Fall brings a sense of renewal. As the crisp air rolls in, the cozy smell of pumpkin spice fills cafés, and people relax as the leaves turn colors. It’s akin to a yearly reset, and in the spirit of embracing this new season, we’ve turned to ChatGPT —cause why not — to provide you with 7 things to do in fall in Minneapolis to kick off spooky season on a high note. Here are the results!
1. Visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
There is nothing more captivating than strolling through the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden during the fall and watching the leaves begin to change color. This iconic garden, home to the famous Spoonbridge and Cherry sculptures, is the perfect place to welcome the freshness of the season. Best of all, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is free to the public and is open from 6 a.m. to 12 midnight every day.
2. Join the darkside at Darkness Day
Join the dark side it has beers! Once more, Surly Brewing hosts their annual Darkness Day. On October 7, you can enjoy all-day music, timed beer-tappings every hour from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., artist features and activations, barbarian-inspired food, and so much more all for free — A ChatGPT favorite!
3. Go to a Candlelight concert
As the days grow shorter and the evenings cooler, Minneapolis comes alive with the incredible sounds of Candlelight. These enchanting musical performances create a magical atmosphere, often featuring classical, contemporary, and spooky compositions. A sea of candles, immaculate musicianship, and breathtaking venues, like the historic Westminster Presbyterian Church, combine to make for a perfect date night or solo escape.
4. Join the Vintage Fall Crawl
Explore the city’s thriving vintage scene by joining the Vintage Fall Crawl. From October 1 to 31, shoppers can acquire the Vintage Fall Crawl Passport and receive a one-time 10% discount at all fourteen Twin Cities women-owned vintage shops on the crawl while supporting a good cause. Walk around Northeast and South Minneapolis and Saint Paul to find an array of vintage goods, including clothing, home decor, furniture, jewelry, accessories, art, and more.
5. Catch a flick Twin Cities Film Fest
From October 19 to 28, the Twin Cities Film Fest illuminates Minneapolis with a selection of American independent films. Featuring a diverse range of thought-provoking documentaries and captivating narratives, approximately one-third of the films showcased will have strong ties to Minnesota. This year’s program goes the extra mile by introducing a dedicated series highlighting changemakers, female filmmakers, BIPOC communities, and LGBTQ+ voices. The festival will provide a hybrid experience, offering online and in-person screenings.
6. Go cider tasting at Sociable Cider Werks
If you’re eager to get a taste of fall, we have the perfect place to do so! At Sociable Cider Werks you can taste the apples in their crisp and tangy ciders. Grab a bite on their onsite food trucks and get competitive in the pickleball court for a full day of fun.
7. Put on your costume for Anoka Halloween Grande Day Parade
Wrap up the spooky season, on October 28, with a spooktacular experience at the Anoka Halloween Grande Day Parade. Known as the Halloween Capital of the World, Anoka is just a short drive from Minneapolis. Put on your best costume, join the festivities, and revel in the Halloween spirit as you watch the colorful parade wind its way through the streets.
8. Nerd out at Twin Cities Con
For fans of pop culture, gaming, and all things nerdy, Twin Cities Con is a fall event you should not miss. From November 3 to 5, dive into comics, cosplay, video games, and more. Meet fellow enthusiasts, browse vendor booths, and immerse yourself in the geeky goodness of this convention. This year, Twin Cities Con will feature Jason Lee, Danny Trejo, some of the cast of Bluey, and many more.
9. Celebrate Latinx culture at Festival de las Calaveras
If there’s an event that truly embodies the spirit of Latinx culture and the Day of the Dead is the Festival de las Calaveras. Organized by Tlalnepantla Arts, this festival beautifully fuses tradition and contemporary arts. From captivating live music to puppet theater, on November 4, enjoy the chance to immerse yourself in Latinx culture, connect with the community, and participate in family-friendly art activities.
10. Check out the Fall Open Festival
From November 10 to 12, Minneapolis will become an art lover’s dream. Hundreds of artists will gather to open their studios during these autumn days and share their most precious works. Shop art, eat delicious food, drink craft beer, and discover new galleries at this mega Fall Open Festival.