Something for Everyone - April Events in Downtown Parks
Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 3:40PMApril is packed with opportunities to explore, create, and connect at Downtown Parks! Whether you're dancing at the Pavilion, discovering local vendors, or diving into a great book, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendar and make the most of this month’s exciting lineup.
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Ziigwan Style: Painted Parfleche Elk Hide Earring Workshop
Sunday, April 6 | 2-4 pm
Water Works Park
We’re thrilled to host Mashkiki Studios for a unique hands-on experience! Create your own pair of elk hide earrings (parfleche) inspired by the Ojibwe spring season, drawn from plant medicines, animals, and landscapes. Learn painting techniques, how to seal your artwork, and how to assemble earring hardware while exploring stories of renewal and connection to the land.
What to expect:
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Paint elk hide with your own spring-inspired design
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Learn to seal your creation and assemble earring hardware
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Discover the teachings of Ziigwan (spring), traditional parfleche, and sacred plants
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Hear Ojibwe stories that root us in culture and creativity
Enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks, including cedar tea and refreshing pine needle soda. All materials are provided—no experience necessary! Register
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Movies Made (right) Here: 
Little Big League
Sunday, April 6 | Doors: 3 pm, Showtime: 3:30 pm
Nicollet Island Pavilion
Free Parking. Free Admission.
Step up to the plate for a screening of Little Big League, a classic baseball film shot right here in Minneapolis—within two miles of Nicollet Island Pavilion! When 12-year-old Billy Heywood unexpectedly inherits the Minnesota Twins, he takes on the challenge of managing the team himself. Featuring iconic local landmarks and a story full of humor, heart, and hometown pride, this feel-good favorite is a must-see for sports fans and film lovers alike.
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Park Palette: Visible Mending
Monday, April 7 | 6:30-8:30 pm
Water Works Pavilion
Bring life and color back into your favorite clothes! Learn visible mending techniques for lightweight to medium fabrics. We will use patches on frayed edges and even darn small holes using needle and thread. Explore designs and learn how to fix and personalize your clothes. Each registration is for one participant, and space is limited—reserve your spot today!
Cost: $15 residents | $22.50 non-residents
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Dancing in the Pavilion: Salsa with Erika
Sunday, April 13 | Doors: 2:45 pm, Lessons: 3 pm
Nicollet Island Pavilion
Get ready to spice up your Sunday with Salsa at the Pavilion! Join Erika for an exciting evening of Latin dance, where you'll learn the fundamentals of salsa in a fun and welcoming environment. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced dancer, this is the perfect opportunity to move your body and meet new people. No partner required—just bring your enthusiasm!
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Park Palette: Decor-It-Yourself
Monday, April 14 | 6:30-8:30 pm
Water Works
Get crafty and creative with our Decor-It-Yourself workshop! Whether you're prepping for a house party or just want to add some personal flair to your space on a budget, this class will teach you how to repurpose common materials into custom decorations. We’ll cover practical and sustainable crafting techniques that fit your style. No experience required—just bring your enthusiasm!
Cost: $15 residents | $22.50 non-residents
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Minnesota, A Literary Powerhouse: Spring Book Club
Monday, April 21 | 6:30-7:30 pm
Water Works
This month, we will be reading and reviewing Desolation Mountain by William Kent Krueger. To Stephen O’Connor, Hamlet’s dour observation is more than just words. All his life, he has had visions of tragedies to come. When he experiences the vision of a great bird shot from the sky, he knows something terrible is about to happen. The crash of a private plane on Desolation Mountain in a remote part of the Iron Lake Reservation, which kills a United States senator and most of her family, confirms Stephen’s worst fears.
Cost: $15 residents | $22.50 non-residents
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Nicollet Island Spring Market
Sunday, April 27 | 10 am-4 pm
Nicollet Island
The Nicollet Island Spring Market returns! Shop from 50 unique vendors inside the historic Nicollet Island Pavilion, featuring a mix of new and returning makers. From child entrepreneurs showcasing their first creations to retirees sharing lifelong crafts, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy live music while you browse, and grab beverages and snacks available for purchase from Mintahoe. Don't miss this vibrant celebration of local creativity and community!
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Park Palette: Kumihimo Braiding
Monday, April 28 | 6:30-8:30 pm
Water Works
Learn the art of braiding with a variety of materials! We’ll explore classic braiding styles you may already know and introduce you to the beautiful circular Kumihimo technique. Create bracelets, cords, and other accessories while mastering how to start and finish your projects. Materials like thread, yarn, and discs are provided—just bring your creativity!
Cost: $15 residents | $22.50 non-residents
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We’re Hiring: Downtown Park Attendant - Seasonal 
Join our team as a Park Event Attendant and help support park activities, set up and tear down equipment for events like Music and Movies in the Park, park markets, sports leagues, and more. You’ll act as a friendly representative for Downtown Parks, assisting visitors with information while working outdoors in one of the premier park systems in the U.S. Whether you're into recreation, environmental education, maintenance, or customer service, we have a job for you! Apply today and gain new skills, meet new people, and contribute to a vibrant, community-driven environment.
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Join us throughout April for a mix of movement, creativity, and community! Whether you're learning something new or simply enjoying time with friends, Downtown Parks is the place to be. See you there!
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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.
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