Minnesota Festivals and Events
A calendar that celebrates winter as hard as it celebrates summer.
Minnesota events follow the seasons more closely than most states. Winter brings sled dog marathons, ice fishing contests and winter festivals in Ely and on the lakes; the fishing opener in May starts the summer; June to August are filled with town festivals, art fairs and outdoor music; and fall color weekends crowd the North Shore. The big Twin Cities events, including the Minnesota State Fair, are covered on Best of MSP.
Duluth's Bayfront Festival Park and the DECC host the largest events up north. Dates shift every year, so always confirm on the organizer's site.
Annual Festivals and Events
A long-distance sled dog race along the North Shore, named for an Ojibwe mail carrier who ran dog teams on the shore.
Thousands of anglers drill holes across a frozen bay in one of the world's largest charity ice-fishing contests.
Snow sculptures, art shows and outdoor events in the canoe-country town.
A marathon and half marathon along Old Highway 61 by the lake, ending in Canal Park.
A week of community events, music and food around downtown Rochester.
Artists show and sell work along the harbor, organized by the Grand Marais Art Colony.
A riverfront festival with music, a parade and lumberjack competitions in Lowell Park.
Three days of blues on two stages at Bayfront Festival Park on the harbor.
An annual memorial on the anniversary of the 1975 wreck, when the lighthouse beacon is lit after dark.
A free walk-through holiday light show in Bayfront Festival Park.
Dates move from year to year — confirm on the organizer’s site before you plan around an event.
Official Event Calendars
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Get free trip quotes »Minnesota Events — FAQ
When is Grandma's Marathon in Duluth?
It is usually held on a Saturday in mid to late June. Hotels in Duluth fill months ahead, so book early.
Is Bentleyville free?
Yes. Admission to the light show is free; donations are welcome.