Community Reporter

Depot Days of Summer
2026-08-19 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-22 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-06-17 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Minnesota
June 17, July 22 and Aug. 19, 10 a.m. to noon. Union Depot. Free.

Union Depot will host its Depot Days of Summer series with free family-friendly programming throughout the summer. Each monthly event includes games, crafts, activities and themed entertainment geared toward children and families. Organizers say every month will feature a different theme, along with complimentary admission to the play space at Choo Choo Bob’s Train Store. Additional information and schedules are available through uniondepot.org/event-calendar.

Lowertown Sounds – Pert Near Sandstone
2026-07-30 18:00 - 22:00
July 30, 6–10 p.m. Mears Park. Free.

Wrap up the series with Pert Near Sandstone, Cole Diamond, and Jack Klatt. This final show brings a mix of bluegrass, Americana, and roots music to the park. Lowertown Sounds closes out another successful season celebrating local music and community. More info: lowertownsounds.com.

Lowertown Sounds – Salsa del Soul
2026-07-23 18:00 - 22:00
July 23, 6–10 p.m. Mears Park. Free.

Dance the night away with Salsa del Soul and Tropical Zone Orchestra. This high-energy evening celebrates Latin rhythms and community connection. Lowertown Sounds offers a welcoming environment for all ages to enjoy live music, food, and summer evenings in downtown St. Paul. More info: lowertownsounds.com.

Safe Summer Nights at Palace Recreation Center
2026-07-23 17:00 - 19:00
Thursday, July 23. 5-7 p.m. Palace Recreation Center Free.

Safe Summer Nights returns this summer with a series of free neighborhood gatherings designed to build relationships between residents and law enforcement in relaxed, family-friendly settings. The July 23 event at Palace Recreation Center will feature free food, children’s activities, community conversations and opportunities for residents to meet Saint Paul police officers outside of emergency situations. One of the event’s most popular attractions, the BearCat armored vehicle, will also be on site for children and families to explore. Organized through a partnership between the Saint Paul Police Department and Saint Paul Parks and Recreation, the Safe Summer Nights initiative began in 2014 and continues to focus on building trust and goodwill through shared meals and neighborhood engagement. Additional events will take place throughout the summer at recreation centers across Saint Paul.More information: stpaul.gov/departments/police/administration-office-chief/community-engagement-division/safe-summer-nights.

Rondo Days 2026
2026-07-18 12:00 - 19:00
July 18, 12–7 p.m. Hallie Q. Brown Community Center. Free.

Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the historic Rondo neighborhood with live music, food vendors, art, and community activities. The annual festival honors resilience and history while bringing people together. More info:rondodays.net/events-1/rondo-days-2026

Minnesota Yacht Club Festival
2026-07-17 00:00 - 2026-07-19 23:59
July 17–19, Harriet Island. $155–$305+.

This three-day music festival features headliners The Lumineers, Matchbox Twenty, and The Strokes, along with a diverse lineup of indie, rock, and alternative artists. With two stages and a carefully scheduled lineup, attendees can enjoy continuous live music throughout the weekend. The festival combines big-name acts with local talent, creating a dynamic and inclusive music experience. Set against the Mississippi River, it’s one of the Twin Cities’ premier summer events. More info:minnesotayachtclubfestival.com

Lowertown Sounds – The Scarlet Goodbye
2026-07-16 18:00 - 22:00
July 16, 6–10 p.m. Mears Park. Free.

Catch The Scarlet Goodbye and High on Stress for another lively installment of Lowertown Sounds. With its mix of established and emerging artists, the series continues to highlight the region’s rich music scene. Bring a chair, grab a bite from a food truck, and enjoy a free night of entertainment. More info: lowertownsounds.com.

Grand Oak Opry Presents Obi Original
2026-07-11 19:30 - 22:00
Saturday, July 11, 7:30 p.m. Grand Oak Opry. Pay what you are able.Grand Oak Opry will welcome performer Obi Original for a July concert showcasing the artist’s live performance style and original music. Organizers say audiences have responded enthusiastically to previous performances and are encouraging attendees to invite friends and make plans for the evening event. Additional information and ticket details are available through grandoakopry.com/2026/05/18/obi-original-july-11th-at-730pm.

Art at St. Kate’s
2026-07-11 10:00 - 17:00
July 11, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.. St. Catherine University. Free.

