Twin Cities Earn Top Rankings on 2025 ParkScore® Index

Minneapolis Places 3rd and St. Paul Ranks 5th - Washington, D.C. Defends National ParkScore Title

Trust for Public Land announced today that Minneapolis placed third on the 2025 ParkScore^® Index, following last year's second-place finish. St. Paul landed in fifth place, compared to third last year.

Washington, D.C., retained its position atop the ParkScore index for the fifth consecutive year. Irvine jumped to second, with Cincinnati placing fourth. The annual ParkScore^® index ranks park systems in the 100 most populous U.S. cities and is widely considered the gold standard for park evaluation.

Both Minneapolis and St. Paul received strong marks on all ParkScore rating factors. Ninety-nine percent of Minneapolis and St. Paul residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, far above the national ParkScore average of 76 percent. Both cities continue to lead on park investment. Minneapolis spends $324 per person on its park system, and St. Paul invests $248, far above the national ParkScore average of $133. The Twin Cities also outperform on park acreage, park equity and park amenities.

"No other state can claim what Minnesota can: two nation-leading park systems in its largest cities. As other communities raise the bar, we’re reminded that continued investment is essential to keep our parks strong, accessible, and equitable,” said Sophie Harris Vorhoff, Minnesota State Director for Trust for Public Land.

The Twin Cities’ slight dips in the rankings were caused primarily by positive moves from Irvine and Cincinnati, not changes to local park systems. Irvine benefitted from continued progress on its planned Great Park, one of the most ambitious public park projects in the United States. Cincinnati benefitted from the renovation of downtown’s Lytle Park and a citywide effort to improve public access to schoolyards and other open spaces.

Accompanying the annual ratings list, Trust for Public Land released new public opinion research reporting that residents throughout the United States value public parks and use them frequently. These findings remain steady across demographic and ideological lines, confirming that parks are among the least polarized spaces in the United States. Survey details are included in a special research report, Parks, The Great Unifiers, which also describes how four major U.S. cities - Atlanta, Fort Worth, Colorado Springs, and Chicago - have invested in parks to help bring people together and strengthen communities.

The research found that 89% of ParkScore city residents visited a public park at least once during the past year and 79% said they visit a local park regularly and feel comfortable spending time there. Also, respondents said they wished they had spent more time outdoors during the past year. By contrast, only 24% of respondents said they wished they had spent more time at home and 16% said they wished they had spent more time in bars or restaurants. Nearly two-thirds of respondents said they struck up a conversation in a public park with a person they had not known previously. The public opinion survey, National Survey on Outdoor Public Spaces, was conducted by national pollster YouGov in March, 2025.

“Parks bring people together and deliver enormous physical and mental health benefits for visitors,” Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser, President and CEO of Trust for Public Land, said.

“At a time when so much in our nation seems fractured or polarized, parks may be the last ideology-free zones, where everyone can come together, form meaningful relationships, and enjoy a few hours of peace and relaxation. At Trust for Public Land, we will continue to work with park departments and leaders at all levels of government to realize the full community-building potential for parks,” Hauser added.

PARKSCORE RANKINGS FOR 2025

Washington, D.C., was rated the best big-city park system in the United States for the fifth consecutive year. The city scored well on all ParkScore rating factors. Twenty-one percent of land in the District of Columbia is reserved for parks, among the highest in the United States. The District also outperformed on ParkScore’s park access and park equity metrics.

Irvine jumped to a record ParkScore finish, powered by continued progress on its planned Great Park, one of the most ambitious public park projects in the United States. Cincinnati made a big move in the 2025 ParkScore rankings, climbing to fourth position this year, well ahead of last year’s eighth place rank. The Queen City’s rise was due primarily to the $5 million renovation of downtown’s Lytle Park and a citywide effort to improve public access to schoolyards and other open spaces.

Boise defended its title as the best park system for dogs, with a nation-leading 9.0 dog parks per 100,000 residents, outscoring Portland, Oregon, and Henderson, Nevada. St. Paul received top marks for basketball hoops, Las Vegas scored best for playgrounds, and Boston earned top marks for splashpads and other water features.

PARKSCORE METHODOLOGY AND RANKINGS

The annual ParkScore^® index ranks park systems in the 100 most populous U.S. cities and is widely considered the gold standard for park evaluation. ParkScore rankings are based equally on five factors:

● Park access measures the percentage of residents living within a 10-minute walk of a park.

● Park equity compares per capita park space and 10-minute-walk park access in communities of color vs. white communities and in low-income neighborhoods versus high-income neighborhoods. Park systems score higher if disparities are minimal or non-existent.

● Park acreage is based on a city’s median park size and the percentage of city area dedicated to parks.

● Park investment measures park spending per resident.

● Park amenities assesses the availability of seven popular park features: basketball hoops; off-leash dog parks; playgrounds; splashpads and other water-play structures; sports fields; recreation and senior centers, and restrooms.

According to Trust for Public Land, the 10 highest-ranking park systems in the United States are: 

Rank	City	ParkScore (Max 100)
1.	Washington, D.C.	85.5
2.	Irvine, CA	84.3
3.	Minneapolis, MN	83.6
4.	Cincinnati, OH	82.0
5.	St. Paul, MN	81.8
6.	San Francisco, CA	80.2
7.	Arlington, VA	77.9
8.	Seattle, WA	77.4
9.	Portland, OR	76.0
10.	Denver, CO	75.1

The ParkScore index uses advanced GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and spatial analysis to evaluate park accessibility. Instead of measuring distance to a local park, the rating system’s GIS technology considers the location of park entrances and physical obstacles to access. For example, if residents are separated from a nearby park by a major highway, the ParkScore index does not count the park as accessible to those residents, unless there is a bridge, underpass, or easy access point across the highway.

