Grand Opening of Pillsbury Creative Commons July 26th

Pillsbury Creative Commons
Pillsbury House + Theatre is proud to announce the creation of a new community arts and economic development hub with a renewed vision and a new name encompassing the extended campus: Pillsbury Creative Commons (PCC). This expansion initiative, opening July 26, with a community celebration, is poised to enliven South Minneapolis by harnessing the power of the arts community to uplift, connect and support residents.
Located next door to Pillsbury House + Theatre and Full Cycle Bike Shop at 35th Street and Chicago Avenue, PCC will provide technical arts workforce training and adds community radio station KRSM to an expanded campus that now spans 3501 to 3529 Chicago Avenue. With a mission to channel the creativity and leadership of artists into meaningful opportunities for the community, PCC is building a foundation for long-term impact in our city and region.

“This bold new vision affirms our deep commitment to community-rooted innovation, access, and transformation through the arts,” said Noël Raymond, Sr Director of Arts and Culture at Pillsbury United Communities. (PUC is the parent organization of PCC & PH+T.) “We are thrilled to open our new space this July, demonstrating our commitment to co-creating enduring change toward a just society, and we hope this is only the beginning of an even larger investment in our community.”

KRSM first took to the airwaves in 2017. In 2020, during the civil unrest in South Minneapolis, KRSM hosts did not have access to KRSM studios to respond and give voice to the community, in real time. This challenge was one of many seeds that led to the development of PCC, which provides 24-hour access to the community-centered station.

Designed by Gensler, the new 4,495 square foot space includes three studios for KRSM 98.9 FM visible from Chicago Avenue with unfettered access to the station for hosts. KRSM continues to be a vital platform for emerging voices and local storytelling, offering essential tools and resources to those looking to share their experiences and perspectives.

Adjacent to KRSM’s new home is the Scene Shop, which will serve as the laboratory and building space for PCC’s Technical Arts Training (TAT) program. Led by André Samples, TAT is a fully paid, multi-phase program that introduces community members to technical trades such as carpentry, welding, scenic painting, lighting, sound, and projection design, job skills that are in demand. The program features hands-on instruction, apprenticeships with local venues, and comprehensive job placement support. In addition, youth participants in the summer Step-Up internship program, as well as local creators, will use the space to gain new skills and launch careers in the creative arts.

Together, these new facilities reflect a bold investment in the creative and economic future of South Minneapolis—offering access, training, and infrastructure that uplift community voices, close opportunity gaps and activates individual agency.

Save the Date: Annual Inside Out Block Party Returns July 26, 2025, with the Grand Opening of PCC

To mark the opening of the expanded PCC campus, Pillsbury House + Theatre (PH+T) and KRSM radio are thrilled to announce the 4th annual Inside Out Block Party on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 1–5 PM!

Join us for an afternoon of food, fun, and community celebration, featuring KRSM DJs broadcasting live, an artist market featuring local artists and artisans, and family-friendly activities for all ages. It’s a chance to come together, connect with neighbors, visit the new PCC space, and celebrate the rich creativity and culture of South Minneapolis.

Please note: Chicago Avenue from 35th to 36th Streets will be closed to traffic during the event to create a safe and welcoming space for everyone to gather and enjoy.

Mark your calendar—we can’t wait to see you there!

About Pillsbury Creative Commons (PCC)

Pillsbury Creative Commons (PCC) is the new name for the campus that also includes Full Cycle and Pillsbury House + Theatre. Pillsbury House + Theatre has been a community anchor organization and celebrated arts and economic development hub in South Minneapolis for over three decades—connecting and uplifting the community through creativity, opportunity, and belonging.

About Pillsbury House and Theatre (PH+T)

From the Makers Series to Chicago Avenue Project and Naked Stages, PILLSBURY HOUSE + THEATRE brings audiences closer—to the edge, to the actors, to affordable adventurous theatre, to fellow audience members, and to a strong, vibrant community. Now in its 34th year, the theatre continues to inspire enduring change towards a just society. An integral part of Pillsbury United Communities, one of the largest human services organizations in the state, Pillsbury House + Theatre demonstrates that the highest quality art is an integral part of all healthy communities, winning community trust, accolades and awards across the metro and nationally. Learn more about our programs at opportunities at www.pillsburyhouseandtheatre.org.

