Aquatennial 2024 Schedule Announced for July 24-27

All events are free, family-friendly, and open for all to enjoy!

The mpls downtown council (mdc) has announce the 2024 lineup of events for the Minneapolis Aquatennial, the official civic celebration of the City of Minneapolis. The annual tradition returns Wednesday, July 24 through Saturday, July 27, 2024.

The bookends of this year’s schedule are our longtime signature events: 

• Aquatennial Torchlight Parade on Wednesday, July 24 at 7:30 p.m.

Along Nicollet from 12th to 4th Street

Annually the largest nighttime parade in Minnesota, the Aquatennial Torchlight Parade will fill downtown Minneapolis with great floats, displays, and marching bands through the heart of downtown.

• Target Fireworks on Saturday, July 27 at 10 p.m.

Along the banks of the Mississippi on West River Parkway near the Stone Arch Bridge

The Target Fireworks, produced by the world-famous Zambelli Fireworks team, are considered one of the top five annual fireworks shows in the entire country. The fireworks will once again be synced to music this year.

Come early for Aquatennial Pre-Fireworks Festivities on West River Parkway beginning at 4 p.m.

“Aquatennial is a beloved summer destination for our community,” said Adam Duininck, president & ceo, mpls downtown council. “This year’s Aquatennial lineup includes more than two dozen activities downtown, headlined by the Aquatennial Torchlight Parade on Wednesday and the Target Fireworks on Saturday night. Come downtown and enjoy all of the festivities while taking in all that our city’s core has to offer—incredible dining, nightlife, performances, sports and more.”

Most of the events take place in the heart of the City of Lakes in downtown – from Loring Park and The Commons and along Nicollet and West River Road. The schedule and the proximity of the activities make Aquatennial a walkable and bikeable experience throughout the four days. 

Here are some of the highlights of the 2024 Minneapolis Aquatennial^*. A full schedule of events can be found at aquatennial.com/events. Check back for updates leading up to Aquatennial. 

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

• Go Outside: Summer Sessions (live music, giveaways, and more) – Hennepin Government Center South Plaza, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Minnesota Twins vs. Philadelphia Phillies – Target Field, at 12:10 p.m.
• Music in the Park – The Commons, noon – 1 p.m.
• USTA Cardio Tennis – Loring Park, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 
• Loring Park Family Fun Night, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
• Twin Cities River Rats Waterski Show “Ratagascar: A Little Wild” – West River Road on Mississippi River between Broadway and Plymouth Avenues, 7 p.m.
• Aquatennial Torchlight Parade – Nicollet from 12th to 4th Streets, 7:30 p.m.
• Movies in the Park “Barbie” – The Commons, 8:45 p.m.

THURSDAY, JULY 25

• Downtown Thursdays (food trucks, music, games, giveaways, and more) – Nicollet from 6th Street to 9th Street, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
• Core Power Yoga – Boom Island Park, 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
• Go Outside: Movie Night, “Wonka” – Target Field Station, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• Music in the Park – The Commons, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
• Movies in the Park, “Best in Show” – Loring Park, 8:45 p.m.

FRIDAY, JULY 26

• Alchemy 365 outdoor fitness class at Aquatennial, Mpls Sculpture Garden, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
• Music in the Park – Water Works Park, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
• Warehouse District Live – 1st Avenue between 5th and 6th Streets, 7 p.m. – 3 a.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 27

• YMCA Basketball Tournament – The Alley Project (10th and Hennepin), 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Minnesota Orchestra Day of Music – Orchestra Hall, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• USTA Cardio Tennis – Kenwood Park, 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
• Loring Park Art Festival – Loring Park, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Twin Cities Carifest – West River Road between Plymouth and Broadway Ave, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
• USTA Cardio Tennis – Kenwood Park, 10:30 a.m. - noon
• Mpls Park & Recreation Market – Nicollet Island Pavilion, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Minnesota Sinfonia Concert – Loring Park, 2:30 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
• AquaJam Skateboarding –West River Parkway near Stone Arch Bridge, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
• Coffee and Cars – West River Parkway between Hennepin Ave. & 3rd Ave., 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
• City of Lakes Market – near Guthrie Theater, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Mpls Craft Market – near Guthrie Theater, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Pre-Fireworks Festivities – live music – West River Parkway near Stone Arch Bridge, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Kids Zone – Pre-Fireworks Festivities – West River Parkway near Water Works Park, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• Warehouse District Live – 1st Avenue between 5th and 6th Streets, 7 p.m. – 3 a.m.
• Target Fireworks – West River Parkway near Stone Arch Bridge, 10 p.m.

More information available at aquatennial.com and follow along @Aquatennial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for up-to-the-minute details.

Volunteers Needed!

The Aquatennial relies on dozens of volunteers to help make the festival a success. Sign up online to be part of the Aquatennial Volunteer Program and assist with such events as the Aquatennial Torchlight Parade and Target Fireworks. Perks include access to the partner viewing area at the Fireworks, a t-shirt, and other benefits. aquatennial.com/volunteer/

The Minneapolis Aquatennial, the Official Civic Celebration of the City of Minneapolis, offers outstanding entertainment and activities in the City of Lakes for all ages. It is managed and produced by the mpls downtown council and their partners include Target, Hennepin Healthcare, iHeart Media, Minneapolis Recycling, City of Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, Metro Transit and Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot. 

Social Media Channels: Facebook - Twitter/X - Instagram

*Event details subject to change.

Early Vote Center Opens June 28 for State Primary

Excerpt from June 28 City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

With the State primary election coming up in August, know what you need to do to vote. Early voting begins June 28.

Any Minneapolis voter may choose to vote before Election Day. Early voting options are available beginning 46 days before an election.

Voters can vote early in person at the Early Vote Center, 980 E. Hennepin Ave. or by mail.

Find more information on the City website.

June 2024 Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update

Via a June 27 e-announcement from the City of Minneapolis:

Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis Public Works Department is constructing a new parallel storm tunnel, enlarging a portion of the existing storm tunnel, and constructing a new tunnel access in Downtown Minneapolis.

The new tunnel is being constructed parallel to the existing tunnel located under Washington Ave S between Nicollet Mall and Chicago Ave. The existing tunnel under Chicago Ave between Washington Ave S and the Mississippi River is being expanded to handle the increased stormwater capacity. The purpose of this project is to reduce pressure in the existing tunnel, provide more room for future growth, and to reduce the need for future repairs and tunnel failures.

