Overview of Festivals in Minnesota 2025

Known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” Minnesota is a state rich in natural beauty, cultural diversity, and vibrant community spirit. From bustling urban centers like Minneapolis and St. Paul to charming small towns, the state offers a wide array of festivals that highlight its music, arts, history, and culinary heritage. Minnesota’s 2025 festival calendar promises a year full of exciting events that reflect the heart and soul of this great state.

Minnesota’s festivals celebrate everything from its Scandinavian roots to its love of outdoor adventure and local music. Iconic events like the Minnesota State Fair, the largest state fair in the U.S., and the Twin Cities Pride Festival draw visitors from across the country. Other unique highlights include the quirky Grumpy Old Men Festival in Wabasha and the serene beauty of the Boundary Waters Canoe Festival.

Each season brings something special, from winter carnivals and ice fishing contests to summer art fairs and outdoor concerts. With a mix of history, creativity, and fun, Minnesota’s festivals are as diverse as its residents.

Learn more: Full List of Festivals in the US for 2025: Music, Food, Art, Film, Street and More

Minnesota Festival Map
Minnesota Festival Map for 2025

List of Festivals and Big Events in Minnesota 2025: Date, Location, Significance, Activities, and Tickets

Note: Festival dates and similar events in this state are updated frequently, and times may change. Please report any date errors in the article in the comments below.

January

Saint Paul Winter Carnival

  • Date: January 25–February 4, 2025
  • Location: Saint Paul, MN
  • Significance: Known as the “Coolest Celebration on Earth,” this is one of the nation’s oldest winter festivals.
  • Activities:
    • Ice carving and snow sculpting competitions.
    • Torchlight parades and fireworks displays.
    • Crowning of the Winter Carnival Royalty.
    • Family-friendly games, food stalls, and winter-themed exhibits.
  • Tickets: Free admission; some activities require a fee.
  • Transportation: Parking available downtown; public transit and shuttle services recommended.

February

Grumpy Old Men Festival

  • Date: February 24, 2025
  • Location: Wabasha, MN
  • Significance: A whimsical celebration inspired by the movie Grumpy Old Men, set in the charming Mississippi River town of Wabasha.
  • Activities:
    • Ice fishing contests on the Mississippi River.
    • Smoosh races (races on homemade snowshoes).
    • Chili cook-offs and beer tastings.
    • Live music, bonfires, and quirky competitions.
  • Tickets: Free admission; food and drinks are pay-as-you-go.
  • Transportation: Parking available downtown; carpooling recommended.
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March

Lake Superior Ice Festival

  • Date: March 8–10, 2025
  • Location: Duluth, MN
  • Significance: A stunning celebration of winter along the frozen shores of Lake Superior.
  • Activities:
    • Ice skating and hockey games on frozen Lake Superior.
    • Bonfires and live folk music.
    • Ice sculpting exhibitions and workshops.
    • Local food vendors serving hearty winter dishes.
  • Tickets: Free admission; ice skate rentals available for a fee.
  • Transportation: Accessible by public transit; parking lots available near the lakefront.

April

Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival

  • Date: April 4–18, 2025
  • Location: Minneapolis, MN
  • Significance: One of the largest film festivals in the Midwest, showcasing a diverse range of international and independent films.
  • Activities:
    • Film screenings at venues across the Twin Cities.
    • Panel discussions with filmmakers and actors.
    • Networking events for industry professionals and film enthusiasts.
    • Special youth and community programs.
  • Tickets: Passes and individual tickets available online.
  • Transportation: Accessible via public transit; parking garages available near venues.

May

Art-A-Whirl

  • Date: May 17–19, 2025
  • Location: Northeast Minneapolis Arts District, MN
  • Significance: The largest open studio tour in the U.S., celebrating the creativity of Minnesota’s artists.
  • Activities:
    • Visits to artists’ studios and galleries.
    • Live demonstrations of painting, pottery, and sculpture.
    • Food trucks, craft breweries, and live music performances.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • Transportation: Parking is limited; biking and public transit encouraged.

June

Twin Cities Pride Festival

  • Date: June 22–23, 2025
  • Location: Loring Park, Minneapolis, MN
  • Significance: One of the largest LGBTQ+ pride festivals in the Midwest, promoting inclusivity and equality.
  • Activities:
    • Pride parade through downtown Minneapolis.
    • Live music, drag performances, and comedy shows.
    • Vendor booths featuring local businesses and organizations.
    • Family-friendly activities and food trucks.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • Transportation: Public transit and rideshare services are highly recommended.
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July

Minnesota State Fair

  • Date: July 24–August 4, 2025
  • Location: Saint Paul, MN
  • Significance: The largest state fair in the United States, known as the “Great Minnesota Get-Together.”
  • Activities:
    • Iconic food-on-a-stick offerings, including deep-fried classics.
    • Live concerts from national and local performers.
    • Livestock shows, 4-H competitions, and agricultural exhibits.
    • Carnival rides, games, and family-friendly entertainment.
  • Tickets: General admission tickets available online; discounted passes for children and seniors.
  • Transportation: Shuttle services and public transit highly recommended; parking available but limited.

Boundary Waters Canoe Festival

  • Date: July 12–14, 2025
  • Location: Ely, MN
  • Significance: A celebration of Minnesota’s pristine wilderness and outdoor recreation.
  • Activities:
    • Guided canoe trips and kayaking demonstrations.
    • Workshops on wilderness survival and fishing techniques.
    • Storytelling sessions and music performances under the stars.
    • Vendor booths offering outdoor gear and handmade crafts.
  • Tickets: Free general admission; fees for guided trips.
  • Transportation: Parking available near festival grounds; rideshare options limited.

