Community & Cultural Events
The Greater Mankato Diversity Council is committed to fostering an inclusive and connected community. Our Community Events page highlights diverse cultural, educational, and social events happening throughout the Mankato area, as well as programs and initiatives hosted by GMDC. Whether you're looking for celebrations of heritage, discussions on equity, or opportunities to engage with local organizations, this is your go-to resource for staying involved. Join us in building a more welcoming and vibrant community!
54 Annual Traditional Mahkato Wacipi
54th Annual Traditional Mahkato Wacipi
Honoring the 38 Dakota
Date: September 18-20, 2026
Location: Dakota Wokisuye Makoce (Land of Memories Park), Mankato, MN
Grand Entries:
- Friday at 7:00 PM
- Saturday at 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM
- Sunday at 1:00 PM
Spiritual Advisor: Austin Owen
Emcees: Jerry Dearly, Galen Drapeau Jr. and Bill Taylor
Arena Director: Londel Seaboy, Sisseton, SD
Host Drum: Mazakute Singers, Santee, NE
Cost: General Admission $10 per button at the gate - CASH ONLY!
Button is good for admission for whole weekend!
All must pay with the exception of the following:
Children 12 and under: Free
Seniors 60 and older: Free
Moccasin Game Coordinator: Wambdi Gill
September Community Volunteer Day at BEC Community Farm
Join the Community Farm from 5 -7 pm for an evening of volunteering! Many hands make light work, we will be doing seasonal farm maintenance tasks such as, planting, watering, weeding, harvesting, and more!
***BONUS***
Dinner provided by LEC!
No experience necessary! Everyone is Welcome!
Registration is not required but appreciated for meal planning.
Registration link:
Community Cleanup Series: Spring Lake Park
Greetings, Planet Protectors!
Ready to make a real, visible impact in our community? Join the Blue Earth Project for a fun and rewarding afternoon as we “team up to clean up” our beloved Greater Mankato! Let's roll up our sleeves and work together to restore the beauty of our local green and blue spaces. Every single piece of debris we collect makes a difference.
Our Goal: Our mission for the day is to clear debris from Spring Lake Park. We want to ensure this gem of a park remains a clean, safe, and beautiful environment.
Help Us Collect Data! (Optional) Want to take your contribution a step further? You can use our mobile app during the cleanup to collect data on the types of litter you find. This information is crucial as it helps us better understand the challenge our community faces from waste and litter, allowing us to plan more effective solutions.
Get it on Google Play: https://bit.ly/quickcapandroid
Download on the App Store: https://bit.ly/quickcapios
Date: Saturday, September 26th, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Meeting Point: Shelter nearest Parking
What We Provide:
We've got you covered with the essential gear to make our cleanup safe and effective!
Heavy-duty trash bags
Protective gloves
Litter grabbers/pickers
High-visibility safety vests
Hand sanitizer
What You Should Bring:
Please come prepared to be comfortable and safe!
Closed-toe shoes (No sandals or flip-flops, please)
Comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting a little dirty
A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun
Your positive energy and community spirit!
Parking:
Swimming Facility Parking Lot
Agenda:
12:00 PM: Check in, grab your gear.
12:10 PM: Quick safety briefing and group assignments.
12:20 PM: Cleanup begins!
01:40 PM: Wrap up, dispose of collected litter, and take a group photo to celebrate our hard work!
This is a family-friendly event, and volunteers of all ages are welcome. Let's show our planet some love and have a great time doing it.
Please RSVP so we can get a headcount for supplies! Don't forget to invite your friends and share this event.
#BlueEarthProject #CommunityCleanup #Volunteer #GreaterMankatoEvents#EcoFriendly #MakeADifference
Ignite the Night | Power Up!
Join the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota for an ADULTS ONLY event where teams will compete to build bold, electrified sculptures that fuse light, motion, and cutting-edge design—capturing the essence of power, energy, and innovation. Throughout the evening, guests can recharge in immersive spaces like the Electric Lounge and Power Bar, where neon-colored cocktails, dramatic lighting, and visual effects amplify the high-voltage atmosphere.
