The 4th of July holiday weekend festival is extending its 2026 lineup by adding the North Star stage to spotlight emerging local musical acts.
Festival producer Jesse Storovich says organizers are focused on showcasing more homegrown talent and new activities across the two day event. " I think the key to how we're able to continue to expand, all the programming happening in Taste of Minnesota is really just looking in our own backyard," says Storovich, " looking, at people doing fun and interesting things."
On Friday, July 3rd Emerging Minnesota artists take over the stage with Gregg Hall and the Wrecking Ball Duo, Frankie Torres, and Adam Bohanan.
The performances will continue on Saturday, July 4th with kids group School of Rock, New Primitives, Pullstring, Maygen & The Birdwatcher and Solana & The Sunsets
The expansion will also bring in dance classes and a live circus showcase to the event for the first time bringing a family friendly element to the festivities.
" Inclusive programming that is free and accessible to families is super important here at the Taste of Minnesota," she says, " we have three different local groups that are programming the entire just across the street from The Four Season across the from Nicollet Mall."
Hothouse will offer live performances and interactive classes spanning music, movement and fitness, while Stomping Ground Studio brings aerialists, circus performances and hands-on activities for families throughout the weekend.
Animal lovers can also meet adoptable dogs at The Bond Between rescue booth on both festival days.
