2nd Annual Festival of Friends 2024

A Night to Remember: The Festival of Friends Lights Up Minneapolis

As the spring evening settled over Minneapolis, the LUSH Lounge & Theater became a beacon of celebration, hosting the 2nd Annual Festival of Friends on a night that will be etched in memory. The Barátok Belly Dance Company, known for their exquisite performances, curated an event that was nothing short of a cultural mosaic, painting the town with the colors of Minnesota’s artistic brilliance.

The air was thick with anticipation as the crowd gathered, each person there to witness a lineup that promised laughter, melody, and awe. The Naughty Bawdy Brigade took to the stage with their comedic genius, ensuring that not a single moment passed without a burst of laughter rippling through the audience. Four Pints Shy followed, their Irish tunes weaving a lyrical tapestry that wrapped the theater in musical warmth. And then, there was Oops! The Entertainer—a name that has become synonymous with wonder—as he captivated everyone with his magical feats and unexpected delights.

The theater itself catered to every preference, from the casual observer at the bar seats to the connoisseur of comfort at the VIP booth, where a select few enjoyed the sparkle of Cava Sparkling Wine as a compliment to the evening’s enchantments.

But the allure extended beyond the stage. From 2 pm to 9 pm, the Festival of Friends Marketplace became a haven for treasure hunters and art aficionados alike. Stalls brimming with the unique creations of local artisans—Entwining Rose’s delicate jewelry, Merlin’s Mind of Metal’s intricate sculptures, Scotty Glassworks’ shimmering pieces, and Trixie’s Twisted Wonders’ whimsical crafts—offered a glimpse into the heart of Minneapolis’s creative community. The raffle added an extra layer of excitement, with lucky winners announced amidst the buzz of intermission.

As the final act took a bow and the curtains closed, it wasn’t just the end of a show; it was the beginning of a year-long wait for the next festival. The bonds of friendship and camaraderie, strengthened and celebrated, left a lasting impression on all who attended. The Festival of Friends isn’t just an event; it’s a testament to the vibrant cultural fabric that makes Minneapolis a city like no other.

Looking forward to next year, the promise of another gathering filled with art, laughter, and community spirit already has the city in eager anticipation. If you missed this year’s festival, mark your calendars; this is an experience you won’t want to pass up twice.

YouTube Description: Join Boima and the spirited crew of MSPExcite as they meander through the jubilant throngs of ‘The Festival of Friends’ pre-show. This tapestry of local artistry is a prelude to the grandeur of the Minnesota Renaissance Festival, a spectacle of times past brought to life by the deft hands of @baratokbellydance.

Witness the pageantry of creativity, from the giggle of a sculptor to the soft step of the dancers, all captured in the full splendor by MSPExcite. The complete feast awaits.

Do not tarry! Subscribe for more chronicles of Minneapolis & Saint Paul as we celebrate the year 2024. Our journey is bolstered by the stalwart support of local champions like @bluecatmotorcycle, @dgpilotmsp, @hellonibbles, @sambusa_express, @urbanwingco, and many more whose honor rolls are heralded at MSPExcite.com.

For updates and new content that sings the praises of our twin cities, stay tuned to MSPExcite. Your Subscriptions, Views, and Likes are the wind in our sails, and together, we chart a course through the bustling waters of culture and community.

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Dual Citizen Brewing Co. and Blocktober Fest 2023

Dual Citizen Brewing Co., located at 725 Raymond Ave., Saint Paul, MN, 55114, is a community-focused brewhouse. They are well-known for providing fresh spins on old favorites. The annual Blocktober Fest, slated for Saturday, September 16, 2023, is one of their most anticipated events. With live music, food trucks, and ice-cold Dual Citizen beer, this lively outdoor music festival guarantees a unique experience.

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The event honors the community and the small companies that make it special. Dual Citizen Brewing Co. actively works with a variety of groups to foster a strong sense of community. For example, they have collaborated with Chroma Zone, a local mural event aimed at transforming public spaces through art. Visitors to Blocktober Fest can take the bus to see the 2023 Chroma Zone murals and see live painting demonstrations. Dual Citizen Brewing Co. and Chroma Zone's unique relationship stimulates creativity and provides an aesthetic touch to the event.

