52nd Annual Twin Cities Auto Show is April 11–13 and 16–19 at Minneapolis Convention Center

The 52nd Annual Twin Cities Auto Show presented by Kwik Trip will roll into the Minneapolis Convention Center, April 11–13 and 16–19. The event, the largest consumer show in the Upper Midwest, is produced by the Greater Metropolitan Automobile Association of Minnesota, Inc. (GMADA).

The Twin Cities Auto Show is the place to compare hundreds of new vehicles in every category all under one roof. Guests can check out compacts, SUVs, trucks, EVs, luxury cars - from domestic and imported brands - without driving to dealerships around town. The Twin Cities Auto Show is a non-selling show. 

Here are some of the popular features and attractions returning this year: 

• The Electric Vehicle Neighborhood allows you to meet EV experts and see for yourself how low-impact and convenient electric vehicle ownership can be for you. 

• Discover some of Minnesota’s most glamourous vehicles along Luxury Lane, a must-see for both automotive enthusiasts as well as casual car fans. 

• The popular Camp Jeep is back and will be ready to take guests on an obstacle course ride that covers over 30,000 square feet and brings riders up an 18’ tall indoor mountain! Professional drivers will bring you over true off-road situations that push the Trail Rated Jeep's capabilities. 

• Unique Classic Cars of Mankato will display a variety of meticulously restored vintage vehicles. Immerse yourself in automotive history!

• Great opportunities to not just look at the new rides on the show floor, but to truly experience them with test drives of standard and electric vehicles. 

• Subaru will be hosting a dog adoption exhibit with Midwest Animal Rescues and Services as part of their Subaru Loves Pets Campaign. 

• The 2025 Car of the Show is the Honda Passport. This powerful and trail-ready SUV will be on display near the main entrance of the show and within the Honda display. 

• Minnesota State Patrol Troopers will be on hand to talk about their mission to keep people safe on the roads. The troopers will have some of their squad cars on view, including a 1954 Ford and 1979 Dodge St. Regis.

* * Highlights of the 2025 Twin Cities Auto Show * *

Celebrity Appearance: Meet Jaime Hjelm from Netflix’s “TexMex Motors”

Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13

Jaime Hjelm’s journey in the custom automotive scene began with a personal project—a 1962 Pontiac Bonneville, “The Chief.” This custom lowrider earned numerous trophies and titles at Lowrider Magazine Shows and World of Wheels Shows from 1997 to 2002.

As a trailblazer, Jaime has paved the way for women in automotive since the late 1990s, building a legacy of quality, style, and grit that continues to inspire.

Celebrity Appearance: Meet Constance Nunes of Netflix’s “Car Masters: Rust to Riches”

Friday, April 18 and Saturday, April 19

Constance Nunes – “A Glam Girl Wrenching in a Boy’s World” - has over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry. She is the CEO and lead mechanic, designer, and builder at CARS By Constance in Southern California.

Constance stars as the lead mechanic on the Netflix original series, “Car Master: Rust to Riches,” where she has helped the team at Gotham Garage build unique specialty cars.

Cars Against Crime Foundation™ – Display of Movie and TV Cars

Once again, the Twin Cities Auto Show will spotlight the works of the local nonprofit, Cars Against Crime Foundation™. 

The mission of this charitable organization is to use their fleet of iconic television and movie vehicles to raise funds for Police, Fire, First Responders, and Everyday Heroes.

On display will be more than a dozen classic rides as the Scooby Doo Mystery Machine and multi generations of the Batmobile. 

For more info or to donate, visit carsagainstcrime.org. GMADA is pleased to provide FREE admission to the Auto Show to police, fire fighters, EMTs with ID. 

Get Your Auto Show Tickets at Kwik Trip 

Kwik Trip will sell Twin Cities Auto Show tickets at select stores around the Twin Cities. Tickets sold at Kwik Trip stores for $11 each, that’s a $6 savings off the door price. Kwik Rewards members may have the chance for additional perks. 

Plus, attendees will be able to register onsite every day of the show to win FREE fuel for a year, compliments of Kwik Trip. No purchase necessary. 

Career in Cars Day – April 16 

The Minnesota Auto Dealers Association (MADA) is hosting a day to showcase the careers available in the retail auto industry for young adults and job seekers. 

Career in Cars Day is Wednesday, April 16 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

Those who register in advance will receive free admission to the Show, and a complimentary Auto Show t-shirt (while supplies last).

Dates / hours: 

Friday, April 11           10am – 8pm

Saturday, April 12      10am – 8pm

Sunday, April 13         10am – 5pm

Monday, April 14               Closed

Tuesday, April 15                Closed

Wednesday, April 16  10am – 8pm

Thursday, April 17       10am – 8pm

Friday, April 18             10am – 8pm

Saturday, April 19        10am – 8pm

.

