Family‑Friendly Pride Weekend and Free Weddings in the Twin Cities

St. Paul’s fourth‑year Pride festival starts this weekend, turning the city into a lively hub of music, art and community. From noon to 8 p. m. on Saturday and Sunday, the Dual Citizen Brewing venue hosts a nonstop lineup of performers—ranging from The Harlow Pennies to the Cypher Side Dance School—and features eight food trucks plus more than 70 local vendors. The event is designed to be relaxed and inclusive, according to organizer Kyle Rucker, who says it’s a “family event” that people can drop in and leave at any time. Families will find free activities such as a hair‑tinsel station by Tease Salon, wellness services from Clinic 555, and a creative arts corner with ARTrageous Adventures.Beyond the main stage, special moments include a wrestling showdown at 6 p. m. Saturday and a youth break‑dance showcase on Sunday afternoon, while local musician Mikko Blaze presents a new version of his song “My Pride. ” Meanwhile, Twin Cities Pride in Minneapolis offers free wedding ceremonies on June 26 and 27. Kayla McGrady of Cherished Vows Weddings will hold symbolic commitments, vow renewals and legal marriages at booth 245 in the Yellow Section of Loring Park. Couples must bring a Minnesota marriage license and two witnesses for legal ceremonies, but symbolic events require no paperwork. McGrady’s initiative aims to make wedding celebrations accessible for LGBTQ, neurodiverse and disabled individuals, as well as those on lower incomes. Volunteers will help with paperwork when needed, ensuring a supportive environment for everyone who wants to celebrate love.