Minnesota’s Fall Arts and Entertainment, At a Glance

Whether you’re craving a night of live music, a thought-provoking play, or an immersive exhibit, this season’s lineup promises to inspire long after the leaves have fallen.

Minnesota Historical Society

With a mission to serve all people of Minnesota by creating powerful engagement with history to cultivate curiosity and foster a more inclusive, empathetic, and informed society, Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) operates 26 sites that represent the many stories contributing to the state’s history. At these sites, visitors can attend events and programming guided by knowledgeable interpreters for an immersive experience.

MNHS has a robust events calendar full of opportunities for historical tours, exploring natural environments, author events, concerts, and more. Content is presented in a variety of ways to serve various needs and interests, and there’s truly something for everyone. Those who are artistically inclined can take a class in photography or jewelry making; history buffs can visit sites and exhibits or take a guided walking tour; and families can visit with animals on a working farm. With new events, programs, and offerings being added all the time, there’s always something waiting to be discovered.

Open now at the Minnesota History Center, “Julia Child: A Recipe for Life” is an interactive traveling exhibition that explores the world of the iconic chef who changed the way America cooks. The exhibit highlights her passion for French cuisine, perseverance in a male-dominated field, and belief that cooking should be fun and accessible to all. With immersive displays, rare artifacts, and engaging multimedia, visitors can follow Childs’ journey from childhood to her time in Paris and groundbreaking television career. The exhibit also features an exclusive section showcasing vintage cookbooks from the Minnesota Historical Society’s collection. These pages offer more than just recipes—they reflect the traditions, values, and personalities of the people who created them.

Courtesy of Flying Fish Exhibits

MNHS has a vision that the people of Minnesota will be grounded in their personal, community, and state history, understanding how history shapes, inspires, and informs the present. As a result, they will be better citizens of their communities, their state, their country, and the world. Visit mnhs.org to get involved, visit historic sites, or buy tickets to exhibits and events.

Minnesota Historical Society; 651-259-3000; mnhs.org

Northrop

A state historic landmark situated at the heart of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus, Northrop has served as the University’s primary gathering place for performing arts, world-renowned dance performances, concerts, academic ceremonies, and major civic events for nearly 100 years. From international and local dance companies, musicians, and film screenings to comedy acts, speakers, and University lectures, Northrop offers opportunities for all ages to explore, learn, and engage.

Northrop is brimming with a large and diverse set of events this fall, inviting visitors to try something new and let it move, surprise, or inspire. Exceptional pairings jumpstart the 2025-26 Dance Series with visionary imagination. The renowned Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE pairs with local trailblazer TU Dance on a program showcasing three of his transformative works (Oct. 30), and Trisha Brown Dance Co. and Merce Cunningham Trust team up on Nov. 11 for a genre-blending creative ode to artist Robert Rauschenberg at Northrop—copresented with the Walker Art Center, and in conjunction with a Rauschenberg/Trisha Brown “Glacial Decoy” exhibit on view at the museum.

Photo by Andres Eccles

The 2025-26 Music Series deepens Northrop’s connection to the University of Minnesota’s School of Music and to local music pioneers. “Karl Ove Knausgård and Glenn Kotche: ‘Historia,’ Film by Johan Renck” (Nov. 2), copresented with the Walker Art Center, offers an immersive afternoon of words and music that celebrates collaboration, craft, and friendship with readings and performances of both new and familiar pieces from each collaborator, plus a conversation on the creative process.

Northrop will also host Elvis Costello & The Imposters with Charlie Sexton on Oct. 20, as well as several options for celebrating the holiday season. Internationally beloved Cirque du Soleil will dazzle patrons in “Twas the Night Before…” (Nov. 26-Dec. 7), a holiday show with thrilling acrobatics, lovable characters, and a soundtrack including reinvented holiday classics, presented by Hennepin Arts. Additional holiday magic includes VocalEssence’s “Welcome Christmas” (Dec. 13), Twin Cities Ballet’s “A Minnesota Nutcracker” (Dec. 16-17), and Northrop’s presentation of “Sounds of the Season” (Dec. 20), a relaxed, family-
friendly matinee where Zelek will perform songs from “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” among other favorites.