Spectators are an essential part of the experience, cheering on teams, exploring interactive elements, and enjoying the energy of the competition from start to finish. Whether building, observing, or socializing, everyone is immersed in the action.
From start to finish, Ignite the Night – Power Up will feel like stepping into a dynamic, high-energy world where creativity and technology collide—sparking connection, celebration, and unforgettable moments for all.
Community Cleanup: Judson Bottom Road
Greetings, Planet Protectors!
Ready to make a real, visible impact in our community? Join the Blue Earth Project for a fun and rewarding afternoon as we “team up to clean up” our beloved Greater Mankato! Let's roll up our sleeves and work together to restore the beauty of our local green and blue spaces. Every single piece of debris we collect makes a difference.
Our Goal: Our mission for the day is to clear debris from Judson Bottom Rd. We want to ensure that it remains a clean, safe, and beautiful environment.
Help Us Collect Data! (Optional) Want to take your contribution a step further? You can use our mobile app during the cleanup to collect data on the types of litter you find. This information is crucial as it helps us better understand the challenge our community faces from waste and litter, allowing us to plan more effective solutions.
Get it on Google Play: https://bit.ly/quickcapandroid
Download on the App Store: https://bit.ly/quickcapios
Date: Saturday, October 10th, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Parking: North Mankato Library
Meeting Point: Same as Parking
What We Provide:
We've got you covered with the essential gear to make our cleanup safe and effective!
Heavy-duty trash bags
Protective gloves
Litter grabbers/pickers
High-visibility safety vests
Hand sanitizer
What You Should Bring:
Please come prepared to be comfortable and safe!
Closed-toe shoes (No sandals or flip-flops, please)
Comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting a little dirty
A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun
Your positive energy and community spirit!
Agenda:
12:00 PM: Check in, grab your gear.
12:10 PM: Safety briefing and group assignments.
12:30 PM: Cleanup begins!
01:40 PM: Wrap up, dispose of collected litter, and take a group photo to celebrate our hard work!
This is a family-friendly event, and volunteers of all ages are welcome. Let's show our planet some love and have a great time doing it.
Please RSVP so we can get a headcount for supplies! Don't forget to invite your friends and share this event.
#BlueEarthProject #CommunityCleanup #Volunteer #GreaterMankatoEvents#EcoFriendly #MakeADifference
COPAL South Central Committee Meeting
South Central Committee is focused on uplifting the Latino Community through advocacy, leadership, and event planning.
Register Here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/oumu6B5YrUmIN5X6y_J1ag2
Community Cleanup: Judson Bottom Road (2)
Greetings, Planet Protectors!
Ready to make a real, visible impact in our community? Join the Blue Earth Project for a fun and rewarding afternoon as we “team up to clean up” our beloved Greater Mankato! Let's roll up our sleeves and work together to restore the beauty of our local green and blue spaces. Every single piece of debris we collect makes a difference.
Our Goal: Our mission for the day is to clear debris from Judson Bottom Rd. We want to ensure that it remains a clean, safe, and beautiful environment.
Help Us Collect Data! (Optional) Want to take your contribution a step further? You can use our mobile app during the cleanup to collect data on the types of litter you find. This information is crucial as it helps us better understand the challenge our community faces from waste and litter, allowing us to plan more effective solutions.
Get it on Google Play: https://bit.ly/quickcapandroid
Download on the App Store: https://bit.ly/quickcapios
Date: Saturday, October 17th, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Parking: Minnemishinona Falls
Meeting Point: Same as Parking
What We Provide:
We've got you covered with the essential gear to make our cleanup safe and effective!
Heavy-duty trash bags
Protective gloves
Litter grabbers/pickers
High-visibility safety vests
Hand sanitizer
What You Should Bring:
Please come prepared to be comfortable and safe!
Closed-toe shoes (No sandals or flip-flops, please)
Comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting a little dirty
A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun
Your positive energy and community spirit!
