From the vibrant streets of Minneapolis to the stunning shores of Lake Superior, Minnesota is bursting with artistic energy this season. Whether you’re looking to explore open studios, discover regional craft or enjoy live music, the state’s unmatched fine art scene has something for every art lover to enjoy. This year’s diverse art fair lineup showcases both established and emerging talent, offering everything from original works and interactive experiences to delicious food and community engagement. Mark your calendars for these must-see events and celebrate the creativity that thrives across Minnesota.
Photography provided by Minneapolis Sculpture Garden Fair
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden Fair
May 10–11
After a successful debut in 2024, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden Art Fair will return for its second year. Join Homespun Events over Mother’s Day weekend for a festive floral experience, perfect for celebrating the moms and mother-figures in our lives. Set in the Walker Art Center’s iconic sculpture garden, the event will feature 160 artist booths amidst the park’s striking sculptures, along with a botanical market, hands-on crafts, local food and music.
Photography provided by NEMAA
Art-A-Whirl
May 16–18
Now in its 30th year, Art-A-Whirl is the largest open-studio tour in the country, held annually during the third weekend of May. More than 1,200 NEMAA member artists, businesses, galleries and studios participate at nearly 70 locations throughout Northeast Minneapolis. This highly anticipated weekend provides a fantastic way to connect with creators in their own spaces, watch demonstrations, explore interactive activities, listen to live music, and enjoy local restaurants and breweries. Art-A-Whirl is free and open to the public.
Artwork provided by Explore Minnesota
Indigenous Arts & Crafts Fair
May 18
Situated on the ancestral and contemporary lands of Dakota and Anishinaabe people, Minnesota holds deep historical and spiritual significance for Native communities. On May 18, the Indigenous Arts & Crafts Fair will celebrate Native art and culture at Bloomington Civic Plaza, showcasing a variety of vibrant works alongside performances, hands-on activities and delicious food from Indigenous food trucks. Discover exceptional craft and creativity across a range of mediums, from beadwork and clothing to leatherwork and painting.
Photography provided by Edina Art Fair
Edina Art Fair
June 6–8
A marquee summer event for the 50th & France district, the 58th annual Edina Art Fair promises a lineup filled with incredible art, live entertainment and local charm. This lively community fête highlights both established and emerging creative talents and brings together a mouth-watering offering for its culinary artisan marketplace and beer garden. With a dedicated kids zone and activities for all ages, it’s a family-friendly affair with something for everyone.
Photography provided by Stone Arch Bridge Festival
Stone Arch Bridge Festival
June 14–15
Starting June 14, Minneapolis’s Stone Arch Bridge Festival will return to the west side of the Mississippi River, stretching along W. River Parkway from 11th Ave S to N. 4th Avenue. This year, more than 200 fine artists and culinary creatives will participate across a broad spectrum of artistic media. The festival remains committed to creating a vibrant, welcoming space for creatives to sell their work and for the community to gather safely in celebration of Minnesota’s rich art culture.
Photography provided by American Craft Council
American Craft Fest
June 28–29
American Craft Fest is one of the summer’s best opportunities to experience the rich world of regional craft. Held at St. Paul’s Union Depot, this free, all-ages event invites visitors to explore local craft culture through artist demonstrations, interactive workshops and creative play for kids and adults alike. Shop handmade goods from more than 50 emerging artists, connect with local arts partners and enjoy delicious food truck fare and refreshing beverages in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota
Grand Marais Arts Festival
July 12–13
The Grand Marais Arts Festival offers a rich snapshot of the Midwest’s dynamic art scene. Nestled between Lake Superior and the wilderness of boreal forests and serene lakes, the annual bash attracts more than 10,000 visitors every year. The juried fair welcomes artists of all mediums to showcase their original work, from metalsmithing and printmaking to photography and beyond. Free and open to the public, the festival invites visitors to connect with artists and experience a wide range of creative practices in a breathtaking natural setting.
Photography provided by Watermark Art Center
Watermark Art Festival
July 19–20
Drawing thousands of visitors to downtown Bemidji since 1967, this highly anticipated two-day program occurs every third weekend in July. Formerly known as “Art in the Park,” the festival has expanded to include the Watermark Art Center grounds and the historic tree-lined Library Park, allowing for more than 100 juried art and craft vendors, two live music stages, a food court and covered picnic area. Additionally, a Creative Zone will spotlight live demonstrations and free activities for all ages.
Photography provided by Explore Minnesota
Blueberry Arts Festival
July 25–27
Don’t miss the 45th anniversary of Ely’s Blueberry Arts Festival, which draws more than 30,000 festival-goers each summer. With 237 booths featuring artists and crafters, this creative extravaganza offers a wide range of artwork for sale, from paintings to pottery to woodcraft. This three-day bash also touts a beer tent, food court and the iconic freshly-baked blueberry pies. Beyond the art fair in the city park, special themed events and sales throughout Ely make this an unmissable seasonal celebration.
Photography provided by Loring Park Art Festival
Loring Park Art Festival
July 26–27
Since 2000, the Loring Park Art Festival has been bringing together the arts and community across the Twin Cities. Taking place in beautiful Loring Park, this beloved gathering provides two days of art, music, food and entertainment against a backdrop of beautiful gardens and ponds. Visitors can explore the work of more than 150 visual artists, enjoy live music from strolling musicians and performances on the Westminster stage, and take part in activities for kids and families. The festival also features a culinary arts market, with a variety of food and beverage options to savor throughout the weekend.
Photography provided by Powderhorn Art Fair
Powderhorn Art Fair
August 2–3
Embodying the artsy and eclectic spirit of the Powderhorn community, the eponymous art fair has grown to represent more than a hundred juried artists over the past 34 years. Featuring a vibrant selection of high-quality work across 20 mediums, Powderhorn Art Fair has something for every enthusiast. Browse unique pieces for your collection while enjoying delicious bites and entertainment for all ages. Proceeds from the event benefit community programming and support advocacy work through the Powderhorn Park Neighborhood Association.
Photography provided by Med City Art Fest
Med City Art Festival
August 22
Taking place in Rochester’s Peace Plaza, Med City Art Festival is a cross-cultural gathering designed to educate, excite and inspire attendees with a diverse range of creative experiences. MCAF provides a platform for Southern Minnesota artists to exhibit original work, while offering the public access to a variety of artistic and cultural expressions. Participants, from grade 11 students to professional artists, will have work displayed in a variety of downtown Rochester businesses and select galleries.