Career Pathways building equitable opportunities for young people

Career Pathways

A huge thank you to Gary Ly, Career Pathways Program Manager, and Julie Graves, Senior Director of Youth and Future Focus for your incredible leadership and commitment to youth development with Pillsbury United Communities.

The work highlighted by The Minneapolis Foundation in the Career Pathways feature is a testament to your dedication to building equitable opportunities for young people to explore, prepare for, and thrive in meaningful careers. Your vision and collaboration are helping shape a more inclusive future where every young person has the tools and support they need to succeed. We’re honored to be part of this work and grateful for the opportunity to have leaders like you.

A Call for Peace During This Tragedy

Pillsbury United Communities

In the wake of the heartbreaking shootings that have affected our Minnesota communities, our hearts are heavy. We hold in you our hearts and send thoughts of healing to the families and communities of Representative Melissa and Mark Hortman, and Senator John Hoffman, during this deeply painful time.

We send healing, strength, and unity to all those impacted by this tragedy. In moments like these, we are reminded of the importance of compassion, understanding, and our shared humanity.

Now more than ever, we call for peace — in our streets, in our hearts, and in our nation. Let us come together to support one another and work toward a future free from violence.

🕊️ Pillsbury United Communities

You’re Invite to the North Market Health Fair July 19th

Health Fair

🎉 YOU’RE INVITED to the North Market Community Health Fair! 🩺🌿
A Day of Wellness, Fun, and Freebies—For the Whole Neighborhood! Join us for a vibrant celebration of health and community! Whether you’re looking to connect with local resources, enjoy family-friendly activities, or just grab some great giveaways—you won’t want to miss this!

🗓️ Date: Saturday, July 19, 2025
📍 Location: North Market, 4414 N Humboldt Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55412
🕒 Time: 11:00 – 3:00PM

✨ What to expect:
✅ Free health screenings
🎁 Exciting giveaways
🧘‍♀️ Wellness activities for all ages
🎨 Kids’ crafts and games
🥗 Healthy snacks & local food vendors
🗣️ Meet local health experts & community orgs
Bring your neighbors, bring your family—everyone is welcome! Let’s come together to celebrate health, connection, and the strength of our community.
💚 Healthy people = healthy neighborhoods!

North Market is an enterprise of Pillsbury United Communities.
OPEN DAILY 9AM-9PM
North Market, 4414 N Humboldt Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55412
https://mynorthmarket.org/

Celebrating Pride Month: Twin Cities Events June 13-18

Celebrate Pride Month

June 13 @ 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

TC Gemini vs. Boston Banshees – Pro Women’s Rugby

TCO Stadium 2685 Vikings Cir, Eagan, MN, United States

TC Gemini’s last home game of the inaugural season, and Pride Game! Join us for a free pre-game party 5-6:30pm on the Vikings Museum Rooftop with live music and beer from MetroNOME Brewery Gates open at 6pm Kickoff is at 7pm Join us after the game for a social at Union 32 Craft House  – […]

 

June 13 @ 7:30 pm – June 29 @ 4:30 pm

The Macbeths

Center for Performing Arts (CFPA) 3754 Pleasant Ave, Minneapolis, MN, United States

ROUGH MAGIC PERFORMANCE COMPANY PRESENTS A HAUNTING NEW MACBETH All-Women/Non-Binary Cast, Bold Adaptation Opens Friday the 13th at the Center for the Performing Arts Prepare for a Macbeth unlike any you’ve seen before. Rough Magic Performance Company proudly presents an original, immersive adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Directed by Heidi Batz Rogers, adapted by Catherine Justice, […]

 

June 13 @ 9:00 pm – 12:00 am

Pride Skate Party 2025

Cheap Skate Roller Center 3075 Coon Rapids Boulevard, Coon Rapids, MN, United States

It’s time for the annual Pride Skate Party at Cheap Skate! Event is $15 / 18+ / Alcohol free / Music by DJ Shannon Blowtorch, Hosted by Angela “Hazmat Circus” and Jojo Ventus Ninja. Photobooth by Anne Fry Photography. Vendors, games, food, and more! Rental skates available for $5. Cheap Skate also has a large […]

 

June 14 @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Spotlight Science: SciPride