Agenda:
12:00 PM: Check in, grab your gear.
12:10 PM: Safety briefing and group assignments.
12:30 PM: Cleanup begins!
01:40 PM: Wrap up, dispose of collected litter, and take a group photo to celebrate our hard work!
This is a family-friendly event, and volunteers of all ages are welcome. Let's show our planet some love and have a great time doing it.
Please RSVP so we can get a headcount for supplies! Don't forget to invite your friends and share this event.
#BlueEarthProject #CommunityCleanup #Volunteer #GreaterMankatoEvents#EcoFriendly #MakeADifference
Dementia Research Summit
Mankato & North Mankato ACT on Alzheimer's is hosting a Dementia Research Summit featuring speakers from Mayo Clinic Alzheimer's Disease Research Center. Participants will also hear from experts from the Alzheimer's Association, HealthPartners Center for Memory and Aging and the U of M School of Public Health. The program is designed for both healthcare professionals and community members.
Early bird rates are available through September 1, $45 General Admission. $70 CEUs
Old Town Mankato Day of the Dead
A sparkling ray of light the Dia de los Muertos festival in Mankato returns this year.
Opening Reception: Fragments Arranged | Out of the Blue Earth: The Presence of Memory | Sustenance
Join the Carnegie Art Center and Cloudwalker Studio for the opening reception of three exciting new exhibitions:
- Fireside Gallery: Fragments Arranged | Mia Eckes
Mia Eckes is a neon-loving midwestern fiber artist, mother to six, wildly creative children, and a certified Kaizen Muse Creativity Coach from Minnesota. She obtained her BFA in Fiber Art and Ceramics from Minnesota State University-Mankato and a Master of Arts in Human Development from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota-Minneapolis. Mia fused her studies of arts and cultural management with her interests in positive psychology, specifically researching creativity and the vital role that the arts play in early education and to living a fulfilling, meaningful life. Her vibrant art centers around contemplative prayer, metanoia, playfulness, relationships, and hope. She has exhibited her art in Minnesota and New York.
Mia created Cloudwalker Studio to offer creative life coaching services and currently resides in Coon Rapids, Minnesota with her husband and young family. Here she greets the day wholeheartedly with untamed hair, a cup of coffee, hopes aligned, and ear plugs handy.
She is continually creating and advocating for the creative life in others.
cloudwalkerstudio.com
- Rotunda Gallery: Out of the Blue Earth: The Presence of Memory | Kenwyn Murray
Kenwyn Murray is a Caribbean artist and arts educator. Born in Trinidad in 1979 his career is currently distinguished between his work as a professional painter and his engagement with the Carnival arts. Kenwyn graduated with honours from the University the West Indies in 2006 and is currently a member of staff at the University of the West Indies' Department of Creative and Festival Arts.
The expression of a Caribbean aesthetic- which he believes is the convergence of fluidity, submerged history, hybridity and spirituality- has been a major focus within Kenwyn’s work and he continues to strive for his art to be representative of a space that he sees as myriad, rich, vibrant and beautiful.
kenwynmurray.com
- Hope Cook Gallery: Sustenance | Shelley Caldwell
Shelley Caldwell Statement:
Line and color. Plants and the ordinary. These impulses prompt my work. Living in a rural environment, you witness the wonders of the natural world and learn to be resourceful with what is readily available. This lesson profoundly impacts my work as an installation artist who combines mixed media drawing with subjects from nature and daily life.
Ideas stem from specific memories, experiences in nature, and ordinary objects. Linear, graphic patterns often replace realistic details to develop the character and clarity of each piece. From those found in nature to those in our homes, plants are typically the primary subject, and one with which many can relate due to our need for nature to sustain wellness. A variety of media are implemented to produce the sharp, clean lines fundamental to the work including Micron pen, India ink, and cut paper. Installations release the drawings from the wall and provide an immersive sensory experience for the audience to contemplate as they move through and interact with the work. Common, repurposed, economically accumulated materials are used as primary components to expand the work’s dialogue and create an approachable, relatable, and enriching experience.
