Fourth of July 2026 Guide: Fireworks, Parades and Events Across Dakota & Scott Counties

High school students interested in law enforcement and public safety have an opportunity to go behind the scenes this spring as registration has opened for the 2026 Teen Police Academy, a free program jointly hosted by the Apple Valley Police Department and the Rosemount Police Department.

A new butterfly garden is taking root in downtown Lakeville, thanks to the vision and determination of local Girl Scout Isla Engh and the support of the Garden Circle of Friends and the City of Lakeville Parks Department.

Two standout student leaders from Lakeville will be going to Washington, D.C., as State Officers for Minnesota HOSA-Future Health Professionals (HOSA-FHP) and are preparing to represent Minnesota at the 19th Annual Washington Leadership Academy (WLA) this September.

The Twin Cities community will come together this fall to take a collective step toward hope and healing at the Out of the Darkness Walk, part of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s (AFSP) nationwide movement to raise awareness and support for suicide prevention efforts.

Communities across Dakota County are preparing for a weekend full of red, white, and blue as 4th of July celebrations kick off with family-friendly events, parades, and fireworks.

The highly anticipated Mid-Winter Fest returns to Johnny Cake Ridge Park West this coming Saturday, February 1, 2025, promising a full day of exciting activities for residents and visitors of all ages.

The magic of the holiday season comes alive on Wednesday, Nov. 27, at 6 p.m., as Burnsville’s annual Winter Lighting Ceremony returns to Nicollet Commons Park.

For 25 years, Home Depot has offered FREE kids' workshops in stores across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. These workshops are held monthly from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the first Saturday at all Home Depot Stores while supplies last.

The City of Burnsville will host a Public Works Open House on Thursday, May 23, 2024, during National Public Works Week from May 19th through May 25th.

The Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce will host its 23rd annual FREE Apple Valley Home & Garden Expo at the Eastview High School on Saturday, April 6, 2024.

Check out Apple Valley's Mid-Winter Fest on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Johnny Cake Ridge Park West!

Repurpose and upcycle old and thrifted fashion for teens for FREE in South St Paul!