Dual Citizen Brewing Co. also operates a charity organization called Dual Purpose, which is dedicated to aiding local communities via a variety of programs. If you want to volunteer with Dual Purpose, you may contact them directly for more information. You may contribute to their purpose and make a good difference in the community by offering your time and skills.

Minnesota State Fair: A Glimpse into the Lives of Vendors and Attendees

The Minnesota State Fair is where people can celebrate their shared love of food, music, entertainment, and culture. It is a place where memories are made, and friendships are formed. Whether you are a vendor or an attendee, there is something for everyone at the Minnesota State Fair.

In conclusion, the Minnesota State Fair is a glimpse into the lives of vendors and attendees who come together to celebrate their shared love of food, music, entertainment, and culture. It is a place where people can come together to create memories that will last a lifetime.

A couple of MSPExcites Proud Supporting Business Members make all of this possible.

Our list of places to visit every year

* 4-H Building: The 4-H Building was built in 1961 and is located on the east side of the fairgrounds. It is a place where 4-H members can showcase their projects and participate in various activities.

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Nicollet Mall’s Original Street Food Vendor and Minneapolis Catering.

We believe in fresh air and community

* Agriculture Horticulture Building: The Agriculture Horticulture Building was built in 1979 and is located on the fairgrounds' north side. It features exhibits on agriculture, horticulture, and gardening, as well as demonstrations and presentations by experts in these fields.

* CHS Miracle of Birth Center: The CHS Miracle of Birth Center was built in 2001 and is located on the east side of the fairgrounds. It is a place where visitors can witness live animal births and learn about animal husbandry.

* Creative Activities Annex: The Creative Activities Annex was built in 2019 and is located on the west side of the fairgrounds. It features exhibits on arts, crafts, and hobbies, as well as demonstrations and presentations by experts in these fields.

* Creative Activities Building: The Creative Activities Building was built in 1965 and is located on the west side of the fairgrounds. It features exhibits on arts, crafts, and hobbies, as well as demonstrations and presentations by experts in these fields.

* Dairy Building: The Dairy Building was built in 1960 and is located on the fairgrounds' north side. It features exhibits on dairy farming and dairy products such as cheese, milk, and ice cream.

* DNR Building and Park: The DNR Building and Park was built in 2003 and is located on the fairgrounds' north side. It features exhibits on wildlife, conservation, and outdoor recreation, as well as demonstrations and presentations by experts in these fields.

* Eco Experience: The Eco Experience was built in 2006 and is located on the fairgrounds' north side. It features exhibits on environmental sustainability, renewable energy, and green living practices.

* Education Building: The Education Building was built in 1915 and is located on the east side of the fairgrounds. It features exhibits on education programs offered by various institutions across Minnesota.

* FAN Central: FAN Central was built in 2017 and is located on the west side of the fairgrounds. It is a place where visitors can meet their favorite Minnesota sports teams' players, coaches, broadcasters, alums, mascots, etc., and participate in games/activities/contests/prizes/giveaways/autographs/photoshoots.

* Fine Arts Center: The Fine Arts Center was built in 1963 and is located on the west side of the fairgrounds. It features exhibits of fine arts such as painting, sculpture, photography, etc., as well as demonstrations and presentations by artists.

* Food Building: The Food Building was built in 1978 and is located on the east side of the fairgrounds. It features food vendors from across Minnesota, offering various food items such as cheese curds, corn dogs, mini donuts, etc., along with some new food items every year.

* Grandstand Building: The Grandstand Building was built in 1909 and is located on the west side of the fairgrounds. During the fair season, it hosts various entertainment events, such as concerts, rodeos, tractor pulls, etc..

* History & Heritage Center: The History & Heritage Center was built in 2019 and is located on the west side of the fairgrounds. It features exhibits showcasing Minnesota's history from prehistoric times to the present.

* Home Improvement Building: The Home Improvement Building was built in 1978 and is located on the fairgrounds' north side. It features exhibits that showcase home improvement products such as windows, doors, roofing materials, etc., along with demonstrations by experts.