Northrop consistently offers something to ignite everyone’s imagination. Tickets can be purchased anytime at northrop.umn.edu or by phone.

Northrop; 612-624-2345; northrop.umn.edu

Minneapolis Institute of Art

With a range of unique programming, exhibitions, and events throughout the year, Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) aims to make art accessible, encouraging curiosity, exploration, and self-expression for people of all ages. From open studios where visitors can experiment creatively to performances and events that showcase the best of the local cultural landscape, Mia’s Programming team continuously finds new ways for people to engage with art. The museum partners with organizations, artists, and educators to create spaces for gathering and connection where everyone is welcome—and unlike many major museums, general admission to Mia is always free and open to everyone.

For visitors unfamiliar with artistic expression or multisensory experiences, Mia emphasizes that art is for feeling, exploring, and connecting, and it’s not just for the experts. With over 545,000 square feet to explore, visitors can take their time at the museum, and the helpful guides and staff are always available to assist or answer questions.

Courtesy of Mia

Exhibitions, Tours, and More

This fall at Mia, visitors can experience art through a vibrant mix of exhibitions, programs, and events for all ages. The galleries are always rotating, so visitors can expect to enjoy something different each time they stop by. “Royal Bronzes: Cambodian Art of the Divine” opens on Oct. 25 in Mia’s Target Gallery—this groundbreaking exhibition will showcase exquisite bronze artistry from the Khmer Empire, featuring more than 200 objects, including a colossal sculpture of the Hindu god Vishnu. Tickets for special exhibitions are available online or at Mia’s front desk.

Keep an eye out for events like the Inspired by Books Public Tours, where visitors can join lively discussions of artworks related to popular books, facilitated by a museum guide. On Oct. 30, head to The Object LIVE! Halloween Party for a live recording of Mia’s award-winning podcast, “The Object,” plus spooky-themed artmaking, a costume contest, live music, and more. Save the date for a special Black Friday morning at Mia on Nov. 28, when the museum will open early and offer family activities, treats, and free access to the “Royal Bronzes: Cambodian Art of the Divine” exhibition.

Beyond the Galleries

Mia offers a variety of free programming and activities to keep kids and adults inspired, including a monthly Family Day, open-studio programs, and the Family Center. For couples looking for a fun date night, join Meet at Mia on Thursday evenings for free live music, artmaking, special programs, and unique food and drinks (for purchase). Mia also hosts a series of art-inspired culinary and wine adventures through the Mia After Dark series. Each event features exhibition-inspired food, wine, and spirits experiences held after hours in the museum’s galleries. Tickets for Mia After Dark are available online.

Courtesy of Mia

Through a blend of community-focused programming, curated exhibitions, and inclusive educational efforts, Mia consistently finds creative ways to inspire wonder through the power of art. Visitors can find more information about all of Mia’s upcoming happenings at artsmia.org/programs.

Mia; 888-642-2787; artsmia.org

Minnesota Orchestra

The Minnesota Orchestra regularly represents the artistic excellence of its state on the national and international stage. The ensemble has traveled extensively around the state of Minnesota, as well as to more than 600 cities in 20 countries, including six trips to Europe in the past 20 years and notable visits to Cuba in 2015 and South Africa in 2018. Today, the Orchestra also shares its artistry through “This Is Minnesota Orchestra” performances that are televised throughout the state and streamed internationally. With 175 concerts each year, there are many ways to explore the Minnesota Orchestra, allowing concertgoers to create the experiences they want—from classical presentations of Tchaikovsky, Beethoven, and Shostakovich to sensory-friendly concerts for patrons of all ages, including individuals with autism or sensory sensitivities.

Although Orchestra Hall is situated in downtown Minneapolis, it takes pride in being the “Minnesota” Orchestra. The Orchestra is proud to say that residents from every county attend at least one concert in a typical year. As an example of this commitment, its Young People’s Concerts bring students from across the metro and state to Orchestra Hall to experience live symphonic music. With every program and project it undertakes, the Orchestra aims to enrich, inspire, and serve its community, a mission carried out through performances by the world’s greatest classical artists; tours, recordings, and broadcasts that touch listeners across the state and world; and educational concerts that connect with tens of thousands of young people each year, often introducing them to classical music
for the first time.

