Flavors and Festivities
What: Minnesota State Fair
When: Through Sept. 2
Where: 1265 Snelling Ave., St. Paul
The beloved Minnesota State Fair invites visitors from across the state and beyond to indulge in a beloved tradition filled with mouthwatering food, lively entertainment, and all the quintessential sights and sounds that make this event a cherished part of Minnesotan culture.
Local Music, Local Parks
What: FORWARD Park Concerts Series
When: Aug. 28 (5:30-8 p.m.)
Where: 722 Seventh St. NW, Rochester
The FORWARD Park Concerts series will take over Cook Park in Rochester with a lineup headlined by the electric Minneapolis rock band The Shackletons, along with an opening set by Valors—a must-see for fans of 90s-inspired, high-energy rock ‘n’ roll.
A Free Water Show
What: Twin Cities River Rats Ski Show
When: Aug. 29 (6:45-8:15 p.m.)
Where: 1758 West River Road N., Minneapolis
The Twin Cities River Rats will cap off their season with a free, action-packed water ski show on the Mississippi River, providing one last chance for spectators to catch the splash-tastic routines and death-defying stunts before the team goes into hibernation for the off-season.
The Good Ol’ Days
What: Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion
When: Aug. 30–Sept. 2
Where: 27512 102nd Ave. S., Hawley
Since 1954, generations of threshermen and women have gathered each Labor Day weekend to breathe life into the agricultural traditions of the past, inviting visitors young and old to experience the joy of this beloved, sun-filled celebration.
Revving Up for a Cause
What: Cars & Caves
When: Aug. 31 (9 a.m.-1 p.m.)
Where: 8150 Audubon Road, Chanhassen
The Cars & Caves car shows at the Chanhassen AutoPlex continue to rev up interest throughout the Twin Cities, with the Aug. 31 event showcasing a collection of striking British-made vehicles, from classic MGs to sleek Jaguars, all while supporting a different local charity.
Explore Captivating Archaeology
What: Sunrise Tour: 10,000 Years Ago Today in Minnesota
When: Aug. 31 (9:15-10:15 a.m.)
Where: 27160 County Road 2, Comfrey
Embark on an exclusive, expert-guided tour to marvel at the awe-inspiring petroglyphs (rock carvings) of Southwest Minnesota, some of the oldest in the Midwest.
Fantastic Feats
What: Highland Fling at Minnesota Renaissance Festival
When: Aug. 31–Sept. 2
Where: 12364 Chestnut Blvd., Shakopee
Witness the incredible power and skill of athletes competing in the iconic series heavy games during the Ren Fest’s Highland Fling weekend.