One of Saint Paul’s premier outdoor art fairs returns to the campus of St. Catherine University with more than 100 juried artists showcasing fine art and handmade crafts. Presented by Artists’ Circle and Textile Center, the event features painting, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, glasswork, fiber art, photography and mixed media creations from artists across the Upper Midwest. Visitors can browse artist booths while enjoying food trucks and live strolling musicians throughout the day. Organizers say the event emphasizes high-quality handcrafted work in a relaxed outdoor setting on the university’s green space at Cleveland and Randolph avenues. Free admission and parking make the fair accessible for families, collectors and anyone interested in supporting regional artists and makers. More information: artistscircle.org.

Minnesota Country Club Festival
2026-07-10 00:00 - 2026-07-11 23:59
July 10–11, Harriet Island Regional Park. Varies.

This inaugural two-day festival brings a wide-ranging country music lineup to the Mississippi riverfront. Headlined by The Red Clay Strays and Treaty Oak Revival, the event blends traditional country, Americana, and modern crossover sounds. With two stages and no overlapping sets, attendees can enjoy a seamless music experience featuring national acts and regional favorites. The scenic setting at Harriet Island adds to the appeal, offering space to relax, dance, and take in the performances. Ticket tiers range from general admission to premium VIP experiences, including riverboat access and exclusive amenities. More info:minnesotacountryclubfest.com.

Lowertown Sounds – Ashley DuBose and Mae Simpson
2026-07-09 18:00 - 22:00
July 9, 6–10 p.m. Mears Park. Free.

The July lineup kicks off with Ashley DuBose and Mae Simpson, offering a soulful blend of R&B and contemporary sounds. As always, Lowertown Sounds pairs live music with a curated selection of food trucks and drinks. The open-air park setting makes it an ideal summer outing for friends and families alike. More info: lowertownsounds.com.

The Root Beer Lady
2026-07-08 19:00 - 2026-07-26 22:00
July 8-26, 2026. History Theatre, St. Paul. $25-$65.

History Theatre brings back its acclaimed one-woman production “The Root Beer Lady,” written and performed by Kim Schultz. The production tells the story of legendary Boundary Waters resident Dorothy Molter, who became famous for brewing root beer and living independently in the remote North Woods near the Canadian border. The play explores Molter’s resilience, humor and connection to nature while challenging the notion that she was simply “the loneliest woman in America,” as she was once labeled nationally. The production blends storytelling, humor and Minnesota history while highlighting themes of independence, wilderness preservation and personal choice. Organizers say the show has become a beloved Minnesota theatrical tradition celebrating one of the state’s most enduring folk legends.More information: historytheatre.com.

Red, White & BOOM! Fireworks Return to St. Paul
2026-07-04 18:00 - 22:30
Saturday, July 4, 6-10:30 p.m. Cathedral of St. Paul. Free.

Red, White & BOOM! will bring public Independence Day fireworks back to St. Paul as part of America’s 250th birthday celebration. The event will take place at Cathedral Hill Park near the historic Cathedral of St. Paul overlooking downtown. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. with food trucks along Dayton Avenue and a St. Paul Rotary merchandise tent selling commemorative T-shirts. Remarks from city leaders and organizers are scheduled for 8 p.m., followed by acoustic music before the fireworks display at dusk.Organizers are continuing fundraising efforts to support the event and say donations will help expand the celebration. More information is available through stpaulrotary.org/event/red-white—boom.

Music in Irvine Park
2026-06-28 17:00 - 19:00
June 28 and July 26, 2026. Irvine Park. Free; donations encouraged.

The Irvine Park Music Series returns with a new format featuring two larger outdoor music events this summer in one of St. Paul’s most historic neighborhoods. The June 28 lineup includes Jordan Johnston, CLARQ and Ipso Facto, while July 26 will feature Laura Hugo, Ruby-Blu and Sunflower Fox and the Chicken Leg. Organizers say the expanded format allows for multiple performances, food trucks and additional amenities including restrooms and gathering areas. Rain dates are scheduled for August. Volunteers are also being recruited to help welcome guests and assist with parking and event logistics. The series continues Irvine Park’s tradition of community-centered outdoor music events in a neighborhood setting known for its historic homes and park atmosphere. More information: Historic Irvine Park District facebook.com group.

After Antarctica Film Screening
2026-06-28 13:00 - 15:30, 2026-06-25 18:00 - 20:30
June 25 and June 28. Minnesota History Center. Pay-what-you-can; suggested $8-$10.

