Sommerfest began as a classical music festival sponsored by the Minnesota Orchestra. Over the years, its repertoire has grown from Bach and Beethoven to include jazz, pop and rock concerts by nationally-recognized artists. The Minnesota Orchestra is still the centerpiece of the event, and it performs symphonic and chamber music. Before concerts on the Orchestra Hall plaza, the festival has free acts and food from local restaurants. A Minnesota summer tradition, Sommerfest takes place from June through August.
Held in St. Paul by the Mississippi River, Taste of Minnesota is the state's largest festival. It combines a musical line-up of national and local acts with family activities and food from some of the best restaurants in the Twin Cities. Held during the July 4th weekend, the four-day event features rock bands and a smattering of Christian music groups. Festival-goers can choose from more than 50 local restaurants offering everything from home cooking to gourmet cuisine.
This festival is one of the summer's largest and most popular events. Held in St. Paul in August, its purpose is to celebrate Irish heritage and culture through music, dance, educational programs and food. Headline acts often come from Ireland to perform at the festival. Guests can take advantage of a market area with Irish products and food along with programs on Irish history and culture.
Genealogists are on hand to help people discover their Irish roots. A special feature includes the Songs of Ireland exhibit, which features more than 6,000 recordings from as far back as the early 1900s.
Sponsored jointly by the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis and a local public radio station, Rock the Garden is held outdoors next to the museum and its sculpture garden. One of the most sought-after events of the summer, the festival's focus is on artists whose style is experimental or avant-garde. National and local bands perform cutting-edge rock, pop, gospel, funk and R&B music, while the sculpture garden features alternative and indie groups between headliner acts.
Festi Di Bella Vida takes place in late May at Harmony Park in Geneva, Minnesota. The event showcases Minnesota and Wisconsin bands. Rock, folk, punk, country, hip-hop and electronic bands perform over the three-day festival. Dance performances also take place. The ticket price includes parking and camping near the park.