Municipal leaders use ParkScore information to guide park improvement efforts, studying park access on a block-by-block basis and pinpointing the areas where new parks are needed most. The ParkScore website, www.tpl.org/parkscore, is free and available to the public, empowering residents to hold their elected leaders accountable for achieving equitable access to quality parks for all.

Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national nonprofit that works to connect everyone to the benefits and joys of the outdoors. As a leader in equitable access to the outdoors, TPL works with communities to create parks and protect public land where they are needed most. Since 1972, TPL has protected more than 4 million acres of public land, created more than 5,504 parks, trails, schoolyards, and iconic outdoor places, and raised $110 billion in public funding for parks and public lands, and connected nearly 9.7 million people to the outdoors. To learn more, visit tpl.org

From the Mayor's Office: Second Independent Evaluator Report Shows ‘Significant Strides’ in Minneapolis Police Reform

May 20 e-announcement from Mayor Frey's office:

As the City of Minneapolis prepares to mark five years since the murder of George Floyd, new findings from the independent evaluator Effective Law Enforcement for ALL (ELEFA) show that Minneapolis is not only moving forward with police reform—it’s positioning itself to become a national leader in it. 

Covering the period from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, ELEFA’s second semi-annual report—and its first full-year assessment—shows Minneapolis and the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) have made “more progress toward building a foundation for sustainable reform in the first year of monitoring than nearly any other jurisdiction” operating under a court-ordered reform agreement. 

“Minneapolis is making more progress than nearly any other city under a consent decree or settlement agreement in the first year of monitoring—that’s a big deal,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “From day one, I said we would lead the country on police reform, and this report clearly shows our investments, dedication, and commitment to the work are paying off. But no one here is taking a victory lap, we’ll keep pushing until every benchmark translates into real trust and safer streets.” 

Released earlier today, ELEFA’s report highlights several key policy areas that have received final approval, are near final approval, or are under development as the City works toward meeting full compliance with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) Settlement Agreement, signed in 2023. This includes, among others:  

• Near elimination of OPCR and IA historical misconduct complaint backlog – all are now in process with 30 complaints closed as of March 31. 
• Completing a comprehensive training needs assessment and developing a highly regarded annual training plan that ELEFA notes could serve as a model for other law enforcement agencies 
• Developing and updating key policies around Use of Force, mission/vision/values/goals, crisis intervention, and other areas. 
• Incorporating significant resident feedback and input into new and revised policies  
• Expanding officer training programs 
• Laying groundwork for improvements to facilities and data systems   Designating 21 officers to serve as peer support members, providing mentorship, outreach and emotional support to officers who may need assistance 

Minneapolis continues to prioritize accountability, transparency, and community engagement in our reform initiatives. The City is committed to making sure that every step of the reform process is not only effective but also informed by input from the community. These reforms lay the groundwork for the next phase of transformation—both within MPD and across the broader ecosystem of community safety.  

“This second report reflects the efforts of our City leaders and staff, and especially our MPD officers, over the past year,” said Commissioner of Community Safety Toddrick Barnette. “Under Mayor Frey’s leadership, the Office of Community Safety continues to develop a comprehensive community safety ecosystem to deliver equitable safety services for all Minneapolis residents and visitors. This ecosystem cannot exist without police reform, nor can police reform be sustainable without reimagining community safety. It’s not going to be a fast process. The most important thing to know is that we will not let up.” 

"It is clear in this report that the Minneapolis Police Department has accomplished more in one year than any other police department under a consent decree,” Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said.  I am proud of the hard work our Implementation Unit, Academy Staff, and all of our sworn and professional staff that are stepping up in extraordinary ways to make change real for our residents.  I couldn’t be prouder of our team and I’m thankful for the results they are producing for our department and our community." 

“The Office of Police Conduct Review (OPCR) has made significant progress in furthering its reform work. That includes being on pace to eliminate the historic backlog,” said City of Minneapolis Civil Rights Director Michelle Phillips. “Civil Rights leadership is re-imagining how the OPCR does business by involving community voices more than ever before and staying true to its mission to provide impartial assessments of the Minneapolis Police Department.” 

The second semi-annual report is available on ELEFA’s website, ELE4A.org. ELEFA will continue to host regularly scheduled community engagement sessions. The next review period will cover work completed between April 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025.  

More information and progress updates can be found on the police reform pages of the City's website.

Rhythmically Speaking Presents Groovers & Makers 2025, August 14-16 at Southern Theater

Groovers & Makers 2025 runs August 14-16 at Southern Theater

Rhythmically Speaking (RS) has announced their newly rebranded (and 17th annual) summer production Groovers & Makers 2025: 4 Takes on Jazz Dance (formerly The Cohort) August 14-16 at the Southern Theater. Though the format and name of this annual Summer production has shifted throughout the years, it has always delivered fresh, vibrant takes on staged works inspired by jazz and American social dance ideas from exciting movers and shakers in the field. The production continues RS's tradition of commissioning the creation of new work by local choreographers while providing opportunities for dance artists who are based outside of Minnesota to show their work here. In 2022, they added a screen works segment to this program, in collaboration with the Sans Souci Festival of Dance Cinema (Boulder, CO).

