Aquatennial is back. Now in its 87th year, Minneapolis’ signature summer celebration returns July 18-26 with a packed lineup of free events, returning favorites, and several new additions. This year’s festival also marks a new chapter, as the Aquatennial Ambassador Organization takes over stewardship of the beloved tradition following the Minneapolis Downtown Council’s decision to step back from producing the event.
From floating lanterns and milk carton boat races to the iconic Torchlight Parade and the return of the Skipper Pin, here’s what’s happening during Aquatennial 2026.
Twin Cities River Rats
WEDNESDAY, JULY 15
Loring Park Family Fun Night | 5-7:30 p.m.
This pre-Aquatennial event kicks off the festivities with family activities and entertainment ahead of the official opening weekend.
SATURDAY, JULY 18
Model Sailboat Pond | Government Plaza | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Inspired by Parisian parks, this new attraction invites visitors to watch miniature sailboats glide across a temporary pond in downtown Minneapolis.
Floating Lanterns + Night Market | Lake Nokomis | 3-10 p.m.
One of Aquatennial’s newest events debuts at Lake Nokomis with floating lantern displays, local vendors, food, and entertainment.
SUNDAY, JULY 19
Twin Cities Beach Blast | Bde Maka Ska Thomas Beach | 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
One of Aquatennial’s most beloved traditions returns with the famous Milk Carton Boat Races, sandcastle competitions, and plenty of beachside fun.
Free Sailing Sunday | Minneapolis Sailing Center | Noon-5 p.m.
Take to the water with complimentary sailing experiences on Bde Maka Ska.
“Frozen Jr.” | Loring Park | 2 p.m.
ETC Productions brings the popular Disney musical to the park.
TUESDAY, JULY 21
Summer Snowball Classic | The Commons | 6 p.m.
Perhaps the most unexpected event of the festival, this new gathering brings real snowball fights to Minneapolis in the middle of summer.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 22
Meet the Queen of the Lakes Candidates | City Center | 2 p.m.
Meet the young women competing to represent Minneapolis as Aquatennial ambassadors.
Trivia at Water Works | Water Works Park | 6-8 p.m.
Test your knowledge while enjoying one of the city’s most scenic riverfront locations.
Twin Cities River Rats Waterski Show | Mississippi River | 7 p.m.
The River Rats return with their crowd-pleasing combination of waterski stunts, comedy, and entertainment.
Aquatennial Torchlight Parade | Nicollet Mall | 7:30 p.m.
The signature event of Aquatennial returns with illuminated floats, marching bands, dance teams, and community groups filling downtown Minneapolis.
Movies in the Park: “Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning” | The Commons | Approximately 8:45 p.m.
Stick around after the parade for an outdoor movie under the stars.
THURSDAY, JULY 23
Summer Showtunes | 10th & Hennepin | Noon-3 p.m.
Presented by Hennepin Arts, this free event features Broadway-inspired performances and musical theater favorites.
Thursday Night Line Dance with Billie | The Commons | 6-9 p.m.
Learn new moves and dance the evening away in downtown Minneapolis.
FRIDAY, JULY 24
Twin Cities Carifest | West River Road | 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Celebrate Caribbean culture with food, music, performances, and community festivities.
Lawn Games at Water Works | 3-7 p.m.
Enjoy friendly competition with games including Kubb and Mölkky along the riverfront.
CorePower Yoga | Minneapolis Sculpture Garden | 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Flow through a free outdoor yoga class surrounded by iconic Minneapolis art.
Aquatennial Night at the Twins | Target Field | 7:10 p.m.
One of the most anticipated additions to this year’s celebration. The Minnesota Twins host Aquatennial Night, featuring the return of the beloved Skipper Pin for the first time since 2019.
SATURDAY, JULY 25
Loring Park Art Festival | 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Browse artwork from local and regional artists in one of the city’s most picturesque parks.
Twin Cities Carifest | West River Road | 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Celebrate Caribbean culture with food, music, performances, and community festivities.
Boom Island Big Bounce | Boom Island | 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Minnesota’s largest inflatable party takes over the park with giant bounce attractions and family-friendly fun.
Float Fest | Graco Park | Time TBD
Paddlers, floaters, and families can enjoy recreation, community, and outdoor adventure along Minneapolis’ most iconic waterway.
Minneapolis International Festival | Lake Harriet | 1-5 p.m.
Experience cultures from around the world through music, dance, food, and performances.
Mississippi Mile Aquatennial Car Show | West River Parkway | 3-8 p.m.
Classic cars and automotive enthusiasts gather along the riverfront.
Alley Electric Dance Party | The Alley Project | 6:30 p.m.-Midnight
Dance Agenda debuts a new electronic music experience in downtown Minneapolis.
SUNDAY, JULY 26
Loring Park Art Festival | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
The festival wraps up with a final day of art, food, and entertainment.
Boom Island Big Bounce | 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
A second day of inflatable fun for families.
“Frozen Jr.” | Godfrey House | 2 p.m.
Catch another performance of the Disney favorite.