Project Map

Project news

Crews have completed work on the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave. Thank you for your patience with construction over the years. Restoration on the storm tunnel outlet at the Mississippi River continues, and barring any unforeseen circumstances, the remaining project work sites will be cleaned up by mid- July.

Mississippi River Portal

• Crews continue reconstructing the storm tunnel outlet and have begun restoration and site cleanup activities at the Mississippi River.

2nd Ave

• Crews have completed work at the 2nd Ave site and have begun restoration of the area.

Portland Ave

• Crews are wrapping up the work in the tunnel at the Portland Ave site and will begin restoration and site cleanup activities soon. The concrete barrier along Washington Avenue will be removed in the coming weeks and the road will be returned to its preconstruction condition.

Dewatering Well Sites

• Crews have removed the dewatering wells at Nicollet Mall, 2nd Ave, 4th Ave, Portland Ave, and Chicago Ave. Sidewalk restoration and site cleanup activities will begin soon.

Stay Connected

Visit the project website for more information and to sign up for project updates: https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/central-city-tunnel/

Email the project team: info@mplscentralcitytunnel.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-888-9418

What's Happening in Minneapolis Downtown This Weekend? Darn Near Everything!

Holy Smokes - it's going to be crazy busy Downtown this weekend, so plan accordingly, allow extra time, and enjoy! Thank you to Minneapolis Downtown Council for compiling this extensive list.

* * * * Friday, June 28 * * * *

• 2024 USA Gymnastics National Congress & Trade Show | all day – Minneapolis Convention Center
• 2024 USA Gymnastics For All National Championships & Gymfest | all day – Minneapolis Convention Center
• Promenade Du Nord | 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. – Nicollet Mall
• Flip Zone | 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. – Target Plaza
• Pride Beer Dabbler 2024 | 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. – Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
• Saloon Pride Block Party | 8 p.m. – outside of The Saloon on Hennepin Avenue
• Twin Cities Pride Youth Night | 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Loring Park
• Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper | 7 p.m. – Dakota
• Warehouse District Live | 7 p.m. – 3 a.m. – 1st Avenue between 5th St. & 6th St.
• Little Shop of Horrors | 8 p.m. – Guthrie Theater
• Amos Lee | 7:30 p.m. – State Theatre
• U.S. Olympic Team Trials - Gymnastics | 8 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – Target Center
• Bryson Tiller | 8 p.m. – The Armory
• The Klituation Pride Party | 9 p.m. – First Avenue

* * * * Saturday, June 29 * * * *

• 2024 USA Gymnastics National Congress & Trade Show | all day – Minneapolis Convention Center
• 2024 USA Gymnastics For All National Championships & Gymfest | all day – Minneapolis Convention Center
• Twin Cities Pride Festival | 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. – Loring Park
• Promenade Du Nord | 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. – Nicollet Mall
• Flip Zone | 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. – Target Plaza
• U.S. Olympic Team Trials - Gymnastics | 2 p.m. – 10 p.m. – Target Center
• Saloon Pride Block Party | 6 p.m. – outside of The Saloon on Hennepin Avenue
• Warehouse District Live | 7 p.m. – 3 a.m. – 1st Avenue between 5th St. & 6th St.
• Stanley Jordan | 7 p.m. - Dakota
• Little Shop of Horrors | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater
• Ben Platt: The Honeymind Tour | 8 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre
• Adrianne Lenker | 8 p.m. – State Theatre
• Flip Phone Pride XXL | 9 p.m. – First Avenue
• GRRRL Scout Stoplight Party | 9 p.m. – The Fillmore

* * * * Sunday, June 30 * * * *

• 2024 USA Gymnastics National Congress & Trade Show | all day – Minneapolis Convention Center
• 2024 USA Gymnastics For All National Championships & Gymfest | all day – Minneapolis Convention Center
• Rainbow Run 5k | 9 a.m. – race starts at Plymouth Bridge and finishes on Hennepin Avenue
• Twin Cities Pride Festival | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. – Loring Park
• 2024 Twin Cities Pride Parade | 11 a.m. – Hennepin Avenue
• Promenade Du Nord | 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. – Nicollet Mall
• Little Shop of Horrors | 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. – Guthrie Theater
• Flip Zone | 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. – Target Plaza
• Saloon Pride Block Party | 3 p.m. – outside of The Saloon on Hennepin Avenue
• The Church and The Afghan Whigs | 7:15 p.m. – First Avenue
• U.S. Olympic Team Trials - Gymnastics | 7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. – Target Center
• Adrianne Lenker | 8 p.m. – State Theatre 

Shane Wiskus is Physically and Mentally Ready for the U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials

Article and photo by Becky Fillinger

Shane meets the press

Shane Wiskus had finished his official practice session Tuesday afternoon, rotating between the six events set up for male gymnasts at the Target Center. Journalists waited patiently for him, and other athletes, in an area backstage referred to as the Mixed Zone. As we heard that the Minnesota-born athlete, Gopher collegiate standout and Olympian was on his way, a palpable shift occurred – the area came alive with notepads opening and cameras and recording devices activated. Microphones were thrust toward Wiskus and he breezily responded to question after question.

He finds it comforting to be in Minnesota for the U.S. Olympic Team Trials – he doesn’t get to be here that often and his hope is that the Target Center crowds are loud, energetic and show love for the competitors.  He will try to stay in his own bubble, which he describes as a muscle trained to focus intently during championship situations.  

He was asked to compare the lead-up year for the 2021 Olympics and this past year. “Both years held challenges for me. The lead up to the last Olympics was so different. We had COVID to deal with and I had to make the hard decision to leave my college training center at the University of Minnesota and move to the Olympic Training Center. We had quarantines to deal with and limits on gym training times. This last year has been more injury-based. I have to make sure that I can do my gymnastics to the best of my capability. I was really beat up at the end of last season. My back and shoulder were not where they needed to be. I now feel that I’m in the best shape of my life and I’m so grateful to be here. I’m taking it one day at a time.”

Wiskus is the subject of the documentary film Losing Grip. Did the documentary have any impact on funding for collegiate gymnastic programs? He didn’t know, but he believes that the director is working on getting the film in front of more people. (Note: the film is on Prime now) Wiskus hopes that people watch and inject themselves into the gymnastics culture to see what gymnasts do between the four years when the world watches Olympic-level competitions.   

On competition days, Wiskus likes to take a long hard look at every piece of apparatus. “That’s pommel horse – I’m on that every single day. There’s the still rings – I do rings every single day. I approach my gymnastics with intention, appreciation and gratitude. I’m thankful to be here, to be able to still do what I love. I can remember thinking that if this is my last year as a competitor, I want to be doing it for all the right reasons.” 

