A Colorful Family Adventure: Alebrijes on Raspberry Island
Looking for a magical way to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15 – Oct 15) with your family? Head to Raspberry Island in St. Paul for a truly unforgettable outing to see the vibrant Alebrijes exhibit.
🌟 What are Alebrijes?
Alebrijes are brightly colored, fantastical creatures that blend features from different animals, plants, and even mythical beings. The tradition began in Mexico in the 1930s when artist Pedro Linares fell ill and dreamed of surreal, hybrid animals chanting “Alebrijes.” When he recovered, he began creating these figures using papier-mâché and cardboard.
🎨 The Exhibit & Experience
The exhibit, titled Alebrijes: Keepers of the Island, was organized by the Minnesota Latino Museum. Four master papier-mâché artists from Mexico City created the sculptures: Perla Miriam Salgado Zamorano, Alejandro Camacho Barrera, Edgar Israel Camargo Reyes, and Alberto Moreno Fernández. The sculptures were installed in late May 2025 and will remain on display through October 26, 2025.
As you stroll the riverside paths of Raspberry Island, you will encounter larger-than-life Alebrijes bursting with bold colors and intricate details. Each one invites kids and adults alike to stop, imagine, and wonder. With the Mississippi River as a backdrop, the exhibit feels like a storybook come to life.
🎥 Make it a Family Experience
Before or after your visit, gather the kids for a family movie night and watch Disney Pixar’s Coco. The film beautifully weaves in Mexican traditions and features Alebrijes as spirit guides, giving children an engaging way to connect with what they will see on Raspberry Island.
👨👩👧👦 Why Families Will Love It
The Alebrijes exhibit is free and outdoors, making it an easy activity for families of all ages. Children will love pointing out the colors, shapes, and creative combinations like a fish with wings or a rabbit with dragon features. Parents will appreciate how the outing becomes a fun and interactive way to celebrate Hispanic heritage while enjoying art and the outdoors together.
🌟 Nearby Family-Friendly Activities
- Check out Adventure Unlimited: St. Paul Edition for a great list of nearby activities!
- Harriet Island Park is just across the bridge with plenty of space to run, picnic, and watch boats on the river.
- Visit the Minnesota Children’s Museum for hands-on exhibits and endless fun for kids of all ages.
- Stop by Candyland in downtown St. Paul, a locally owned treasure since 1932 that delights families with homemade popcorn, fudge, and classic sweets.
- Take a short walk to Downtown St. Paul for ice cream or a cozy café stop.
- Explore the Science Museum of Minnesota, only a few minutes away and always a hit with kids.
- Enjoy CHS Field if there is a St. Paul Saints game, or simply take in the lively atmosphere of Lowertown.
