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7/24 What''s Happening this Weekend

Weekend Vibes in the Twin Cities: A Jam-Packed Guide to July 24-26 Events

As the summer heat waves through Minnesota, the Twin Cities are buzzing with an eclectic mix of events this weekend, from July 24 to 26. Whether you're a foodie chasing gourmet bites, a music lover seeking live tunes under the stars, a family looking for kid-friendly fun, or an adventurer ready for outdoor escapades, there's something to ignite your weekend spirit. Drawing from the latest roundup on Twin Cities Live, sponsored by local partners, this guide dives deep into the highlights, offering a comprehensive look at what's on tap. Let's break it down by category and day to help you plan your perfect itinerary.

Starting with the culinary scene, food festivals are stealing the spotlight this weekend. On Friday, July 24, head over to the Minneapolis Food Truck Fair at the Midtown Global Market. This annual gathering transforms the parking lot into a vibrant hub of mobile eateries, featuring over 50 trucks dishing out everything from gourmet tacos and wood-fired pizzas to exotic fusion dishes like Korean-Mexican burritos and vegan street corn. Admission is free, but bring cash or cards for the eats, with prices ranging from $5 to $15 per item. What makes this event special is the live entertainment lineup, including local bands playing folk and indie rock from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., creating a festive atmosphere perfect for date nights or group outings. Organizers emphasize sustainability, with compostable utensils and recycling stations, aligning with the city's green initiatives. If you're into craft beverages, pair your meal with samples from nearby breweries like Surly and Indeed, which set up pop-up bars on site.

Shifting gears to Saturday, July 25, the St. Paul Farmers' Market expands into a full-blown Harvest Festival at its downtown location. Running from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., this isn't your average produce stand—expect artisanal cheeses, fresh-baked breads, and seasonal fruits like peak-of-summer berries and heirloom tomatoes. But the real draw is the added programming: cooking demos by local chefs, where you can learn to whip up farm-to-table recipes, and a kids' zone with face painting and pony rides. Entry is free, though vendors appreciate tips for their hard work. This event underscores the region's agricultural heritage, supporting over 100 local farmers and fostering community connections. For those extending their day, nearby Lowertown offers gallery walks, blending art with your market haul.

Music enthusiasts, rejoice—live performances are abundant. Friday night kicks off with the Twilight Concert Series at Lake Harriet Bandshell in Minneapolis. From 7:30 p.m., catch the soulful sounds of a jazz ensemble featuring Minnesota natives who've graced stages from New York to New Orleans. The free, open-air venue encourages picnics, so pack a blanket and some snacks for a romantic or family-friendly evening. The bandshell's historic charm, built in 1888, adds a layer of nostalgia, with views of the lake enhancing the ambiance. If rock is more your vibe, Saturday brings the Rock the Garden festival at the Walker Art Center. Headliners include indie acts like The Hold Steady and local opener Chastity Brown, performing from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets start at $50, granting access to the sculpture garden for a unique blend of art and music. This event, a staple since 2003, draws crowds for its innovative stage setups and food vendors offering elevated festival fare like gourmet grilled cheese and craft cocktails.

For families, the weekend is brimming with interactive fun. On Sunday, July 26, the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley hosts its annual Animal Adventure Day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Beyond the usual exhibits of tigers, dolphins, and tropical birds, expect special activities like behind-the-scenes keeper talks, animal enrichment demos, and a petting zoo with farm animals. Admission is $19.95 for adults and $13.95 for kids, with free entry for members. Highlights include a new interactive exhibit on conservation, where children can participate in mock wildlife rescues, educating them on environmental stewardship. The zoo's lush grounds provide ample space for picnics, making it an all-day affair. If you're closer to the city, the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory offers a free alternative with its Summer Flower Show, blooming with exotic orchids and water lilies, open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Outdoor adventurers won't be left out. Saturday's highlight is the Mississippi River Paddle Share, launching from various points along the river in St. Paul and Minneapolis. Rent a kayak or canoe for $10 per hour and explore the scenic waterways, spotting bald eagles and historic landmarks like the Stone Arch Bridge. Guided tours are available for beginners, starting at 8 a.m., emphasizing safety with life jackets and briefings. This initiative promotes eco-tourism, encouraging participants to appreciate the river's role in the region's ecosystem. For land-based thrills, the Chain of Lakes in Minneapolis hosts a Bike and Brew Tour on Sunday, combining cycling paths with stops at microbreweries. The 10-mile route is family-friendly, with e-bike rentals for $20, and ends with tastings at spots like Lakes & Legends Brewing.

Cultural and community events add depth to the lineup. Friday evening features the Somali Independence Day Celebration at the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood, commemorating the nation's history with traditional dances, music, and cuisine like sambusas and camel milk tea. Free to attend from 6 p.m., it's a vibrant showcase of the Twin Cities' diverse immigrant communities, fostering inclusivity. On Saturday, the Minneapolis Aquatennial continues its legacy with the Torchlight Parade downtown at 8:30 p.m. Expect floats, marching bands, and fireworks, drawing thousands for a spectacle of lights and sounds. This free event, dating back to 1939, celebrates the city's lakes and waterways, with pre-parade activities including street performers and food stalls.

Sports fans can catch the Minnesota Twins facing off against the Chicago White Sox at Target Field on Friday and Saturday nights, with games starting at 7:10 p.m. Tickets range from $15 to $100, and the ballpark's lively atmosphere includes fan zones with games and giveaways. Sunday brings the Twin Cities Marathon training runs, open to the public along the riverfront paths, perfect for runners gearing up for the fall event.

Wrapping up the weekend, don't miss the outdoor movie screenings at various parks. On Sunday night, Nicollet Island Pavilion screens a classic family film like "The Lion King" starting at dusk, free with suggested donations for park maintenance. Bring lawn chairs and popcorn for a communal viewing under the stars.

This weekend's offerings reflect the Twin Cities' dynamic spirit—blending urban energy with natural beauty, cultural richness, and community warmth. With mostly sunny forecasts and temperatures in the mid-80s, it's an ideal time to get out and explore. For the latest updates, including any weather-related changes or COVID protocols (masks recommended in crowded areas), check the official event pages. Whether you're a local or visitor, these events promise memorable experiences that capture the essence of summer in Minnesota. So, grab your calendar, rally your crew, and dive into the fun— the Twin Cities are waiting. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full KSTP-TV Article at:
[ https://kstp.com/tcl/twin-cities-live-sponsored/7-24-whats-happening-this-weekend/ ]