Shane Wiskus - we’re thankful you’re here, too, and we’re cheering for you!  

Watch the men compete on Thursday and Saturday. Get tickets here for the Target Center.

June 27: Day 1, men's gymnastics, 5:30-8 p.m. (USA Network, Peacock)

June 29: Day 2, men's gymnastics, 2-5 p.m. Olympic team announced. (NBC, Peacock)

June 27 Riva Terrace Summer Social at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis

Get a taste of Riva Terrace and Bar, Thursday, June 27, 3:30pm – 5:30pm, at this complimentary event

Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis cordially invites you to join them for a Summer Social at Riva Terrace, their outdoor restaurant and bar at 245 Hennepin Avenue.

Guests will receive a welcome drink, enjoy passed appetizers, have the chance to receive mini spa services, and enjoy the spectacular views of downtown Minneapolis. FREE valet parking is provided. Plus, in honor of the Summer of ’24, attendees will receive 24% off their next visit to Riva Terrace.

New Italian Menu for Hotel Guests, Residents and Community Members

Riva Terrace Restaurant (Monday and Tuesday from 11am to 6pm and Wednesday through Sunday from 11am to 8pm): For both leisure diners and those seeking a respite from the workday, Executive Chef Martín Morelli and his team make meals memorable with the Heirloom Tomato Salad, Porchetta Sandwich and Albacore Tuna Crudo, and fire up the grill with New York Strip Steaks, Skuna Bay Salmon and Shrimp Pinchos. Whether rain or shine, guests dine in comfort through the protection of a new awning. Reservations are available now on Tock.

Riva Terrace Bar (Monday and Tuesday from 11am to 6 pm and Wednesday through Sunday from 11am to 10pm): Italian-inspired drinks such as Negronis, Aperol Spritzes, Bramble mocktails and house made limoncello shine alongside a 2023 favorite Crystal Palace.

Happiest Hour (Monday through Thursday from 4 to 6pm): Patrons are invited to dive into summer nights with Blood Orange and Rosé Sangria and cicchetti, or small plates, such as Fritto Misto, Polpette (Italian meatballs) and Bruschetta.

Minnesota Monday: Through a collaboration with BELLOSOUND, a curated playlist of Minnesota artists sets the mood for Happy Hour every Monday.

Minneapolis is Jam-packed with Gymnasts!

Article and photos by Becky Fillinger

In addition to the Olympic Gymnastics teams being selected, there is also competition this week for Gym Champs. Over 2000 gymnasts from just about every state are vying for titles in Rhythmic Gymnastics, Acrobatic Gymnastics and Trampoline and Tumbling. I spoke to Holden Steed, Head Coach at Northern Star Bounders Power Tumbling Club in Ogden, UT.

Above, Coach Holden gives Northern Power Bounders team members last minute instructions pre-competition; below, post-competition smiles.

Steed spoke of the high expectations for all of the gymnasts: “This is the national championships – we’ll name our national champions, our national teams all the way from development teams to senior nationals, and of course the Olympic Teams as well.” He spoke of the younger gymnasts in his care: “We bring the little ones here, allow them to have positive experiences, build confidence and learn life lessons. Hopefully they’ll stay with the sport for a long time and possibly become World and Olympic champions!”

Find the full schedule here. #GymnasticsCity2024 #USAGymChamps

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Items of note that are part of this event in Minneapolis:

This is the first time Minneapolis will host the Olympic Trials in gymnastics, which will take place at Target Center from Thursday, June 27, through Sunday, June 30. As Gymnastics City USA, Minneapolis is also hosting the USA Gymnastics Championships, the USAG National Congress and Trade Show, and the USA Gymnastics for All Gymfest. 

During the Olympic Trials, fans will be able to experience the ambience of Paris at Promenade Du Nord, a street fair and upscale market with entertainment, music, food and fun. The market will feature more than 60 local vendors selling a variety of goods from clothing to sweet treats to home décor. There will be a series of performances by artistic gymnastics from Sweden and Minnesota’s own Circus Juventas.

For kids to jump, leap, climb and test out their gymnastics skills, Flip Zone presented by Target at Target Plaza will have gymnastics demonstrations on a variety of equipment like bars and rings, as well as a parkour course and even a 20-foot free fall into a big airbag. Flip Zone will feature DJs and special guests who will perform on a large stage while gymnastics clubs show off their skills.

MPRB's July 4th Red, White, and Boom Schedule of Events

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is excited to host the Red, White and Boom! Fourth of July event on the Downtown Minneapolis Riverfront. Festivities will take place 6-10 pm on Thursday, July 4 on the west side of the river, at Water Works and the Stone Arch Bridge parking lot. Please note the Stone Arch Bridge is closed for repairs this year.

Event Schedule

6 pm – Food Trucks: Savor a variety of delicious offerings from some of Minneapolis’ best food trucks. With a wide range of options available, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

6 pm – DJ Angel Beloved: Get ready to dance and groove as DJ Angel Beloved kicks off the evening with an electrifying mix of tunes. Enjoy a dynamic music experience that will set the perfect mood for the celebration.

8:30 pm – Big Mike Retro Soul & the Westside Horns: Continue the night with an exhilarating performance by Big Mike Retro Soul & the Westside Horns. This group of seasoned Twin Cities musicians brings their unique blend of blues rock inspired originals and family-friendly oldies from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Their set includes R&B favorites from legends like Wilson Pickett, Otis Redding, and Marvin Gaye, as well as classic rock hits from The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.

10 pm – Fireworks! Cap off the night with a spectacular fireworks display over the scenic Mississippi River. Starting at 10 pm, the sky will come alive with a breathtaking show of lights and colors, creating lasting memories for all.

Restaurant Spotlight: J.D. Hoyt’s Supper Club

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Pat Montague

A Discussion with Pat Montague, Co-owner/Operator

J.D. Hoyt’s Supper Club is a fixture for great meals in Minneapolis. Their website claims that they serve ‘athletic-sized’ portions of steak and I can attest that the portions are large, the food is tasty and the ambiance is relaxed and fun. We talked to Pat Montague about the history of J.D. Hoyt’s, his favorite items on the menu and why "no change" has been a great policy for the restaurant. 

Q:  J.D. Hoyt’s has been a restaurant in the North Loop for over 39 years. Congratulations! Can you share the story behind the founding of J.D. Hoyts? What inspired its creation?