The stage component of Groovers & Makers 2025 features works by an exciting line-up of choreographers (the Makers): Hannah MacKenzie-Margulies, a local artist with a strong contemporary concert dance background who is also very well-known on the swing dance teaching and competition circuit; Brandi Coleman of Dallas, TX, a long-time company member of Jump Rhythm Jazz Project (Chicago) who is currently Assistant Professor of Jazz Dance at Southern Methodist University; and Cynthia Gutierrez, director of Company Movimiento (Eugene, OR) and Assistant Professor of Dance at Gonzaga University who initially built her career in the Twin Cities. RS Artistic and Executive Director Erinn Liebhard will also have work in the show.

From MacKenzie-Margulies’ contemporary concert dance take on swing and Coleman’s vocally-dynamic approach to grounded and driven jazz, to Gutierrez’s Latin jazz vibes and Liebhard’s groove and improvisation-forward perspective, the production will run a gamut of feelings while showing a breadth of what ‘jazz and American social dance-inspired’ can mean. The show will be danced by RS company members (the Groovers) Nieya Amezquita, Malia Craft, Doug Hooker, Amy Jones, Sara Karimi, Erinn Liebhard, Kelli Miles, Jake Nehrbass, Kathleen Pender and Betsy Schaefer-Roob. Groovers & Makers 2025 will also include a screening of to-be-selected dance films by artists from all over the world: previous screen programs have included works not only from all over the USA, but also Bulgara, the UK and Spain.

Rhythmically Speaking sparks vibrancy and connectedness through jazz and American social dance ideas. With shared roots of groove, interaction and improvisation, these approaches encourage simultaneous expression of difference and similarity as a means of creating community. RS is proud to be a local and national leader in celebrating the rich history of these forms while nurturing their innovation. Since their founding in 2008, the organization has presented 111 original and remounted works and engaged 350+ artists and thousands of audience members and outreach program participants.

Pen Pals' 29th Season Lineup Announced

Friends of Hennepin County Library has announced the lineup for their 2025-26 season of Pen Pals, the highly-acclaimed and longest-running literary series in the Twin Cities.  The 29th season of Pen Pals will once again feature a captivating array of award-winning and bestselling authors. Please join us at Hopkins Center for the Arts as we welcome Wally Lamb, Laila Lalami, Kaveh Akbar, Imani Perry, and Ariel Lawhon.  Current subscribers, now is the time to renew your season tickets! Renew online today and by phone starting May 7 (612-543-8112.) New subscribers, subscriptions go on sale on Friday, June 27, with a special presale for Library Leadership Circle members on Thursday, June 26. We hope you can join us for another season of thought-provoking conversations and literary adventures!

Wally Lamb She's Come Undone, I Know This Much is True Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, 2025 11:00 a.m.

Laila Lalami The Dream Hotel, The Moor's Account Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025 11:00 a.m.

Kaveh Akbar Martyr!, Calling a Wolf a Wolf Monday, Dec. 8, 2025 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025 11:00 a.m.

Imani Perry Black in Blues, South to America  Thursday, Mar. 5, 2026 7:30 p.m. Friday, Mar. 6, 2026 11:00 a.m.

Ariel Lawhon The Frozen River, I Was Anastasia Thursday, April 30, 2026 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 1, 2026 11:00 a.m.

FINNOVATION Institute Fellowship Program Now Accepting Applications

Applications for the seventh cohort of the FINNOVATION Fellowship Program are now open and due by June 1, 2025. The program supports impact-driven, ‘early-stage’ entrepreneurs as they launch and lead sustainable and innovative businesses.

For its first six years, the FINNOVATION Fellowship was an intensive nine-month initiative for a select cohort of nine social business leaders in Minnesota. New in 2025, the program is changing to support more social entrepreneurs, especially those in the earliest stages of exploring a business idea.

For the 2025-26 cohort, the Fellowship program will be split into two distinct phases: the Discovery Module and the Fellows Module. The Discovery Module will accept up to 18 participants and, for three months, will focus on developing a deeper understanding of participants’ market opportunity and value proposition.

All Discovery Module participants are eligible to be considered for the Fellows Module. Up to nine participants will receive a $50,000 stipend and will work closely with the FINNOVATION Institute for six months to focus on their business's operational and strategic elements. This will result in a strong business plan and pitch as well as deeper work in leadership development.

Ideal Fellows are driven to be great leaders who can bridge the gap between social change and business and embrace the ups and downs of personal growth and entrepreneurship. “This program is a great opportunity for people with expertise in various sectors, but who aren’t sure how to start or grow a business,” says Connie Rutledge, Executive Director of the FINNOVATION Institute.

To learn more about the 2025/2026 Fellowship Program, apply, and learn about FINNOVATION Fellowship alums, please visit www.finnovationinstitute.org.

Help Restore Our Riverfront Nature Sanctuary, East Owamniyomni

Help restore native habitats and protect the clean waters of this scenic nature sanctuary by the Mississippi River, once part of the St. Anthony Falls.

By the east bank of the Mississippi River, where waters once tumbled over the limestone face to create the river’s only natural falls, volunteers are restoring native trees, shrubs, wildflowers and grasses to the shores, slopes, meadows and wetlands of the lower trail area of Father Hennepin Bluff Park.  From Williams Island – visible from the Stone Arch Bridge – to Mill View Meadow – visible from Main Street SE – to Hennepin Beach – downstream from the Xcel spillway - this diverse natural area hums with life. Eagles and herons hunt in its waters, and songbirds nest in its forest. In Dakota, St. Anthony Falls are called Owamniyomni, “turbulent water, whirlpool, eddy,” and volunteers call this part of the park East Owamniyomni, honoring the power of the falls.

The Father Hennepin Bluff Stewards, a project of the East Bank Neighborhoods Partnership, collaborates with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board to care for this nature sanctuary, and hosts care days from April to November. All are welcome!

Please sign up here!

