Summer is in full swing, and there's no shortage of ways to make the most of the weekend! Whether you're planning a family outing, catching the latest blockbuster, cheering on your favorite Minnesota team, or exploring one of the many festivals and events happening across the Twin Cities, we've rounded up some of the best things to do. Here's what's happening around town this weekend.
Here is your Twin Cities weekend rundown:
Calendar of Weekend Events from Mpls St Paul Magazine
New Movies and Movies Currently in Theatres:
The Odyssey (opens this weekend)
Moana (live-action)
Minions & Monsters
The Devil Wears Prada 2
Mortal Kombat II
Project Hail Mary
Michael
Lee Cronin's The Mummy
Masters of the Universe
Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
Send Help
Hoppers
Ready or Not 2: Here I Come
Biker
Avengers: Doomsday (still in theaters in many locations)
Sports:
Minnesota Professional Sports Calendar
Minnesota Twins
- @ Cubs – Friday, July 17 at 1:20 p.m.
- @ Cubs – Saturday, July 18 at 1:20 p.m.
- @ Cubs – Sunday, July 19 at 1:20 p.m.
Minnesota Vikings
- Training camp is underway, with preseason games beginning later this summer.
Events:
Excelsior Crazy Days – July 17–19
Downtown Excelsior's annual Crazy Days sidewalk sale is back, bringing incredible bargains to Water Street's locally owned boutiques and specialty shops. Stroll the charming lakeside streets, discover great deals, and enjoy a meal, coffee, or ice cream while taking in one of the Lake Minnetonka area's favorite summer traditions.
Sunflower Days at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum – July 17–19
Celebrate the beauty of summer during Sunflower Days at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Wander through vibrant sunflower fields, explore the Arboretum's stunning gardens and walking trails, and enjoy one of the season's best opportunities for photos. It's a relaxing outing for families, couples, and anyone looking to spend time outdoors surrounded by colorful blooms.
Minneapolis Aquatennial – July 18–26
Minnesota's premier summer festival returns with nine days of community celebrations, live entertainment, family activities, and special events throughout downtown Minneapolis. The festivities begin this weekend and continue with favorites like the Torchlight Parade, Target Fireworks, sporting events, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate summer in the city.
Minnehaha Falls Art Fair – July 17–19
Set against the scenic backdrop of Minnehaha Falls, this beloved annual art fair features more than 180 artists showcasing everything from paintings and pottery to jewelry, photography, and handcrafted goods. Visitors can enjoy live music, local food vendors, and family-friendly activities while exploring one of Minneapolis' most iconic parks. It's the perfect way to spend a summer day outdoors.
Minnesota Yacht Club Festival – July 17–19
Harriet Island transforms into one of the Midwest's premier music destinations as the Minnesota Yacht Club Festival returns for three days of live performances from nationally recognized artists. With multiple stages, local food vendors, and beautiful views along the Mississippi River, it's a can't-miss event for music lovers looking to soak up summer in St. Paul.
Wanderlight Trail at the Minnesota Zoo – Now through August 2nd
Experience the Minnesota Zoo in a whole new light with Wanderlight Trail—a glowing evening journey where larger-than-life lanterns inspired by animals from around the world illuminate the landscape. This immersive nighttime walk transforms the zoo into a vibrant, storybook-like experience filled with light, music, and photo-worthy moments. Perfect for a summer evening outing, Wanderlight invites guests to explore at their own pace as the trail comes alive after sunset.