A:  Yes, J.D. Hoyt’s has been here a long time. My partners Mike Andrews and John White started at a place called Ichabods, then they opened Sgt. Preston’s and then The Loon Café. All great spots, but they wanted a place they could bring their fathers to for a steak instead of sandwiches and appetizers. So, a gentleman by the name of Eddie Irwin owned this business - The 301 Bar - for many years, and he sold it to Wally Senters of NE Minneapolis. Eddie Irwin bought it back a year later because Wally couldn’t make a go of it. Eddie Irwin sold it to Mike and John in 1983. They kept it as The 301 Bar until the fall of 1984 when they reopened it as J.D. Hoyt’s Supperclub.

I was hired a week before we opened to be a prep cook - after a year I was asked to be the head chef. I did have a background in the cook chef program at Anoka Ramsey Community College. After a few years, Mike and John went to St. Paul and opened Dixie’s on Grand and Saji-Ya Sushi, and of course both were very successful. John came back to Minneapolis to open the Pickled Parrot, which I thought was a tremendous place, and Mike opened Dixie’s Calhoun and also purchased Liquor Lyle’s.

Then Mike and his partner Steve Goldberg opened a place in Encinitas, CA called the Paradise Grill and a sister restaurant in Vail, Colorado. Anyways, they left us here on our own for a while. 

In 1991 we built on the main dining room – we were just the bar side prior to that addition. In 2020 we rebuilt the bar side from the ground up.

We used to be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner for quite a while until our neighborhood changed from blue collar workers to empty buildings. Then the birth of the North Loop happened – suddenly there were living spaces in old warehouses. Now of course every surface parking spot we rented for valet parking has slowly transformed into condos. It has truly been amazing to watch J.D. Hoyt’s grow over time.

Q:  I’ve read an interview in which you state your whole job is to “not change anything.” Will you talk to us about this notion?

A:  What I mean is that we try to give a great product with great service and an easy-going atmosphere. It works for us to try not to change too much. We do listen to our customers and try to accommodate everyone we can with their ideas on what would work better for us, but in the end some of the best compliments we get are when a customer hasn’t been in a long time tells us it’s just as great as they remember. When you go out to celebrate - whatever it is, you are making memories - so it’s awesome to be included in a lot of great customer memories. We hear, “Wow, it’s even better than the last time!” - that means a lot to the servers, bartenders, cooks and to me. My whole job now is to make sure we can give customers a lasting memory of the Hoyt’s experience. Neighborhood support is everything to us!

Charles Barkley visited J.D. Hoyt's in May while in town for a Wolves game.

Q:  What are some recent successes that J.D. Hoyt’s is particularly proud of?

A:  We serve a lot of teams here and cater to all of sports, but I think I’m most proud of the staff that can always handle whatever I put in front of them. Whether it’s a 54 top coming in from Boston College during the Frozen Four, or adding in a catering order for the Dodgers at the last minute, our team responds with pride and courage.

Q:  For someone new to J.D. Hoyt's, how would you describe the atmosphere or ambiance you aim to create for your guests?

A:  We have carved out a unique spot in the Twin Cities dining world. We try to make everyone feel welcomed whether you just got off the lake, going to a sporting event or the theater, or celebrating an anniversary. A little tag line I like to use quite often is "make the kings feel like regular people and the regular people feel like kings." It seems to work.

Above, the Buddy Bowl, and below, the Cajun pork chop.

Q:  What’s your favorite menu item?

A:  Well, there’s more than one. Of course, the Cajun pork chops are a favorite of mine, but the Buddy Bowl is great too - dirty rice, red beans and homemade Creole sauce topped with cheese and baked, then topped with grilled catfish and shrimp and scallops – trust me, it is unbelievable! My favorite steak is the grilled prime rib – simply tremendous. Check out this menu and then get yourself to 301 N Washington Avenue in the North Loop.

Q:  How may we follow J.D. Hoyt's news? 

A:  You can follow us by signing up to our weekly newsletter and see when we have special events happening and also what’s going on in town. There’s nothing like coming into Minneapolis and doing dinner and a show. We have so much to offer in our little Minneapolis - great theaters, sports, music and of course many different dining options for everyone.

Gamut Gallery Announces June 22 Party to Celebrate Their 12 Year Anniversary

Join Gamut Gallery, 717 S 10th Street, for a fun-filled evening as they celebrate 12 incredible years! This year’s anniversary party promises to be a vibrant celebration of art, music, and community spirit. This is a special anniversary party as it is the first under the new ownership team.

What to expect? Experience the creative energy of local muralists: @kimmyartco, @teejay.art and @vanholmgren painting live in Gamut's ivy filled courtyard in the heart of downtown Minneapolis! Throughout the evening they'll be hosting exciting raffle prizes, giving you the chance to take home a piece of the magic.

The musical lineup will keep you dancing all night long with beats brought to you by House Queens; DJ Sassy G and Michelle Muse, who will set the perfect tone for a night of celebrating Gamut and its fabulous community.

June 22, 7–10pm / $15 presales / $20 day of event / members FREE

For over a decade, Gamut Gallery has been more than just an art space; it’s been a hub for creativity, performance, and collaboration. Community is the heart of what they do. It’s a place where people “come for the art, and stay for the party.” They remain as dedicated as ever to fostering a welcoming environment where art, music, and community thrive together.

The Anniversary Party coincides with the final day of the Visage: A Contemporary Portrait Show exhibition.

MPRB Announces Parkway and Road Closures for the July 4 Holiday Events

Closing these segments of parkways will help safeguard pedestrians and bicyclists visiting these popular July 4th park destinations.

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) will limit vehicle access to some segments of parkways over the Independence Day holiday. The parkway segments closed to vehicle traffic will remain open for bicyclists and pedestrians. These traffic closures are necessary due to large volumes of people gathering near the Central Riverfront and Bde Maka Ska during the July 4 holiday.

As has occurred during previous Red, White and Boom! July 4th activities, West River Parkway will be closed to vehicles from 4th Avenue North to 11th Avenue. The closure will take effect mid-morning of July 4 and reopen the morning of July 5. Additionally, Main Street SE will be closed to vehicles from Hennepin Avenue to 6th Avenue SE and the Stone Arch Bridge will be closed to pedestrians and bicycles. The Boom Island Park parking lot will be open only for vehicles with a disability parking certificate.

