This fall is about to get a lot more creative in Minneapolis! Photographers, content creators, and visual storytellers from across the country will gather downtown for the inaugural MODE: The World’s Photography Festival, taking place September 18–20, 2026. Produced by Flickr, this three-day festival transforms the city into a playground for photographers and creative types. If you’re a photographer, or aspiring one, you won’t want to miss it. Keep scrolling to discover everything happening at the inaugural MODE Festival by Flickr this September, from headlining artists and photography panels to hands-on workshops and the MODE After Dark parties presented by Renegade.
18 September 2026 10:00 + more dates
Here’s what to expect at MODE Festival
MODE is designed to bring photography out of the digital world and into real life. You’ll spend the weekend exploring hands-on workshops, masterclasses, go on guided photography walks, or have your portfolio reviewed by industry pros and get tips you can use to get noticed.
Throughout the festival, you’ll have the chance to learn directly from some of the biggest names in photography, including Chris Burkard, known for his breathtaking adventure and travel photography, Keith Ladzinski, Emmy-nominated director and National Geographic photographer, whose work captures some of the world’s most extreme environments, Sandro Miller, the acclaimed portrait photographer behind the iconic “Malkovich, Malkovich, Malkovich” series featuring John Malkovich, and more.
You can also test the latest gear from leading camera brands and connect with fellow creators at networking events. Whether you’re a photographer or content creator, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to sharpen your skills or simply get inspired. Snag your spot!
What and who you won’t want to miss all weekend!
Beyond the photography programming, MODE Festival will also feature an exciting live music lineup. Headliners include acclaimed rapper Vince Staples, electronic artist Tycho, and Minneapolis guitarist Cory Wong, with additional performances by Washed Out, Infinity Song, and BALTHVS throughout the weekend.
This festival takes place across multiple venues in downtown Minneapolis, giving you the perfect excuse to explore the city while diving into endless creativity.
Friday
- Music: Vince Staples + Infinity Song
- Photography: AI & Photography, Food Photography, plus a Sports Photography activation at Target Field
- After Hours: MODE After Dark (Presented by Renegade)
Saturday
- Music: Tycho + Washed Out
- Photography: Live Music Photography, Skateboard Photography, Bird Photography 101, plus a hands-on Lumen Printing Workshop
- After Hours: MODE After Dark (Presented by Renegade)
Sunday
Music: Cory Wong + BALTHVS
Photography: Business & Commercial Photography, The Golden Era of NYC Photography, Filming in Extreme Environments, plus a hands-on Cyanotype Printing in the Sun workshop.
Here’s what a day at the MODE festival could look like
First thing: Grab a coffee and settle in for a keynote from one of the industry’s biggest names.
Late morning: Join an interactive workshop or guided photo walk for hands-on learning and insider tips from leading industry experts.
Midday: Step into MODE: MARKET for the latest gear and learn about new photography techniques.
Afternoon: Stop by MODE:SOCIAL for happy hour and mingle with fellow creators over delicious cocktails and appetizers.
Golden Hour As the sun starts to set and the light hits the city in all the right places, explore striking installations and iconic Minneapolis views made for your next favorite shot. We know we will!
Night: Capture the energy of a visual-first performance where music, lights, and storytelling come together.
MODE After Dark (Presented by Renegade)
The party continues after the festival with MODE After Dark, taking over The Alley Project Friday and Saturday from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Expect live music, immersive visuals, and a custom skate park from the team behind Renegade’s legendary pop-up events. A separate one- or two-night After Dark Pass is required in addition to a festival ticket.
Event Details
📅 When: September 18–20, 2026
📍 Where: Multiple venues across downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota
🎟️ Passes include 3-Day General Admission ($240) and VIP ($380). VIP includes one year of Flickr Pro, while General Admission includes 50% off Flickr Pro. Single-day passes are also available for $99 (GA) and $150 (VIP). Passes are limited, so reserve yours now!
MODE Festival by Flickr
18 September 2026 10:00 + more dates