I am driven to accentuate the ordinary, to highlight how the overlap in the supposed mundane of our individual lives unites us: however simple, there is great value in the surroundings and experiences that occupy our existence. Through a combined practice of mixed media drawing and installation, these themes converge.
shelleycaldwell.com
The Timekeeper's Ball
SAVE THE DATE!
The Blue Earth County Historical Society is celebrating 125 years of history and wants to celebrate with you! More details to come!
COPAL South Central Committee Meeting
South Central Committee is focused on uplifting the Latino Community through advocacy, leadership, and event planning.
Register Here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/teSKPy2D_kWEw6F_TxMLPg2
2026 Mankato Area International Festival
Experience the World in One Day! Step into a vibrant celebration of global cultures at the Mankato Area International Festival — where Minnesota meets the world!
Why You’ll Love It:
Live performances, dazzling traditional attire, and music from across the globe
Authentic international cuisine that’ll take your taste buds on a world tour
Interactive cultural exhibits and activities for all ages
Family-friendly fun with free admission (food available for purchase) and parking — bring everyone!
Come curious. Leave inspired. Ready to celebrate the world with us?
COPAL South Central Committee Meeting
South Central Committee is focused on uplifting the Latino Community through advocacy, leadership, and event planning.
Register Here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/G3APAURNzEaIiTzPSENHXA2
Human Foosball Tournament 2026
Join us for United Way's 12th annual Human Foosball Tournament, presented by Scheels! This event benefits Greater Mankato Area United Way's 75 programs and initiatives serving Blue Earth, Le Sueur, Nicollet and Waseca counties.
The tournament takes place from 12 to 5 p.m. Saturday, September 12 on the 500 block of Mankato’s South Front Street. The street will be blocked off between Cherry and Warren to make room for four life-sized foosball courts.
Information and team registration: www.MankatoUnitedWay.org/human-foosball.
Teams must have a minimum of five players. Ages 16+. Players under 18 must have parent/guardian signature. Cost is $600 per team. Contact MollieF@mankatounitedway.org with questions.
The event is free for spectators. Spectators are welcome to enjoy the foosball games, along with the City Center establishments, block party atmosphere, and music by Radio Mankato.
National Anthem by: Mankato Riverblenders
Color Guard: Boy Scouts, Twin Valley Council
Kickoff at 12 p.m.
Event volunteers are needed throughout the day to help with scorekeeping, refereeing and more. To volunteer, contact United Way at 507-345-4551 or volunteer@mankatounitedway.org.
Previous Human Foosball Champions:
2025: MacLean Power Systems
2024: ISG
2023: ISG
2022: Schwickert's
2021: Blethen Berens
2020: Blethen Berens
2019: CCFBank
2018: Blethen Berens
2017: Blethen, Gage & Krause
2016: Heat Blowdry Bar & Wax Studio
2015: Westman Freightliner
COPAL South Central Committee Meeting
South Central Committee is focused on uplifting the Latino Community through advocacy, leadership, and event planning.
Register Here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/it9tys7eh0aQp_9REccreg2
Care Partner Support Group
Caring for an aging loved one can be rewarding, but it can also bring challenges, stress, and feelings of isolation. You don't have to navigate it alone.
Join Care Partner Support Group, a welcoming space for family members, friends, and caregivers who support older adults. Connect with others who understand the caregiving journey, share experiences, gain encouragement, and learn helpful caregiving strategies.
Whether you're new to caregiving or have been supporting a loved one for years, you're welcome to join us for conversation, support, and community.
2026 Meeting Dates:
• June 16
• July 14
• August 11
• September 8
• October 13
• November 10
Time: 2:30-4:00 PM
Location: The Pillars of Mankato, 3125 Prairie Rose Dr., Mankato
Cost: Free and open to the public
RSVP: Not required
For more information, contact Lisa at 507-344-6771 or Lisa.Sandmann@Fairview.org
Minnesota State Fair Adult Bus Trip
Minnesota State Fair
18+
Tractors, corn dogs, cows, seed art, vendors, and more.....What’s your favorite part of the fair? Join us for a fun filled day at the Minnesota Fair. Don’t worry about parking or traffic. Our coach bus will drop you off at the fair entrance.