Tickets:

Adults (16+)  $11 at participating Kwik Trip locations

                      $13 online at TwinCitiesAutoShow.com

                      $17 at the door

                      $10 on Wednesday and Thursday

Teens (11 – 15) $6 / Children 10 and under FREE

Police, Fire Fighters, and EMTs receive FREE admission at the door with ID.

Something for Everyone - April Events in Downtown Parks

April is packed with opportunities to explore, create, and connect at Downtown Parks! Whether you're dancing at the Pavilion, discovering local vendors, or diving into a great book, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendar and make the most of this month’s exciting lineup.

Ziigwan Style: Painted Parfleche Elk Hide Earring Workshop
Sunday, April 6 | 2-4 pm
Water Works Park

We’re thrilled to host Mashkiki Studios for a unique hands-on experience! Create your own pair of elk hide earrings (parfleche) inspired by the Ojibwe spring season, drawn from plant medicines, animals, and landscapes. Learn painting techniques, how to seal your artwork, and how to assemble earring hardware while exploring stories of renewal and connection to the land.

What to expect:

• Paint elk hide with your own spring-inspired design

• Learn to seal your creation and assemble earring hardware

• Discover the teachings of Ziigwan (spring), traditional parfleche, and sacred plants

• Hear Ojibwe stories that root us in culture and creativity

Enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks, including cedar tea and refreshing pine needle soda. All materials are provided—no experience necessary! Register

Movies Made (right) Here:  Little Big League
Sunday, April 6 | Doors: 3 pm, Showtime: 3:30 pm
Nicollet Island Pavilion
Free Parking. Free Admission.

Step up to the plate for a screening of Little Big League, a classic baseball film shot right here in Minneapolis—within two miles of Nicollet Island Pavilion! When 12-year-old Billy Heywood unexpectedly inherits the Minnesota Twins, he takes on the challenge of managing the team himself. Featuring iconic local landmarks and a story full of humor, heart, and hometown pride, this feel-good favorite is a must-see for sports fans and film lovers alike.

Save your seat by registering here

Park Palette: Visible Mending
Monday, April 7 | 6:30-8:30 pm
Water Works Pavilion

Bring life and color back into your favorite clothes! Learn visible mending techniques for lightweight to medium fabrics. We will use patches on frayed edges and even darn small holes using needle and thread. Explore designs and learn how to fix and personalize your clothes. Each registration is for one participant, and space is limited—reserve your spot today!

Cost: $15 residents | $22.50 non-residents

Register for Visible Mending Here

Dancing in the Pavilion: Salsa with Erika
Sunday, April 13 | Doors: 2:45 pm, Lessons: 3 pm
Nicollet Island Pavilion

Get ready to spice up your Sunday with Salsa at the Pavilion! Join Erika for an exciting evening of Latin dance, where you'll learn the fundamentals of salsa in a fun and welcoming environment. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced dancer, this is the perfect opportunity to move your body and meet new people. No partner required—just bring your enthusiasm!

Sign up to Salsa

Park Palette: Decor-It-Yourself
Monday, April 14 | 6:30-8:30 pm
Water Works

Get crafty and creative with our Decor-It-Yourself workshop! Whether you're prepping for a house party or just want to add some personal flair to your space on a budget, this class will teach you how to repurpose common materials into custom decorations. We’ll cover practical and sustainable crafting techniques that fit your style. No experience required—just bring your enthusiasm!

Cost: $15 residents | $22.50 non-residents

Register to Decor!

Minnesota, A Literary Powerhouse: Spring Book Club
Monday, April 21 | 6:30-7:30 pm
Water Works

This month, we will be reading and reviewing Desolation Mountain by William Kent Krueger. To Stephen O’Connor, Hamlet’s dour observation is more than just words. All his life, he has had visions of tragedies to come. When he experiences the vision of a great bird shot from the sky, he knows something terrible is about to happen. The crash of a private plane on Desolation Mountain in a remote part of the Iron Lake Reservation, which kills a United States senator and most of her family, confirms Stephen’s worst fears.

Cost: $15 residents | $22.50 non-residents

Nicollet Island Spring Market
Sunday, April 27 | 10 am-4 pm
Nicollet Island

The Nicollet Island Spring Market returns! Shop from 50 unique vendors inside the historic Nicollet Island Pavilion, featuring a mix of new and returning makers. From child entrepreneurs showcasing their first creations to retirees sharing lifelong crafts, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy live music while you browse, and grab beverages and snacks available for purchase from Mintahoe. Don't miss this vibrant celebration of local creativity and community!