2025 Posters for Parks - Call for Artists Now Open Through June 6

Calling all local artists, designers, and illustrators who love Minneapolis Parks! Applications are now open for the 11th annual Posters for Parks show, happening Saturday, October 11 at Minnehaha Park. This event features limited-edition posters that benefit our parks - artists receive 50% of each sale, with remaining proceeds supporting the Minneapolis Parks Foundation’s People for Parks Fund.

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Don’t delay – the Call for Artists closes on Friday, June 6! Apply here

May 7th Bridge 9 Improvement Project Update

Bridge No. 9 was constructed in 1922 by the Northern Pacific Railroad to carry freight over the Mississippi. The City of Minneapolis acquired this bridge in 1986 and converted the bridge to a pedestrian use bridge in 1999. The bridge currently provides a Mississippi River crossing for the Dinkytown Greenway bike trail.

Beginning in April, 2025, the City of Minneapolis started making repairs and improvements to Bridge 9, Abutment 1 and the approach spans on both ends of the bridge

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2025 Construction Phase

Public Works has been working on this bridge in phases over the past few years, starting with the substructure work (piers and abutments).

In 2025, the scope of work will focus on the superstructure, which includes removing and replacing the approach span decks, replacing the existing railing with a high-safety railing and rehabilitating the east side abutment.

Rehabilitation work on the abutment consists of the removal of degraded concrete, then repairing and strengthening the concrete to remain with new reinforced concrete. The work on the approach spans consists of the removal of the old ballast slab/deck, aggregate and bituminous pavement, then constructing a new reinforced concrete deck.

View of removed bridge deck

The abutment work takes place within Bridge 9 right of way through University of Minnesota property.  It is occurring adjacent to the U of M Main Energy Plant. Access and staging for the work were closely coordinated with University officials.

Sawing concrete slab

Schedule

Construction activities this season started on April 7th of 2025. The scheduled completion date is the end of December 2025. The contractor is currently anticipating substantial completion by the end of November 2025.

Traffic Impact

The bridge is closed to bicyclists and pedestrians this season. The Detour route is below, and it is also posted to the project webpage.

Current Work

For the month of April, the following construction operations were performed: Work site establishment, installing the debris containment system, removal of the aggregate and bituminous surface on the approach spans, saw cutting the northern approach span for deck removal and beginning to remove the deck on the northern approach span.

Removal of concrete slab section

Coming Up

Continued deck removals, railing removals, excavation on the North side of the bridge to allow for work on Abutment 1.

Stay Connected

For more details and to sign up for email updates please visit the project page.

For concerns or questions about the Bridge 9 project please contact:

Contact the project engineer: Petru Vizoli,
612-201-1905, or Petru.Vizoli@minneapolismn.gov

Contact the engineer: Oscar Weber,
651-470-4790 or Oscar.Weber@minneapolismn.gov 

Contact the design team project manager: Rich Revering,
612-718-8412 or Richard.Revering@Bolton-Menk.com 

May in Downtown Parks: Openings, Art, Sports & Volunteer Opportunities

Via a May 7th e-announcement from Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

From art classes and book clubs and bocce ball, Downtown Parks are your go-to for spring fun. Here’s what’s happening this month:

 Grand Opening: The River Hub at Graco Park

Saturday, May 10 | 10 am–4 pm
Graco Park – 810 Sibley St NE, Minneapolis
Ribbon Cutting at noon

Join us as we celebrate the grand opening of The River Hub, marking the next chapter of Northeast Minneapolis’s riverfront transformation. From its origins as Scherer Bros. Lumber to its vibrant rebirth, this park is a true testament to community and environmental progress.

Opening Day Schedule:

• 10 am – Free Yoga with Bouldering Project
• 10 am–2 pm – Hornbeck Pack Boats and Canoe experiences 
• 10 am–4 pm – Minneapolis Park Market - featuring over twenty vendors
• 11:30 am – Opening Remarks
• Noon – Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
• 12:30–4 pm –
  • Art Activities with Alec
  • Fat Bike Rides
  • Spark'd Studio Open House
  • Seed Library - bring some and take some
  • Cones & Creamery and KCM Egg Rolls onsite

Explore the new park building, enjoy art activities, and connect with nature at the river’s edge. It’s a day full of creativity, community, and celebration!

Park Palette: Weaving with t-shirts
Monday, May 12 | 6:30-8 pm
Water Works

Learn how to weave, knot, and tangle! In this class you will learn how to make yarn out of t-shirts and then use it to create some beautiful braiding to take home. We will provide t-shirts, but feel free to bring your own stash if you would like.

Cost: $15 residents | $22.50 non-residents

Register for Weaving

 Art-A-Whirl at Graco Park (30th Anniversary!)

Friday, May 16 | 5–10 pm
Saturday, May 17 | Noon–8 pm
Sunday, May 18 | Noon–5 pm

Celebrate Art-A-Whirl’s milestone anniversary with an amazing lineup of creative makers at Graco Park. Meet local artists and enjoy sustainable fashion, screen prints, and youth-driven art projects.

Featured Makers:

• Michele & Muse – Sustainable couture millinery

• Angry Peanut Press – Playful, small-batch screenprints (Closed Sunday)

• EcoPetites x Mad Mir Dye x janiette post industrial – Ethical, upcycled, hand-dyed clothing

• Blind Havoc – Streetwear spreading positivity

• The Pawfect Patch - Customized patches, beanies, and more!