Mon, Aug 31; 7:15 am-6 pm l Wow Zone l $80
Registration Deadline: July 25
Click here to register: https://mankato.ce.eleyo.com/.../sum.../minnesota-state-fair
August Community Volunteer Day at BEC Community Farm
Community members are invited to join us at the Community Farm from 5 -7 pm for an evening of volunteering! Many hands make light work, Living Earth Center and Blue Earth County Community Farm will be doing seasonal farm maintenance tasks such as, planting, watering, weeding, harvesting, and more!
***BONUS***
Dinner provided by LEC!
No experience necessary! Everyone is Welcome!
Registration is not required but appreciated for meal planning.
Registration link:
Tee it Up for the Troops
One of the most important elements to a successful golf outing each year is the incredible support from the local business community. Please join Tee It Up for the Troops and Mankato Golf Club in showing your appreciation to those who serve(d) and sacrifice(d) with such honor by sponsoring this event.
They are thrilled to announce a new partnership with Bravo Zulu House, bringing new energy, expanded impact and more ways for our community to support Veterans right here in our community.
This year’s tournament, will directly benefit Bravo Zulu House and the construction of the Mankato Women’s House, along with other local Veteran service organizations. Together, we’re rallying behind women Veterans as they navigate the battle with sobriety, PTSD and the transition to stable, thriving living.
Mankato Dance Festival
Mankato Dance Festival is August 23rd, 2026!
Class Registration: https://mnsueventtickets.universitytickets.com/.../event...
Peformance: https://mnsueventtickets.universitytickets.com/.../event...
Mankato Dance Festival was originated to create a space where students, teachers, companies, and anyone who loves to move can come together, take class, and truly connect. Mankato deserves a dance festival of its own—one that reflects the creativity, passion, and potential of our community.
Our goal is to bring people together through a wide variety of dance styles, performances, and voices, making sure there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced dancer or stepping into a studio for the first time, you are welcome here.
This festival is about more than just dance—it’s about building relationships, supporting one another, and growing together through movement. Let’s dance, grow, and connect right here in Mankato!
Minnesota Shorts 10-Minute Play Festival
Welcome to the 17th Annual Minnesota Shorts Festival!
Join Merely Players Community Theatre in celebrating playwrights from Minnesota and across the Midwest.
What is Minnesota Shorts?
In its 17th season, the 10-minute play festival features seven short plays written by Minnesota and Midwest playwrights, directed by and starring local Mankato talent!
Both nights of the festival will feature the same seven plays. Come to one or both!
Minnesota Shorts 10-Minute Play Festival
Welcome to the 17th Annual Minnesota Shorts Festival!
Join Merely Players Community Theatre in celebrating playwrights from Minnesota and across the Midwest.
What is Minnesota Shorts?
In its 17th season, the 10-minute play festival features seven short plays written by Minnesota and Midwest playwrights, directed by and starring local Mankato talent!
Both nights of the festival will feature the same seven plays. Come to one or both!
Twin Rivers Writers Series: Meet Author Laurie Hertzel
Enjoy an evening learning about the writing and experiences of author Laurie Hertzel!
Laurie has published short fiction— including the Thomas Wolfe Prize-winning Snapshots—and has reported from the former Soviet Union and Cuba. Her memoir, News to Me: Adventures of an Accidental Journalist, won a Minnesota Book Award.
Her new memoir, Ghosts of Fourth Street, was published this spring by the University of Minnesota Press.
UNDERWRITTEN BY:
THE BRYAN AND TAMI PAULSEN CHARITABLE FUND
Sensory Friendly Swim Event
Join Southern Minnesota Autism Coalition for their annual sensory swim event! They have rented out Tourtelotte pool and would love to have those with disabilities and their families join!
