There’s no argument that summer is the perfect time to tackle all the outdoor projects you’ve been waiting to complete. Whether you’ve been diligently digging in your garden, tearing down or building out your front porch, or giving your home’s exterior a much-needed makeover, we’re telling you right now: Take a break. Set down your paintbrush, slide off your gloves, and have some guilt-free fun at these five Twin Cities events.
Eagan’s Fourth of July Funfest
If you’re looking for a festive way to celebrate July 4 with your family, stop by Eagan’s annual Fourth of July Funfest. The two-day event features attractions for every age including a parade, live music, rides, your favorite greasy foods, and more. A massive firework show that attracts more than 100,000 people every year closes out the festival. Wednesday and Thursday, 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, eaganfunfest.org
Lake Minnetonka’s 2019 Fourth of July Celebration
Looking for a different option? Head to Lake Minnetonka and experience The Fourth on the shores. The Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Chamber of Commerce invites you to celebrate one of our nation’s favorite holidays at Commons Park in downtown Excelsior. Bring your family and friends to experience a day packed with activities (including a ferris wheel!) and a firework-filled night that ends with a bang. Thursday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. @ Commons Park, 135 Lake St., Excelsior, excelsior-lakeminnetonkachamber.com
Red, White, and Boom Festival
If you are looking to stay in Minneapolis, the Red, White, and Boom festival caters to all ages and offers free admission. For any Star Wars fans out there, Boom Island Park will kick off the festival with a showing of Solo: A Star Wars Story in the park on Wednesday night. Head back the next day for live music, great food, face-painting, fireworks, and more. The two-day annual event attracts more than 75,000 along the Minneapolis Riverfront. Wednesday and Thursday, times vary upon day @ Boom Island Park, 724 Sibley St. NE, Minneapolis, tcmevents.org
YASIAB: Hmong Music Fest 2019
Stop by and join the celebration of Hmong music, arts, and culture. The YASIAB event features more than 10 Hmong artists, performers, and musicians including Vicki Yang, Aidan Prince, Ali Chang, and more. Tickets start at $45. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m. to midnight @ Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 Second Ave. S., eventbrite.com
The Twin Cities Color Run 5K
For all the runners out there (and the walkers!), it’s not too late to register for The Color Run 5K this weekend. Let your love shine at the happiest run under the sun and cross the finish line with a smile. This is the only time it might actually be okay with to go home with paint all over your clothes, so take advantage of it! Sunday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. @ the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, 1265 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul, eventbrite.com