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The Aquatennial or as some say the, “Best Days of Summer” returns with the usual great events and even some new ones. The Torchlight Parade and 5k will take place again, the tennis classic is back in its usual great for, and this year there is even the Candid Canines Film Fest which is a fan submitted doggo video to be shown on the Target Field Station screen. Of course the Target Fireworks, a top 5 national fireworks display, will light up the skyline and the river for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t miss an event, link here for a complete schedule: Aquatennial Events
ABOUT
The Minneapolis Aquatennial is proudly produced by the Mpls Downtown Council.
The Official Civic Celebration of the City of Minneapolis Offers Traditional and New Events, Free and For All Ages!
This year’s schedule of events is filled with traditional Aquatennial favorites and an array of new
activities with the majority located in and around downtown Minneapolis. All events are free and open to
the public.
“We are excited to welcome everyone to Aquatennial this summer, as we are leading the way back to
enjoying collective urban experiences together,” said Leah Wong, vice president of external relations,
mpls downtown council. “Whether it is the CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade, Target Fireworks—a top
5 annual display in the country, group fitness activities, shopping local makers, a Twin Cities River Rats
show or listening to live music, we know there is something you and yours will love. We can’t wait to see
you downtown.”
From the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden to Peavey Plaza, Midtown Global Market to the Mississippi
Riverfront, Nicollet to Mill Ruins Park, the 82 nd Aquatennial will provide fun opportunities for all ages
including its flagship events the CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade and Target Fireworks.
“Aquatennial is our Official Civic Celebration and a summer staple here in Minneapolis, and we are thrilled
to return to celebrate together this year,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “From our world-class
culinary scene to views along the river and so much more, we invite you to enjoy everything our city has
to offer. Whether you make every Aquatennial or this is your first time joining, there’s always something
new to try downtown, and we can’t wait to welcome you for this year’s events.”
The schedule and the proximity of the activities make Aquatennial a walkable and bikeable experience
throughout the four days as many of the festivities take place throughout downtown and at or near the
riverfront, the birthplace of our city.
“Aquatennial is an annual tradition in Minneapolis, a time that offers fun ways to gather and enjoy outdoor
spaces together,” said Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board Superintendent Al Bangoura. “We enjoy
having Aquatennial events in our park system each year, and we’re excited to welcome everyone back to
enjoy their favorite events again this July. Events will take you along the Mississippi Riverfront to the
Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, and there is something for everyone at Aquatennial while enjoying some
of our city’s beautiful outdoor spaces.”
FLAGSHIP EVENTS
CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade
Wednesday, July 21 at 7:30 p.m.
Nicollet between 12th Street and 4th Street
The CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade will illuminate downtown Minneapolis along Nicollet with
parade units, floats, displays, and marching bands through the heart of downtown. The parade will begin
at 12th Street and run to 4th Street.
Target Fireworks
Saturday, July 24 at 10 p.m.
West River Parkway near Portland Avenue
The Target Fireworks are considered one of the Top 5 annual fireworks displays in the country. Come
early for Aquatennial Pre-Fireworks Festivities along the riverfront on West River Parkway near the Stone
Arch Bridge beginning at 6 p.m. Live musical entertainment will include the Command Steppers, Dred I
Dread, and Annie Mack. The world-famous Zambelli Fireworks team spends approximately two to four
hours per each minute of the display to ensure that the display and music are perfectly synced.