A HUGE thank you to Caravel for helping sponsor this event!
Sundown Sounds: Live Jazz on the Lawn
Spend your summer evenings with live jazz by Trading 4's Jazz Combo out on the lawn of the Carnegie! Bring your blanket or lawn chair, listen to fun music, enjoy local food trucks, and celebrate art and community!
Open to all, $20 suggested donations appreciated.
Healthy Habits with Mayo Clinic Health System
In collaboration with Mayo Clinic Health System, these summer programs celebrate summer activities and healthy habits! Covering topics like First Aide and CPR, being active and eating healthy, guests can enjoy infused water, crafts, informational hand outs and activities that support MCHS's Slim Your Screentime initiative!
Dates | Times | Topics
June 12 | 10-11:30am | Summer Safety, First Aide and CPR
July 10 | 10-11:30am | Being Active
August 14 | 10-11:30am | Nutrition and Allergies
This program is included with Museum daily admission or membership
COPAL South Central Committee Meeting
South Central Committee is focused on uplifting the Latino Community through advocacy, leadership, and event planning.
Register Here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/OAwLE91Vg0q5KzD2aeTKiA2
2026 Minnesota Senior Games - Mankato
Get ready for the 2026 Minnesota Senior Games in Mankato! This exciting multi-sport event is dedicated to motivating active adults aged 50 and over to lead a healthy lifestyle through friendly competition.
Join hundreds of athletes from across Minnesota and beyond as they compete in over 15 individual and team sports, including badminton, basketball, bowling, cycling, golf, pickleball, softball, swimming, tennis, track & field, and more!
Whether you're a seasoned athlete or looking to try something new, the Minnesota Senior Games offer a fantastic opportunity to stay active, connect with fellow participants, and celebrate the joy of healthy living.
Register now before registration closes on Monday, July 20! Visit the Minnesota Senior Games website to sign up and learn more: www.mnseniorgames.com
Contact Information:
Phone: 507-385-6660
Email: seniorgames@visitmankatomn.com
2026 Minnesota Senior Games
Get ready for the 2026 Minnesota Senior Games in Mankato! This exciting multi-sport event is dedicated to motivating active adults aged 50 and over to lead a healthy lifestyle through friendly competition.
Join hundreds of athletes from across Minnesota and beyond as they compete in over 15 individual and team sports, including badminton, basketball, bowling, cycling, golf, pickleball, softball, swimming, tennis, track & field, and more!
Whether you're a seasoned athlete or looking to try something new, the Minnesota Senior Games offer a fantastic opportunity to stay active, connect with fellow participants, and celebrate the joy of healthy living.
Register now before registration closes on Monday, July 20! Visit the Minnesota Senior Games website to sign up and learn more: www.mnseniorgames.com
Contact Information:
Phone: 507-385-6660
Email: seniorgames@visitmankatomn.com
July Community Volunteer Day at BEC Community Farm
Community members are invited to join us at the Community Farm from 5 -7 pm for an evening of volunteering! Many hands make light work, Living Earth Center and Blue Earth County Community Farm will be doing seasonal farm maintenance tasks such as, planting, watering, weeding, harvesting, and more!
***BONUS***
Dinner provided by LEC!
No experience necessary! Everyone is Welcome!
Registration is not required but appreciated for meal planning.
Registration link:
COPAL South Central Committee Meeting
South Central Committee is focused on uplifting the Latino Community through advocacy, leadership, and event planning.
Register Here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/EIeq114ED0W2dk4UNLxTiQ2
Sundown Sounds: Live Jazz on the Lawn
Spend your summer evenings with live jazz by Trading 4's Jazz Combo out on the lawn of the Carnegie! Bring your blanket or lawn chair, listen to fun music, enjoy local food trucks, and celebrate art and community!
Open to all, $20 suggested donations appreciated.