With each new season, the Orchestra strives to bring new ideas and unique voices to the stage, making orchestral music meaningful and relevant to a broader audience. The 2025-26 season marks the third led by Music Director Thomas Søndergård. Season highlights will include the return of the Nordic Soundscapes festival in January; Søndergård conducting music for voices and orchestra, including “Brahms Requiem” with the Minnesota Chorale in November and various vocal soloists throughout the season; and the return of Dessa, who will share the stage with the Minnesota Orchestra in November.

Photo by Darrell Owens

In December, the Orchestra’s holiday offerings will feature a family-friendly concert and singalong with pop composer Cody Fry; a unique “Nutcracker” featuring cirque dance group Troupe Vertigo; trumpeter Charles Lazarus and special guests marking the season with their annual ”Merry & Bright” program; U.S. Bank Movies & Music performances of “The Muppet Christmas Carol” and “The Princess Bride”; and a New Year’s celebration with pianist Aaron Diehl.

Photo by Courtney Perry

The Orchestra offers discounted tickets for guests under 40, educators, seniors, and students—including free admission for youth to Family, Sensory-friendly, and most Classical concerts through its Hall Pass program. Season ticket packages let you bundle concerts, save on tickets, and unlock exclusive offers all year. For tickets to this fall’s upcoming events, including a screening of the classic 1985 film “The Goonies” with the score performed live by the Orchestra (Oct. 24-25), visit minnesotaorchestra.org/tickets.

Minnesota Orchestra; 612-371-5656; minnesotaorchestra.org

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres (CDT) is a favorite one-stop entertainment destination where guests will enjoy a delicious dinner followed by a spectacular live musical theater performance, concert, or comedy show. This fall, CDT offers an exciting array of shows on its stages. On the Main Stage, you won’t want to miss Irving Berlin’s White Christmas running Oct. 10-Feb. 7. This classic musical returns by popular demand in its final run. Loaded with your favorite Irving Berlin songs and electric tap numbers, White Christmas is a family-friendly, crowd-pleasing show.

In the Fireside Theatre this fall, enjoy concerts including high-caliber tributes to Prince, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Tom Petty, Whitney Houston, Queen, James Taylor, Seals & Crofts, Pink Floyd, The Three Tenors, and so many more. And in the Playhouse, Stevie Ray’s Comedy Cabaret features interactive comedy improv every Friday and Saturday evening, where laughs are the specialty of the house. Another nice bonus is free and ample parking right on site for all guests. Chanhassen Dinner Theatres is your home for all things entertainment.

Photo by Dan Norman

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres; 952-934-1525; chanhassendt.com

Minnesota Marine Art Museum

Situated on the Mississippi River, the Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM) is poised to not only present traditional marine art but also push the boundaries of what marine art is and can be.

On Oct. 2-5, MMAM presented the third annual Upper Mississippi Plein Air Experience, a weekend of workshops, exhibitions, presentations, and public programs bringing together today’s urban sketchers and traditional plein air painters. The museum’s hands-on workshops celebrate a variety of art forms, each tailored to different ages, interests, and levels of experience. Additionally, MMAM’s Seasonal Saturdays are great opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the museum’s programming. Enjoy $1 admission, guided tours, artmaking activities, live music in the galleries, and more. Upcoming Seasonal Saturday dates include Nov. 8 and Feb. 14.

Photo by Bailey Bolton

Minnesota Marine Art Museum; 507-474-6626; mmam.org

Twin Cities Ballet

Get ready for a thrilling season of dance, drama, and unforgettable storytelling from Twin Cities Ballet (TCB), the Twin Cities’ foremost ballet company. The season kicks off with one of the year’s biggest artistic collaborations—a bold revival of Loyce Houlton’s iconic “Carmina Burana.” This raw, sensuous journey set to Carl Orff’s epic score features TCB dancers with live music from the Minnesota Chorale, renowned vocalists, and top-tier musicians in a total theater experience. Then, celebrate the holiday season with TCB’s acclaimed “A Minnesota Nutcracker,” running Dec. 12-14 at the Ames Center and Dec. 16-17 at Northrop. Created and choreographed by Denise and Rick Vogt, the production maintains the essential traditions, story, and music cherished by so many—but with a Minnesota twist.

