Saint Paul Winter Carnival (Late January – early February (2026: Jan 22 – Feb 1)). Oldest winter festival in the United States, established 1886 in response to Eastern press calling Saint Paul uninhabitable; features ice sculptures in Rice Park, parades, and snow activities.
Minneapolis Aquatennial (Mid-to-late July (2026: July 18 – 26)). Minneapolis's signature summer festival, now in its 87th year; free events at Bde Maka Ska, Mississippi riverfront, and downtown; includes Torchlight Parade and Milk Carton Boat Races.
Minnesota State Fair (Late August – Labor Day (2025: Aug 21 – Sep 1; 2026: Aug 27 – Sep 7)). One of the largest state fairs in the US by attendance; held annually at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in Saint Paul for 12 days ending on or near Labor Day.