Healthy Habits with Mayo Clinic Health System
In collaboration with Mayo Clinic Health System, these summer programs celebrate summer activities and healthy habits! Covering topics like First Aide and CPR, being active and eating healthy, guests can enjoy infused water, crafts, informational hand outs and activities that support MCHS's Slim Your Screentime initiative!
Dates | Times | Topics
June 12 | 10-11:30am | Summer Safety, First Aide and CPR
July 10 | 10-11:30am | Being Active
August 14 | 10-11:30am | Nutrition and Allergies
This program is included with Museum daily admission or membership
ArtSplash Art Fair in North Mankato
The ArtSplash Art Fair is a local art fair that helps raise money for the North Mankato Taylor Library. The 21st Annual ArtSplash will be held on June 27th, 2026 in Wheeler Park. Enjoy local art, kid activities, live music, food trucks, and more!
Register to be a vendor here: https://app.amilia.com/.../city-of.../api/Program/Detail...
Standard fee is $35 for a 10'x10' space. Vendors under 18 can have a booth at no charge!
Adult Co-Ed Recreational Volleyball Tournament
TEAM FEE: $125 (9 Player max)
$25 late fee for registrations after June 19th.
10:00 a.m. team check-in / 10:30 a.m. start (Rosters due day of play- all players must have ID)
Whether you’re playing with friends, coworkers, or meeting new teammates, this tournament is all about fun, friendly competition, and enjoying a great day in the sand.
6 on 6 recreational, co-ed friendly format (3-male max on court)
Guaranteed multiple matches
Simplified rules
Emphasis on fun, inclusion, and sportsmanship
Perfect for social teams, and anyone looking to enjoy a fun day in the sun.
Each team is responsible for bringing their own volleyball for warm-ups. A game ball and official will be provided for each court.
Pool Play seeded down into Bracket play
Gold and Silver(tentative- based on # of teams) Brackets
Mankato Vintage "Outdoor Market"
Summer Outdoor Markets are BACK!
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Time: 10 am - 4 pm
Location: Mankato Vintage Market Parking Lot (1630 North Riverfront Drive, Mankato, MN)
Come and explore a variety of handmade goods, unique crafts, and local treasures. Every market has different vendors, so there's something for everyone to discover.
Vendor Applications Open!
Are you a local artisan or maker? Mankato Vintage Market would love to have you join us as a vendor! Secure your spot by filling out our vendor application form:
https://form.jotform.com/.../event-vendor-registration-form
Spaces are limited, so don't wait to apply! (Do not respond to anyone in the comments about taking applications first vendors. They are scams!)
Get ready for a day of community, creativity, and supporting local makers. Can't wait to see you there!
Daytrippers Theatre "Nobody's Perfect" - Adult Bus Trip
DayTrippers Theatre "Nobody's Perfect"
Leonard is thrilled when he hears his manuscript has the top prize, but equally disappointed to hear it can only be awarded in person to a female. To avoid forfeiting the prize, Leonard’s alter ego, Lulabelle Latifa is born-- and the real craziness begins!
Think “Some like it hot”, “Tootise” and “Mrs. Doubtfire”- a classic romantic comedy with a twist that has belly laughs galore.
Fri, Jun 26; 8:30 am-5:30 pm l Wow! Zone l $115
Registration Deadline: Mon, June 1, 2026
Register here: https://mankato.ce.eleyo.com/.../daytrippers-theatre..
June Community Volunteer Day at BEC Community Farm
You are invited to join the Bllue Earth Community Farm at the Farm from 5 -7 pm for an evening of volunteering! Many hands make light work, we will be doing seasonal farm maintenance tasks such as, planting, watering, weeding, harvesting, and more!
***BONUS***
Dinner provided by LEC!
No experience necessary! Everyone is Welcome!
Registration is not required but appreciated for meal planning.
Registration link:
Lunch and Learn at The Pillars of Mankato
Thinking about downsizing or simplifying your lifestyle? Join The Pillars of Mankato for a free Lunch & Learn.
