands-on experiences that support useful life skills. He regularly brings lively concerts to families in settings such as schools, parks programs, concert series, festivals, libraries, community events, and private celebrations. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable seating and enjoy a relaxed outdoor atmosphere.

Returning for the summer, this story time offers families with young children a free outing and a chance to connect with others. Weather permitting, activities take place outside on the grassy area by the playground, with an indoor option if conditions change. The gathering features stories and songs, followed by free play on the playground. All are welcome, including neighbors, family and friends. After the group time concludes, the Preschool Director, Rachel Otterness, will be available to discuss enrollment or arrange a tour.

This weekly casual chess meetup takes place at R H Stafford Library Woodbury and welcomes participants of any age and experience level. Attendees can enjoy casual games with others who share an interest in chess.

Bring your K-grade 1 reader for a fun book club session focused on that day’s theme. Kids will enjoy stories, connect with peers, and make crafts or activities inspired by the book theme. There’s no pre-reading required, and materials are provided. Registration is preferred, and drop-ins may be possible if there’s space. The meeting room setup is listed as a large meeting room.

Scottie Miller presents his new fully orchestrated album, Hello Pain, with his band and a string quartet as part of the Durkee Summer Series. The performance features Greg Schutte on drums and Dan Carpel on upright bass, with Cierra Alise Hill and Lisi Wright on violins, Jesse Kellermann on viola, and Julia Floberg on cello. The album includes work with The Budapest Scoring Orchestra. This event is free and open to all, and guests can bring lawn chairs and drinks.

A free Irish dance class invites children to try steps with the instructors from Rince na Chroi. It is designed for families who are curious about Irish dance but not yet ready to commit to ongoing classes. While dancers participate, parents can meet with the Director to ask questions and see if this studio is the right fit.

A free, family friendly water ski show from the Twin Cities River Rats returns with an alumni edition that brings a Peter Pan inspired adventure to the Mississippi River. Peter, Wendy, and the Darling brothers take to the water with high speed stunts, spins, and soaring moments that blend storytelling with on the water thrills. A preshow leads into the main performance. Alumni who plan to attend are asked to complete the alumni form for headcount. Pack a blanket or lawn chair for seating, and enjoy available concessions.

Settle in for a no-cost evening of live music under the open sky with Frankie Torres. Raised in Minnetonka, she draws on classic rock and blues, having started performing in bars at just 8 years old. Her resume includes appearances at Summerfest in Milwaukee and Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado, and she competed on Season 26 of NBC’s The Voice in 2024. Expect a blend of favorite covers and original songs she began releasing in 2020, available to stream on all platforms. The setting is easygoing with plenty of musical variety. California Dip & Eat will be on site serving American Tex/Mex options such as street, walking, and birria tacos along with quesadillas and nachos. For comfort, attendees can bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Professional birthworkers with The Childbirth Collective lead a Birth Topic Night at Minnesota Birth Center focused on comfort measures for labor. This donation-based monthly gathering offers pregnant people and expecting families a chance to connect with Collective members and practice techniques that support labor. The session covers the cycle of fear, tension, and pain, explains why comfort strategies matter, and provides hands-on stations for practice. Open to all. Advance registration is helpful but not required, and walk-ins are welcome.

Enjoy an outdoor concert with music from Salsa del Soul at the Centennial Park Amphitheater, surrounded by food trucks, crafts, vendors, and a variety of activities. Bring a blanket, bug spray, friends, and family to relax, enjoy the music and food, and soak up the community spirit. In case of inclement weather, check Facebook or call for updates.

Enjoy a free outdoor summer concert in Fridley at Springbrook Nature Center featuring the Ryan Picone Quartet. Guests may bring a lawn chair or blanket for comfortable seating. The quartet is part of the Twin Cities jazz scene, drawing on Hot Club roots and the spirit of Django Reinhardt, with influences from guitarist Stéphane Wrembel, while also incorporating modern, global elements. Their music pursues fresh links among jazz, world traditions, and contemporary composition. The lineup includes Tessa Nichols-Meade on violin, Ian Stenlund on rhythm guitar, and Matt Blake on standup bass. A food truck will be on site, with Flamingos Ice Cream offering ice cream and other treats for purchase. This performance is presented as part of a community concert series.

Settle in on the CAC front lawn for the summer Concert on the Lawn series featuring the Percolators Band. The set spans rock from the 60s and beyond, plus country, blues, R&B, and ballads. Concessions will be available from the Brooklyn Park Lions. Guests may bring a lawn chair or blanket, with a limited number of chairs on hand. All ages are welcome.

The Faribault Lakelanders bring four-part acoustic harmonies to the lakeside pavilion at Como Park in St. Paul for a special evening set. Their program blends classic barbershop tunes with tender ballads and lively, uptempo selections. With music carrying across the water, the lakeside setting adds a relaxed summer ambiance to the performance.