Bell Museum 2088 Larpenteur Ave W, St Paul, MN, United States

Recommended for all ages Celebrate Pride when we center the work of LGBTQIA+ scientists and allies at the Bell Museum! Meet researchers and experience their work through hands-on activities for all ages around the museum. This public program is open to all. Spotlight Science is a regular program that shines a light on current science conducted […]

 

June 14 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Hastings Pride Festival

Levee Park 20 Ramsey St., Hastings, MN, United States

Join us for our Annual Pride Festival!Kick off the fun with our Pet Parade at 10 AM everyone’s welcome to participate! Enjoy a full day of live entertainment, face painting, food vendors, caricatures, bounce house, Rainbow Station, gender-affirming closet swap, and so much more!  Family-friendly and open to all come celebrate with us!

 

June 15 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

ABBA Drag Brunch with Sasha Cassadine & Friends

American Swedish Institute 2600 Park Ave, Minneapolis, MN, United States

Celebrate Pride in style at ASI’s first-ever ABBA Drag Brunch! Don’t miss this special event celebrating Queer culture featuring Sasha Cassadine and her crew. Tickets admit you to FIKA Café’s fabulous brunch buffet (including vegan options). Coffee, mimosas, and more are available for purchase. Come in your most iconic outfit and bring dollar bills to […]

 

June 17 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Nature Gays in the Woods

Battle Creek Regional Park

About This Event Join Maria (Four Season Foraging), Tanner (Tanner Barnharst) and Haleigh (Wide Eyed Outside) for Nature Gays in the Woods during Pride Month! This event welcomes and centers people who identify as LGBTQIA+, plus their friends and family members. Tuesday, June 17th from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at Battle Creek Regional Park in Maplewood, […]

Celebrating Juneteenth around the Twin Cities

Juneteenth Events in Twin Cities

Juneteenth Celebration: Unity, Healing & Hope

Date: June 13, 2025 12:30-5:30pm

Location: Shiloh Temple Lot, 1201 West Broadway, Minneapolis, MN 55411

This year, we center our celebration around violence prevention—lifting up the voices and efforts working toward peace, healing, and resilience in our neighborhoods. Through food, music, storytelling, and community dialogue, we aim to reclaim space, spread love, and cultivate lasting change.

 

Roseville Juneteenth Celebration

Date: 06/14/2025 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Location: Central Park – Lexington, 2540 Lexington Ave, Roseville, MN, 55113
Do Good Roseville has planned a festival that will include music, food and vendors in the park. June 14, 2025, 11am-3pm. FREE.

 

Juneteeth Celebration

Date: 06/14/2025 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Location: Midtown Global Market, 920 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN , 55407

Midtown Global Market’s Juneteenth Celebration includes food tastings, music, dance, shopping, and special offers.

 

Peavey Juneteenth Celebration

Date: 06/14/2025 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Location: Peavey Recreation Center, 730 E 22nd St, Minneapolis, MN , 55404

Meet up at Peavey Field Park to celebrate culture and community during a powerful day of reflection and joy, featuring spoken word performances, storytelling, flag football, soccer games, t-shirt making and food. FREE. All Ages. Saturday, June 14, 2025; 11am-3pm.

 

Juneteenth Celebrating Freedom Day

Date: 06/14/2025 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Location: Bethune Park, 1304 N 10th Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, 55411

Family-friendly activities, food vendors, music and entertainment. Saturday, June 14, 2025; noon-6pm.

 

Juneteenth Freedom Walk & Living History Event

DATE: June 14, 2025 9am – 1pm

Location:  Midtown Global Market

Join The Cultural Wellness Center, Midtown Greenway Coalition, and Lake Street Lift for a moving Juneteenth journey through Minnesota’s untold Black history.

 

Juneteenth Fun Run

DATE: June 14, 2025 9am-11am

Location: The Trailhead

Join us for the first-ever Juneteenth Fun Run! All are welcome to participate in the 5K or kids half mile run. Celebrating Juneteenth allows us to recognize history, and build for the future. Juneteenth celebrates freedom, and together we hope to claim a better tomorrow. In partnership with community and community organizations, the Loppet brings you the Annual Juneteenth Fun Run.

