Freeloader Friday: 77 Free Things To Do This Weekend

Easter parties, llamas, iron pours, rock shows, and psychics (alas, not all at the same time).

Apr. 3, 2026 at 11:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extremely blurred, impressionistic photograph composed of soft, warm-toned shapes and colors, evoking the atmosphere of a lively, community-focused weekend with free events, activities, and gatherings.Freeloader Friday's guide to a weekend filled with free community events, activities, and celebrations across Minneapolis and St. Paul.Minneapolis Today

Freeloader Friday is your weekly guide to having fun no matter what your budget looks like. Each week we have a list of 100% free events like gallery parties, music, and films in the park, as well as free admission events like special happy hours, markets, and more.

Why it matters

In a city with a high cost of living, Freeloader Friday provides a comprehensive list of free and low-cost events and activities that allow everyone to enjoy the vibrant arts, music, and community scenes in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

The details

The Freeloader Friday guide covers a wide range of free events happening across the Twin Cities metro area, including open mics, live music, art exhibits, farmers markets, family-friendly activities, and more. The events span Friday through Sunday, offering something for everyone's interests and budget.

  • The Freeloader Friday guide covers events happening from April 3-5, 2026.
  • Many of the events, such as the 30 Days of Biking challenge and the Bachman's Flower Show, run for longer durations beyond the weekend.

The players

Jessica Armbruster

The author of the Freeloader Friday guide, providing a comprehensive list of free events and activities happening in the Twin Cities.

Joyful Riders Club

A local organization that promotes the 30 Days of Biking challenge and updates its Facebook page with related events.

Goldstein Museum of Design

Hosting the "Illusive Objects" exhibition, which celebrates objects that trick the eye and brain.

Chicago Fire Arts Center

Hosting the Iron Pour event, where participants can watch the creation of cast iron art.

Unbreakabull

A dog rescue organization that will have adoptable dogs at the Tats for Tails event at Insight Brewing.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.