• Spark’d Studios – Youth creativity & self-expression (Closed Sunday)

Spring Book Club: The French Winemaker's Daughter by Loretta Ellsworth
Monday, May 19 | 6:30-7:30 pm
Water Works – Free, drop-in

This month, we’re reading The French Winemaker’s Daughter by Loretta Ellsworth—a moving historical novel set during World War II. Told through the voices of two women generations apart, this story explores love, war, and loyalty, all connected by a mysterious bottle of wine stolen by the Nazis.

 Adult Summer Sports Leagues

Now open for registration! Whether you’re a casual player or a fierce competitor, we’ve got the perfect weeknight lineup.

 Grass Bocce Ball

• Tuesdays at North Loop Park

• Fridays at Water Works Park

 Kubb

• Wednesdays at Water Works

 Cornhole

• Thursdays at Water Works

 Games start at 5:30 pm and 7 pm

 Food & beverages available from Owamni’s Wakpa Bar at Water Works!

Learn more about our leagues

Get Involved: Volunteer with Downtown Parks

Give back, have fun, and be part of the magic that makes our parks special.

Downtown Parks Program Volunteer - Support weekly and monthly programs like arts, dance, games, and movie nights.

Downtown Parks Events Volunteer - Join us at major events like Kick-off to Summer, Red, White & Boom!, K-pop in the Sunset, and more!

Commons Garden Volunteer - Help maintain and beautify the planter boxes at The Commons (4th Street & Park Ave).

Learn more & sign up

Downtown Minneapolis Parks

The Commons Park - 425 Portland Avenue South

Gateway Park - 1 1st Street South

Graco Park - 15 8th Ave Northeast

Nicollet Island Park - 40 Power Street

North Loop Park - 731 N 3rd St 

Water Works at Mill Ruins Park - 425 West River Parkway

Questions? Email Aisling Reynolds, areynolds@minneapolisparks.org.

Theater Latté Da Announces Tony Award-Winning Musical PASSION Opens in June

Performances begin June 4 and run thru July 13 at the Ritz Theater

Theater Latté Da's Justin Lucero will direct the rarely produced Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine masterwork PASSION - the shows first production to be presented in Minnesota in over 20 years. PASSION opens at the intimate Ritz Theater on June 7. Tickets are on sale now online at latteda.org or 612-339-3003.

Per Lucero, “Announcing PASSION to conclude our mainstage season is a momentous occasion, marking our return to the canon of Stephen Sondheim’s genius work. This stunning and rarely produced masterwork showcases a dramatic journey of love, desire, and obsession that will leave a profound impact on our audience.”

Set in 1860s Italy, a gripping, fiery love triangle ignites when a dashing army captain is transferred to a remote military outpost. Giorgio, already in a passionate, clandestine affair with Clara back home, enters the sights and heart of Fosca, a fragile woman who turns out to be capable of adoration and desire unlike anything he has ever known. This Best Musical Tony winner, one of Sondheim’s most unforgettable, is an exultantly dramatic journey of love, desire, and obsession.

Last seen in the Twin Cities in a 2004 production from the Minnesota Opera, PASSION marks Theater Latté Da’s mainstage 99th production, and a return to its signature staging of the work of Stephen Sondheim. Past Sondheim pieces produced by Latté Da include Merrily We Roll Along (2022), A Little Night Music (2019), Assassins (2018), Gypsy (2016 and 2006), Sweeney Todd (2015), Into the Woods (2015), Company (2012) and Sunday in the Park with George (2003). 

PASSION is among three collaborations between Sondheim and librettist James Lapine, which also include Into the Woods and Sunday in the Park with George. The show premiered on Broadway in May 1994,  receiving 10 Tony Award nominations and winning four including Best Musical, Original Score and Book.

The creative team for PASSION includes Justin Lucero (director), Jason Hansen (music direction and orchestrations), Emily Michaels King (movement direction), Paul Whitaker (scenic and lighting designer), Amber Brown (costume designer), Peter Morrow (sound designer), Madelaine Foster (properties designer), and Emma Gustafson (wig, makeup and hair designer). Shelby Reddig is the Production Stage Manager, and Joelle Coutu is the Assistant Stage Manager.

Single tickets start at $36, plus fees ranging from $5.50 to $6.75. Group, student and other discounts are also available.

In-person box office hours are Tuesday to Friday from 12-5:00pm and Saturday from 12-5:00pm when in performance. Post-show discussions, ASL/AD, Open Caption, and masks-required performances are available on select dates. Braille and large print programs, assistive listening devices, and high-capacity bariatric chairs are available at every performance.

Theater Latté Da’s 2024-2025 season is made possible in part by Ameriprise Financial, Elizabeth C. Quinlan Foundation, James B. Linsmayer Foundation, The MAP Fund, The McKnight Foundation, The Nara Fund,  National Alliance for Musical Theatre, National Endowment for the Arts, RBC, Prospect Creek Foundation, The Ruth Easton Fund of the Edelstein Family Foundation, The Shubert Foundation; the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grants, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the The Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund and numerous generous individual contributors.

A Toast to Opening Day at the Mill City Farmers Market

To ring in the Mill City Farmers Market 2025 outdoor season opening day, Farmers Kitchen + Bar served up a signature cocktail they created in collaboration with MCFM - the Tipsy Carrot. It featured carrot ginger juice from Pure Ginger for You and Salted Strawberry Jam puree from Serious Jam. They also had a version sans the vodka, A Lil Carrot Kiss.

Three of the new vendors for the 2025 season deputed at the May 3rd market: 

1) Solace Artisan Breads

I brought home a loaf of the Multigrain Pan Loaf, which tasted as wonderful as it looks. Scroll down to see the massive Challah bread - that is next on my list. They are a fulltime vendor, so you can look forward to their fresh breads every Saturday.

