Celebrate the Cultural Districts Throughout the Year.

By Katie Hare

The Minneapolis Cultural Districts are home to some of the best food in the country, along with premier arts programming, museums, performance venues, independent businesses, glorious parks, and public art. Celebrate and savor these areas while supporting their residents and business owners by exploring cultural events throughout the year. From weekly farmers’ markets to annual festivals and community theater, these spaces and surrounding areas can provide the opportunity to learn, appreciate, provoke thought and discussion, and help sustain some of the most inspiring neighborhoods in the city.

Jan. 25-Feb. 4 | The Great Northern | Varies

Embrace winter through projected artwork, outdoor ventures, performances, climate talks, and more in various locations across Minneapolis.

April-May | Playwrights Center Playlabs Festival | Franklin Avenue

Get a behind-the-scenes look into the playwriting development process at the 39th PlayLabs festival.

First week of May | MayDay Parade & Festival | 38th Street

In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre staff held the first MayDay Parade & Festival in spring of 1975 and it became a yearly event at/near Powderhorn Park. As of 2023, the MayDay Council is partnering with HOBT in designing a new approach to the planning and production of MayDay events based on principles of equity, justice, and collaboration.

May 17-19 | Art-A-Whirl | Central Avenue

Wander this extensive open studio tour featuring artists, galleries, and businesses in over 60 Northeast Minneapolis locations.

June 18 | Celebrate Northeast Parade | Central Avenue

Participate in the largest one-day event while honoring Northeast Minneapolis on Central Avenue.

June-October | West Broadway Farmers Market | West Broadway

Gather in the dynamic West Broadway neighborhood to shop for fresh food and local products at this weekly market.

June-October | Four Sisters Farmers Market | Franklin Avenue

An Indigenous-centered food market focused on both Indigenous and hyper-local foods and crafts from Phillips and the surrounding neighborhood.

June 19 | Juneteenth | Varies

Join the community in commemorating the end of slavery with activities presented across Minneapolis parks.

June 29 | Somali Independence Day Festival | Lake Street

Celebrate Somali Independence Day with music, food, and games at this annual family-friendly street festival.

July 26-27 | Twin Cities Carifest | West Broadway

An annual celebration of Caribbean arts and culture in Minnesota.

August 1-11 | Fringe Fest | Cedar Riverside & Central Avenue

Watch hundreds of performances at over a dozen venues, spanning almost 20 genres.

Summer | Music & Movies in the Parks | Varies

Sit back, relax, and enjoy live music or a movie screening outdoors at parks throughout Minneapolis.

September 20-21 | Ingebretsen's Nordic Vintage Market | Lake Street

Shop Scandinavian vintage items at this annual sale. You’ll find home goods, sweaters, hand knits, decor, books, holiday treasures, and much more

Fall | The Cedar Cultural Center's Global Roots Festival | Cedar-Riverside

Hear live music rooted in traditions from around the world.

October | Día de Los Muertos at Midtown Global Market | Lake Street

Support independent business owners on this day of tradition, education, food, art, and music.

Fall-Spring | Rarig Theatre Arts & Dance 2023-24 Season | Cedar-Riverside

Home to the University of Minnesota's theatre arts program, Rarig offers a season of productions not to be missed.

Winter | Gingerbread Wonderland at The Norway House | Franklin Avenue

Over the years, Gingerbread Wonderland has hosted more than 2,000 charming gingerbread creations — gingerbread houses, castles, campers, Minnesota landmarks, Whoville- and Barbie-inspired constructions, and so much more — produced by both professional and amateur bakers from around town to across the globe.

Ongoing | Pillsbury House and Theatre Mainstage | 38th Street

Experience contemporary productions by local actors and directors at these Mainstage productions.

Ongoing | First Thursday Films at Capri Theater | West Broadway

Immerse yourself in this free Northside film series curated to create space for dialogue and better understanding.