Dakota 40th Anniversary Block Party

FREE | ALL AGES

INFORMATION

About this event

To celebrate 40 years of music and dining, we’re throwing a FREE 40th Anniversary Block Party on Saturday, September 20 from 2–10 PM! The party takes over Nicollet Mall outside the Dakota and our indoor stage, with live performances from more than 10 incredible acts, culinary specials inspired by the vibrant flavors of New Orleans, the cradle of American music, as well as a craft market and a kids’ corner activity area.

“This anniversary is a celebration not only for Dakota but also for the incredible Twin Cities music community that has contributed so much to reaching this historic milestone,” said Lowell Pickett, Dakota founder. “We’re celebrating 40 years of unforgettable music, and paying tribute to the New Orleans roots that have long inspired our stage and our kitchen.”

Live Music Lineup 

The day’s music schedule includes some of Dakota’s most beloved performers and Minnesota music icons, reflecting the venue’s eclectic blend of jazz, soul, funk, and Americana:

Nicollet Mall Stage:

Room3 Collective – 2:00pm
Jamecia Bennett – 3:30pm
Tina Schlieske – 5:00pm
Glen David Andrews – 6:30pm
The Suburbs – 8:30pm

Dakota Stage:

MacPhail Faculty Ensemble – 2:30pm
Kavyesh Kaviraj & Omar Abdulkarim – 4:00pm
Nachito Herrera – 5:30pm
Patty Peterson Presents Jazz Women All-Stars – 7:00pm
Davina and the Vagabonds – 9:00pm

Performances will alternate between an outdoor stage on Nicollet Mall on 10th Street and an intimate indoor stage inside Dakota. NOLA-Inspired Food Specials, Kids’ Corner & Craft Market Dakota’s culinary team—led by Executive Chef Asher Zulkosky —will be serving Dakota’s regular menu to those choosing to dine inside. Outside, a variety of festival-style fare will be available, including burgers, sandwiches, and vegetarian options, plus a couple of special New Orleans-themed items in homage to the birthplace of American music.

• Fresh beignets with powdered sugar made onsite

• Crawfish Monica, the rich, creamy pasta dish considered the unofficial signature of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

In addition, Dakota is planning a craft market featuring local artisans as well as a kids’ corner with family friendly activities to round out the event.

Admission is free, and no tickets are required.

Partner and Sponsors

Dakota is proud to partner with Minneapolis Downtown Council & Mpls Downtown Improvement District on this milestone event. It is also extremely grateful to all its generous Anniversary Block Party sponsors including: Dorsey & Whitney LLP, Xcel Energy, Taft, Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, J.P. Morgan Private Bank, The 614 Company, Fredrikson & Byron, P.A., and Hilton Minneapolis.