Head outdoors for live music on the CAC front lawn at this summer concert series. This August 11 performance features Percolators Band, and the event runs from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Enjoy food and concessions on site, with options like hamburgers or cheeseburgers, hotdogs, chips, water, Propel water, and Gatorade. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, and note that only a limited number of chairs are available. All ages are welcome, and if weather turns, concerts will be moved inside of the CAC.

Part of the Wonder Wednesdays series, this one-day Citizen Science session invites kids to explore a beautiful outdoor setting while discovering how the public helps advance knowledge about the natural world. Led by experienced instructors, the day blends interpretive learning, games, crafts to take home, free play, and hikes. Campers observe the purpose and process of bird banding, then meet Monarch Joint Venture in the afternoon to learn about their monarch butterfly research. The experience concludes with trying to catch butterflies for tagging. Designed for ages 9 and up. Cost is $85 per camper for the session.

Bring your book-loving kid (ages 5 to 12) for a casual drop-in literacy session. There will be volunteer-led activities and games focused on reading practice, so kids can come by for as long or as little as they like. No registration is required.

Experience a five day celebration in Minneapolis organized by Minnesota People of Color Pride, honoring community, culture, and pride. The festival centers on connection, entertainment, and empowerment, featuring live performances, ballroom showcases and other cultural programs, community vendors with resource information, food options and music, and activities for all ages.

Kids eat free each Wednesday. For details and the menu, view the cover image on the event page.

Skoolie hosts Family Fun Nights at Royal Oaks Elementary in Woodbury as part of a rotating series at area schools. Attendees can pick up no-cost books, enjoy games and hands-on crafts, and find food available at no charge. Other stops in the series include Pullman Elementary in St Paul Park, Newport Elementary in Newport and Armstrong Elementary in Cottage Grove.

Grammy-winning guitarist Pat Donohue leads a relaxed night of music at The Midway Saloon in St. Paul, sharing the stage with a different guest each show. Guests range from standout local players to touring musicians, so the lineup changes regularly and no two performances are alike. Expect intricate guitar work, inviting storytelling, and an easygoing atmosphere that eases you into the evening. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.

Catch a live performance by Twin Cities musician and songwriter Adam Bohanan, whose music blends soul, jazz, funk, and R&B with playful wordplay and nerdy references. His latest single, "Reese's," mixes sultry R&B with tongue-in-cheek humor. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, and feel free to picnic (no alcohol). Free parking is available near Hughes Pavilion and across from the amphitheater in Centennial Lakes Office Park.

Bring the little ones and their caregivers for an outdoor family storytime featuring stories, rhymes, music, and movement. There will be plenty of time to talk, sing, read, write, and play together. This program will be held outside as long as weather permits.

Join the Youth Entertainment Series for a free youth concert at the Maetzold Amphitheater. The event runs at 10:00 AM, and you’re welcome to bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit on the lawn. Picnics are allowed, and there is no alcohol permitted.

Twin Cities PBS brings its summer library series to Golden Valley Public Library with family-friendly, hands-on educational activities. The event features visits from costumed characters from the kids shows Skillsville and Hero Elementary. It is free to attend and does not require registration.

Urban Roots partners with St. Paul Public Library to present a recurring storytime paired with a hands-on garden activity at the Urban Roots Children’s Garden at the Rivoli Bluff Farm and Restoration Site. Participants can enjoy read-alouds and engage with the garden in a friendly, interactive setting.

Hosted by the Oakdale Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Oakdale Fire, this annual community picnic brings neighbors together at Fire Station One. Residents can enjoy a free hot dog meal, chat with local business leaders, and connect with City staff and officials. The event takes place rain or shine.

This drop-in play session welcomes children from birth to age five along with their caregivers. Participants may stay for the full duration or just a portion that fits their schedule. The session takes place at Arlington Hills Community Center.

A free, family-friendly music party and open house from K&S Conservatory welcomes current families and anyone curious about lessons. Expect live performances, a bounce house, opportunities to try instruments such as guitar and piano, games and activities, and refreshments. The atmosphere is playful and low pressure so kids and adults can explore music together. No RSVP is required.

An inclusive, open-to-all drum circle led by Djembe Diyamu, the performance ensemble of the Women’s Drum Center, kicks off Summer Thursdays in Highland Park: Music at Wandering Leaf. This free community gathering features live music, kid-friendly activities, and a selection of food trucks at Sibley Plaza. After the drum circle, The Space Force takes the stage. Beverages are available for purchase from Wandering Leaf Brewing Company. The evening is presented with support from 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 or the Facebook event organized by Wandering Leaf Brewing. Food options include Cold Front Ice Cream, Highland Popcorn, and Grumpy Claude’s Caribbean cuisine.

This gathering at Sibley Plaza features live music, activities for kids, and food trucks. A women’s drumming circle starts things off, followed by music from The Space Force. Beverages will be available for purchase from Wandering Leaf Brewing Company. Details on the food trucks will be shared soon. Weather updates will be posted on Facebook the day of the event.