Best Bets: June 23-29

Things to do around Minnesota this week: Twin Cities Pride, a summer rooftop party, a craft festival, and more

Music in the Park CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER

What: Lowertown Sounds
When: June 26, 6-10 p.m. 
Where: Mears Park, 221 Fifth St. E., St. Paul

Enjoy live, local music every Thursday this summer at Mears Park in St. Paul. This Thursday, listen to funk band Dr. Mambo’s Combo and opener Purple Funk Metropolis. While listening, grab a bite to eat from food trucks and sample regional beer and wine.

Courtesy of Lowertown Sounds

Bargain Book Fair

What: Friends Rochesterfest Book Sale
When: June 27-29
Where: Rochester Public Library, 101 Second St. NE, Rochester

Friends of the Rochester Public Library invite visitors to shop for secondhand books at great prices. The sale has something for everyone—kids books, cookbooks, poetry books, and more. If you’re more of a music lover, the sale will also include sheet music and CDs.

Twin Cities Pride

What: Twin Cities Pride Festival
When: June 27-29
Where: Various locations in Loring Park, Minneapolis

Among the nation’s largest pride festivals, Twin Cities Pride features over 650 vendors, a parade, an art showcase, and live entertainment. There is fun for all ages, and LGBTQIA+ youth are encouraged to check out the Youth Hideaway section of the festival. For other can’t-miss pride events, check out our guide to Pride in Minnesota.

Courtesy of Twin Cities Pride

Italian Summer

What: La Dolce Riva Summer Party
When: June 27, 3-6 p.m.
Where: Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, 245 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis

Inspired by the Italian coast, the Four Seasons’s Riva Terrace offers outdoor dining with stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline. To kick off summer in the Twin Cities, the La Dolce Riva party will feature live entertainment, art, delicious food, and a “cocktail for a cause” in honor of Pride Month. The event is free and open to the public—all are welcome to attend!

Courtesy of Four Seasons

Art on the Point

What: Park Point Art Fair
When: June 28-29, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Park Point, 4750 Minnesota Ave., Duluth

Celebrate local art with a beautiful view of Lake Superior at the Park Point Art Fair. The art fair attracts more than 150 regional artists and features a live music stage, free art-making activities, and food trucks.

Courtesy of Park Point Art Fair

Handcrafted

What: American Craft Fest
When: June 28-29
Where: Union Depot, 214 Fourth St. E, St. Paul

Arts and crafts are for all ages at the American Craft Fest this weekend. Discover local artists, participate in hands-on crafting, shop handmade artisan products, and enjoy local food and beverages at Union Depot.