* International Bazaar: The International Bazaar was built in 1975 and is located on the east side of the fairgrounds. It features vendors from around the world offering various products such as clothing, jewelry, art pieces, etc., along with some new vendors every year.

* Kemps Little Farm Hands: Kemps Little Farm Hands was built in 2010 and is located on the fairgrounds' east side. It provides an interactive experience for children to learn about farming practices such as milking cows or planting seeds.

* Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum: Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum

32nd Annual Powderhorn Art Fair: A Celebration of Creativity and Artistic Expression in Minneapolis

On August 5 and 6, 2023, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in Powderhorn Park, the 32nd Annual Powderhorn Art Fair took place. Misha Estrin had a great time there. At the event, more than 150 artists from all around the country displayed their works in juried exhibitions of fine art and fine crafts.

In addition to the art pieces, the event featured food trucks and other fun activities for visitors. The Powderhorn Park Neighborhood Association (PPNA) presented the event in collaboration with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.

At the Powderhorn Art Fair, which unites the arts and community, artists can display their group projects. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of artistic media, including paintings, sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and more.

If you plan to attend, visit the festival website to view the list of artists. The festival is open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM.

The Powderhorn Art Fair is a generally enjoyable event that celebrates creativity and artistic expression. Take advantage of this opportunity to view some of the country's best artwork!

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Lowertown Sounds with Salsa Del Sol

This blog post and Video are proudly brought to you by MSP Excite Supporting Business Members BlueCat Motors and Journey Studios, Tap here > Like, Comment and Subscribe our Youtube Channel

One Simple Plan The organizer and their sponsor, Hiway Credit Union, present Lowertown Sounds, a free, independent, local concert series. Live music from the region, food trucks, and local beer, cider, and wine are at St. Paul's Mears Park, with proceeds going to the Metro Independent Brewers Association. 
 Readers of the local newspaper Star Tribune voted this music series "the best free summer concert series in the Twin Cities" in 2022; this event is family-friendly and brings visitors and residents of Lowertown together every Thursday from June to August. When we visited the event, we saw many people we knew, like Lowertown Residents, Urban Wok, Sambasa Express, and our newly made friends.

BlueCat Motors is a motorcycle dealership located in St. Paul, Minnesota. They specialize in the sales and service of vintage through modern motorcycles

This Lowertown Sounds, we got to witness the Minnesota-based Latin Orchestra, Salsa del Soul. They’re nine talented musicians that light up every stage they perform on, and this time it was at Mears Park with sounds that inspired the audience to get up and move; it's an experience that's best in person. 

Journey Studios is a photography studio located in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Salsa del Soul brings the Twin Cities Salsa Community high-quality live dance music. One of MSP Excites' supporters, The Granada Theater in Minneapolis, hosts them frequently. They list their events on MSPExcites Facebook Group, Minneapolis, Minnesota ❤️ Neighbors, and we share them on Instagram so we all know about their celebrations. The Granada Theater is Uptown’s most beautiful theater and event space.

This video by MSP Excite with Boima brings us through Mears Park during Lowertown Sounds, meeting many different personalities and taking a short tour of the people, sounds, and food we love in Lowertown near Mears Park in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Thursday, August 17th, RUN WESTY RUN

OPENER: DOUG COLLINS AND THE RECEPTIONISTS

The Minneapolis Farmers Market on Lyndale is a true Minnesota treasure

The Minneapolis Farmers Market on Lyndale is a true Minnesota treasure. It is one of the largest farmer-managed markets in the state and has been serving the community with fresh vegetables and products since 1876. The market is at 312 E Lyndale Ave N, Minneapolis, MN, 55405, and is open daily from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. It's a community resource, a meeting place, a tourist attraction, and, most importantly, a location to get Minnesota's best assortment of fresh vegetables, plants, and locally created products. The market has approximately 150 sellers who rotate among its 170 stalls.

Discover the rich history of St. Paul’s Rondo neighborhood at Taste of Rondo’s annual festival

Our Video from the Taste of Rondo.

