The Stone Arch Bridge Festival Celebrates 25th Anniversary June 15 & 16

This summer, the Stone Arch Bridge Festival will celebrate 25 years of bringing art, music and community to the historic riverfront district of Minneapolis. As a tradition on Father’s Day weekend in the community for as many years, the festival continues to pay homage to its roots in the arts while evolving with the dynamic changes of the neighborhood. Festival dates are Saturday, June 15 and Sunday, June 16.
Juried Artists
This festival continues to draw a competitive field of top quality artists from across the country. Local and regional talent is also well-represented. Just over 200 artists are invited to participate in categories including ceramics, glass, metalwork, painting, photography, fiber arts and more. Handcrafted items are sold in a wide variety of price ranges to appeal to many buyers.
Featured Markets
In 2018, the festival introduced a vibrant Culinary Art Market in the beautiful Riverplace Plaza near East Hennepin Avenue. This market will return with over 20 food artisans selling gourmet packaged food products. NEW in 2019, the Vintage and Vinyl Market will take over Water Power Park. Vendors will fill a massive tent with curated treasures including clothing, décor and vinyl records. A DJ, food vendors and games will create a festive atmosphere. Friday night there will be a ticketed “Sneak Peak” event from 6 pm - 8 pm. Admission will include a free beer ticket to be redeemed at the Kick-Off Concert in Fr. Hennepin Park. Links to tickets will be on the festival website.
Makers Workshop
Minnesota Makers, a local art shop, will have a roster of workshops where all ages can craft and take home projects. Classes range from metal stamping, bracelets making, mandala painting, essential oil mixing and with a nod to dad’s day, a painted Father’s Day coffee mug project. Advance registration is encouraged. The Makers Workshop will be in Father Hennepin Park near the Family Activities Area. A link to workshop registration and fees will be on the festival website.
Family Activities Area
Kids and parents are invited to find the Family Activities Area in Father Hennepin Park where hands-on activities are free and fun. One feature not to miss, MN United FC has partnered with Crayola Experience to create a captivating mural project and imagination station.
Live Music
Live music will fill Father Hennepin Park beginning on Friday night with the festival Kick-Off Concert on the Star Tribune Stage from 6 pm - 10 pm. On Saturday and Sunday top local performer will be featured on the Cities 97 Stage under the Central Ave Bridge and the Star Tribune Stage in Father Hennepin Park. After the festival closes on Saturday, the music continues with an After-Hours Concert in Father Hennepin Park until 10 pm. Bands will be announced in April. All concerts are free to attend.
Beer Sampling
The Stone Arch Beer Sampling event returns Saturday and Sunday from 2 - 4 pm in Father Hennepin Park. Sample dozens of varieties of beer under the big tent near the Stone Arch Bridge, while enjoying live music. Advance ticket purchase is recommended. Tickets will be available to purchase onsite, if not sold out. A link to the tickets will be on the festival website.
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Overview Schedule:
Friday, June 14 / 6 pm- 10 pm: Kick-Off Concert in Father Hennepin Park
Saturday, June 15 / 10 am - 6 pm: FESTIVAL
Saturday, June 15 / 6 pm - 10 pm: After Hours Concert in Father Hennepin Park
Sunday, June 16 / 10 am - 5 pm: FESTIVAL
Location:
Minneapolis Riverfront
Main St SE from Hennepin Ave. E to 6th St SE/Stone Arch Bridge
Admission:
FREE! Ticketed events are the Vintage and Vinyl Sneak Peak, Makers Workshop classes and Stone Arch Beer Sampler.
Media Contact:
Sara Collins, 612-267-7205
saracollinsemail@gmail.com