Best Bets: July 1-7

Things to do around Minnesota this week: Fourth of July celebrations, waterfront music, and more

Fourth Festivities

What: Aurora Patriotic Days
When: July 1-4
Where: Downtown Main Street, Aurora

Head to Aurora to celebrate the Fourth of July! Offering four days of fun, this festival includes concerts, vendors, parades, and a firework show.  

Enjoy the Classics

What: Zee Zee at Minnesota Beethoven Festival
When: July 2 (7:30 p.m.)
Where: 700 Terrace Heights, Winona

Experience the captivating talent of pianist Zee Zee, who has performed with leading orchestras worldwide. This event at Saint Mary’s University is a must-see for classical music fans!

Zee Zee the pianist
Zee Zee

Courtesy of Minnesota Beethoven Festival

Food Trucks, Fireworks, and Fun

What: Eagan’s July 4th Funfest
When: July 2-4
Where: Viking Lakes (2685 Viking Circle, Eagan) and Eagan Community Center Festival Grounds (1501 Central Pkwy., Eagan)

This annual holiday celebration includes a carnival, live music, bingo, local food vendors, and more.

Music at the Mansion

What: Concerts on the Pier
When: July 3 (5-8 p.m.)
Where: 3300 London Road, Duluth

Father Hennepin and Nat Harvie will kick off this weekly live music series at Glensheen Mansion on Lake Superior. Admission is free and open to the public.  

Summer concert series at Glensheen Mansion
Concerts on the Pier

Courtesy of Glensheen Mansion

Red, White, and Bloomington

What: Summer Fete
When: July 3  (5-10 p.m.)
Where: Normandale Lake Park (W. 84th St. and Chalet Road, Bloomington)

Kick off your Independence Day celebrations in the Twin Cities with this annual family-friendly festival, which features one of Minnesota’s largest fireworks displays.

All-Day Fun

What: Lake Minnetonka Fourth of July Celebration
When: July 4 (7:30 a.m.-11 p.m.)
Where: 135 Lake St., Excelsior

If you need another place to celebrate the Fourth of July, head to Excelsior to enjoy a day of planned activities. With its 5k and 10k races, food vendors, a parade, a petting zoo, and a firework show, this event on Lake Minnetonka is sure to keep you busy.

Julia Jacobson is a rising senior at the University of Notre Dame, studying political science and journalism. Outside of her coursework, she participates in her school’s mock trial team and works as a teaching assistant for an introductory political science course. Julia was born and raised in Minnesota, and loves traveling both domestically and internationally. In her free time, she enjoys reading and journaling.