May 7
Gather your girlfriends for a fun night! Shop the eclectic, one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques in Northfield’s historic downtown and enjoy fabulous sales, giveaways, hors d’oeuvres and refreshments in the stores as well as dining-out specials, followed by live entertainment at The Grand Event Center, recently voted one of The Knot’s Best of Weddings 2010 Winners for Reception Venues in Minnesota.
952-465-1626

May 29-30 | September 3-5
The Memorial weekend swap meet and flea market features a tractor pull, consignment auction, food and other special events. The Labor Day weekend show features a parade, tractor pull, flea market, games, food and other activities.
Dundas Showgrounds
Three miles south on Highway 3
507-645-4336
www.ricecountysteamandgas.com

Saturdays, June to October
Ease into a sunny, summer weekend by strolling along the picturesque riverside of historic downtown Northfield and take in the sights, tastes and sounds through fine art, organic produce, artisan foods and local music.
507-786-9700
www.riverwalkmarketfair.org

On many Thursday evenings in June through August you will find a crowd gathered on Bridge Square in the heart of the city for concerts, variety shows and other activities. Most stores remain open for the festivities, so shop away in a comfortable, unhurried atmosphere.

June 17-18 (5th Annual)
Bring your taste buds to this feast. Whether you’re an epicurean or just know a good burger when you bite into one, this event is sure to meet your cravings. There’s also a beer & wine tent, silent and live auction, and a James Gang bank raid re-enactment —fun for all ages! Live music and dancing fill the downtown streets into the night.
507-663-0319
www.nddc.org

June 23-26
Live performances by local bands are a common tune in this talented "music town." Genres from blues to jazz to folk and rock 'n' roll amplify in this year's four-day lineup. Performances take place at different venues in Northfield's historic downtown.
507-645-1665
www.northfieldjunebug.com

June 26-27
Take a lovely tour of private gardens at a variety of homes on the west side of town. You’ll find an artist in each garden creating a piece of art. A variety of mediums will be demonstrated. Art will also be on sale. Itinerary for the Northfield Garden Tour
952-652-3412
www.northfieldgardenclub.org

July 4
Celebrate Independence Day in Northfield and take in the rush of adrenalin as cyclists speedily maneuver through the streets of town to compete in this popular race. www.northfieldcrit.blogspot.com

July 22nd
Don't miss this crazy shopping spree in downtown Northfield every July. Fantastic bargains are provided by local retailers.
More Info

August 5-8
This grand event consists of 4 days, 25 bands and 100 concerts, celebrating cultural heritage through a variety of musical compositions. Many bands come from all around the world and perform in vintage, ethnic dress using authentic, period instruments. It’s a sight to be seen and heard!
www.vintagebandfestival.org

August 15, 17, 19 & 22
The Bridge Chamber Music Festival celebrates its 12th season with concerts August 15th-22nd. Festival Concerts on August 15th, 19th and 22nd celebrate the music of Robert Schumann and Samuel Barber, among others. The Young Artist Recital on August 17th features outstanding local musicians.
507-786-3535
www.bridgechamber.org

August 28
Jump on your iron horse and take to the Outlaw Trail following the infamous James-Younger Gang escape route which dates back to the September 7, 1876, foiled bank robbery. Motorcycle enthusiasts follow the gang’s hoof prints tracking their desperate flee. The event includes a re-enactment at the original bank site and a gathering afterwards at the Rueb’N’Stein.
507-645-9268
 www.northfieldhistory.org

September 8-12
Voted "Best Re-Enactment of the West" by True West Magazine, this event pays tribute to Northfield townspeople who defeated the infamous James-Younger Gang when it attempted to rob the town’s First National Bank on September 7, 1876. Witness the re-enactment of the bank raid and see an informative show that includes live horses, gunshots and brave townspeople standing up against the gang. There's also a rodeo, old-time tractor pull, midway, parade, arts festival, music, arts and crafts shows and more.
www.djjd.org

October
Join us under the October moon for this historic cemetery tour featuring actors portraying famous Northfielders at their gravesites.
507-645-9268
www.northfieldhistory.org

October 23-24
Step inside artists’ personal studios and gather a glimpse of inspiring art media created locally in south central Minnesota including watercolor, pottery, wood, clay sculptures, photography, metal, fabric/wearable art and much more. The 2-day tour winds through the communities of Northfield, Faribault and Owatonna.
507-645-7445
www.southcentralartour.com

December 9th
Come experience downtown Northfield by candlelight. Stroll through our unique shops, dine at fine restaurants, and enjoy caroling, horse-drawn wagon rides, storytelling, luminaries, decorated storefronts and more.

December 2-5 In addition to a nationally broadcast musical performance, this four-day event features a traditional Scandinavian buffet, musical performances, book signings and more on St. Olaf's beautiful campus.
1520 St. Olaf Ave.
507-786-3031
www.stolaf.edu/christmasfest