Musicians, video artists, biking ballerinas, pingpong aficionados, and talented actors will be taking over downtown Minneapolis for a night of entertainment, mingling, and delight.
This Saturday (6 p.m.-midnight), the Minneapolis Convention Center Plaza and area surrounding the Sculpture Garden and Basilica of Saint Mary will attract a multitude of diverse voices, performances, foods, and imaginations for a Secret City Festival. Ride your bike or park and walk along the Midtown Greenway path, which will feature artists, sidewalk chalk to create your own masterpiece, and other activities as you meander between sites.
The convention center plaza features a large cloud-like structure hanging above (known as MIMMI), acting as a giant mood ring for the entire city; changing color, shape, and behavior depending on Minneapolis’ collective mood. In the streets below, pick up a paddle at one of the ten pingpong tables, be awed by a talking plant or serenaded by a sewer pipe organ.
Hennepin Avenue will host an art-inspired mini golf course at the Walker Art Center until midnight, tours of the Basilica of Saint Mary, and free performances at Brave New Workshop, with a chance to see artists rehearsing for the upcoming Minnesota Fringe Festival. For new music junkies, 4 p.m. marks the launch of City Pages‘ first annual 10 Thousand Sounds event, featuring local bands.
To end this imaginative night, hop on your bike and peddle through the illuminated arts and performances on The Greenway Glow. Featuring more than 40 art installations along the Midtown Greenway—including a giant LED catapult, live music, theater, and a children’s art zone—this is an art show unlike any other.
But don’t just satisfy your creative hunger, food trucks will be lining 12th street between the convention center and Hennepin Avenue, so belly up to a window or two and try something deliciously new.
Tip: Take a two-question survey from Metro Transit to recieve a free ride to the event (bus or light rail).
