The Twin Cities area is buzzing with excitement this July! From dazzling fireworks and mouthwatering food festivals to art fairs, concerts, and family fun, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your curated guide to the best July events in Minneapolis and St. Paul—plus a few hotel suggestions , so you can make the most of your summer adventure.
Early July: Fireworks & Festivities
Red, White & Boom – July 4
Kick off the month with Minneapolis’ biggest 4th of July celebration, featuring live music, family activities, and a stunning fireworks show over the Mississippi River.
📍 Location: Downtown Minneapolis
🛏 Stay nearby: Aloft Minneapolis
Taste of Minnesota – July 5–6
Two full days of food trucks, local vendors, and live music celebrating Minnesota’s culinary culture in the heart of the city.
📍 Location: Downtown Minneapolis
🛏 Stay nearby: AC Hotel Minneapolis West End
Eagan’s Fun Fest – July 2-5
A family-focused celebration with a carnival, parade, live performances, and kid-friendly activities.
📍 Location: Viking Lakes, Eagan
🛏 Stay nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Eagan
Native American Food Truck Festival – July 5
Celebrate Indigenous culture with traditional food, art, and music from local Native-owned businesses.
📍 Location: Harriet Island Park, St. Paul
🛏 Stay nearby: The St. Paul Hotel
Mid-July: Arts & Music
Panda Fest – July 11–13
The largest Asian food festival in the Midwest returns with 100+ vendors, live performances, lion dances, and family fun.
📍 Location: Mall of America North Lot, Bloomington
🛏 Stay nearby: Staybridge Suites Bloomington
Book Fair for Grown-Ups – July 12
This one-of-a-kind literary event for adults features indie authors, bookish merch, drinks, and creative workshops.
- 📍 Location: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul
- 🛏 Stay nearby: Hampton Inn Roseville
Minnehaha Falls Art Fair – July 18–20
Set in a picturesque park, this juried art fair hosts 150+ local artists, live music, kids activities, and plenty of food trucks.
📍 Location: Minnehaha Regional Park, Minneapolis
🛏 Stay nearby: Omni Viking Lakes Hotel
Minnesota Yacht Club Festival – July 18–20
A three-day music festival on the river with headliners like Gwen Stefani and Alanis Morissette, plus food, drinks, and summer vibes.
📍 Location: Harriet Island Regional Park, St. Paul
🛏 Stay nearby: Courtyard Roseville
Sister Cities Day – July 20
Celebrate Minneapolis’ global relationships with cultural dance, food tastings, crafts, and international performances.
📍 Location: Downtown Minneapolis
🛏 Stay nearby: Homewood Suites Saint Louis Park
Late July: Festival Favorites & Family Fun
Minneapolis Aquatennial – July 23–26
A summer staple with torchlight parades, rooftop yoga, fireworks over the river, and water-centric fun all across downtown.
📍 Location: Downtown Minneapolis
🛏 Stay nearby: AC Hotel Minneapolis West End
The Great Midwest Rib Fest – July 24–26
Dig into ribs from award-winning pitmasters, enjoy country music concerts, and hang out at Mystic Lake Casino.
📍 Location: Mystic Lake, Prior Lake
🛏 Stay nearby: Staybridge Suites Bloomington
Unicorn & Llama Races – July 27
A delightfully oddball event where costumed llamas and “unicorns” race for glory—complete with photo ops, games, and treats.
📍 Location: Canterbury Park, Shakopee
🛏 Stay nearby: Hampton Inn Eden Prairie
Concerts, Comedy & Sports
Xcel Energy Center Events – St. Paul
- Monster Jam (July 12–13): High-octane fun with monster trucks and thrilling stunts.
- The Lumineers (July 25): The beloved indie-folk band brings their soulful sound to the stage.
- Nate Bargatze (July 26–27): Laugh out loud with this clean comedy favorite.
📍 Location: Downtown St. Paul
🛏 Stay nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Roseville
Minnesota Twins Home Games – All Month
Target Field hosts a full lineup of summer baseball, with themed nights like Kids Day, Fireworks Friday, and Dollar Dog Night.
📍 Location: Target Field, Downtown Minneapolis
🛏 Stay nearby: AC Hotel Minneapolis West End