Listeners, Minneapolis-Saint Paul is buzzing with excitement this week, so get ready to experience some of the Twin Cities' most vibrant happenings. Today, July 12th, one of Saint Paul's summer highlights, Art at St. Kate's, takes over the beautiful green on the St. Catherine University campus. This one-day outdoor art fair brings together 100 juried artists offering everything from paintings to pottery, plus plenty of chance to chat with local creatives. The fair runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is a perfect stop for art lovers or anyone looking to soak up a lively, community vibe, as noted by Minnesota Monthly.

Over at the Xcel Energy Center, Monster Jam is making a thunderous return to St. Paul for the first time in over 30 years. Catch these legendary monster trucks roaring, jumping, and spinning through epic shows on Saturday at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and again on Sunday at 1 p.m. According to Xcel Energy Center, it promises jaw-dropping stunts and a family-friendly spectacle for fans of all ages.

For a taste of local culture and delicious bites, The Black Market is hosting its Black Business Is Beautiful marketplace today. It’s more than just shopping—it’s a celebration of art, music, food, and community with over 60 vendors, games, and product demos. The market is open throughout the day and offers something different with every visit, Minnesota Monthly highlights.

Bring your curiosity over to Historic Forestville for the Bat Festival, where you’ll find hands-on activities, educational programs, and interactive exhibits about these fascinating nocturnal creatures. The festival gives visitors of all ages a new appreciation for bats and their role in our ecosystems.

Families looking for weekend adventures should check out several classic community festivals featured in Family Fun Twin Cities. Andover Family Fun Fest is happening, with inflatables, princess meet-and-greets, and fireworks to top off Saturday night. Robbinsdale is bursting with activity thanks to Whiz Bang Days, which features a parade, live music, a KidsDance DJ, book walk, and plenty of food trucks. Young ones will love the duck race at Monticello Riverfest on Saturday, and Sunday brings a festive parade and a pop-up splash pad.

Literary-minded listeners can catch a book signing for Rocky’s Lighthouse Adventure with author Deborah Winchell and illustrator Renee Andriani at 1 p.m. in Saint Paul, according to Minnesota Monthly. You can also join Molly Beth Griffin’s outdoor reading of her poetry book Rings of Heartwood at Historic Forestville at 1:30 p.m.

Looking for ongoing experiences? Lowertown Sounds continues its run of Thursday evening concerts in St. Paul’s Mears Park right through August, serving up live music and food trucks in a festive setting, according to the Saint Paul events calendar.

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