Park Palette: Kumihimo Braiding
Monday, April 28 | 6:30-8:30 pm
Water Works

Learn the art of braiding with a variety of materials! We’ll explore classic braiding styles you may already know and introduce you to the beautiful circular Kumihimo technique. Create bracelets, cords, and other accessories while mastering how to start and finish your projects. Materials like thread, yarn, and discs are provided—just bring your creativity!

Cost: $15 residents | $22.50 non-residents

Braiding Registration

We’re Hiring: Downtown Park Attendant - Seasonal 

Join our team as a Park Event Attendant and help support park activities, set up and tear down equipment for events like Music and Movies in the Park, park markets, sports leagues, and more. You’ll act as a friendly representative for Downtown Parks, assisting visitors with information while working outdoors in one of the premier park systems in the U.S. Whether you're into recreation, environmental education, maintenance, or customer service, we have a job for you! Apply today and gain new skills, meet new people, and contribute to a vibrant, community-driven environment.

Join Our Team!

Join us throughout April for a mix of movement, creativity, and community! Whether you're learning something new or simply enjoying time with friends, Downtown Parks is the place to be. See you there!

Downtown Minneapolis Parks

The Commons Park - 425 Portland Avenue South

Gateway Park - 1 1st Street South

Graco Park - 15 8th Ave Northeast

Nicollet Island Park - 40 Power Street

North Loop Park - 731 N 3rd St 

Water Works at Mill Ruins Park - 425 West River Parkway

Questions? Email Aisling Reynolds, areynolds@minneapolisparks.org.

Minneapolis Downtown Parks

Minneapolis Downtown Parks

It’s Film Festival Time!

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

44th Annual Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival

MSP Film Society is Minnesota’s foremost film exhibition organization, bringing the best international and independent films to us via the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival (MSPIFF). Susan Smoluchowski, Executive Director, calls the Film Society "our community’s arthouse," and she’s right. This year’s festival – the 44th annual – has over 200 films, 55 languages represented, early career films and Oscar (and other awards) winning directors, documentaries, comedies, ancillary panels showcasing the best in the cinema industry, and two weeks of parties! Principals from the films will be available at the screenings, too. You may choose program tracks (Artful Visions, Breakthroughs, Dark Out, Documentaries, Films for Families and more) or Themes (BIPOC stories, Cine Latino, Images of Africa, MN Made and more). The festival runs April 2-13, with locations across the Twin Cities. Get tickets here.

We asked MSP Film Society insiders about their favorites in the upcoming festival:

Susan Smoluchowski - Smoluchowski has several top picks but selects Free Leonard Peltier, the Opening Night Film for special consideration. Directed by Jesse Short Bull and David France, Smoluchowski highlights the film’s message that reminds us all to be vigilant in the face of injustice. Peltier’s life sentence was commuted by President Joe Biden in the final hours of his presidency, allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under home confinement, rather than in prison. He has not yet been pardoned. The film will be shown on three screens on opening night, followed by the Opening Night Party at the A-Mill Artist Lofts. MSP Film is partnering with Owamni for the Opening Night Party. All those who attend the film are invited to the party.

Samalia in the Picture

Jesse Bishop, Programming Director – Bishop selects the world premiere of Somalia in the Picture for your attention. Somalia in the Picture traces a century of cinema in Mogadishu, where today gorgeous movie palaces lay in ruin. Director Mark Brecke will attend the showing. Following the screening on April 10, we’ll be able to meet the film makers for tea and treats at Pracna. 

Craig Rice, Senior Programmer – Rice notes that many films touch on local subjects. The People’s Way, focusing on the intersection of East 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis, George Floyd Square.  Three community organizers - Jeanelle Austin, Toshira Garraway, and Robin Wonsley - embark on interweaving journeys after George Floyd’s murder to care for their communities, find inner healing, and forge a path towards black liberation. Film makers and film participants will be in attendance. A special Capri Theater screening on April 10 includes a pay what you can option.

Kelly Nathe, Programmer and Publicity Director – Nathe highlights the incredible number of films with Minnesota ties and recommends Brooklyn, Minnesota. Writers/Directors Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen and some cast members will attend the screenings. The movie was filmed in the Twin Cities and around Lake Minnetonka. If you love seeing images of Minnesota on the big screen, this one is for you. 

Kathie Smith, Programmer, recommends DJ Ahmet. How many coming of age Macedonian films have you seen? The preview introduced us to Ahmet, a teenage shepherd from North Macedonia, a young man who loves music and is frustrated by his father’s short-sightedness and community’s limitations. It’s a gorgeous romance that is easy to recommend. The film won a Special Jury Prize and an Audience Award at the 2025 Sundance Festival.

This is just a very brief summary of festival favorites. Please check the Guidebook – pick a ticket package and get ready for the biggest film event of the year.