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St. Paul, Minnesota's Rondo neighborhood was once lost but found in the hearts of those who lived and currently carry its history. The Taste of Rondo hosts an annual festival called Taste of Rondo to honor its heritage and traditions. The food and culture still live in the restaurant and bar, The Taste of Rondo. This year's event is held on Saturday, July 15, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. It is expected to draw thousands of attendees from the local community and beyond. Taste of Rondo Bar & Grill is located at 976 Concordia Avenue, Saint Paul, Minnesota, 55104.

Rondo, A neighborhood named after early settler Joseph Rondeau, who moved there with his wife, Josephine Beaulieu, a Native American of Kootenay or Cree heritage.

 

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The Rondo neighborhood, consisting of the areas just to the North and South of Rondo Avenue, was a thriving and diverse community in the early and mid-1900s. The majority of African-Americans lived here. Throughout the close-knit community, thriving businesses could be found. Live music and the smell of barbecue filled the air.

However, in 1956, Rondo was demolished by the construction of Interstate 94. Homes were torn down, neighbors were separated, and some vibrant and dynamic culture that made Rondo special was scattered along its edges and beyond. Still, today remembered. The history of Rondo is one of change, of overcoming obstacles. And, most of all, it's a story of the people. The people made Rondo what it was. They preserve the legacy and present the new face of Rondo today.

Charles and Kasara Carter honor the Rondo history with the Taste of Rondo, a Bar and Grill along the south side of Interstate 94, which is a few steps out the front door and serves as a reminder – in case anyone forgets. At the Taste of Rondo, you'll see a community drawn together to share smiles, a good meal, and even better company. What once was lost is now found. Rondo is still a place of culture and home in the neighbors' hearts.

CONvergence 2023 ( We Found Misha! )

Misha has been missing for months and he ran into our mic at CONvergence is the ultimate place for fans of fantasy and science fiction to gather and unite. CONvergence is Held annually in Minneapolis on the first full weekend of July, This four-day event is a treasure trove of literature and more. While the focus is on the literature of the genre, there’s so much more to explore. From costuming and art to filking and gaming, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget about the music performances and panels where you can share your love of all things fantasy and science fiction.

*This post is proudly sponsored by: The Uptown Lobby Bar and Restaurant https://granadampls.com :

MSPExcite: it’s the perfect place for food and drink enchantment. Located in the heart of Uptown, it’s where memories are born. The menu is full of delicious fare, from burgers to salads, it’s all there. And the drinks are just as divine, from beer to cocktails, they’re all fine. The atmosphere is cozy and warm, a place where you can weather any storm. So come on in and take a seat at the Uptown Lobby Bar and Restaurant. It’s the place to be when you’re looking for great food and drinks. Here's a place to put your business in our rotation of Local Businesses: MSPExcite supporting business member signup https://mspexcite.com/mspexcite

The Taste of Minnesota: A Celebration of Food, Music, and Culture

The Taste of Minnesota is an annual event that celebrates the rich culture and cuisine of the state. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to indulge in a wide variety of delicious food and enjoy live music performances. This highly anticipated festival showcases Minnesota's diverse flavors and culinary traditions, making it a must-attend event for food enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

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The festival will be held on July 2nd and 3rd from noon to 8 p.m. on Nicollet Ave. in downtown Minneapolis. After an eight-year hiatus, the event was revived as a free Fourth of July festival. With a wide range of food vendors, live music performances, wrestling matches, and an art market, there is something for everyone to enjoy at The Taste of Minnesota.

The Taste of Minnesota is significant in the state’s history and culture. It celebrates the unique flavors and culinary traditions that have shaped Minnesota’s food culture. This event allows local businesses and food vendors to showcase their creations and allows attendees to experience the best of Minnesota’s cuisine. After a long hiatus, the return of The Taste of Minnesota to Nicollet Mall is a highly anticipated event, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate the vibrant food scene and rich cultural heritage of the state.