New for 2024, West Bde Maka Ska Parkway will be closed to vehicles from Richfield Road to Xerxes Avenue South. East Bde Maka Ska Parkway will be closed from West 36th Street to Lake Street. The Bde Maka Ska closures will take effect the evening of July 3 and reopen the morning of July 5. Linden Hills Neighborhood Association, East Bde Maka Neighborhood Association, and West Bde Maka Ska Neighborhood Association have all sent communications to the MPRB supporting parkway segment closures over Independence Day.

Rhythmically Speaking Brings The Cohort 2024 to The Southern Theater, August 15-17

Rhythmically Speaking (RS) is bringing The Cohort 2024 to The Southern Theater August 15-17, 2024.

Featuring works inspired by the vibrancy of jazz and American social dance ideas, The Cohort 2024 is the sixth installment of our reimagined annual Summer production, and sixteenth overall. Following ten years of annually presenting dance works by 7-9 mostly-local artists and their varied casts of performers, in 2019 RS shifted to provide more in-depth support to fewer artists creating longer works, and a company of dancers to perform them. In 2022, they innovated further by adding a screen works wing, in collaboration with the Sans Souci Festival of Dance Cinema (Boulder, CO), which they produce every other year, with the next installment landing in 2025. This new vision of the RS Summer production - a celebrated annual staple of the local dance scene - continues support of new work by local choreographers while providing opportunities for artists based outside of Minnesota to show their work here.

The Cohort 2024 features works by an exciting line-up of artists including Eboné Amos, Jake Nehrbass, and Maurice Watson. Eboné comes to us from Clarksville, TN, where she is an Assistant Professor of African American Studies in the Theatre and Dance Department at Austin Peay State University. Her work has been performed nationally and internationally including the COCO Festival in Port au Prince, Trinidad and the Jacksonville Dance Theatre in Jacksonville, FL. The piece she will revisit for The Cohort 2024 - Welcome to Soulsville - celebrates the music, dances and soul stirrers of the 1950s and 60s. Jake is an RS company member and has become a well-known performance presence in the Twin Cities dance scene, working with companies including Black Label Movement, Contempo Physical Dance and Flying Foot Forum, among others. A gifted tapper and teacher, Jake will be creating a new jazz and tap-inspired piece called Sonic Leather. 

Maurice hails from Greensboro, NC, where he is an Assistant Professor in the School of Dance. He has performed with Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble, Lula Washington Dance Theatre and Jazz Antiqua among others, and is a sought-after creator and teacher nationally and internationally. The piece he will be restaging for The Cohort 2024 - Chasing the (1) = One - explores individuality and artistic expression in one’s social community. RS Artistic and Executive Director Erinn Liebhard will also have work on the show, a new dance entitled Conversation Piece, which will explore historical dance instruction diagrams and audio recordings as allegories for how conversation can unfold and inspire. The goal for RS' Summer shows is to illustrate a wide, vibrant breadth of what impactful "jazz and American social dance-inspired" performance art can look and feel like, and this exciting show is no exception.

The cohort of artists involved in this show also includes RS company dancers Nieya Amezquita, Doug Hooker, Amy Jones, Sara Karimi, Kelli Miles, Javan Mngrezzo, Kathleen Pender and Betsy Schaefer-Roob.

Rhythmically Speaking’s mission is to spark vibrancy and connectedness through jazz and American social dance ideas. With shared roots of groove, interaction and improvisation, these approaches to movement encourage simultaneous expression of difference and similarity as a means of creating community. Since their founding in 2008, the organization has presented 106 original and remounted works and engaged 350+ artists and thousands of audience members and outreach program participants.

Meet the Mill City Farmers Market Vendors Series - A Discussion with Jeremy and Aimee McAdams of Northwoods Mushrooms

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Aimee and Jeremy McAdams

I learned so much in interviewing mushroom farmers Jeremy and Aimee McAdams. The cultivation process is fascinating and their crop varieties are delicious, beautiful and bountiful. You'll find Northwoods Mushrooms at every summer and winter Mill City Farmers Market. 

Q:  How did you get started in mushroom farming?

Aimee:  Jeremy's first career was architecture, and that career is either feast or famine. A huge number of architects were laid off, including Jeremy, in 2008. Jeremy was tired of those ups and downs and a bit disillusioned about having to design parking garages and airport shops, so he started looking into his other love: growing food. He went to a Bioneers conference and took a workshop about mushrooms from Paul Stamets. Then he bought one of those indoor, table-top grow kits. It produced a few mushrooms, it was fun. Jeremy then looked into inoculating our own home kits. We got a bale of straw, which Jeremy had to cut into little bits by hand with scissors! There was straw everywhere! The straw needed to be cleaned, and the best we could do was boiling it in a pot on the stove and then strain it out in the tub. And then we needed to call in a plumber for the straw clog that caused in the drain! We mixed the straw up with spawn, packed it in bags, and waited. Something grew eventually...but nothing edible! Then Jeremy decided to go out and buy 100 logs and inoculate them. Then one beautiful morning in September 2009, we stepped out the back door and there were shiitake mushrooms growing all over the logs! It was magical and we were hooked!

Q:  What types of mushrooms do you cultivate, and why did you choose them?

Jeremy:  We are currently growing varieties both on logs and indoors on blocks. Our log-grown varieties are shiitake, oyster, nameko, chestnut, lion’s mane, olive oysterling, and turkey tail. Our indoor block-grown varieties are shiitake and oyster (when the outdoor logs aren't producing), black pearl, black poplar, chestnut, lion's mane, and reishi. We have also grown some in-ground kinds in the past, and may again in the future - wine caps and almond agaricus.

Above, a lion's mane mushroom - so exotic!

Mushrooms aren't exactly easy to grow - each variety wants a certain kind of log type or growing medium, and each wants a particular environment to grow in: heat and humidity levels. We grow the mushrooms we grow because they have worked for us, and they’re delicious! We don't grow cremini or button mushrooms as they need a whole different system for growing that we're not set up for - and it would be pointless as there are some massive farms growing those already. 

Every now and then we try a new mushroom (to us) to see how it works for us, if we have the right environment for that type to succeed. 

Q:  Can you walk us through the process of growing mushrooms?

Jeremy:  For log grown mushrooms, we cut new logs every year. We work with landowners who are looking to thin a forested area to maintain the health of the woods. We look for trees that are between 3 to 6 inches in diameter and cut them into 4-foot lengths. We drill holes in the logs, 100-150 holes per log, depending on the size. Then we use a special inoculator tool that pushes spawn into each hole and caps it. Spawn is just the mushroom organism, mycelium, mixed up in some sawdust or other growing medium.

