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:
- The Suburbs
- Glen David Andrews
- Jamecia Bennett
- Tina Schlieske
- Nachito Herrera
- Davina and the Vagabonds
- Kavyesh Kaviraj & Omar Abdulkarim
- MacPhail Faculty Ensemble
- Patty Peterson Presents Jazz Women All-Stars with Ginger Commodore, Connie Evingson, Mary Louise Knutson, Joan Griffith, Sheila Earley and Stephanie Wieseler
- Room3 Collective
- & More!
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. Artist performance times will be announced in the next few weeks.
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.