August

Bayfront Blues Festival

  • Date: August 2–4, 2025
  • Location: Duluth, MN
  • Significance: One of the Midwest’s largest blues festivals, drawing music lovers from across the region.
  • Activities:
    • Performances by renowned blues artists on multiple stages.
    • Food trucks and vendors offering classic festival fare.
    • Workshops and meet-and-greets with performers.
    • Scenic views of Lake Superior from the festival grounds.
  • Tickets: Available online; early booking discounts offered.
  • Transportation: Public transit and parking available near Bayfront Park.

Irish Fair of Minnesota

  • Date: August 9–11, 2025
  • Location: Harriet Island Regional Park, Saint Paul, MN
  • Significance: A vibrant celebration of Irish culture, music, and heritage.
  • Activities:
    • Traditional Irish music and dance performances.
    • Gaelic sports demonstrations and competitions.
    • Cultural exhibits and workshops, including genealogy sessions.
    • Food vendors serving Irish classics like shepherd’s pie and Guinness stew.
  • Tickets: Free general admission; donations encouraged.
  • Transportation: Parking available nearby; public transit is highly recommended.

September

Renaissance Festival Minnesota

  • Date: Weekends, September 1–October 6, 2025
  • Location: Shakopee, MN
  • Significance: A whimsical journey back to the 16th century, complete with costumes, jousting, and medieval markets.
  • Activities:
    • Live jousting tournaments and theatrical performances.
    • Artisan vendors selling handmade jewelry, pottery, and clothing.
    • Renaissance-themed food, including turkey legs and mead.
    • Interactive workshops and games for children.
  • Tickets: General admission and season passes available online.
  • Transportation: Parking available at the venue; carpooling encouraged during peak hours.

North Shore Inline Marathon

  • Date: September 14, 2025
  • Location: Duluth, MN
  • Significance: A unique inline skating marathon along the scenic shores of Lake Superior.
  • Activities:
    • Inline skating races for all skill levels.
    • Post-race celebrations with live music and food vendors.
    • Workshops on skating techniques and safety.
  • Tickets: Registration required; fees vary by event type.
  • Transportation: Parking available near the start line; shuttles provided to key locations.
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October

Twin Cities Marathon

  • Date: October 6, 2025
  • Location: Minneapolis to Saint Paul, MN
  • Significance: Known as the “Most Beautiful Urban Marathon in America,” this event attracts runners from around the world.
  • Activities:
    • Full marathon, half marathon, and 10K races.
    • Cheer zones and live entertainment along the route.
    • Finish line celebrations with food, drinks, and vendor booths.
  • Tickets: Registration required; fees vary by race category.
  • Transportation: Shuttles provided between start and finish locations; public transit recommended.

PumpkinFest in Stillwater

  • Date: October 19–20, 2025
  • Location: Stillwater, MN
  • Significance: A fall festival celebrating the harvest season in a historic riverside town.
  • Activities:
    • Pumpkin carving contests and hayrides.
    • Craft markets featuring seasonal goods.
    • Live music and food trucks offering autumn-inspired treats.
  • Tickets: Free admission; fees for some activities.
  • Transportation: Parking available in downtown Stillwater; carpooling encouraged.

November

Duluth Winter Village

  • Date: November 23–24, 2025
  • Location: Glensheen Mansion, Duluth, MN
  • Significance: A charming early kickoff to the holiday season with local vendors and festive cheer.
  • Activities:
    • Outdoor holiday markets featuring local artisans.
    • Warm drinks and food stalls offering seasonal specialties.
    • Caroling and live music performances.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • Transportation: Parking available on-site; rideshare services recommended.

December

Bentleyville “Tour of Lights”

  • Date: December 1–31, 2025
  • Location: Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth, MN
  • Significance: A magical holiday light display, perfect for families and festive outings.
  • Activities:
    • Millions of holiday lights synchronized to music.
    • Visits with Santa Claus and free hot cocoa.
    • Bonfires and photo opportunities with festive backdrops.
  • Tickets: Free admission; donations encouraged.
  • Transportation: Parking available near the venue; shuttles provided from downtown Duluth.

Holiday Lights in the Park

  • Date: December 1–31, 2025
  • Location: Saint Paul, MN
  • Significance: A dazzling drive-through holiday light display in Saint Paul’s Phalen Park.
  • Activities:
    • Intricate light installations set to festive music.
    • Local food vendors selling holiday treats.
    • Charity collections benefiting local organizations.
  • Tickets: Per-vehicle admission fee available online or at the gate.
  • Transportation: On-site parking available; rideshare services encouraged.

Conclusion

Minnesota’s festivals in 2025 highlight the state’s love for nature, arts, and community spirit. From the snowy magic of winter carnivals to the vibrant summer fairs and cozy holiday celebrations, there’s a festival for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the Twin Cities or the scenic shores of Lake Superior, Minnesota offers year-round reasons to celebrate.

FAQs About Minnesota Festivals 2025

1. What are Minnesota’s must-see festivals in 2025?

  • The Minnesota State Fair, Saint Paul Winter Carnival, and Twin Cities Pride Festival are iconic events not to miss.

2. Are Minnesota festivals family-friendly?

  • Yes, most festivals, like PumpkinFest and Bentleyville “Tour of Lights”, include activities for all ages.

3. Are there free festivals in Minnesota?

  • Many festivals, such as Art-A-Whirl and Bayfront Blues Festival, offer free admission.

4. What’s unique about Minnesota’s festivals?

  • The state’s festivals reflect its cultural diversity, natural beauty, and creative spirit.

5. How can I find tickets for Minnesota festivals?

  • Tickets are often available online or at the gate; early booking is recommended for popular events.

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