Photo by Brianne Bland Photography

In 2026, audiences can look forward to the return of the smash-hit “Romeo & Juliet: The Rock Ballet,” set to the music of Queen, and the family favorite “Narnia: The Ballet.”

Twin Cities Ballet; 952-452-3162; twincitiesballet.org

Mizna

Mizna presents contemporary, critical, and experimental art, writing, and film centering the work of Arab and Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) artists. The organization offers readings, film series, performances, public art commissions, and community events that have featured 1,000-plus local and transnational writers, filmmakers, and artists. Mizna’s 2025 Twin Cities Arab Film Festival, the largest and longest-running SWANA-centered film festival in the Midwest, took place Sept. 24-28 at the Main Cinema and Walker Art Center. This year’s lineup visualized and enacts solidarity—politically, spiritually, and relationally—and the films envisioned a shared world, where our connections become assets and tools to reshape our values and reimagine our futures together.

Photo by Bruce Silcox

Mizna; 612-788-6920; mizna.org

The O’Shaughnessy

Located on the beautiful campus of St. Catherine University in St. Paul’s Highland Park neighborhood, The O’Shaughnessy presents world-class art. Its programming leans into the organization’s values of women’s leadership, inclusive excellence, and social justice, curated through the lens of centering women and BIPOC voices. This fall, The O’Shaughnessy will host a range of diverse and broadly appealing events featuring musicians, writers, and storytellers, including Ta-Nehisi Coates—an award-winning author, journalist, and the Sterling Brown Endowed Chair in the English department at Howard University. Audiences can join Coates for a conversation at 6 p.m. on Oct. 23.

Courtesy of The O’Shaughnessy

The O’Shaughnessy; 651-690-6700; oshag.stkate.edu

All My Relations Arts

All My Relations Arts (AMRA) is Minnesota’s premier American Indian-owned and operated contemporary arts gallery, working to provide the audiences of the Twin Cities, greater Minnesota, and beyond with high-quality exposure to Native American arts. Admission is free and open to the public. This fall, AMRA is hosting “Matrilineal Memory,” a solo exhibition from Hopi artist Mikaela Shafer that explores memory, emotion, and cultural preservation through paintings, poetry, and installation. Visit allmyrelationsarts.org for more information on upcoming events.

Photo by TJ Turner

All My Relations Arts; 612-425-4675; allmyrelationsarts.org

Theater Latté Da

Based in Northeast Minneapolis, Theater Latté Da (TLD) is the leading nonprofit professional theater in Minnesota that exclusively produces new and reimagined musical theater. TLD creates new and impactful connections between story, music, artist, and audience. Some 40,000 audience members and over 300 theatermakers engage with TLD each season (September-May) through five full productions, the NEXT Festival of New Musicals, special events and concerts, and more. The company opens its 2025-26 season with its 100th production, “Journey On: A 100th Show Cabaret Celebration”—a cabaret-style bash packed with powerhouse performances by Latté Da luminaries—followed by the classic, family-friendly Lerner and Loewe musical, “My Fair Lady.” Tickets can be purchased online, over the phone, or in person.

Photo by Dan Norman

Theater Latté Da; 612-339-3003; latteda.org

History Theatre

History Theatre has boldly crafted engaging narratives that delve into Minnesota’s rich history and the diverse American experience for more than 40 years. This work provides a unique lens that connects our history to the present, exploring our common heritage and illuminating what it means to be American. This fall, don’t miss​  “Rollicking! A Winter Carnival Musical” (Nov. 20-Dec. 21), and the annual Raw Stages New Works Festival (Oct. 16-19), as the History Theatre celebrates 30 years of commissioning and developing innovative new plays.

Photo by Rick Spaulding

History Theatre; 651-292-4323; historytheatre.com

This showcase appeared in our Sept/Oct print issue as a special advertising section.