7 Must-See Events At The 90th Annual Hopkins Raspberry Festival 2024: The Full Insider’s Guide
The Hopkins Raspberry Festival, a beloved Minnesota tradition that celebrates the city's unique history as the "Raspberry Capital of the World," is set to return for its monumental 90th anniversary. This year’s festival, scheduled for July 17-21, 2024, promises five days of community spirit, family fun, and, of course, a whole lot of raspberry-themed excitement.
From the high-energy Grande Day Parade to the secretive Hunt for the Golden Raspberry, the 2024 event is a vibrant slice of Minnesota summer culture, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to the historic Mainstreet Hopkins area. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned festival-goer, this guide provides the essential, up-to-date details you need to experience the very best of this landmark community celebration.
The Essential Guide to the 2024 Raspberry Festival: Dates, History, and Location
The Hopkins Raspberry Festival has a rich and enduring history that dates back to the Great Depression. The event was first established in 1935 by local businessmen as a way to boost morale and stimulate commerce during challenging economic times.
Why Hopkins is the "Raspberry Capital":
In the 1920s, the area that is now Hopkins, Minnesota, was a hub for commercial raspberry farming, with vast fields producing massive harvests. This abundance earned Hopkins the self-proclaimed, yet widely accepted, title of the "Raspberry Capital of the World." Although the large-scale farming has long since ceased, the festival proudly honors this unique agricultural heritage, ensuring the city's past is celebrated alongside its present.
Key Festival Details:
- Official Dates: Wednesday, July 17, 2024, through Sunday, July 21, 2024.
- Anniversary: 90th Annual Celebration.
- Primary Location: The heart of the festival centers around Mainstreet Hopkins, where the parade, Marketplace Fair, and many other events take place.
7 Must-See Events and Attractions for the 90th Anniversary
The 2024 schedule is packed with traditional favorites and new activities. To maximize your experience, focus on these seven cornerstone events that define the spirit of the Hopkins Raspberry Festival:
1. The Grande Day Parade (Sunday, July 21, 2024)
The culmination of the five-day celebration is the Grande Day Parade, one of the largest and most anticipated parades in the Twin Cities metro area. It features dozens of floats, marching bands, visiting royalty from other Minnesota festivals, local organizations, and the newly crowned Raspberry Royalty.
- Route Details: The parade runs along Mainstreet, starting near 5th Avenue and proceeding west to 17th Avenue.
- Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot, especially along the central Mainstreet area.
2. The Hopkins Raspberry Run (Sunday, July 21, 2024)
Before the parade kicks off, runners and walkers of all ages gather for the Hopkins Raspberry Run. This event is a long-standing tradition in the Minnesota running community. Participants can choose between a 5-Mile or a 1-Mile course.
- Course Highlight: The 5-mile route offers scenic views as it follows a traditional path around Shady Oak Lake before finishing on Mainstreet, just ahead of the parade.
- Family Fun: The 1-Mile run is perfect for families and younger participants.
3. The Marketplace Fair and Food Vendors
The Marketplace Fair transforms Mainstreet Hopkins into a bustling, open-air market for several days of the festival. This is where you'll find the true taste and feel of the community celebration.
- Vendors: With over 300 vendors, the fair features local business displays, artists selling unique crafts and clothing, and a vast array of food trucks and stalls.
- The Food: Don't miss the chance to sample raspberry-themed treats, from pies and jams to innovative festival fare.
4. The Raspberry Royalty Coronation & Royal Ball (Thursday, July 18, 2024)
The Royalty program is central to the festival's mission, promoting community service, volunteerism, and personal growth for young women in the local area. The Royal Coronation is the official ceremony where three candidates are crowned as the new Raspberry Royalty, who will represent Hopkins at events throughout the year.
5. The Hunt for the Golden Raspberry
A true test of local knowledge and scavenger hunt skills, the Hunt for the Golden Raspberry is an exciting, multi-day event. Participants follow clues released daily to find a hidden golden raspberry. This popular tradition generates significant buzz leading up to the main festival weekend.
6. The Berrylicious Bash and Wine Walk!
The festival includes several specific culinary and social events designed for adults. The Berrylicious Bash and the Wine Walk! provide opportunities to enjoy local food and drink in a festive atmosphere, often featuring live music and entertainment.
7. Family-Focused Fun and Entertainment
The Raspberry Festival is a family-friendly event with activities catering to all ages. Key events for younger attendees include the Laun E. Anderson Kids Fishing Event and the Hopkins Scavenger Hunt. Additionally, the festival often includes a "Raspberry Jam" with live music and a spectacular Fireworks display to light up the night.
Topical Authority: The Enduring Legacy of the Raspberry
The longevity of the Hopkins Raspberry Festival—now celebrating its 90th year—is a testament to the community's dedication to its heritage. The festival is not just a collection of events; it's a profound connection to the city's past as an agricultural powerhouse. The annual celebration ensures that the story of the raspberry farmers of the 1920s and the resilience of the community during the Great Depression continues to be told.
Attending the festival offers a unique chance to experience Minnesota's small-town culture at its finest. It promotes local businesses, fosters volunteerism, and connects neighbors, all centered around a sweet, humble fruit. From the excitement of the Raspberry Royalty to the simple pleasure of a raspberry treat on Mainstreet, the festival is a perfect blend of history, tradition, and modern-day fun.
Whether you're cheering on the runners near Shady Oak Lake, browsing the artisan crafts, or waiting for the grand floats of the Grande Day Parade, the Hopkins Raspberry Festival is an essential Minnesota summer experience. Mark your calendars for July 17-21, 2024, and join the celebration!
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