The Taste of Minnesota festival started in St. Paul in 1983 on the grounds of the Minnesota State Capitol during the Fourth of July weekend. It was a free festival with food and fireworks. Ron Maddox and Dick Broeker co-founded the festival to provide fun, family-friendly activities for people who stay in the Twin Cities for the Fourth of July weekend. Ron Maddox managed the festival from 1983 through 2008. During this time, the Maddoxes and their seasoned pros operated a successful festival known for its comfort food, free concerts, and nightly fireworks. The festival returned after an eight-year break and happened on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis. The festival featured music and local food vendors. Like Parlour Burger, Krazd Tamu Grill, KCM Egg Rolls, Hockey Mom Brownies, Nibbles, Rusty Taco, Doc E’s BBQ, Anchor Fish, and Chips, Taste the Real Nawlins, G-Spot, MN Nice Cream, Philly Station Peiorgi, 2Gogi Tom Thumb Donuts, The Purple People Feeder, and Nikkolette’s Macarons.

Other vendors include Animals BBQ Co., Soul Bowl, Red Wagon Pizza Company, Nixta, and The Oceanaire.

Today we let MSPExcite Agent Boima bring us to the Taste of Minnesota. We met random attendees, made a song, and chatted with Fancy Ray McCloney.

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MSPExcites Supporter Nibbles will be a vender at the Taste of Minnesota, serving from multiple locations at the event.

Nibbles Minneapolis Original Hotdog Carts.

Nibbles is a family-owned hotdog cart that has been serving customers since 1983. It is located on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis and specializes in old-fashioned wieners, Vienna Beef Franks, and Polish Sausage. The cart has become a staple in the Minneapolis food scene over the past 30 years. It is known for its delicious hotdogs and friendly service. Not only does Nibbles offer mouthwatering hotdogs, but it also contributes to the rich cultural heritage of the state. The cart has become a gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, providing a unique culinary experience that reflects the diverse food culture of Minneapolis.

Honoring Ashley Rukes: The History of Twin Cities Pride Parade

Woman kissing another on the cheek

In 1972, the first Twin Cities Pride event was a protest march and picnic with less than 100 attendees that began in the northeast corner of Loring Park. The LGBTQ+ community was at a point in its struggle for recognition and rights. The incident served as a metaphor for their fight and resolve to be heard. A 50-person protest march on the Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis on the third anniversary of the Stonewall riots served as a catalyst for Twin Cities Pride. The LGBTQ+ movement had a turning point on this occasion, opening the door for future generations to freely express their identity and love.

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LGBTQ+ people have a long history in Loring Park and the surrounding area. Many people who had experienced prejudice and persecution due to their sexual orientation or gender identity found refuge there. The park has come to represent acceptance and hope for the LGBTQ+ community.

A celebration in Loring Park and a multi-day block party are two additional Twin Cities Pride activities. People have the chance to unite on these occasions and celebrate their uniqueness and affection. They serve as a reminder of how far our society has come in embracing people from diverse backgrounds.

Ashley Rukes was honored during the 2023 Twin Cities LGBTQ+ Pride March, which took place on Sunday, June 25, 2023, during brunch on Hennepin Ave. People get the chance to band together and show their support for the LGBTQ+ community at this march. Additionally, it serves as a reminder that more needs to be done to guarantee that everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

 Ashley Rukes was a prominent figure in the Twin Cities LGBTQ+ community. She founded the Ashley Rukes GLBT Pride March, which is now known as the Twin Cities Pride March/Parade. She passed away in 1996 due to complications from AIDS.
We would also like to say thank you to Twin Cities Pride. The atmosphere was electric and filled with joy as people of all ages, races, and genders came together to celebrate diversity and equality. It was truly a memorable event that showcased the power of community and acceptance. (We'd Love to do more and would love to chat.)

Nibbles made it possible for @MSPExcite to produce this content. Thank you for your contribution and years of feeding Pride. HelloNibbles.com | @HelloNibbles 

Twin Cities Jazz Fest: A Beloved Tradition in the community

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Paid training if needed, hiring school bus and charter drivers in Anoka,  Champlin,  Minneapolis/Brooklyn Park,  Plymouth, and  Saint Paul/Oakdale, Minnesota. The company offers competitive pay and time off during the holidays. You will work with a team of experienced professionals dedicated to providing safe and reliable transportation. Click or tap on the above city closest to you to start! 

