Anoka Riverfest & Craft Fair returns on Saturday, July 11, 2026, bringing thousands of visitors to historic downtown Anoka for one of Minnesota’s most beloved summer traditions. Running from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., this juried outdoor festival showcases more than 150 hand‑crafted artists, an incredible lineup of food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities — all powered by dedicated volunteers who keep the spirit of Riverfest alive year after year.
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🎨 Hand‑Crafted Goods & Local Artistry
More than 150 artists fill the streets with one-of-a-kind creations. Because Riverfest is a juried event, every product is guaranteed to be 100% hand-crafted by the vendor. Shoppers can explore:
• Handmade clothing and accessories
• Jewelry ranging from minimalist to bold statement pieces
• Soaps and lotions crafted with care
• Home and outdoor décor
• Furniture built by local makers
• Specialty foods and small-batch treats
It’s one of the largest gatherings of Minnesota artisans — a perfect place to shop local and discover new favorites.
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🎶 Live Music Throughout Downtown
Riverfest’s signature buskers return for 2026, performing at multiple locations throughout the day. These musicians bring energy, charm, and spontaneity to the festival atmosphere — offering free entertainment for visitors of all ages.
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🍋 Food Court Favorites: Something for Every Craving
This year’s food court is packed with crowd-pleasing classics, global flavors, and sweet treats. Here’s the full lineup:
• Blue Star Kettle Corn — Kettle Corn
• Hennen’s Hungry Hauler — Fresh-Squeezed Lemonade, Snow Cones
• Grigg’s Cuisine — Gyros, Chicken on Pita, Greek Salad, Baklava
• KCM Eggrolls — Jumbo Egg Rolls on a Stick, Cream Cheese Wontons, Avocado Spring Rolls
• Brain Freeze Ice Cream — Novelty Ice Cream
• St. Katharine Drexel K of C — Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Chips, Dill Pickle on a Stick
• Blue House Corn Co. — Churros, Lotus Energy Drinks, Roasted Corn, Mexican Street Corn
• Anoka Knights of Columbus — Corn Dogs, Cheese Curds, Pop
• Anoka Women of Today — Walking Tacos, Pop
• Anoka Lions Club — Root Beer, Floats, Brats, Hot Dogs
• G‑Spot — Tacos, Spanish Rice, Skillet Street Corn, Chocolate Bacon, Tortilla Twists
• Youniverse Foodie — Waffles, Chicken & Waffles, Fruit Toppings
• Maui Wowi — Coffee, Fruit Smoothies
• Griddle on the Go — Philly Sandwiches, Burgers, Hot Dogs
• Ku Ma In — Lumpia, Skewers, Lechon
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🎨 Chalk Art for Kids (and Kids at Heart)
From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., families are invited to join the Chalk Art Zone behind City Hall. Artists of all ages can create drawings celebrating friendship, love, and kindness.
• All artwork must remain unprejudiced and nonpolitical
• Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult
It’s a colorful, creative way to make memories at Riverfest.
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🌊 A Celebration Rooted in Community
Anoka Riverfest™ began in 1998 following Anoka’s 120th anniversary celebration. By 1999, the event officially adopted the Riverfest name — honoring Anoka’s unique location at the meeting point of the Rum and Mississippi Rivers.
Today, more than 15,000 visitors attend each year. The event continues to be organized entirely by volunteers and honors the legacy of co-founder Bonnie Stoll (1949–2008).
Those interested in volunteering can contact the Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce at
763-421-7130.
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🏞️ A Perfect Summer Day in Historic Downtown Anoka
Whether you’re coming for the shopping, the food, the music, or the community spirit, Anoka Riverfest & Craft Fair offers a full day of unforgettable experiences. Bring your family, invite your friends, and enjoy one of the Twin Cities’ most cherished summer traditions.