Dakota County Highlights July Parks Events, Beach Safety and Recreation Updates
Published: July 8th, 2026
Dakota County: Dakota County has released its latest parks update, highlighting upcoming events, recreation programs, beach water testing and current park projects taking place throughout July.
One of the featured events is Music in the Park, which returns to Whitetail Woods Regional Park on Tuesday, July 28, from 5–7 p.m. The free concert will feature Adam Bohanen & Frankie Torres, performing R&B and pop music. Food trucks scheduled to attend include Taste of Chile, BD Sammies and Unbakeable.
The county is also reminding visitors about its beach water monitoring program. Dakota County conducts weekly E. coli testing at Schulze Lake Beach and Lake Byllesby Beach. Officials note that posted test results reflect conditions at the time samples were collected and that water quality can change rapidly because of rainfall, wildlife, swimmer activity and temperature.
Visitors planning trips to county parks and greenways can also check current park improvement projects and trail conditions before visiting, as maintenance and construction may affect access in some locations.
The update also highlights the role of fireflies during July, which marks the insects' peak breeding season. According to the county, female fireflies lay eggs in moist soil protected by leaves or grasses. After hatching, the larvae feed on slugs and snails before burrowing deeper into the ground over winter and emerging the following spring.
Several educational and recreation programs are also scheduled in the coming days, including:
Knee-High Naturalists: Helpful Insects at the Lebanon Hills Visitor Center on July 9 and July 11, designed for children ages 3–6.
Wild Art for Families: Leaf Impressions in Clay on July 9, where participants can create decorative clay leaf dishes.
Intro to Mountain Biking on July 11 at Lebanon Hills Regional Park for riders ages 16 and older.
Coffee and Kayaks on Holland Lake on July 12, combining a morning paddle with coffee.
Yoga in the Park on July 12, July 19 and July 26 at the Lebanon Hills Retreat Center Group Campground.
Tai Chi & Qigong on July 12, led by guest instructor Scott Stafford.
Women's Intro to Mountain Biking on July 12, offering beginner instruction for women ages 16 and older.
Most programs require advance registration and have participation fees, while Music in the Park is free and open to the public.
