Best Bets: July 7-13

Things to do around Minnesota this week: a bike tour, Festival of the Sail, Minnesota Salsa Festival, and more

All Things Plants

What: Planty Hour
When: July 10, 5:30-7 p.m.
Where: The Lofton Hotel, 601 N. First Ave., Minneapolis

The Lofton Hotel and the Plant Penthouse are hosting a fun and interactive evening with a signature tropical cocktail. After the tropical happy hour, participants are invited to in a plant cutting swap and a hands-on demonstration about propagation with guest Shayla Owodunni. This event is 21+.

History on Wheels

What: History on Wheels: Inside Historic Fort Snelling and to the Upper Post
When: July 10, 6-7:30 p.m.
Where: Historic Fort Snelling, 200 Tower Ave., St. Paul

This Thursday, bring your bike to Historic Fort Snelling to embark on a captivating tour of the site. The tour covers three miles, including the scenic land between two rivers and the newly renovated Upper Post.

Courtesy of Visit Saint Paul

Sail On

What: Festival of the Sail
When: July 10-13
Where: Harbor Plaza, 350 Harbor Drive, Duluth

Set your sights on the Lake Superior horizon this weekend for Festival of the Sail. Held at the newly remodeled Harbor Plaza, the weekend includes a fleet of historic tall ships, the world’s largest rubber ducks, and the Superior High Dive Challenge. Hosted by USA diving, the challenge features nationally ranked divers and is the first ever high-diving competition on the Great Lakes. On shore, enjoy live music, food vendors, and artisan goods from the Duluth community.

Courtesy of Festival of the Sail

Pure Pandemonium

What: Panda Fest
When: July 11-13
Where: Mall of America North Lot, 7900 Lindau Lane, Bloomington

Panda fest is one of the largest Asian food festivals in the country. The event features experiential activities, tastings, and market fairs that showcase vibrant Asian tradition. With more than 100 food vendors, merchandise stands, panda-related inflatables, and Asian cultural performances, this event is a can’t-miss.

Courtesy of Panda Fest

Check Out Lakefront Music

What: Lakefront Music Festival
When: July 12-13
Where: Lakefront Park, 5000 Kop Parkway, Prior Lake

Benefitting the Prior Lake Rotary Foundation, Lakefront Music Festival has grown to one of the Twin Cities’ largest outdoor music festivals. This year, country music superstar Miranda Lambert and rock band Foreigner headline the event, which also includes performances by Dillon Carmichael, Loverboy, Randy Houser, and 38 Special.

Courtesy of Explore Minnesota

Art by the Lake

What: Grand Marais Arts Festival
When: July 12-13
Where: Various locations on Wisconsin Street, Grand Marais

A representation of the dynamic Midwest arts scene, the Grand Marais Arts Festival draws over 10,000 visitors annually. Presented by the Grand Marais Art Colony, the fair features local artists of every medium. After browsing the art, visitors are invited to stop by restaurants and brick and mortar shops on Wisconsin Street in Grand Marais.

Courtesy of Visit Cook County

Salsa Fiesta

What: Minnesota Salsa Fiesta
When: July 12, 6-11:30 p.m.
Where: Mill City Museum, 704 S. Second St., Minneapolis

The annual Minnesota Salsa Fiesta is returning to Mill City this weekend for an evening of live salsa music, dance, and Latin cuisine. The festivities will begin outdoors in the iconic Ruin Courtyard before moving indoors with a DJ, dance, and additional snacks.

Courtesy of Minnesota Salsa Fiesta