The kids are off of school and summer 2018 is finally upon us. Finding activities to keep your family engaged need not break the bank. Make it the best summer yet with some free outdoor entertainment options in the west metro.
Plymouth Entertainment in the Parks
Today – August 14th
The city of Plymouth summer calendar of events features many diverse entertainment options centered around one of the most picturesque outdoor venues in area. The Hilde Performance Center features both a large amphitheater and small stage which combine to offer a flexible setting for live music, drama, outdoor movies and much more.
A full schedule is here, but highlights include:
- June 19th Plymouth Rockers
- June 28th Plymouth Concert Band
- July 20th and 21st Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre
- July 27th Annette Fragale Magic Show
- August 2nd Kids Fest- ZooMobile/ Jolly Pops / Dazzling Dave
- August 7th Dirty Shorts Jazz Band
And of course, no summer would be complete without a trip to Parker’s Lake Playfield to view the Shockwaves water ski show, set this year for July 17th.
Minnetonka Summer Fest
June 23rd
Minnetonka has laid claim to the weekend prior to the fourth of July on the city festival calendar, packing it with activities and surprises as a part of Summer Fest. The result is the hidden gem of west metro city celebrations complete with games, live music, an ice cream social and of course, fireworks. Additional activities include a tot trot, climbing wall, K9 police demonstration and much more.
Most activities take place at the Civic Center Grounds (14600 Minnetonka Blvd.) or the Burwell House (13209 E. McGinty Rd.) and the city offers an extensive PDF event schedule to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the fun.
Maple Grove Days
July 11- 15th
Celebrating its 30th year, Maple Grove Days offers a chance to showcase the northwest suburb over a packed five-day festival. Events include an art fair, fishing clinic, corn feed, tennis tournament and live entertainment. The focus is on outdoor activities throughout the city with fireworks capping things off on the 14th. Those seeking an early start to the fun (and $$$) can even participate in the medallion hunt going on now with clues on Facebook through July 12th.
Eden Prairie Movies in the Park
Friday’s in August
Staring Lake Park Amphitheatre 14800 Pioneer Trail
Eden Prairie offers an extensive calendar of events including theater productions, live music and much more, but a favorite end of summer tradition is their family-friendly outdoor movie nights. These take place at Staring Lake Park on Friday nights and always kick off with live music.
- August 3rd Coco at 9pm Mariachi Los Soles at 7:30pm
- August 10th The Last Jedi at 9pm Tyte Jeff at 7:30pm
- August 17th Cars 3 at 9pm The Country Western Band at 7:30pm
Local Farmers Markets
In addition to special community events, local farmers markets offer a weekly entertainment option that can get your kids off of their electronic devices and outdoors. While the herbivore in you will appreciate the produce, it’s really not about the vegetables anymore. Most markets have expanded into true events that feature food trucks, music and much more.
Excelsior Farmers Market
Tuesdays 2pm -6pm
Water Street, Downtown ExcelsiorMinnetonka Farmers Market
Tuesdays 3–7 p.m.
Minnetonka Civic Center Campus 14600 Minnetonka Blvd.Plymouth Farmers Market
Wednesdays 2:30-6:30 p.m.,
Parkers Lake Playfield- 15500 County Road 6Maple Grove Farmers Market
Thursdays 3-7 p.m.
Maple Grove Community Center- 12951 Weaver Lake Road