The Minnesota Historical Society and The Steger Center will present screenings of the documentary “After Antarctica,” followed by question-and-answer sessions with polar explorer Will Steger. Directed by Tasha Van Zandt, the film examines climate change through the lens of Steger’s groundbreaking polar expeditions and decades of firsthand observations in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Organizers say the documentary highlights both the historic achievements of Steger’s expeditions and the dramatic environmental changes occurring in polar regions today. The screenings are part of a larger series of MNHS programs exploring exploration, climate science and environmental stewardship. More information: mnhs.org/events

Grand Oak Opry Presents The Dylan Salfer Band
2026-06-27 19:30 - 22:00
Saturday, June 27, 2026. 7:30 p.m. Grand Oak Opry. Suggested $15 donation.

The Grand Oak Opry launches its 2026 outdoor concert season with a performance by The Dylan Salfer Band in the West Seventh neighborhood. The intimate backyard-style music series has become a popular summertime tradition, with audiences bringing lawn chairs, blankets and picnic dinners to enjoy live local music in a casual neighborhood setting. Organizers request a $15 donation per adult, with all proceeds going directly to the artists, though no one is turned away for inability to pay. Seating is first come, first served, and guests are encouraged to bike or use transit due to limited parking. The Grand Oak Opry’s summer lineup continues through August with performances featuring a variety of Minnesota musicians spanning indie, folk and alternative genres. More information:grandoakopry.com.

Twin Cities Irish Fest Block Party
2026-06-27 15:00 - 23:00
Saturday, June 27, 3-11 p.m. Prior Ave. between Pennock and Hewitt. Free.

Twin Cities Irish Fest Block Party will bring live music, Irish dance and family activities to Prior Avenue North between Pennock and Hewitt avenues. The free event will feature performances from the Brian Boru Irish Pipe Band, Center for Irish Music, The Northerly Gales and The Gunn Slingers, along with appearances by local Irish dance schools, food trucks and the debut of mascot Baarry’s updated look. The block party serves as a preview for the larger Twin Cities Irish Fest, which returns to Harriet Island Aug. 7-9 with music, dance, sports demonstrations and cultural programming. Event information is available through twincitiesirishfest.com/block-party.

Will Steger: The Expedition Gear That Made the Impossible Possible
2026-06-27 14:00 - 16:00
June 27. 2-4 p.m. Minnesota History Center. Pay-what-you-can; suggested $12-$15.

Join famed polar explorer Will Steger and expedition veteran Julie Hignall for an inside look at the specialized gear that made historic Arctic and Antarctic expeditions possible. The presentation examines how sleds, navigation tools, tents, clothing systems and cooking equipment functioned in some of the harshest conditions on Earth. Steger will share stories from his record-setting expeditions while displaying actual gear used during his travels across polar ice. Organizers say the event offers audiences a rare hands-on opportunity to better understand the realities of extreme-environment exploration and the innovations required to survive in shifting sea ice and dangerous weather conditions. More information: mnhs.org/events.

The Steger Homestead Kitchen Cookbook Brunch
2026-06-27 10:00 - 11:30
Saturday, June 27, 2026. 10-11:30 a.m. Minnesota History Center $40-$50.

Polar explorer Will Steger joins food writer Beth Dooley for a brunch event centered on “The Steger Homestead Kitchen Cookbook.” The conversation will explore recipes inspired by seasonal living, sustainability and Steger’s experiences traveling through some of the world’s most remote environments. Guests will enjoy a brunch buffet prepared by Lunds & Byerlys featuring recipes from the cookbook, including banana bread and Steger Wilderness Bars. Organizers say the event blends storytelling, food and environmental reflection while offering attendees an opportunity to hear directly from one of Minnesota’s best-known explorers and climate advocates. A cookbook signing will follow the program. More information: mnhs.org/events.

Hmong International Freedom Festival
2026-06-26 08:00 - 2026-06-28 17:00
June 26-28, 2026. Como Regional Park, Admission varies.

The annual Hmong International Freedom Festival returns to Como Regional Park for three days of cultural celebration, athletics, food and live entertainment. Organized by The United Hmong Family Inc., the festival is one of the largest Hmong cultural gatherings in the Midwest and commemorates Hmong freedom, heritage and community identity. The event typically features soccer tournaments, traditional performances, vendors, family activities and music throughout the weekend. Organizers say the festival serves as both a cultural celebration and community reunion for Hmong families across Minnesota and beyond. The event continues a decades-long tradition that has become a major summertime gathering in Saint Paul’s multicultural festival calendar. More information: unitedhmongfamily.org.

