Best Summer Art Festivals In Minnesota
Minnesotans love to venture outdoors in the summer. For this reason, many summer events and festivals are held outside to accommodate those that wish to take advantage of the short summer. This year, many of these events include art shows and festivals that not only support local artists, but also help educate the community on the versatility and importance of artistic expression. Stock up on unique gifts, household decorations, jewelry, and many other handcrafted pieces this year while enjoying the impact of art on your community.
Edina Art Fair
W. 50th St. and France Ave.
Edina, MN 55436
(952) 922-1524
www.edinaartfair.com
Dates: Friday, June 5, 2015 through Sunday, June 7, 2015
The Edina Art Fair is considered the kick-off of the summer art fair season and sets off the summer with a bang. Each year, the Edina Art Fair takes place on the first weekend in June and brings in some of the best and most talented local artists along with artists from other parts of the world. Located in the 50th and France shopping district, the Edina Art Fair is situated among great shopping boutiques, restaurants, and other fantastic local businesses. Check out the sidewalk dining during the fair or just grab some great snacks from the food vendors. Kid's activities and entertainment are also a big attraction of the Edina Art Fair. The best part is that the fair is free and the art is fantastic. Where else can you shop for handcrafted purses, jewelry, pottery, and lawn ornaments that will make everyone you know jealous?
Marketfest
4701 Highway 61
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
(651) 429-8537
www.marketfest.org
Dates: Thursdays, June 18, 2015 through July 30, 2015 from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Downtown White Bear Lake welcomes Marketfest for seven Thursday evenings in a row to give art lovers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the festivities of this art fair. Located among an eclectic and interesting collection of local merchants, Marketfest supports the community and artists at the same time during this event. Check out the fine art vendors along with other attractions such as a classic car show, farmers market, and petting zoo. There is even an opportunity to get the kids involved through a kid's art contest and display. Even if you may not be sure about your feelings for art shows, Marketfest has something for you.
Art In East Park
E. Sixth St.
Zumbrota, MN 55992
(507) 732-7318
www.zaac.org/art
Date: Saturday, June 20, 2015
During the annual Covered Bridge Music and Arts Festival in Southern Minnesota, Zumbrota holds a small but fantastic art fair in its local park. Art In East Park welcomes local talent and some undiscovered artists to set up and show off their talents among lively youth art displays, musical entertainment, and local businesses. Hands-on creativity is encouraged and attendees are invited to try their own hand at painting, crafting, or using a pottery wheel. Kids will enjoy a marching band in the evening and the playground in East Park.
Related: Best Art Walks In Minnesota
Park Point Art Fair
45th St. and Minnesota Ave.
Duluth, MN 55816
(218) 428-7730
www.parkpointartfair.org
Dates: June 27 through June 28, 2015
Head up north to Duluth for beautiful scenery, perfect summer weather, and the Park Point Art Fair. Park Point is on the shores of Lake Superior and a popular recreation area year-round. During the art fair, fine art vendors set up boots of photography, sculpture, watercolor, and much more to offer a wide range of medium from which to choose for the art-lover. What's special about this art fair is that local artists of all sort participate to include some less-expensive pieces in the fair. Find a fun, painted rock for your garden or just enjoy the creativity of your Minnesotan brothers and sisters.
Uptown Art Fair
Lake St. and Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
(612) 823-4581
www.uptownartfair.com
Dates: August 7 through August 9, 2015
Happening toward the end of summer, the Uptown Art Fair is the second most popular event in Minnesota, topped only by the Minnesota State Fair. This three day Art Fair features every type of art you can think of, from pottery, wood crafts, painting, and jewelry to light sculptures, garden art, and a five-foot bronze statue of your favorite childhood character. Enjoy live entertainment and family events with the kids in mind while you browse the vendor booths and stop for a mini-doughnut along the way.
Andrea Wodele is a freelance writer who has lived in the Twin Cities for the last 10 years. Her hobbies include exercising, driving kids around, watching Minnesota sports, and reading self-help literature. Examiner.com.