A log gets inoculated

Once the logs are all inoculated, we move them to an incubation area. We lay them down close to the ground and make sure they get watered for a “controlled rot.” This incubation period is when the mycelium spreads throughout the log. Ideally, logging starts in November or December and wraps up in February, and inoculations can start as soon as we have logs and hopefully wrap up by May.

After incubating, some of the logs might start producing mushrooms as early as August! But generally, they keep incubating for the rest of the year and into the next year. A year after setting them out to incubate, we move them farther up in our shade structure to crib stacks (picture Lincoln Logs). Some of these are now ready to force-fruit. This means we soak them in a tank of cold water overnight before setting them up in a greenhouse. The cold water "shocks" the mycelium into producing mushrooms, and the greenhouse protects them from wind and soaking rain.

Then the mushrooms start growing and we pick and pick! After all the mushrooms are picked, we move the logs back to the shade structure to rest. We'll repeat that force-fruiting process again about two months later, and then again twice the following summer. We've always got new logs incubating, logs that are on their first year growing, logs on their second (and final for us) year, and older logs.

Q:  That’s so interesting! How do you ensure the quality and safety of your mushrooms for consumers?

Aimee:  For safety, we have lots of procedures regarding refrigeration, wearing gloves at all times while handling the mushrooms, etc. We have a rule that if a mushroom ever drops, it needs to stay there! We've all dropped mushrooms when picking and you know when it happens - suddenly you hear a groan or an 'aargh!' from somewhere in the stacks. "I just dropped the most beautiful mushrooms!" While we always recommend cooking mushrooms, we know people might like to try them raw, so we make sure they are clean and can be eaten that way. For quality, we pick our mushrooms twice every single day of the year to make sure they're perfect. We know they'll taste great and we want them to look great, too!

Q:  Are there any sustainable practices you implement in your mushroom farming operation?

Jeremy:  Growing mushrooms on logs is one of the most sustainable way to grow mushrooms. We harvest our logs with a mind to thinning and managing forest land - making space for the trees left behind to get bigger.

Mushrooms grown in beds can also be quite sustainable – especially how we do it! We use the wood chips from inoculations as a growing medium for wine caps. Also, old mushroom logs that aren't as productive anymore can be used for garden borders, Hügelkultur, terracing, or back-yard fires.

Q:  What do you enjoy most about being a mushroom farmer?

Aimee:  Jeremy's favorite time is the brief logging season each year. Going out in January in the freezing weather when the woods are so quiet and beautiful, seeing the wildlife around, and seeing how the forest changes from year to year. 

Seeing the mushrooms starting to grow on the logs again every spring, it's still magical even after 15+ years. Our cameras are just full of mushroom pictures, you'd think we'd get bored with them or think "If you've seen one, you've seen them all," but that's just not the case. They are all so beautiful! 

Q:  I agree, the photos are stunning! Can you share any interesting or unexpected insights you've gained from your experience in mushroom farming?

Jeremy:  You learn a lot more about our food system as a farmer in general. Before farming we knew that many people are disconnected from farmers and from where food comes from and how it's grown. But there is a whole other hidden part about how that food gets to people in the first place - middleman distributors that buy from the farmer and sell to grocery stores; the people making the decisions about what food products to buy; decisions about where to place things in stores, what shelves, what departments. There is a lot going on between us picking mushrooms any given day and those mushrooms being selected by a shopper at a grocery store. 

Q:  When will we see you at the Mill City Farmers Market?

A:  You can see us at the Mill City Farmers Market all the time! We're at every summer market and every winter market. Follow us on Instagram.

In addition to fresh and dried mushrooms, Northwoods also sells log kits (which will develop like the Shiitake version shown above) and other related products at the Mill City Farmers Market. Look for them to the right of the demo station at train shed entry.

Photo: Mill City Times

Photo: Mill City Times

Birds Along the Riverfront by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

Great Blue Heron This heron was busy building - or perhaps rebuilding - its nest when I was photographing at the Heron Rookery by Marshall Terrace Park. Such a beautiful hard working bird. Sometime in July, this years young fledglings will leave the nest and learn how to fly.

Great Egret Egrets also fly to and from the islands of the Rookery. My wife showed this photo to her book club and their first reaction was that it was a painting my wife did. I love it when people think my photographs are paintings.

Flying in Formation I took this photo a couple of days ago while waiting to photograph the sunset. I saw the eagle first and focused on it. Then I saw the white gull flying a little higher above the eagle. However, it soon swooped down very close to the eagle. I cannot count the number of times I have scanned the river looking for an eagle, mostly with no success. This time my patience in waiting over 45 minutes paid off. Another photo in this sequence which I will process soon shows the two birds so close together that their wings almost touch.

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Find more of Ric's work at ricrosowphotography.com and PriceKrishnanGallery.com. 

Participate in NOAA’s 2024 Urban Heat Island Mapping Campaign, July 27

From the June 12 Hennepin Environmental Education News:

Get involved: collect data on urban heat - Saturday, July 27

Hennepin and Ramsey counties are seeking volunteer “street scientists” to help discover which areas of the community are hottest during extreme heat.

Volunteers will mount heat sensors on their cars and drive designated routes on one of the hottest days of the year. The data is being gathered as part of NOAA’s 2024 Urban Heat Island Mapping Campaign. Volunteers will get $25 pre-paid debit cards as a thank you.

This data, paired with community engagement, analysis, and modeling, will help develop hyper-local descriptions of where the hottest parts of neighborhoods are, inform strategies to reduce the health impacts of extreme heat, and better provide cooling relief for those living in the hottest areas.

Learn more about the project, and complete the volunteer interest form to get involved.

Have a group of people that wants to participate? One person from your group can fill out the form and indicate how many additional people are interested.

June 27-30 Olympic Trials Will Feature Downtown Street Fair, Entertainment, Fun for Kids and More

During the upcoming U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Gymnastics at Target Center, fans will be able to experience the ambience of Paris at Promenade Du Nord, a Parisian street fair on Nicollet Mall; and kids can jump, leap, climb and enjoy all kinds of interactive fun at Flip Zone at Target Plaza.