Please join The Pillars for free lunch and a presentation from the downsizing experts, Caring Transitions. Learn how simplifying your home can create a safer, more manageable, and more enjoyable lifestyle. Whether you are planning a move, exploring senior living, or preparing for the future, this event offers practical guidance in a welcoming setting.
Wednesday, June 24, 2026
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Please reserve your spot by June 19. Seating is limited.
RSVP to Lisa Sandmann at 507-344-6771 or Lisa.Sandmann@Fairview.org
MCQC Concert: Taking the Stage
Join the Mankato Community Queer Choir as they return for their second concert performance, Taking the Stage! This vibrant celebration of song highlights the power of queer voices, community, and creative expression.
Building on the joy and energy of our debut concert, the choir invites you to experience a dynamic program filled with harmony, resilience, and pride. From uplifting anthems to heartfelt ballads, Taking the Stage highlights the diversity of identities and stories that make our community shine.
Whether you’re an OG supporter or attending for the first time, you’ll be welcomed into an inclusive space where music brings people together and every voice matters.
Come celebrate local talent, connection, and the magic of live performance. Let’s rise, sing, and take the stage together.
All are welcome. Bring your friends, your pride, and your love of music!
Tickets available at the door, with seating 30 minutes prior to the concert. $15 general admission via cash, PayPal, or Venmo.
Summer Solistice Celebration
SAVE THE DATE with Living Earth Center!!!
Plan to celebrate the longest day with your community!!
More details to follow - but expect a seasonal reflection, crafts, entertainment, and more!!
Event is free, with freewill donations greatly appreciated!
Preregistration is not required, but also appreciated.
register via link below:
Celebrate Juneteenth 2026
Please join The Greater Mankato Diversity Council for its 9th Annual Juneteenth Celebration! This year, it will have our annual Freedom Walk starting at 2:30 at the Shared Spaces building on 2nd St. The rest of the event will take place on the front lawn of the Mankato Civic Center. You can look forward to a day full of fun, food, music, speakers, vendors, and activities for kids/families. We can't wait to see you there! (Event will conclude at 7 PM. Please plan accordingly.)
CityArt in the Alley - Art and Play
Art + Play
Thursday, 6.18.26, 4-7pm
In the alley behind NaKato Bar & Grill
Presented by Gene Biewen and Noel Van tol
While Belgrade Avenue is under construction, CityArt is reimagining how art shows up in Lower North Mankato. CityArt in the Alley is a four-event series activating the Belgrade alleyway with art, experiences, and community throughout summer 2026.
Activities include:
Music Creation Station - Instrument Building Crafts and Music Jams for Kids, Babies/Toddlers and Adults by St. Paul’s and Jesus Loves Me Learning Center.
Antique Printing Press Demonstrations and Make + Take by Craig Kotasek of Tin Can Valley Printing Co. - Attendees will be able to make a letterpress print on an antique printing press, and learn how prints were made in the pre-digital era.
Live Painting by Noel Van Tol - Enjoy the art of our presenting sponsor.
Not-A-Box Arty Fort Building Station - Inspired by the book Not-A-Box by Antoinette Portis, The Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota will be building a box fort for children and families to add to and decorate throughout the event. Guests will also be able to create recycled art to take home using our cardboard tools, glue, tape and a variety of paper materials!
Sunnyside Puppeteers and Puppet Make + Take by Sidetracked - Alongside the Sunnyside Puppeteers, participants can experience and try their hands at a variety of puppet making styles, including felt, paper mache, and fabric. Materials for all styles will be provided and participants can bring their own puppet home.
Build, Bend and Sculpt Station - Create a sculpture you can take home. Plus, we'll be constructing our Spin & Sculpt community sculpture that began at May's event with the painting of slumped records.
CityArt in the Alley Community Mural Live Painting - Watch artists, Dana Sikkila and Dinah Langsjoen, begin their large-scale mural on the side of the NaKato Bar & Grill. Plus, youth can try their hand at mural painting on an adjacent panel.
North Mankato Taylor Library - The North Mankato Taylor Library Bookmobile will be onsite, offering books, resources and activities for children and families