The vibrant summer event series Open Streets Minneapolis is set to return, transforming city streets into pedestrian paradises, the city of Minneapolis announced. Beginning this Saturday, August 2, Northeast Minneapolis will play host to the first of four Open Streets events scheduled for this August and September. Mayor Jacob Frey emphasized the series as a chance to "celebrate culture, community, and connection," pointing out the upcoming event on Central Avenue, one of the city's Cultural Districts.
The Audubon Neighborhood Association, along with the Coalition of Northeast Minneapolis Neighborhoods, is teaming up to bring the Open Streets NE into action. On Saturday, from 11 AM to 5 PM, Central Avenue NE from 14th Street to Lowry Avenue will be off-limits to cars, inviting residents to freely walk, bike, and enjoy the area. Scheduled activities include live music, a pet hub, and Lucha Libre Wrestling matches. To actively engage with the local culture, visitors will have the chance to partake in interactive art experiences. Local food vendors will be present, along with a beer garden to keep the crowds refreshed, according to details shared by the City of Minneapolis.
Council President Elliott Payne praised the Open Streets initiative for reflecting the vibrant culture, art, and thriving small businesses of the area. Meanwhile, Debora Brister of the Audubon Neighborhood Association highlighted the significance of the event as a showcase for Northeast's "flavor, creativity, and community spirit," as told in an interview by the City of Minneapolis.
Later in the month, Open Streets Cedarfest will land on Cedar and Riverside Avenues, offering yet another opportunity to join in festivities, including camel rides and a hot wing eating contest. Local Council Member Jamal Osman expressed excitement for turning "our streets into lively spaces for walking, biking, and connecting with our neighbors" during the event, in a statement released by the City of Minneapolis. KJ Starr from the West Bank Business Association also promised the best party of the year, with a mix of free family-friendly activities, music, and live comedy.
Looking ahead, two more Open Streets events are in the pipeline for September. The West Broadway between Logan and Lyndale Avenues, and Hennepin Ave. between W. 26th and 36th Streets are slated to become lively hubs for the community to mingle and engage with local talents and enterprises. Further specifics for these upcoming events are expected to be released in the coming weeks. After last year’s successful turnout, with an estimated 75,000 attendees, the City is contributing up to $50,000 per event, along with in-kind services, to make this year's Open Streets events a similar success. All details on the Open Streets Minneapolis can be found on the City’s official website.
