Minneapolis Aquatennial Events

The Aquatennial kicked off this weekend, and events continue all this week and next weekend. Here's the highlights of events planned to celebrate Minneapolis' river and lakes, and also the city's 150th birthday. All events are in Minneapolis, and are free unless otherwise noted.

July 22-23: American Iron "Art of Recycling" Metal Sculpture Contest
Artists are invited to create sculptures entirely from recycled materials. Works will be displayed along Nicollet Mall at 8th Street, in front of the IDS Center. Tuesday and Wednesday, 10.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.

July 22: Taste of the Twin Cities Originals
35 Twin Cities restaurants present their best dishes, plus complimentary wine and beer tasting at the Nicollet Island Pavilion. Advance tickets are $35.

July 23: Torchlight 5k Run/Walk and Torchlight Parade
From 6.00 p.m. - 8.30 p.m. cheer on the runners and walkers in a 5K run/walk starting at the Basilica of St. Mary. After the run, the famous Torchlight Parade begins at 8.30 p.m at the Basilica of St. Mary, then travels along Hennepin Avenue towards downtown Minneapolis, finishing at 5th Street.

July 26: The MOST Amazing Race
Twenty teams race through Minneapolis in an all-day scavenger-hunt style race, attempting physical and mental challenges, to win a $5000 prize. Last year, this event raised $33,000 to support the Salvation Army's work in the Twin Cities.

July 26: Xcel Energy River Blast Music and Fireworks
The River Blast is a free evening of music and family entertainment along West River Parkway between Portland Avenue and the Third Avenue Bridge. Live music starts at 6 p.m. until 10 p.m., followed by a fireworks show at the Third Avenue Bridge.

More Aquatennial events at the Aquatennial website. Have fun!