Art-A-Whirl is the largest open studio tour in the country, and a great way to tour private art galleries, connect with local artists, and even walk away with a few unique pieces. Plus, the event is free to attend. If you like art, you want to be in Northeast that weekend!

Art-A-Whirl is put on by the Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association (NEMAA), which was started by a small group of artists in 1995 and has now grown to over 900 members. NEMAA works to bring the community together through art, and they provide a platform for artists to showcase their creativity and connect with local businesses through events.

So, what exactly is Art-A-Whirl and what can you do there? It’s an opportunity to view local art, speak with the creators themselves, purchase their pieces and enjoy the creative energy of Northeast Minneapolis. It takes place over a weekend in May. There are over 600 artists, each displaying their craft through clay, glass, paintings, and sculpture among others. Stop in various boutiques, galleries and storefronts to peruse their offerings and learn about the local art culture.

While there will be quite a bit to see at Art-A-Whirl, there will also be plenty to hear and taste. They have a number of musicians lined up at various stages throughout Northeast to keep your groove going all weekend long. Local breweries also get in on the action by hosting parties and events for those looking to enjoy a beverage with their art.

There are so many ways to enjoy Art-A-Whirl, so don’t miss out on one of the biggest art festivals in Minneapolis!