 

Northside Juneteenth Celebration

Date: June 14, 2025 11am – 4pm
Location: Sanctuary Covenant Church

This year is the THIRD YEAR that Juneteenth is a State Holiday in the State of Minnesota are we are thrilled to be back in person celebrating again. We will have a host of activities including a Stage with a Live DJ, Food Court, Kid’s Zone, Community Health Fair, Black Business Marketplace Area, Local Artists & Entertainment, African Face and Body Painting, Games, Giveaway’s & More! https://www.facebook.com/NorthsideJuneteenth

 

Juneteenth Celebration with Pillsbury United Communities

DATE: Wednesday, June 18th, 2025 from 4-7pm

Location: Oak Park Community Center, 1701 Oak Park Ave. N, Minneapolis

Juneteenth Celebration Dinner with KRSM Radio DJ “Biig Miiic”

RSVP today!

Help make this event possible—donate today to support the meal and sustain our hunger relief work.

 

Pre-Juneteenth Celebration

Date: 06/18/2025 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Location: Loring Park, 1382 Willow Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55403

Activities include spoken word poetry performances and collaborative mural art! WednesdayJune 18, 2025; 6:30-7:30 pm. Free.

 

Juneteenth Free Day at ALL National Parks

Date: 06/19/2025 See Times in Details

Location: Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, Science Museum of Minnesota lobby, Saint Paul, MN, 55102

National Parks offer FREE admission to celebrate Juneteenth. Get your park passports stamped, participate in a Junior Ranger program, and enjoy one these National Treasures! Among these National Parks is the Mississippi River Visitor Center in Saint Paul and 5 other Minnesota National Parklands.

 

Soul of the Southside Juneteenth – KRSM Radio live outside Arbeiter

DATE: 06/19/2025 12 PM–8 PM

Location: Lake Street & Minnehaha Avenue, Minneapolis, MN

The Soul of the Southside ignites the spirit of Juneteenth and Black Liberation by centering the richness of Black culture. Through a powerful fusion of history, art, music, food, and education, our festival is a transformative platform that unites, empowers, and inspires. We honor the brilliance of Black creatives, businesses, and community organizations, showcasing the profound contributions of Black Americans. By using creativity as a force for liberation, we build connections, foster learning, and leave a legacy of cultural pride and unity for generations to come.

Pillsbury United Communities + Twins Fundraiser Outing

Join Us at a Twins Game! 

Pillsbury United Communities + Twins Fundraiser Outing 

Aug 14, 2025 6:40 PM CDT 

Target Field: 1 Twins Way, Minneapolis, MN 55403, US 

Join us for an exciting day at Target Field and support Pillsbury United Communities! For every ticket sold, $10 will go directly to PUC, so share this link with your family, friends, and community and help us raise as much as we can!   

You’ll also have a chance to enter a drawing to win 4 tickets to a Twins game in September, hosted in the Thrivent Club.  

Our fundraiser ends July 24, 2025, so purchase your tickets today!  

Link to purchase tickets: https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/PUCFundraiser 

Minnesota Twins take on the Detroit Tigers with first pitch scheduled for 6:40pm. 

🎓 Big Congratulations to the FANS Senior Scholars Class of 2025

Pillsbury United Communites FANS Scholars Class of 2025

Pillsbury United Communities is bursting with pride as we celebrate the incredible achievements of our FANS Senior Scholars Class of 2025! These brilliant young leaders have shown dedication, resilience, and heart — and their futures are shining bright. 🌟

🎉 We’re also thrilled to announce that we’ve committed over $35,000 in scholarships to support this exceptional group on their journeys to higher education! 🎉

From classrooms to communities, these scholars are already making an impact — and we can’t wait to see how far they’ll go. To every graduate: we see you, we celebrate you, and we believe in you.

👏 Join us in giving them a round of applause and sending your best wishes for the road ahead! 📚💪

Join Us for an Intergenerational Forum at Pillsbury United Communities Brian Coyle Center

Intergenerational Forum

🌍 You’re Invited! Join Us for an Intergenerational Forum at Pillsbury United Communities Brian Coyle Center 🌟

We’re bringing generations together for real conversations, shared wisdom, and bold ideas for the future — and YOU are invited!