Lowertown Sounds – Flamin’ Oh’s
2026-06-25 18:00 - 22:00
June 25, 6–10 p.m. Mears Park. Free.

Close out June with live performances by Flamin’ Oh’s and Christy Costello & the CC Club. Lowertown Sounds continues its tradition of bringing diverse, high-quality music to downtown St. Paul. Guests can enjoy food trucks, beverages, and a relaxed community setting under the summer sky. This free concert series remains a favorite for locals looking to unwind and connect through music. More info: lowertownsounds.com.

16th Annual West End Neighbors’ Garden Tour
2026-06-20 10:00 - 14:00
June 20, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. West End neighborhoods. Free.

Explore the creativity and diversity of local gardens during the West End Neighbors’ Garden Tour. This self-guided event invites visitors to walk or drive between participating gardens, each showcasing unique styles—from native plantings and pollinator habitats to vegetable plots and ornamental landscapes. The tour highlights the beauty and individuality of neighborhood spaces while fostering community connections. Gardeners within the designated area—roughly bounded by Armstrong Avenue, Interstate 35E, and the Mississippi River—are encouraged to participate by registering their gardens and sharing their stories. Each featured garden will be included in a printed tour booklet, making this both an educational and inspiring experience for visitors and hosts alike. More info:fortroadfed.org/west-end-garden-tour

Saints and Sinners History Talk
2026-06-20 10:00 - 11:15
June 20, 10-11:15 a.m. St. Stanislaus Church. Free.

Historian Gary Brueggemann will discuss his book,Saints and Sinners the Pioneers of Saint Paul, at St. Stanislaus Church, 398 Superior Street, Saturday, June 20, from 10:00-11:15.

Pryes Side Lot Concert Series
2026-06-19 17:00 - 2026-06-20 20:00
June 19-20, 2026. Pryes Brewing Company. $40.50-$84.

Pryes Brewing Company is expanding its annual block party with the launch of Pryes Side Lot, a new outdoor concert venue debuting with performances by Soul Asylum and Gear Daddies. The two-night event combines ticketed evening concerts with the brewery’s larger daytime block party celebration featuring food, beer and community programming. Additional performers include Agnes Uncaged, Maygen & The Birdwatcher and LAAMAR. Organizers say the Side Lot represents a major expansion of Pryes’ summer events programming while maintaining the community-focused atmosphere that has made the annual block party a popular Minneapolis tradition. Concertgoers can expect a festival-style environment with access to outdoor performances, food and the brewery’s taproom and patio spaces.More information: etix.com.

Twin Cities Jazz Festival 2026
2026-06-19 00:00 - 2026-06-20 23:59
Friday, June 19 and Saturday, June 20, 2026. Multiple venues in Lowertown St. Paul and beyond. Free.

Twin Cities Jazz Festival returns for its 28th year with two days of free performances featuring internationally recognized artists, local musicians and youth ensembles across Saint Paul’s Lowertown neighborhood. Main stage performances at Mears Park include Yellowjackets, Sullivan Fortner Trio and JazzMN Orchestra with Michael Mayo, alongside dozens of additional concerts at clubs, breweries, museums and community venues throughout the city. The family-friendly festival also includes educational master classes, youth showcases and community activities. Organizers say the event has grown into one of the Midwest’s largest free civic jazz festivals, bringing together audiences of all ages to celebrate live music while supporting the next generation of jazz performers. Indoor and outdoor venues stretch across St. Paul and Minneapolis, creating a citywide weekend celebration of jazz culture and performance. More information: twincitiesjazzfestival.com.

Lowertown Sounds – The New Standards and Black Market Brass
2026-06-18 18:00 - 22:00
June 18, 6–10 p.m. Mears Park. Free.

Enjoy another evening of live music at Lowertown Sounds with performances by The New Standards and Black Market Brass. This popular Thursday night series showcases top-tier regional talent across genres, from jazz and funk to indie and soul. With food trucks, beverages, and a welcoming outdoor environment, the event offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a longtime fan or first-time visitor, Lowertown Sounds provides a vibrant way to experience St. Paul’s music culture. More info: lowertownsounds.com.