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Steve Heckler founded the Twin Cities Jazz Fest in 1999 with the dream of sharing the music he loves with others. The festival was first held in Minneapolis’s Peavey Plaza and was known as the Hot Summer Jazz Festival. The inaugural headliners were Brother Jack McDuff, Bernard Purdie, and Howard Levy. Since then, the festival has grown to become one of the largest free jazz festivals in the Midwest, attracting thousands of visitors each year. With a diverse lineup of local and national musicians, the Twin Cities Jazz Fest continues to honor Heckler’s vision of bringing people together through music.

Twincites Jazz Fest Logo

The celebration now takes place in St. Paul’s downtown neighborhood, Lowertown, and has grown and expanded over the years. In addition to main stage performances, the festival also includes educational workshops, jam sessions, and opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their talents. Despite its growth, the Twin Cities Jazz Fest remains committed to its mission of promoting jazz music and fostering community engagement. Drawing in numerous jazz musicians and tourists from around the world.

In 2023, Twin Cities Jazz Fest will celebrate its 25th year. It has been incredible to observe the festival expand and develop. I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Heckler a few times throughout the years, and he loves music and now lives it by traveling the world, finding musicians to book for the next Jazz Fest, and sharing his event with anyone who asks about it. Looking at the big picture or long game here, Steve has created an organization that has also been able to secure sponsorships and partnerships with local businesses, ensuring the festival’s financial stability, growth, and love of jazz.

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Dive into this event: twincitiesjazzfestival.com

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Boima visits the Stone Arch Art Festival

Today’s MSPExcite video is featuring one of our newest on-camera personalities, Boima. 😊 Oh, down by the riverfront in Minneapolis town, The Stone Arch Bridge Festival comes around. In 2023, on June 17th and 18th, it’s found, From 10am-7pm and 10am-5pm, it’ll astound. Stretching its arms from 11th Ave S to N. 4th Avenue, The festival’s got art and music for me and you. Over 200 juried artists, their work on display, In categories like painting, jewelry, and clay. The festival also boasts three specialty markets, The Culinary Arts Market, The Black Market, and the Vintage and Vinyl Market. Music lovers will be serenaded by two live stages, The Cities 97.1 Stage and the Star Tribune Stage. The Bailame Dance Festival presents Dancing by the Bridge! Come lose yourself in rhythm on the Bailame Dance floor at the corner of Portland Avenue and West River Parkway. Families will find merriment in the Mill City Museum courtyard, And car enthusiasts can parade their vintage cars, oh lord! And for those with a penchant for running, there is an UGLY TIE 5K, Presented by the StarTribune, it’ll make your day. So come on down to the Stone Arch Bridge Festival, It’s a celebration of art and music that’s oh so special.

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The Soda Movement - Street Dance Festival

On June 10th, 2023, an event called The Battle took place at the Indigenous Roots Cultural Arts Center in Saint Paul, MN from 5pm-11pm. This event was part of The SOTA Movement, Minnesota’s Street Dance Festival that celebrates dance, connections, and culture. The Battle was a Maia Maiden Production and one of three parts of the larger event, The SOTA Movement.

The Battle featured a highly anticipated KRUMP Battle called The UPRIZING. KRUMP, short for Kingdom Radically Uplifting Mighty Praise, is a powerful style of street dance originating in South Central LA. It combines passion and intricate movements with self-expression. The UPRIZING was set to be the most talked-about event in American street dance culture.

Image created by Leobardo leyva <insta

Founded and led by Ololade “Gambit” Gbadamosi and Herbert “FairWarning” Johnson III, The UPRIZING’s community-based approach and historically relevant content cultivated knowledge like none other. From beginning dancers to seasoned practitioners to excited audience members, this energetic battle held nothing back and left everyone wanting more.

Several exhibition battles took place during The Battle. The first was between Final Warning and Twinn Moody Rexx, two of the heaviest and rowdiest of the new generation. The second was between Gambit and Deadend, two leaders who clashed at The UPRIZING. The third was between Native and Stain, two heavyweights from different generations who met up and got buck at The UPRIZING.

Overall, The Battle was an exciting event showcasing the power and passion of KRUMP dancing. It brought together artists, creators, and supporters to celebrate dance, connections, and culture. As a Maia Maiden Production and part of The SOTA Movement Street Dance Festival in Saint Paul, MN, it continued the tradition of excellence in showcasing the best in street dance culture.

