In the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” people really love their water. Minneapolis itself is proud of their variety of lakes, ponds, and rivers. Naturally, the city has deemed it necessary to celebrate all of our bodies of water. Since 1940, Minneapolis has taken the third week of every July to celebrate the Aquatennial: an ode to all of our aquatic life. You won’t find a festival like this anywhere but in Minneapolis!

Milk carton boat races take place on Thomas Beach of Bde Maka Ska.
Flickr/jpgellen
Yes. Citizens of Minneapolis craft boats out of milk cartons, dare them to float, and race them down a lake every single year. The milk carton boat race is fun for the whole family and we recommend you see it!
Sand castle building competitions?
Flickr/Mark Danielson
Sign us up!
Wacky art cars get to show off their flare at the Aquatennial.
Flickr/Michael Hicks
Minneapolis has their own brand of weird and we wouldn't have it any other way.

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Wednesday night features a torchlight parade
Flickr/Brian Moen
Parades during the day are okay, but do you know what's better? Parades at night.
On Thursday and Friday nights, movies are played at Target Field
Flickr/Adam Moss
Outdoor movies are a staple for Minneapolis summers, but the Aquatennial takes it up a notch by showing movies at Target Field. It's fun for the whole family.
To complete the festival, experience the stunning firework show!
Flickr/Jon DeJong
Join other Minneapolitans at the Stone Arch Bridge on Saturday night to see one of the largest fireworks displays in the country! Minneapolis puts on a bigger display for the Aquatennnial than they do for the 4th of July. The Aquatennial is the celebration that defines Minneapolis summers.

Only in Minneapolis can you celebrate a festival dedicated to water every single year. The Aquatennial is something to look forward to and celebrate. We have highlighted the largest activities, but there are plenty more activities hosted during the four day festival. What is your favorite part of the Aquatennial? Let us know in the comments below!

Do you love festivals? Read 10 Festivals In Minnesota That Food Lovers Should Not Miss!

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