I’ve watched people fall in love with art on a city sidewalk.
I’ve seen first-time collectors cautiously purchase a piece, and I imagine that it still hangs in their home years later. I’ve watched artists celebrate career-changing weekends, and children discover that art isn’t something that only exists in museums.
Since 2000, I have had the privilege of being part of Minnesota’s art festival community. While festivals have evolved over the years, the incredible community that surrounds them has remained remarkably consistent. Artists, volunteers, patrons, sponsors, neighborhood leaders, and art lovers continue to show up with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to connect. It is one of the most positive and welcoming communities I’ve ever known.
The Stone Arch Bridge Festival is a perfect example.
Thirty-two years ago, the festival was created to showcase a Minneapolis riverfront that was still finding its identity. The vision was simple but ambitious: Bring people to the river through art, culture, and community. Looking back, it’s remarkable to see how that vision has grown.
As the festival expanded, so did the neighborhoods around it. What was once an emerging riverfront has become a vibrant urban destination. Today, visitors experience a stunning mix of historic charm and modern energy stretching through the North Loop, St. Anthony Main, and Downtown West. Every June, thousands of people gather along the Mississippi River to celebrate not only great art but also one of Minneapolis’ greatest success stories.
Recently, our team was honored to take the reins of the Loring Park Art Festival, another beloved Minneapolis tradition.
Our interest wasn’t simply in adding another festival. It was about preserving and growing something we deeply care about. We love Loring Park. We love the character and creativity of the surrounding neighborhoods, including Kenwood, Lowry Hill, and Bryn Mawr. We love the idea that in the middle of a busy city, a beautiful park can become a place where art, music, and community take center stage.
For years, the Loring Park Art Festival has been known as the festival created by artists, for artists. That’s not just a slogan. It’s a promise. As we introduce new experiences and features to make the festival even more engaging for visitors, we remain committed to that guiding principle. Every decision begins with a simple question: Does this support artists and strengthen the festival experience? If the answer is yes, we’re on the right track.
When I look at both festivals, I see more than tents, stages, and artwork. I see communities investing in themselves, neighborhoods opening their arms to visitors, and artists sharing their talents and stories. Most importantly, I see people coming together in ways that feel increasingly rare and incredibly valuable. So here’s my invitation—and my challenge.
Visit one of our festivals. And when you find a piece of art that makes you smile, makes you think, or makes you feel something special, take it home.
—Sara Collins, Festival Director of the Stone Arch Bridge Festival and Loring Park Art Festival
