Minnesota statewide events

Beloved Twin Cities icons Don Shelby and Nancy Nelson reunite for a limited run of A.R. Gurney’s Pulitzer Prize-nominated play, Love Letters, at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. This poignant and witty two-character drama follows a lifelong relationship through decades of heartfelt correspondence, offering audiences an intimate and moving theatrical experience in the Playhouse Theatre.

Dakota County Fairgrounds hosts this immersive celebration of the Viking Age that brings Norse history to life for visitors of all ages. The festival features historical reenactments, traditional crafts, authentic Viking demonstrations, and educational experiences that transport attendees back to the era of Nordic exploration and culture. Weekends of Oct. 4-5 and Oct. 11-12.

This beloved musical delivers iconic Irving Berlin songs, tap-dancing, and holiday charm on Minnesota’s largest dinner theatre stage. Audiences of all ages will enjoy festive romance and friendship as the acclaimed cast brings everyone’s favorite film musical to life for one final run in Chanhassen’s historic venue.

Downtown Stillwater comes alive with this family-friendly autumn celebration featuring a world-famous Giant Pumpkin Weigh Off and spectacular Pumpkin Drop from a 100-foot crane. The weekend includes live music performances, a bustling vendor market, and seasonal activities that have made this one of Minnesota's most beloved fall traditions.

The Marcus West End Cinema hosts this annual celebration of independent filmmaking, with new voices, bold screenings, and special Minnesota connections. Enjoy a hybrid format with in-person and virtual screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and events honoring cinematic creativity.

Taking place at Mill Ruins Park along the Mississippi, this free, family-friendly festival spotlights Indigenous Minnesota culture through live music, art, food, and educational activities. Community partners join to celebrate the area’s Dakota heritage next to the falls known as Owámni.

This official Halloween celebration takes participants through multiple venues across Minneapolis from 4 pm to 11 pm, featuring costume contests, themed drinks, and special entertainment. The event includes over four participating bars, a $2,000 social media costume contest, live music, and professional photography to capture the spine-chilling fun.

Southwest Minnesota State University's theater department presents Jane Austen's beloved story in honor of her 250th birthday. This classic production features the timeless romance and wit that has captivated audiences for generations. The performance runs multiple nights at SMSU's theater, offering an intimate collegiate theater experience.

Enjoy an evening of choral excellence at St. Michael Albertville High School Performing Arts Center featuring the internationally acclaimed British baritone Roderick Williams. VocalEssence presents sophisticated vocal music that showcases both classical and contemporary repertoire.

Union Depot transforms into a traditional German-style Christkindl market with authentic crafts, food, and glühwein. Local artisans showcase handmade goods while visitors enjoy European holiday treats and warm spiced wine. This opening weekend marks the beginning of Minnesota's premier holiday market experience, with more weekends in December.

The iconic Broadway musical returns to the Orpheum Theatre with all its gothic romance and spectacular staging. Andrew Lloyd Webber's masterpiece features the mysterious masked phantom and his obsession with Christine Daaé.

The Minnesota Streetcar Museum offers festive trolley rides with Santa Claus and marshmallow roasting over an open fire. Families can enjoy this vintage transportation experience while collecting donations for Toys for Tots. The trolley operates on a historic route, providing both nostalgia and holiday cheer for all ages.

Eighty area artists display handcrafted jewelry, woodwork, paintings, and artisan soaps in the historic Landmark Center. Live holiday music and festive décor create an enchanting shopping atmosphere in this beautiful downtown venue.

Orchestra Hall hosts this contemporary holiday concert featuring jazz-infused arrangements and festive orchestral music. The performance combines classical orchestration with modern holiday interpretations for a fresh take on seasonal favorites.

The Minnesota Orchestra accompanies this beloved holiday film, creating a unique movie-and-music experience. Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the entire Muppet cast bring Charles Dickens' classic tale to life on the big screen.

Northrop Auditorium presents this annual holiday concert featuring traditional carols and seasonal choral works. VocalEssence's professional singers deliver both familiar favorites and lesser-known gems of the holiday repertoire.

America's oldest winter festival returns with ice sculptures, parades, and the famous medallion hunt. King Boreas and his royal court preside over ten days of winter activities including ice carving competitions and torchlight parades. This beloved tradition proves that Minnesota winters are meant to be celebrated, not endured.

This climate-focused festival celebrates winter culture while promoting environmental awareness through art and community activities. Multiple venues across Minneapolis and Saint Paul host music, public art installations, and climate action discussions.

The second annual festival celebrates independent filmmaking with short films of 20 minutes or less. Creators from across the North Shore and beyond showcase their storytelling talents in this community-driven event.

St. Joan of Arc Catholic Community presents Kathleen Johnson and Friends performing Houston's greatest hits. This tribute concert celebrates the legendary singer's journey from gospel roots to pop superstar status. The performance features a six-piece band and multiple vocalists recreating the power and emotion of Whitney's most beloved songs.

Pilgrim Congregational Church hosts an intimate evening featuring Schubert's "Trout Quintet" and Beethoven's Cello Sonata in A Major. This chamber music performance showcases classical music's most beloved composers in an acoustically perfect setting.

Bayfront Festival Park celebrates winter with ice skating, dog sled rides, and luge sledding in this free community event. All-day activities include winter sports demonstrations and family-friendly entertainment throughout the park.

Multiple communities across Northern Minnesota celebrate the unique culture of the 218 area code region. Local restaurants, artists, and businesses participate in this community-wide celebration of regional identity.

Buffalo Lake hosts the eighth annual festival featuring expert kite demonstrations and family activities. Professional kite flyers from across the Midwest display colorful creations against the backdrop of frozen lake and winter sky. Additional activities include dog sled rides, pond hockey tournaments, and hot chocolate to keep everyone warm while enjoying the spectacle.