Events & Fireworks
Wednesday, July 2
- Climb to the top of the Landmark Center Tower and experience a rare view of downtown Saint Paul. The north tower is only accessible via stairs, 61 steps total from the 6th floor landing to the top. Or skip the elevator altogether and climb the 198 stairs from the first floor. This free activities is offered from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
- Groovin' in the Garden at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is a great way to take in a free summer concert from 6-8 p.m. in front of Saint Paul's famed Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. Enjoy food from the Heavy Metal Grill and music from Leslie Rich & The Rocket Soul Choir (three-piece rock band).
- The Downtown Alliance's Lowertown Happy Hour series is at 1881 Eating House and takes place from 4-6 p.m. Enjoy food and cocktails while mingling with city leaders, business owners, residents, and more.
Friday, July 4
- 4th in the Park annual parade and celebration takes place at Langford Park on July 4. The parade starts at 11 a.m.(from Luther Place and down to Como Avenue, ending at Langford Park. Enjoy pony rides, live music, food trucks, and more throughout the afternoon.
- Music in the Parks shows take place daily throughout the weekend at Como Lakeside Pavilion's Dock and Paddle restaurant.
- Dance the night away at CHS Field with Rock the 4th with Hairball & Yam Haus. This will back nostalgic memories of big hair, neon clothes, and music videos with a Hairball & Yam Haus concert followed by an Independence Day Celebration Fireworks show. Tickets start at $34.
Saturday, July 5
- An inaugural Native American Food Truck Festival it taking over Harriet Island with a full line up of native-owned/ co-owned food trucks and chefs. Showcasing traditional native foods along with urban fusions and fair favorites. The festival will also showcase vendors and artists. Admission is free.
- The Downtown Saint Paul Farmers Market takes place every weekend; Saturdays from 7 a.m.-1 p.m., and Sundays 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Must-Do Activities
- Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is open 365 days a year and will be open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on July 4.
- Como Regional Park Pool, Highland Park Aquatic Center, Phalen Beach and splash pads are open (weather permitting) to cool off all weekend.
- Visit the many patios throughout Saint Paul and win cool prizes with the Patio Passport presented by Visit Saint Paul.
- "Alebrijas: Keepers of the Island" Mexican cultural art exhibit has transformed Raspberry Island into a truly one-of-a-kind immersive activity.
Closures
- All recreation centers will be closed July 4-6.
- Saint Paul Public Library all locations close July 3 at 5:30 p.m., all locations closed July 4
- Due to firework damage to several athletic courts and fields in recent years, the following will be locked and field lights turned on from 6 p.m.-9 a.m. during July 3-7
- Arlington Arkwright, Battle Creek, Conway, Dayton’s Bluff, Eastview, El Rio Vista, Frogtown, Groveland, Hamline Park, Hayden Heights, Hazel Park, Highwood Hills, Langford Park, Linwood, MLK, North Dale, North End, Orchard, Oxford, Palace, Prosperity, Rice & Arlington, St. Clair, Victoria Park, and West Minnehaha.
Health & Safety Reminders
- As you celebrate, please remember that we all have a responsibility to ensure the safety of those around us as we enjoy our public spaces.
- All are welcome to use our parks and recreation center properties to celebrate responsibly, but use of fireworks is not permitted.
- This will be a busy weekend for our staff. Your help in keeping our parks clean is much appreciated.
- With the exception of authorized picnic areas, the consumption of alcohol is prohibited at parks and recreation center properties.