A kick-off event for Promenade Du Nord will take place on Thursday, June 27, at 11:30am. The kick-off will feature more than 1,000 gymnasts from around the world who will perform a gymnastics routine to a mashup of Minnesota music. Several local stars will serve as honorary dance captains, including:

• Leslie Fhima, Golden Bachelor Contestant
• Jacie Scott, Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders Head Coach
• Michelle Young, Bachelorette of Season 19, TV Personality and Founder of The Michelle Young Foundation

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Promenade Du Nord, Nicollet Mall – between Peavey Plaza and 7th St

DATES/TIMES: Thursday, June 27, thru Sunday, June 30, from 11am – 6pm each day

Promenade Du Nord will bring the magic of Paris to downtown Minneapolis through an extravagant street fair. This includes an upscale Parisian market, curated by Mich Berthiaume of Mich’s Markets, which will host numerous upscale local vendors. To transport fans to Paris, Nicollet Mall will also be adorned with a replica Eiffel Tower and lined with flowered trellis and light poles. And the pièce de résistance: entertainment and outdoor dining up and down Nicollet Mall.

ENTERTAINMENT! There will be a series of performances on a spectacular stage within the water basin of Peavey Plaza, with appearances by artistic gymnastics from Sweden, Switzerland and Minnesota’s own Circus Juventas. As visitors stroll along Nicollet Mall, they will also be entertained by a variety of street performers, mimes, piano players and musicians.

SHOPPING! The Parisian market will feature 66 local upscale creators with a variety of goods from clothing to sweet treats to home décor.

DINING! A collection of restaurants along Nicollet Mall will offer patio seating, so visitors can enjoy a meal amidst the Parisian atmosphere.

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Flip Zone, Target Plaza and along N 1st Avenue between 6th and 7th Street

DATES/TIMES: Thursday, June 27, 3 – 8 pm, Friday, June 28, 3 – 10 pm, Saturday, June 29, 12 – 6 pm, Sunday, June 30, 3 – 10 pm

Flip Zone will be the heart of Gymnastics City USA, complete with gymnastics demos, a parkour course and even a 15-foot free fall into a big airbag. There will be interactive fun for kids of all ages!

ENTERTAINMENT! DJs and special guests will perform on a large stage while gymnastics clubs show off their skills on a demonstration mat with many gymnastics apparatuses.

DINING! Gate 34 at Target Field will be dishing out some special Minnesota-themed menu items and streaming the trials live so fans don’t miss a beat. And a Maui Wowi booth will craft unique concoctions to keep fans cool in the sun.

AUTOGRAPHS! Gymnastics legends will be stopping by for autograph sessions throughout the four days of Flip Zone.

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Learn more about the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Gymnastics and associated events by visiting the Minnesota Sports and Events website. 

Small Business Spotlight: Diane’s Place

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos by Barbara Weston

Diane Moua

A Discussion with Diane Moua, Chef/Owner

Diane Moua is a five-time James Beard-nominated pastry chef for her work as executive pastry chef at several popular and iconic Minneapolis restaurants. She recently opened her own establishment, Diane’s Place, in NE Minneapolis in the Food Building at 117 14th Avenue NE. Should you visit her restaurant because of her prior award nominations? Well, yes, it’s great to support a titan in the local food scene. But you should really visit because the hospitality is outstanding, the ambiance is quiet, intimate and beautiful, the coffee is hot and balanced and the pastries are just flat out luxurious. I didn’t visit at lunch, but I feel that the same care is used in their Hmong home cooking preparation of egg rolls, pork bowls, salads and sandwiches. We talked to her about her management style, using ingredients from the family farm and how to follow her news.

Q:  What’s a typical day for you with your business?

A:  Well, it’s everything. Owner, chef, pastry chef, talking with servers, putting away deliveries, organizing things the way I want them in the supply rooms. I’m very hands on. It has to be that way. Every place I’ve worked at – the place always runs smoother when the chef or owner is hands-on with the business. If you don’t establish a presence, people will come and go, no one knows who is the lead, and no one cares if the business succeeds. My staff will see me every day, doing every task that is required.

The time-consuming process of creating delicious buttery croissants.

Q:  What is your favorite pastry to eat?

A:  That is truly like asking me to pick my favorite child. I am very basic. When I go to a bakery, I’ll get a plain croissant. If there’s a special that has rhubarb as an ingredient, I’ll get that. I am simple. You can’t beat a butter croissant.

Q:  What does your family’s farm in Wisconsin produce? 

A:  Rhubarb will be coming soon. Once a week my parents have been dropping off greens - sweet mustard greens, baby Bok choy, cilantro and dill. They’re so supportive – it’s great, but it makes me feel bad at the same time. They won’t let me pay for the herbs and vegetables. They drive here and give me all the free veggies. I’m very fortunate. They have 6 green houses. When no one has greens yet, my parents have an abundance.

Q:  Have you incorporated the greens and vegetables into the Diane’s Place menu?

A:  Yes! We use sweet mustard greens in our vegetable egg rolls, bamboo in our pan-fried bean thread noodles, baby Bok choy in our noodle soup and cilantro in our chicken salad. We’ll incorporate more farm produce into new items as we change up the menu.

Q:  Is there one menu item you wish more customers would try?

A:  There is no one item that has been ignored on our menu. We’re very lucky. Everything has been popular.

Q:  It’s graduation season. Do you have any advice for aspiring pastry chefs?

A:  Yes, I do. I would say that before you invest the money into going to school, call up your favorite baker or plated dessert chef in town and ask if you could do a few days in their business as a stage. Staging is an unpaid internship when an interested student works briefly for free in another chef's kitchen to learn and be exposed to new techniques and cuisines. See if you like the reality of the business before you invest the money. I’ve taken so many people on like this. Some people will say, “Hey, I love baking.” I have to let them see for themselves that television glamorizes the baking business. Baking in a professional setting is not the same as preparing one or two items at home. We’re sweating and working hard on our feet all day long, every day. We take breaks but it is difficult on some days to find time for a break. So please test it out before you invest your hard earned education dollars!

Q:  How do we follow your news?

A:  Instagram is where we post everything. Check us out here, and then come by and visit us!

June 28 Northeast Dog Parade: Contests, Prizes and Fun!

The annual Northeast Dog Parade is an evening for dogs and owners alike!

Meet fellow owners and their dogs in the park by the river at Main Street & Hennepin Avenue NE (across the street from FRGMNT Coffee).

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Activities:
- Dog Parade: Show off your pup’s style in our fun parade through the neighborhood

- Contests and prizes: Best Trick, Look alike, Best Costume

- Meet fellow dog owners and their furry companions

- Vendor Stalls: Discover local businesses, treats, and services in the northeast community!

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Here's the link if you'd like to volunteer to set up, clean up, etc.

