19/08/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 20/08/2024 01:28
Open Streets Minneapolis, the City's popular summer event series, will kick off the 2024 series this Saturday, August 24.
Open Streets Minneapolis events give local businesses, artists and community groups a one-day opportunity to transform the streets into a place where people can gather and celebrate the diversity and creativity of the city while walking, biking and rolling. Since the first event in 2011, Open Streets events have drawn more than 680,000 people.
"Open Streets is Minneapolis at its best," said Mayor Jacob Frey. "These events bring together thousands of people to celebrate our great city - and the businesses, parks, and people who all make Minneapolis so unique. We are thrilled to kick off another year of Open Streets, and I am so grateful to our City staff and neighborhood partners who have worked tirelessly to set these events up for another successful year."
"We're so excited to take the 2024 Open Streets event series to the next level," said City Operations Officer Margaret Anderson Kelliher. "Open Streets gives residents across our city an opportunity to connect and build community. We look forward to partnering what these community organizations to carry on this tradition."
During Open Streets, Minneapolis local businesses, artists, and community groups come together to turn the streets into a special space temporarily free from car traffic - a place to grow community connections and embrace what's unique about Minneapolis.
This year, Open Streets is hosting three events in partnership with neighborhood associations:
Neighborhood Association |
Date |
Location |
Uptown Association |
August 24, 11am - 5pm |
Lyndale Avenue S., between 22nd St W. - 36 St W. |
West Broadway Business Coalition |
September 21, 11am - 5pm |
West Broadway, Lyndale Ave N. - Penn Ave N. |
Lyndale Neighborhood Association |
September 28, 11am - 5pm |
Nicollet Ave, W 31st St. - W 46th St. |
August 24th
Open Streets 2024 kicks off August 24thon Lyndale Avenue from 22nd to 36th Streets. The Uptown Association plans on hosting more than 200 vendors, 40 food trucks, and a "Back to School Jam" at Painter Park featuring backpack giveaways.
"We are thrilled to collaborate with the City of Minneapolis on Open Streets Lyndale, a fantastic opportunity to connect with our community," said Jill Osiecki, Director of Programming for the Uptown Association. "This event truly highlights the spirit of Lyndale Avenue, showcasing its unique offerings to both residents and businesses. We are proud to be part of this celebration."
September 21st
The second Open Streets event of the year takes place September 21ston West Broadway from Lyndale Ave N. to Penn Ave N. The West Broadway Business Coalition plans on there being plenty to do with more than 250 vendors and activities spread across 17 blocks. Live music, dance performances and cultural showcases will celebrate the rich diversity of North Minneapolis through art. Pop-up markets and a cultural food court will allow visitors to enjoy the heritage of the community through handmade crafts and culinary delights.
"We are thrilled to bring Open Streets West Broadway to life again," said Kristel Porter, Executive Director of West Broadway Business and Area Coalition. "This event is more than just a street festival-it's a powerful celebration of our vibrant community and the incredible energy that exists in North Minneapolis. Partnering with the city and our local organizations allows us to transform West Broadway Avenue into a space where neighbors can connect, celebrate, and support our diverse local businesses."
September 28th
The final Open Streets event of 2024 is a partnership with the Lyndale Neighborhood Association. It takes place September 28thon Nicollet Ave from W. 31st St. to W 46thSt.
"It's been five long years, but Nicollet Open Streets is back this year with two miles of music and magic! We are thankful to the City of Minneapolis for bringing back this route and for trusting the Lyndale Neighborhood Association to continue our work highlighting our local businesses," said Sarah Linnes-Robinson, Director of Projects for the Lyndale Neighborhood Association. "This event is not just about throwing a great community party (which it does!), it is about raising the awareness of local businesses and the unique flavor they bring to our neighborhood, and building new connections between them and neighbors so that they will continue to thrive."
The Lyndale Neighborhood Association has organized multiple live music stages, hands-on art activities and inflatables, and skateboard demonstrations. A 5k Run for Beer will also be held. Visitors can complete the 5k at their own pace, answering trivia questions and collecting stamps at checkpoints along the way, while also having the freedom to purchase goodies and take dance breaks. The Registration Fee ($25) includes 1 craft beverage, swag from the Brewery Running Series, and bragging rights! Kids 11 and younger can also participate in the Run for Fun Kids Dash to earn a 'run for fun' t-shirt and get a FREE root beer float at the finish line. Restaurants will also be offering food and drink specials, including special collaborations with menu items that will only be found at Open Streets.