2) 38th Street Farm

I ran into a neighbor at the Market around 10:30a who said their cat loved the Pet Grass so much she had to come back and get more! Find their MCFM schedule here.

3) Enchanted Gardens of Minnesota

I couldn't resist a dozen of these beautiful eggs. They also offer honey, beeswax candles and lovely starter plants. As a fulltime vendor, find them at the Market every Saturday.

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Cooking demos are back!

Below, my haul from the May 3rd Market (missing rhubarb from Mhonpaj's Garden that I handed off to a neighbor, and Atacama empanadas that I scarfed down while unpacking all these goodies...). Looking forward to baking the Amazing Brown Mix, a new offering from Janna's Gluten Free Bakery.

Find more photos from the May 3rd MCFM here.

Finally, congrats to MCFM for being voted one of the top 3 Farmers Markets in Mpls.St.Paul Magazine's 2025 Best of the Twin Cities Readers’ Poll. :D

Theatre in the Round Presents Timely Drama, Sanctuary City - Opens May 9

Theatre in the Round Players (TRP) is presenting Sanctuary City by Pulitzer-Prize winner, Martyna Majok as a part of their 73rd Season.

Set in 2001, the year that both the DREAM Act was first proposed and 9/11 provoked a wave of xenophobia, this drama follows the story of two teenagers in New Jersey. Both brought to America as children, G and B support each other through life’s harsh circumstances, forging a friendship that becomes a sanctuary. When G becomes naturalized, she and B hatch a plan to marry so that he may legally remain in the country and pursue the future he imagines. But as time hurdles on and complications mount, their intertwined lives become tangled in the realities of love, longing, and belonging in an unwelcoming country.

Vanessa Brooke Agnes directs the three-member cast with stage management by Scott Gilbert, set design by Chris Goddard, costumes by Ryan McCanna, lighting by Andrew Vance, props by Elliott Van Winkle, and sound design by Eevee Pavey.

Sanctuary City runs May 9-June 1, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm.

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Tickets: $20-29

Audio-Described performance: Sunday, May 25

Content Notice: This show contains mature language, references to physical abuse and deportation. Best for ages 16+.

More info & Tickets

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Theatre in the Round’s facilities are accessible for audience members using wheelchairs. Assisted listening and individual captioning devices are available for check-out. For questions about access services, please email tix@theatreintheround.org or call the box office at 612-333-3010.

Mill City Farmers Market Kicks Off 20th Outdoor Market Season on May 3rd

Mill City Farmers Market (MCFM) is ready to kick off its 20th outdoor season on Saturday, May 3rd from 8am to 1pm. They will bring together over 100 rotating local farmers, food producers and artists each Saturday morning May through October in a newly expanded footprint.

MCFM has been a champion for the local food movement since being founded in 2006 by farm-to-table pioneer and James Beard nominated restaurateur Brenda Langton. Located in the Mill District, the Market is a primary storefront for the majority of its 115 local farms and small businesses. There are a wide variety of vendors represented each week including farmers, food makers, textile and ceramic artists, jewelers, bakers, skin and body care, ready-to-eat food and more.

MCFM is welcoming 7 NEW vendors for the 2025 season:

●     38th Street Farm: fresh & dehydrated microgreens, pet grass and pet treats

●     Enchanted Gardens of Minnesota: farmstead products including goat cheese, butter, duck eggs

●     Kisheri Farms: Cameroonian farmer offering a wide variety of West African produce

●     Solace Artisan Breads: Latino-owned bakery offering freshly baked breads

●     Sun-Kissed Farm: Hmong farmer offering a variety of Asian greens and other unique produce

●     The Naked Tree Bakery: baked goods with no gluten, dairy, eggs, or judgement!

●     The Orange Roaster: Ukrainian sweet corn roaster joining us during sweet corn season

MCFM recognizes the significant barriers to organic certification for many emerging farmers, and because of this they not require formal USDA certification, but rather a commitment to regenerative agricultural practices that support the whole ecosystem. In addition to a Local Sourcing Standard, MCFM’s Sustainability Statement supports building healthy soils, sustainable water use, humane treatment of livestock, honorable workplace practices, and rejects synthetic inputs, pesticides and GMO seed. This ensures that you are getting high-quality, naturally grown and made products no matter which vendor you shop with.

Free programming will be offered again at the Market this season

...including live cooking demos with our Market Chefs, Market Yoga with local studios, Power of Produce veggie sampling for kids, Story Time with the Guthrie and more. Alongside food education, the Market and its Charitable Fund will continue their mission to give everyone in our community access to fresh, nutritious food through their food access programming. SNAP/EBT users can get their purchases tripled up to $10 each Market day (spend $10, get $30) and Greens for Good food gleaning will return this year in partnership with Augsburg University’s Campus Kitchen, purchasing excess produce from farmers to provide weekly fresh produce to low-income seniors in the Cedar Riverside neighborhood.

May 20 Walk & Talk at Graco Park

From river history to landscape innovation, discover what's new at one of Minneapolis' most recently reimagined parks. 

Tuesday, May 20, 3:30pm - 5:00pm

Explore the transformation of Minneapolis’ riverfront at Graco Park, 810 Sibley Street NE, with project experts from Barr Engineering and AFLA Landscape Architects. This guided walk will highlight the park’s landscape design, ecological restoration, and the historic Halls Island. Learn how this dynamic green space reflects both natural systems and community vision—while enjoying the river views along the way. Mostly paved trail, some stairs/gradual incline.

Spots are limited - please register here.

More info on the Walk & Talk Series.

Doors Open Minneapolis Returns May 17 and 18

Reminder - Check listings for individual property times!