📍 Location: Pillsbury United Communities Brian Coyle Community Center 420 15th Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN, 55454
📅 Date & Time: Thursday, June 12th from 4:00 – 6:00 pm

This is more than just a gathering — it’s a chance for youth, elders, and everyone in between to come together, build understanding, and explore how we can shape a stronger, more connected community.

🗣️ Expect powerful storytelling, open dialogue, and fresh perspectives
🤝 Connect across generations and cultures
🍽️ Snacks, refreshments, and warm community vibes provided!

Whether you’re 16 or 76, your voice matters. Bring your story, your questions, and your heart — let’s build bridges and break barriers together.

Join Pillsbury United Communities to Honor Juneteenth with Purpose and Pride

juneteenth

DATE: Wednesday, June 18th, 2025 from 4-7pm

Location: Oak Park Community Center, 1701 Oak Park Ave. N, Minneapolis

Juneteenth Celebration Dinner with KRSM Radio DJ “Biig Miiic”

RSVP today: https://forms.office.com/r/7bh4TNki4K

On this Juneteenth, we at Pillsbury United Communities join in celebration and remembrance—recognizing the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas finally learned they were free.

More than a date in history, Juneteenth is a testament to Black resilience, joy, and the enduring fight for justice. It is a time to reflect, honor, and uplift the voices and stories that have shaped our collective liberation.

Celebrate Pride Month with Pillsbury United Communities: June 7th Events

Celebrate Pride Month

🌈 Celebrate Pride Month with Pillsbury United Communities! 🏳️‍🌈

June is here, and it’s time to honor love, diversity, and the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community that makes our city shine. At Pillsbury United Communities, we believe in building a world where everyone is celebrated for who they are. 💖

This month, we’re excited to invite you to join us in supporting and participating in local Pride events that uplift and empower our community. Whether you’re attending your first Pride celebration or your fiftieth, your presence matters.

Upcoming Pride Events in Minneapolis:

June 7 @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

All-Inclusive Community Clothing Swap

Hardwood Creek Library 19955 Forest Rd N, Forest Lake, MN, United States

Have clothes you want to get rid of? Or looking for some clothes for yourself? All are welcome at our first inclusive community clothing swap at Hardwood Creek Library! If you would like to donate items for the Community Clothing Swap, please drop them off at Hardwood Creek Library during open hours from Monday…Read More

 

June 7 @ 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Golden Valley Pride Festival 2025

Brookview Park 300 Brookview Pkwy N, Golden Valley, MN, United States

Mark your calendars, Golden Valley Pride Festival is back for 2025!  Join us at Brookview Park, Saturday, June 7th as we celebrate with two stages of music and entertainment, a beer/cider/wine garden, kid’s activities, artisans of all types and numerous organizations and community business booths! Love is in the COMMUNITY!  Read More

 

June 7 @ 12:30 pm – 5:00 pm

Puzzling and Beats

Queermunity 3036 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN, United States

Come hang with us for a chill time putting together puzzles, vibing to good music, and connecting with new and old friends! Everyone’s invited! To stay in the loop on upcoming events, follow our Read More

 

June 7 @ 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Youth Pride presented by the Minnesota School Outreach Coalition (MNSOC)

Como Midway Picnic Pavilion Park 1199 Midway Pkwy, St Pau, MN, United States

Youth Pride is a free event for LGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-22. This is an event for young people to feel celebrated and strengthen connections to their community. Youth Pride has a little bit of everything; resources from local organizations serving queer youth, activities and games, performances by amazing entertainers, food from local businesses, photo-booths

Read More

 

June 7 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

TaikoGROOVE

Cedar Cultural Center 416 Cedar Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, United States

TaikoArts Midwest produces the first ever taiko dance party concert, TaikoGROOVE! Rhythms drop at 7PM, Saturday June 7, at the Cedar Cultural Center. All Ages. Surprise Japanese guest artists come all the way from TOKYO to join local troupe Enso Daiko onstage, delivering the debut of a wild, primal groove, plus many audience favorites! Read More 

 

At Pillsbury United Communities, we’re committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all individuals feel safe, valued, and empowered. Throughout the year, we offer programs and services that support the LGBTQIA+ community, including health resources, youth programs, and cultural events.

Let’s come together to celebrate love, amplify voices, and strengthen the bonds that make our community resilient. 💪

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