We’re coming up on one of the greatest holidays of the summer—the Fourth of July. While most Minnesotans will head to the lake and take in boating season, not everyone can get out to the water. #MYSAINTPAUL knows you’ll still make the most of your Fourth, and we put together some ideas to help you observe Independence Day in the Minnesota capital.
Pre-Fourth of July
Wanderlust 108: "The World's Only Mindful Triathlon": Saturday, June 29
Triathlon and relaxation aren't typically used in the same sentence, but Wanderlust 108 is out to change that. The Harriet Island triathlon includes a 5K walk/run, 75-minute outdoor yoga class and a 25-minute guided meditation.
Fireworks at the Saints Game: Wednesday, July 3
There's no home game on the 4th, but that won't stop the St. Paul Saints from celebrating the holiday with a bang a day early. The 6:05 p.m. Independence Day Celebration game against the Lincoln Saltdogs features a post-game fireworks super show and monster food truck rally.
Minnesota United FC vs. San Jose Earthquakes: Wednesday, July 3
Kick (pun intended) off the holiday weekend at Saint Paul's brand new Allianz Field as you watch Minnesota United take on the San Jose Earthquakes at 7 p.m.
Fourth of July
Fort Snelling
Explore the history of freedom in 19-century America at Historic Fort Snelling's Independence Day Celebration, complete with cannon & musket salutes, military dress parades, music and more. Fort Snelling is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 4.
The 4th in the Park
Head over to the St. Anthony Park Neighborhood for the 72nd annual Fourth of July Parade (it's the only one you'll find in Saint Paul). The parade beings at 11 a.m. and winds along Como Avenue to historic Langford Park where you'll find food, music, pony rides and more. Returning off the success of last year is the Back to the 4th Happy Hour from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. in the Sunrise Banks parking lot—entry into the beer garden is $20, but the music from The Rockin' Hollywoods is free.
Get Outside
Enjoy America's natural beauty in one of Saint Paul’s many parks—ranked the #2 park system in the nation (behind our twin, Minneapolis). The Mississippi National River Recreation Area is a national park that stretches through downtown Saint Paul and the Fourth just so happens to be Paddle Share's season opener, so grab yourself a paddle and be one of the first out on the water.
Grab a Bite
Keep the outdoor party rolling and cap off the day on one of Saint Paul's best patios, followed by a scoop (or two) at one of our favorite ice cream shops.
Fourth of July Weekend
Hmong International Freedom Festival: Saturday, July 6-7
Celebrate Hmong history and culture in the United States at the 39th annual Hmong International Freedom Festival at Como Park. The sports-centric event is considered the Olympics of the Hmong American community and also features delicious food stands, merchandise booths and performances.
Do you have other plans for Independence Day in #MYSAINTPAUL? Share with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
