Electric City

Join the Minneapolis Aquatennial and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. This ultimate summer festival has brought joy and excitement to the city for over 70 years. You will want to experience the spectacular fireworks, exciting parade, thrilling beach bash, milk carton boat races, sandcastle-building contests, and remarkable water ski show. As the official civic celebration of the City of Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Aquatennial is a highly anticipated event for residents, workers, and visitors alike. Be amazed by the Torchlight Parade, the largest nighttime parade in Minnesota, which is the festival's flagship event and continues to grow year after year.

Visit the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, the most prominent American national wildlife refuge near an urban area, to explore the stunning beauty of the Minnesota River Valley. The sanctuary offers eight units and a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, skiing, fishing, birdwatching, and hunting. In addition to being a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, the refuge also serves as a thriving urban refuge that welcomes diverse communities with meaningful connections, educational opportunities, and recreational experiences. Its primary goal is to bring people, communities, and wildlife together while preserving the wildlife habitat in the Minnesota River Valley.