Best Bets: Aug. 26–Sept. 1

Things to do this week: music in the park, a free water show, sunrise tour at Jeffers Petroglyphs, and more

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.

Minnesota State Fair

Courtes of Minnesota State Fair

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.

Twin Cities River Rats

Courtesy of Twin Cities River Rats

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.

Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion

Courtesy of Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion

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.

Jeffers Petroglyphs

Courtesy of Minnesota Historical Society

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.

Minnesota Renaissance Festival

Courtesy of Minnesota Renaissance Festival

As editor-in-chief of Minnesota Monthly and Greenspring Media’s Group Editor of Custom Publications, Alesha Taylor guides a team of storytellers and writers. She has over a decade of experience in publishing, communications, and marketing, and brings a diverse perspective to editorial planning and execution. Born and raised in Minnesota, she’s a self-described bookworm, Bravo junkie, DIYer, and thrifting enthusiast.