Feature to Check Out at the Stone Arch Bridge Festival: 100 Feet of Art and History

Art to Change the World & Mill City Museum Collaboration

Stone Arch Bridge Festival and Beyond 2024 – 100 Feet of Art and History

June 15 10am-7pm and June 16 10am-5pm

The Mill City Museum and the Stone Arch Bridge Festival have chosen Art to Change the World (ACW) to collaborate on a public art installation funded by a grant from the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Board. The installation, 100 Feet of Art and History, will be located adjacent to the Mill City Museum along West River Parkway. Six local artists have been selected through an RFP process to create the artwork.

The artists are planning an interactive installation which will be fun, educational and provide a Trivia Game opportunity to win an artwork worth $500 from one of the artists.

Congratulations to the following ACW Artists:

Sadie Ward and Frances Bates will collaborate on an experience that includes learning about women and the history of the textile industry near the Stone Arch Bridge. Their interactive display invites the audience to join a bridge and textile water weaving activity.

Owen Brown creates a unique installation where people tell each other their secrets and listen to each other, to the river today, and to the past.

Kelly Frankenberg provides the best photo op at the Stone Arch Festival with her 5 foot tall monarch butterfly made from recycled materials. Learn about the history of the Monarch to the river.

Barbara Bridges has created a 4 x 8 foot assemblage Trivia Tryptic focused on the wheat, water and history of the Mill City Museum.

Briauna Williams contributes a 4 x 8 foot mural exploring the riverfront industrial history and will lead the community as they create another 4 x 8 foot mural illustrating what they learned from the ACW 100 Feet of Art and History Installation.

Also, the Mississippi River Pearl has been invited back to the Stone Arch Bridge Festival in the Family Activities Area hosted by the Mill City Museum.

Small Business Spotlight: Silver Fern Café

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Ben tends to the bakery case filled with fresh-baked treats.

Mention Mill City Times to receive 10% off your first visit! 

The Silver Fern Café opened at 114 E Hennepin last fall, delighting customers with ambiance and delicious offerings. We talked to owner Ben Parsell about the inspiration for the business and how they’re different from other coffee and wine shops.

Q:  Can you tell us about your inspiration behind starting the Silver Fern Café?

A:  The inspiration for the Silver Fern draws upon the vibrant cafe culture of Australia and New Zealand. During my first trip 'down under' in the fall of 2022, I was captivated by a common thread in every cafe I visited. People weren't just consuming food and drink; they were actively engaging with each other, stepping away from screens, and immersing themselves in shared experiences. The meticulous presentation of even the simplest menu items emphasized that these offerings were meant to be savored with all the senses. I'm thrilled to bring a slice of this cafe culture to Minneapolis, aiming to create a space where people gather to share conversation, enjoy quality time together, and relish in our delectable food and beverages.

Q:  How do you differentiate Silver Fern from other coffee bars in the area?

A:  Our focus on quality, commitment to sustainability, and a diverse range of offerings set us apart from other cafes, coffee shops, and wine bars in the area. We focus on using fresh and local ingredients, provide vegan and gluten-free offerings, and emphasize community, conversation, and connection. With a seamless transition from a morning coffee shop cafe to a wine bar with small plates, charcuterie, and non-alcoholic beverages in the evenings, there is something for everyone at any time of day. In addition to our food and beverage offerings, we also work hard to bring in local experts, artisans, and businesses to lead a range of engaging classes, events, workshops, and pop ups.

Tuscan Panini

Bagel & Lox

Q:  Talk to us about the menu. Are there seasonal offerings?

A:  Our menu is centered around seasonal, fresh, local ingredients. Our food is light, fresh, and homemade. We work hard to source products and ingredients from local vendors and partner with other small businesses around the metro area to bring our customers fresh, delicious food. In the morning, our bakery case is filled with fresh-baked pastries, muffins, scones, cookies, biscuits, and more. We offer hearty breakfast options including yogurt parfaits, overnight oats, avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, quiche, and a delicious take on bagel & lox with our house-made bagels. Our lunch menu features sandwiches, salads, and grain bowls each of which is prepared to order. At every time of day, we have plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Plus, our menus change seasonally, ensuring there's always a new culinary delight to discover.

Q:  That’s sounds just wonderful. How does the ambiance of Silver Fern contribute to your customers’ experiences?

A:  The ambiance at Silver Fern is carefully curated to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where guests feel at home. From plush booths to bar seating and high-top tables, every element of our space is designed with intention. The lush greenery symbolizes our commitment to sustainability, the bar that transitions from white countertops to black countertops represents our smooth transition from coffee to wine service, while the thoughtful blend of textures and colors adds warmth and playfulness. The result is a space that fully represents what we are about and invites customers to stay for a while and enjoy not only our food and beverages, but our space and the community we create within it as well. 

Q:  What customer favorites have emerged in the months you’ve been open?

A:  Since our opening, our Buttermilk Biscuit and Breakfast Sandwich have garnered rave reviews, becoming instant classics. They continue to wow guests and people come from all over to order one! Our buttermilk biscuit was written up by the Star Tribune. As a southerner myself, I can proudly say it is one of the only true southern-style buttermilk biscuits I have had in Minnesota. We have also been the feature of a number of news segments and podcasts for our coffee - the current favorite is the Orange Brown Sugar Sage Latte made with an orange oleo saccharum that takes more than 8 hours to prepare. We offer a seasonal coffee flight that is perfect for trying out our 4 new seasonal specials each time we change the menu. Customers are also delighted to find out that we use true ceremonial grade unsweetened matcha and whisk it by hand with a bamboo whisk. The small details in our meticulous preparation of our offerings is something that customers can truly taste and sets us apart from other cafes.

Q:  How has it been to open Silver Fern in Old Town Minneapolis? 

A:  Choosing Old Town Minneapolis as the home for Silver Fern was a decision fueled by instinct, and it's proven to be the perfect fit. Since our opening, we've been embraced by the local community, including residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Their warm reception and unwavering support have made our journey incredibly rewarding. We're committed to serving the needs of our community, listening to feedback, and actively participating in local events and initiatives. We're excited to continue growing alongside the vibrant neighborhood of Old Town Minneapolis. We look forward to continuing to participate in local events like Every Voice for Eastside and the Northeast Dog Parade as well as host events for local organizations, and community groups like the neighborhood association.

Q:  We want to know of limited edition drinks and any new bakery items – how may we follow your news?

A:  Follow us on Instagram for news and updates. More information about hours, menus, and events can be found on our website.