Rondo Days, Minnesota’s largest African American-sponsored festival, returns to St. Paul on Saturday, July 18, bringing together community members for a day of music, food, culture and celebration of the historic Rondo neighborhood.
Hosted by Rondo Avenue, Inc., the annual festival will take place from noon to 7 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Center. Organizers say the event celebrates the history and enduring legacy of the Rondo neighborhood, once the heart of St. Paul’s Black community.
Founded in 1982, Rondo Days has grown into an annual tradition that draws visitors from across the Twin Cities and beyond. Held each year on the third Saturday in July, the festival celebrates Black culture while honoring the resilience and history of the Rondo community.
This year’s festival will feature an expanded Youth Zone with activities designed for children and teenagers, including new youth sports competitions showcasing athletes from across the region. The day’s lineup also includes live performances by local hip-hop artists, food trucks, a vendor marketplace featuring local businesses and community organizations, and music from DJs Dime and Digie. Hip-hop artists Kwame and Bahamadia are scheduled to appear as featured performers.
Organizers describe the event as more than a festival, saying it serves as a tribute to the resilience, culture and legacy of the Rondo community while inspiring future generations through music, art, sports and storytelling. Admission is free and the event is open to all ages.
Event at a glance
- What: Rondo Days 2026
- When: Saturday, July 18, noon to 7 p.m.
- Where: Martin Luther King Center, St. Paul
- Admission: Free and open to all ages.
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