Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s time for one of Minneapolis’s most beloved traditions, Music and Movies in the Parks, presented by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board! This free, city-wide program brings live music and outdoor films to parks across the Twin Cities, inviting neighbors of all ages to gather, relax, and enjoy free entertainment under the summer sky.
📅 What’s Happening?
This summer’s lineup features hundreds of free concerts and dozens of outdoor movie nights at parks throughout Minneapolis. The series kicks off with Music in the Parks beginning on Memorial Day and running through Labor Day, offering live performances in beautiful outdoor settings nearly every week. And from early June through early September, Movies in the Parks brings family-friendly films, from beloved classics to recent favorites, to inflatable outdoor screens after sunset.
🎵 Music in the Parks Highlights
- Experience free live music across diverse genres, everything from local bands and solo artists to cultural ensembles.
- Performances take place at iconic venues like the Lake Harriet Bandshell, Minnehaha Bandstand, The Commons, Water Works, Loring Park, Bryant Square, Father Hennepin Bluff Park, and more.
- Concerts are scheduled throughout the week and on weekends, making it easy to find music that fits your summer plans.
🎬 Movies in the Parks Highlights
- Movies start about 15 minutes after sunset, grab your blanket or lawn chair and settle in!
- The lineup includes a fun mix of films, from family favorites and sports titles to cult classics and sing-along nights.
- Bring your own snacks and beverages (no glass, please) and enjoy an unforgettable evening under the stars.
🧺 Tips for Enjoying the Events
Be sure to bring a blanket or lawn chair, bug spray, and your favorite summer snacks for a cozy, comfortable experience. While concession offerings vary by venue, picnicking with friends and neighbors is all part of the fun.
📌 Stay Connected
To get the most up-to-date schedule each week, including park locations, performance times, and movie titles, visit the Minneapolis Parks Music and Movies page and sign up for email updates.
Whether you’re looking for live rhythm on a summer evening or a family movie night with blankets and popcorn, Music and Movies in the Parks offers something for everyone right here in our community. Make plans now to explore these free, unforgettable summer traditions!