Owámni Falling Water Festival

The Owámni Falling Water Festival returns to Father Hennepin Park on Saturday, October 26, a day dedicated to Minnesota's Indigenous communities and cultures. The name itself sets the scene: Owámni is the Dakota word for whirling or falling water, what the Dakota people called the area around St. Anthony Falls. It's a fitting name for a celebration held along the Mississippi River, right where the water actually drops.

The day is built around live performances, with dozens of artisan vendors and makers, non-profit organizations, dance, and hands-on games and art activities. It's a wide-reaching mix—you can watch a performance, browse the stalls, and then get involved with the activities. The food comes from local favorites like the Sioux Chef, Tatanka Truck, Pow-wow Grounds, Wanna Wota, and Cones and Cream, so there's plenty to eat while you're there.

Beyond Father Hennepin Park, the festival also reaches into Mill Ruins Park and Water Works Park, stretching the celebration across the riverfront. It's billed as a free, all-ages event, so it works just as well for a solo stroll as it does for bringing the whole family. Admission is free, and the activities run throughout the day on Saturday, October 26.