One of Northeast Minneapolis' biggest festivals gets underway later this afternoon.
Thousands of people are expected to take in a weekend of art, food, music and more during the 30th year of Art-A-Whirl.
But it's more than just art, says Indeed Brewing's Chief Business Officer Ryan Bandy.
"Definitely I consider it the kickoff to the summer in the Twin Cities."
Indeed Brewing is hosting its 12th annual Whirlygig which has become an Art-A-Whirl staple thanks to the music and - of course - beer.
"It's like a meeting place for everyone," says Bandy. "It's like they're hanging out there, they can hang out here, they get to see music, they have a couple of beers, have some food, and then they can pop off to all the different studios a few blocks away."
And when it comes to the area's vibrant art culture, that's been a scene embraced by Indeed Brewing.
"It's our job to, and our responsibility reallym, to show all of the art that exists in this city, especially for free. That's always been our goal with our world," says Bandy.
Northeast Minneapolis comes alive later today with the 30th year of Art-A-Whirl.
As for what people are consuming? Bandy says they've had to adjust when it comes to the growing amount of non-beer drinkers.
"We have more N/A beer offerings this year," says Bandy. "We're making sure we have all of our THC, a low dose 25 mg and 10 mg drinks, so people can kind of choose their adventure. We'll have a lot of different like those types of options that we're looking to have more available than in years past."
Bandy adds that Indeed Brewing has become a central hub for Art-A-Whirl festivities.
"It's really fun for us to be able to host now tens of thousands of people around the neighborhood," Bandy explained. "But host them in the cause of like, let's go look at some art, let's go buy some art, let's go see what these weirdos are making around here."
Over 1,600 Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association members are taking part in Art-A-Whirl which runs through Sunday.
Whirlygig runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday with live music and beverages. Wisconsin-based food truck Chef Shack, Red Cow, KCM Eggrolls, and other local favorites will be serving food as well. Entry to this event is free and they open at 11:00 a.m.