70+ Minneapolis venues will be part of this years Doors Open Minneapolis, happening May 17 and 18, 10am–5pm each day. Building owners, caretakers and volunteers will be on hand to share information on the buildings and spaces. The event is produced by the historic preservation nonprofit Rethos. Doors Open Facebook page.

In this video, Mayor Frey gives us a sneak peek of the newly renovated City Hall, which is one of the properties featured during the Doors Open Minneapolis weekend. Here are the participating venues, listed in alphabetical order. From the Hennepin Healthcare Teddy Bear Clinic to Minneapolis Rowing Club - there's something of interest for everyone and every age.

Double up on culture - Historic A-Mill Artist Lofts will participate in both Doors Open and Art-A-Whirl!

Art-A-Whirl is happening May 16-18. A-Mill Artist Lofts, a National Historic Landmark located at 315 Main Street NE near the Stone Arch Bridge and Mississippi River, will be open Saturday and Sunday, May 17 and 18, 10am–5pm. Visitors are invited to enjoy festivities with vendors, food trucks, music and more. Formally the Pillsbury Flour Mill built in 1881, this preserved historic site has been renovated into residences with working artists in mind. Only open to the public once or twice a year, visitors will observe the original foundation walls of the Historic Pillsbury Mill, view down through the glass floor into the 60 foot deep turbine pits, and descend again to view the Historic limestone tunnel which travails 700 feet underneath Main Street toward its inlet across from Aster Café. The rooftop will also be open, offering a spectacular view of downtown Minneapolis.

Street Sweeping Begins April 22

Public Works crews will start the City’s comprehensive street sweeping program April 22 to clear away what accumulated in the streets over the winter. Drivers should watch for hot pink temporary “No Parking” signs to avoid a ticket and tow.

For approximately four weeks, sweeping crews will take care of more than 1,000 miles of city streets. To make sure the crews can do the most complete job possible, temporary “No Parking” signs will be posted at least 24 hours in advance to make sure streets are clear of parked vehicles. Drivers need to follow street sweeping parking rules or they may have their cars ticketed and towed to the Minneapolis Impound Lot.

Find your street on the schedule

You can see when your street is scheduled to be swept by visiting the interactive street sweeping map. Learn more about street sweeping.

Art at The Bridgewater Announces Exhibit 29: People + Places, Opening Reception April 24

Meet the Artists Reception

Enjoy Wine & Appetizers!

Thursday, April 24, 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Bridgewater Community Room, 215 10th Ave S

Art at The Bridgewater invites Mill District neighbors to the opening reception of their newest exhibit, People + Places.

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The Artists

Kristin Bickal | Katherine Boyce | Francene Christianson | Suhaila Ihsanullah Jane Meyer | Jodi Reeb | Mary Catherine Solberg | Mike Welton | Russ White | Judith Yourman

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Generously sponsored by Aaron Brown, Coldwell Banker Realty

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Coldwell Banker Realty agent Aaron Brown, the sponsor of “People + Places,” expertly manages every detail of his buyers’ and sellers’ property needs and leads them to success.

Hospitable and conscientious, he puts the best interests of his customers first. Aaron is fully committed to providing his clients with an exceptional level of service while conducting business in the most ethical, professional manner possible.

Appetizers are provided by Clay Oven, a mouthwatering restaurant in the Mill District, which takes you on a culinary journey through the flavors of India and the ancient art of clay oven cooking.

For more information, contact bnfacommittee@gmail.com

Fiesta de Flores: Art in Bloom Returns to Mia

This year’s celebration focuses on the museum’s growing collection of Latin American art

The Minneapolis Institute of Art’s (Mia) Art in Bloom, an annual festival featuring imaginative floral interpretations of selected works of art from Mia’s permanent collection, will return for its 41st year from April 24 to 27, 2025.

Free and open to everyone, Art in Bloom will showcase over 150 floral installations by more than 100 individual and commercial florists. Guests can experience floral beauty and fragrance throughout the museum, take a free guided tour, and enjoy family-friendly activities.

The centerpiece of this year’s festival is Alfredo Ramos Martínez’s Las vendedoras de flores (c. 1935–38), which is part of Mia’s growing collection of Latin American art. The work is the inspiration for this year’s Party in Bloom, Art in Bloom’s signature celebration, termed fiesta en flor – or “Party in Flowers.” It will feature the sights, sounds, and beauty of a fiesta night in Latin America. Guests will enjoy a preview of the pedestal floral art, and select Art in Bloom galleries will be available to tour. An entry of lights and flowers will be followed by champagne, appetizers, music, and a seated dinner. Party in Bloom will be held Friday, April 25, starting at 6 p.m. Tickets are $300.

Additional highlights of this year’s Art in Bloom events include:

Ashley FoxThe Art of Designing a Brand with Ashley Fox 

Floral designer Ashley Fox will discuss the creative process that has kept her in the wedding floral and editorial styling business for 17 years.

• Thursday, April 24, 6 p.m.
• Tickets: $30

Mastering the Art of Hand-Tied Bouquets: A Make and Take with Sarah from Bloomcroft Dahlias
This workshop will offer an opportunity to learn the artistry of floral bouquets. Participants will learn to make stunning hand-tied pieces using a selection of hand-cut flowers and leave with their bouquets.

• Friday, April 25, 11 a.m.
• Tickets: $45

Ikebana Make and Take with Sarah from Bloomcroft Dahlias This workshop will showcase the history and meaning of Ikebana, a Japanese art of flower arrangement. Ikebana means “giving life to flowers.” Participants will leave with their own small Ikebana arrangement and an understanding of an arrangement technique that focuses on unique shapes, forms, and colors.