We'd like to extend our gratitude to everyone involved in hosting and attending "The Battle," also known as "The UPRISING," on June 10, 2023, at the Indigenous Roots Cultural Arts Center in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The SOTA Movement, Minnesota's Street Dance Festival, is a huge success thanks to your tireless efforts and passion to the art form. Your performance at The SOTA Movement Street Dance Festival in Saint Paul, Minnesota, was a Maia Maiden Production, and it upheld the festival's longstanding reputation for showcasing cutting-edge street dance. All of your efforts have been much appreciated.

Newell Park, Saint Paul MN

Newell Park

Saint Paul, MN.

Newell Park is a little-known treasure right in the middle of bustling Saint Paul, Minnesota. This park has a long history and strong community spirit, as it was dedicated in 1908 and named for Stanford Newell, a famous attorney, and member of the inaugural Saint Paul Park Board. The construction of the lovely pavilion that is still there today began in 1927.

Newell Park is a 10-acre expanse of rolling hills and towering oak trees located about four blocks west of Snelling Avenue on Pierce Butler Route. A picnic or quiet time reading a book under a tree here is the perfect antidote to the stress of city life. There's something for everyone, from a basketball court to a BBQ grill to a fire pit to a picnic area to a playground to a shelter to a restroom.

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the park's building can be rented for parties and gatherings. Up to a hundred guests can be accommodated, and there's a fully equipped kitchen with a stove, refrigerator, sink, and serving window. The 1800-square-foot space features tables and chairs for your convenience.

For many years, Newell Park has served as the center of local social life. The pavilion was used as a part-time entertainment center in the 1970s and 1980s after hosting numerous huge celebrations throughout the 1930s. Its primary use as a picnic pavilion means that it is still widely used for leisure activities.

Explore Newell Park and learn about its fascinating past on your own.

Call the Park Permit Office at 651-266-6400 for details or to reserve space for your event in Newell Park. Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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Blog post made possible by our Supporting Business Members like Urban Wok

UrbanWOK

Experience the flavors of the world with Urban Wok’s “Fresh Global Fusion Stir Fry” cuisine. Their menu features a wide variety of appetizers and entrees, all made fresh daily with in-house scratch sauces. Known for delivering tasty food quickly and conveniently, Urban Wok is rapidly expanding from its origins in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Locations:

Lowertown, St. Paul

West End, St. Louis Park

Arbor Lakes, Maple Grove

Medina

Brookhaven, GA

Columbia - Killian Road, SC

Mirror of Korea, Saint Paul MN

Mirror of Korea, which can be found at 761 North Snelling Avenue, has been providing St. Paul residents with authentic and excellent Korean cuisine since 1988. The restaurant, which had previously been located on Lake Street in Minneapolis, has moved to its current location on Snelling. Bibimbap ("bee-beem-bahp") and Bulgogi ("bul-GOH-gee") are just two of the many mouthwatering Korean dishes served at Mirror of Korea. According to the reviews, two of the most popular dishes at Mirror of Korea are the Japchae (“juh-PAH-chay”) and the Dol sot Bibimbop. Steamed white rice, red pepper sauce, mixed seasoned vegetables, meat, and a fried egg make up Bi Bim Bob, another popular dish. Do you want to know anything else about this delicious dish?

Mirror Of Korea

Mirror of Korea can be contacted at (651) 647-9004 or found at 761 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul, Minnesota. The restaurant's website states, as of this writing, hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Tuesday through Thursday, closed.

Oh neat, A Korean word for yummy is 맛있다 (ma-sit-da).

MSPExcite would be thrilled to be invited to taste a few dishes and make a brief documentary about the Mirror of Karea and every future place we will be posting about.

I assure you, they are open.

Facebook page that isn’t up to date: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075872152681

A website that doesn’t exist: http://www.mirrorofkorea.com

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If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal on the go, look no further

Samusa Express in Saint Paul, Minnesota This food truck serves up delicious Sambusas, a type of stuffed pastry that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Choose from beef or vegetable fillings and enjoy the perfect combination of crispy pastry and savory filling. Whether you’re in a hurry or just looking for a tasty snack, Samusa Express has got you covered.