Experience Summer in Owatonna at Downtown Thursdays

On the first Thursday June-September, from 5:00–9:00 p.m., Cedar Avenue and Central Park become the heart of the community. Visitors can stroll through vendor booths featuring handmade goods, artwork, boutique finds, and local businesses while enjoying the sounds of live entertainment throughout the evening. Food trucks and downtown restaurants serve everything from quick bites to full dinners, making it easy to grab a meal, enjoy a sweet treat, or relax with a beverage. Families will find plenty to enjoy with free activities for kids, interactive experiences, and open spaces where children can play while adults browse, shop, and listen to music.

A Festival in the Heart of Historic Downtown

One of the things that makes Downtown Thursdays so memorable is the setting itself. Three consecutive blocks of Cedar Avenue are closed to traffic, allowing visitors to stroll freely through downtown while enjoying live music, shopping, indoor and outdoor dining, local vendors, and family-friendly activities.

The event takes place in the shadow of Owatonna's crown jewel—the National Farmers' Bank, designed by legendary architect Louis Sullivan in 1908. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark and considered one of the finest examples of Prairie School architecture in America, the bank attracts architecture enthusiasts from around the world. Its colorful terra cotta, stained glass, gold leaf details, and striking arches provide an unforgettable backdrop for one of southern Minnesota's favorite summer events.

Shop Local. Eat Local. Stay Local.

Downtown Thursday is the perfect opportunity to discover Owatonna's unique locally owned businesses. Spend the evening exploring charming specialty shops and locally owned restaurants that make Owatonna's historic downtown a unique Southern Minnesota shopping adventure.

When the evening winds down, extend your visit by staying overnight at one of Owatonna's comfortable hotels, one of which is located right in the Main Street District. Wake up the next morning and continue your adventure by exploring attractions like:

• Kaplan's Woods Park and trails
• Lake Kohlmier
• State School Orphanage Museum
• Minnesota Sculpture & Prayer Garden
  
• Steele County History Center
• Village of Yesteryear
• National Farmers Bank
  
• Mineral Springs Brewery or Grapeful Wine Bar
• Owatonna's 30+ parks and trail system

Four Nights You Won't Want to Miss

Each Downtown Thursday offers its own unique entertainment, vendors, and activities, giving visitors a different experience every month.

June kicks off the summer season with exciting entertainment and community energy.
July celebrates Independence Day week with festive downtown fun, shopping, food, and live music.
August keeps the momentum going with another evening packed with entertainment, local makers, and family-friendly activities.
September provides one last chance to enjoy an unforgettable summer evening before autumn arrives.

No two events are exactly alike, making each Downtown Thursday worth experiencing.

Plan Your Visit

Downtown Thursdays are free to attend and take place in Downtown Owatonna's Main Street District along Cedar Avenue and Central Park. Bring your family, meet friends after work, enjoy dinner downtown, shop local, dance to live music, and experience why Downtown Thursdays have become one of Owatonna's favorite summer traditions.

Whether you're visiting from across town or across the state, you'll find a welcoming community, unforgettable entertainment, and plenty of reasons to come back again.

We can't wait to see you in Downtown Owatonna this summer!