This week, Eden Prairie amps up its community events with a lineup sure to lure locals outdoors. Starting with an evening of jazz, the Jazz on the Prairie Big Band has performed at the Staring Lake Amphitheatre on Thursday, August 14th, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This 20-piece ensemble is prepared to serve up a dose of nostalgia with swing and big band hits meant to rekindle the essence of a bygone era.
For those looking to keep the entertainment rolling into the weekend, "Movies in the Park" switches the tempo on Friday, August 15th. The evening is slated to begin with live performances by MarimbaMatt at 7:30 p.m., followed by a free screening of "The Lego Movie" at 9 p.m. Families are encouraged to not just go, but also to arrive early to snag the best spots on the lawn of the Staring Lake Amphitheatre.
The celebration of local talent continues into Saturday with "Arts in the Park" from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Purgatory Creek Park. More than 100 local and emerging artists will be displaying their work across various mediums. According to the event details, attendees can expect to browse everything from artwork and beauty products to unique clothing, all while enjoying the accompaniment of live music and food trucks.
Midweek mingles make a return as well, with "Coffee with a Cop – and Firefighter!" scheduled for Tuesday, August 19th. This informal gathering invites residents to join Police Chief Matt Sackett, Fire Chief Scott Gerber, and other emergency personnel from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the Round Lake Park Building. It's a chance to effortlessly mix, mingle, and enjoy complimentary coffee and treats with the city's first responders.
Music lovers will have more to look forward to with back-to-back concerts the following week, starting with "Starring at Staring | Sawyer's Dream" on Thursday, August 21st. Sawyer’s Dream aims to blend Americana, pop, rock, and soul into original music that pays homage to classic '60s and '70s rock. The week rounds off with a nostalgic nod to ABBA by fABBAulous on Friday, August 22nd. Both free concerts take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Staring Lake Amphitheatre, promising night skies filled with tunes that span decades.