• Saturday, April 26, 11 a.m.
• Tickets: $45

“We’re excited to welcome and celebrate with our community at Art in Bloom 2025! With a Latin theme, breathtaking floral arrangements inspired by Mia’s amazing art collection, and activities for all ages, we hope you’ll join us to experience the joy and beauty of this springtime fiesta de flores.” Friends of the Institute President Barbara Proeschel

Art in Bloom is the Friends of the Institute’s largest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds support various initiatives across the museum, including bus grants from the Friends that defray transportation costs and enable schools and other community members to enjoy Mia’s world-class collection.

For more information on Art in Bloom and other upcoming events, visit artsmia.org/events.

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Seeks Volunteers for 2025 Water Monitoring Program

As spring arrives in Minnesota, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) needs help monitoring the state’s 12,000+ lakes and 92,000+ miles of streams.

The Agency is recruiting volunteers to measure water clarity in numerous lakes and streams – including several high-priority sites in the metro area – and then report back to the agency. The Volunteer Water Monitoring Program is the perfect opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in protecting our state’s natural resources!

Over 50 years of environmental stewardship

The University of Minnesota launched the Volunteer Water Monitoring Program in 1973 and transferred it to the MPCA in 1978. It has become the second oldest, and still active, volunteer water monitoring program in the nation, empowering Minnesotans from all corners of the state to support the health of our beloved waters.  

How does it work?

Volunteers conduct a simple water clarity test in a body of water twice a month from April to September. MPCA provides all the equipment and training; no experience is needed.

The MPCA uses the data to help determine whether lakes and streams are meeting water quality standards, which are designed to protect aquatic life and recreational activities (like fishing and swimming). In some cases, the information gathered by volunteers is the only monitoring done on a particular lake or stream.

Visit the website: Volunteer water monitoring | Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Read about a volunteer water monitor: Ahead-of-her-time Battle Creek researcher returns as water monitor | Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

New Gamut Gallery Exhibit, Ebb & Flow, Opens May 2

This spring, Gamut Gallery invites you to sink into the natural rhythm of the season with Ebb & Flow, a multimedia group exhibition curated by Gallery Director Francesca Bernardi. With a focus on abstraction and organic materiality, Ebb & Flow captures the quiet pulse of nature through organic movement, repetition, and an earthy palette. This group exhibition brings together 10 local artists working in abstraction across painting, mixed media, and foraged and found materials, with works infused with the textures and tones of umber, indigo, moss, and ochre. Featuring acrylics, oils, natural dyes, wood, sculpture and textile works.

Featured Artists: Allison Johanson, Annie Hejny, Emily Donovan, Gregory Euclide, Halle Rittgers, Melinda Wolff, Rachelle Netland, Reed Moraine Ross, Sandra Felemovicius, Three Circle Shop

Join Gamut Gallery for a lively opening night celebration on Friday, May 2, featuring music by DJ Earth G Koreen and perhaps bring a piece of this energy home with you.

Public Opening Night - Friday, May 2, 7-10pm
DJ Earth G Koreen, FREE admission 

Following the high-energy brilliance of Refracted Ecologies, this exhibition offers a grounding contrast: a return to soil, water, wood, and air. Bernardi shares, “This year, we’ve been following our joy in the curatorial process—starting with Jonathan Thunder’s Sovereignty of Joy, then moving into the colorful burst of Refracted Ecologies. With Ebb & Flow, I felt called to explore nature from a more subdued, textural lens, through moss, umber, indigo, ochre, budding flowers, melting snow, and flowing water. These tones bring me peace. They remind me to breathe.”

From meditative gestures to experimental forms, each piece invites viewers to consider the interplay of color and form as a reflection of nature’s power.

The exhibition came together organically through studio visits and conversations with the artists. Emily Donovan and Melinda Wolff are both creating new works for the show. Annie Hejny returns with her signature water-infused process, and we are delighted to feature floral abstractionist Allison Johanson, whose vibrant pieces offer a fresh take on seasonal transformation.

Artist Discussion - Thursday, May 22, 6–8pm

$15 tickets

FREE to members and students

Featuring Ebb & Flow artists Emily Donovan, Annie Hejny, and Allison Johanson

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Join Gamut Gallery on Thursday, May 22, for an engaging artist panel discussion with Annie Hejny, Emily Donovan, and Allison Johanson.

Also featured will be Ghost Shepherd, a powerful sculptural work by the visionary collective Three Circle Shop, which will make its film debut on May 10. Additionaly, two textile pieces from Three Circle Shop will be on view, weaving their collaborative, nature-based practice into the heart of the show.

Ebb & Flow also includes work by the iconic Gregory Euclide, whose lush, figurative landscapes blur the line between painting and environment. We’re thrilled to welcome new-to-Gamut artist Reed Morraine Ross, whose bold abstract compositions evoke cycles of transformation. Rachelle Netland’s whimsical, life-filled landscapes and Sandra Felemovicius’ sweeping paintings alive with vibrant hues of yellow, green, and periwinkle bring both emotional and chromatic depth. Finally, Halle Rittger’s gestural, balanced paintings offer meditations on movement, stillness, and growth.

Together, these artists form a stellar lineup united by a shared reverence for the earth and its ever-changing states. Ebb & Flow is a tribute to the textures and rhythms that ground us.

GALLERY & GIFT SHOP OPEN HOURS

Visit for FREE during open hours: Thurs - Fri, 11am-6pm; Sat 11am-4pm
*Closed on exhibit opening day

Follow Gamut on Facebook and Instagram.