Your Guide to Morris MN events in 2026
Morris doesn’t just host events; it shows up for them. All year long, the community turns ordinary weekends into something worth planning around, whether that means live music echoing across campus, downtown streets buzzing with shoppers, or fall festivals that feel like a Hallmark movie without the cheese. If you’re looking for reasons to visit (or stay out later than planned), 2026 delivers.
45th Annual UMN Morris Jazz Fest | Friday, April 10, 2026
For one vibrant day, Morris swings. Jazz Fest returns for its 45th year, filling the campus with big band energy, student talent, and nationally recognized guest artists. Expect live performances, learning sessions, and that electric feeling you only get when great music meets a great crowd.
And the music doesn’t stop when campus concerts wrap up.
On Saturday, April 11, 2026, Jazz Fest spills into the community with an evening performance by the Twin Cities Hot Club at Old No. 1 Bar & Grill (Southside). Starting at 7:00 p.m., this quartet brings the spirit of gypsy jazz to downtown Morris, channeling the sounds of Django Reinhardt, Stéphane Grappelli, and the legendary Hot Club of France. Featuring acoustic gypsy jazz guitars, violin, and upright bass, their music is rhythmic, romantic, and unmistakably alive, blending classic swing with gypsy bossa nova, musette, and bolero.
Great for: Music lovers, students, educators, families, and anyone who enjoys live performance with serious talent behind it.
Twin Cities Hot Club. Photo credit: UMN Morris
Tinman Triathlon | May 2, 2026
This is spring in Morris at full throttle. The Tinman Triathlon brings athletes, spectators, and volunteers together for a day that’s equal parts competition and community pride. Whether you’re racing, cheering from the sidelines, or just soaking up the energy, it’s a classic Morris moment.
Great for: Athletes of all levels, active families, spectators, and anyone who enjoys high-energy community events.
Show Love, Shop Local | May 2, 2026
Downtown Morris turns shopping into a celebration. Local businesses roll out specials, shoppers stroll between storefronts, and the whole day feels like a reminder of why small-town main streets still matter.
Great for: Shoppers, visitors, gift hunters, and anyone who loves supporting local businesses with personality.
Conexiones / Connections Day | June 2026 (Date Pending)
One of our most colorful celebrations, Conexiones Day brings people together through music, dance, food, and shared experiences. It’s lively, welcoming, and rooted in connection. Exactly what summer should feel like.
Great for: Families, culture lovers, and anyone who enjoys events that celebrate community and diversity.
Horticulture Night | July 2026 (Date Pending)
Summer slows down in the best way during Horticulture Night. Wander through gardens, learn from experts, and leave inspired to dig in — literally or figuratively. It’s relaxed, educational, and quietly one of the season’s gems.
Great for: Gardeners, plant lovers, homeowners, and anyone looking for a calm, enriching summer evening.
Crazy Days & Chamber Food Court | July 29, 2026
If you like your shopping with a side of buzz, Crazy Days is your moment. Downtown fills with deals, energy, and movement, while the Chamber Food Court keeps everyone fueled. It’s busy in the best possible way.
Great for: Shoppers, families, visitors, and anyone who loves a lively downtown scene.
Stevens County Fair | August 11–16, 2026
This is peak summer in Morris. For nearly a week, the Stevens County Fair delivers everything you expect — rides, food, livestock, grandstand events — and a few things you didn’t know you missed. It’s tradition, entertainment, and nostalgia rolled into one.
Great for: Families, fair fans, ag enthusiasts, and anyone chasing classic summer fun.
Fall Into the Arts Festival | September 2026 (Date Pending)
As the seasons shift, creativity takes center stage. Fall Into the Arts celebrates makers, artists, and performers with a relaxed, browse-and-discover atmosphere that pairs perfectly with crisp fall air.
Great for: Art lovers, creatives, shoppers, and visitors who enjoy slower-paced cultural events.
Prairie Harvest Fest | September 25–28, 2026
If Morris had a signature weekend, this might be it. Prairie Harvest Fest brings parades, live music, food vendors, family activities, and small-town pride together for a full weekend that feels big without losing its heart.
Great for: Families, visitors, festival fans, and anyone who wants the full Morris experience in one trip.
Moonlight Madness | October 29, 2026
Fall nights get festive during Moonlight Madness. Downtown businesses stay open late, lights glow, and the whole evening feels cozy, social, and just a little magical.
Great for: Shoppers, friend groups, and anyone who enjoys seasonal evening events.
Holiday Stroll | December 5, 2026
The holidays arrive in Morris with twinkle lights, decorated storefronts, and a downtown that feels straight out of a storybook. Holiday Stroll is equal parts shopping, strolling, and soaking in the season.
Great for: Families, holiday shoppers, visitors, and anyone who loves small-town Christmas charm.
Plan Your Visit to Morris, Minnesota
Thinking about turning one event into a full weekend? Smart move. Morris makes it easy to stretch your stay with plenty to explore between events.
Before you come, take a few minutes to map it out:
• Things to Do – Outdoor recreation, arts and culture, local attractions, and seasonal activities that give you a real feel for the area.
• Places to Stay – From convenient hotels to cozy lodging options, you’ll find a place that fits your plans and your pace.
• Where to Eat – Local restaurants, coffee stops, and casual bites that are worth building into your schedule.
Whether you’re coming for a single evening or making a weekend of it, a little planning goes a long way—and Morris has plenty waiting once you arrive.