Minneapolis Offers Free Movies, Concerts, Art Projects This July

Minneapolis families looking for affordable summer fun have plenty of options this July, with a packed calendar of free events, concerts and hands-on art activities across the city. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board hosts over 60 free movies and countless concerts in parks throughout the warmer months, making it easy to plan an outing without breaking the bank.

Summer in Minneapolis means long daylight hours and mild evenings, which is why outdoor activities are a go-to for families. The city’s parks, lakes and cultural institutions offer a mix of entertainment that appeals to kids and adults alike, from live music at the Lake Harriet Band Shell to drop-in art sessions at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Here’s a roundup of what’s happening this weekend and beyond.

Free Movies and Concerts in the Parks

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board runs an extensive summer program with over 60 free movie screenings and countless concerts across city parks. While the specific movie schedule varies by location and date, the Lake Harriet Band Shell is a reliable destination for free weekend music. On July 18 at 7 pm, and again on July 19 at 2 pm and 5:30 pm, the band shell hosts free concerts. The site includes an adjacent playground, making it easy for parents to keep young children entertained between sets. Concertgoers typically bring blankets and lawn chairs, with food trucks and vendors often on site.

For families who prefer movies under the stars, the park board’s free outdoor film series runs at various parks throughout the summer. The exact schedule is available through the park board website or local community centers.

Minnehaha Falls Fair

This weekend, the Minnehaha Falls Fair runs July 18-19 at Minnehaha Park. Admission is free, and the event takes advantage of the park’s natural beauty, including the iconic Minnehaha Falls. Families can explore the park’s trails, have a picnic and enjoy the fair’s activities. While specific fair programming details vary, the event typically includes children’s games, local food vendors and entertainment. Minnehaha Park is located near the intersection of Hiawatha Avenue and Minnehaha Parkway, with free parking available along the roads.

The fair coincides with Taste of Minnesota, which took place earlier in July at Nicollet Mall (July 3-4). That event featured Black food trucks and kids activities, but for this weekend, the Minnehaha Falls Fair is the primary family destination.

Drop-In Art Projects at the Minneapolis Institute of Art

The Minneapolis Institute of Art offers free drop-in art projects for all ages on the first Saturday of each month. In July, the project involves model clay. This is a well-regarded program that allows children to experiment with different art materials in a supportive, museum setting. No registration is required, families simply show up and participate during the scheduled hours. The museum, located at 2400 Third Avenue South, is open Tuesday through Sunday, and admission is always free.

For families who prefer the outdoors, Garden Storytime takes place on July 19 at Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden. This event combines nature and literacy, with a volunteer reading stories amid the garden’s blooming wildflowers. The garden is part of Theodore Wirth Park, one of the largest park systems in the city.

Practical Tips for Families

Given the variety of free events this weekend, a little planning goes a long way. For the Minnehaha Falls Fair, arriving early helps secure a parking spot, especially if the weather is nice. The Lake Harriet Band Shell concerts are popular, so bringing a blanket or low chairs is recommended. The art project at the Minneapolis Institute of Art is first come, first served, so arriving at the start of the drop-in window ensures the best selection of materials.

All events listed are free, with no tickets required. Families should check the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board website or the institute’s schedule for any weather-related cancellation updates, as outdoor events are subject to change.