Twin Cities Beach Blast | Bde Maka Ska – Thomas Beach

The Twin Cities Beach Blast is a free family event at Thomas Beach in Minneapolis, part of the Aquatennial celebration. This year it’s on Sunday, July 19, 2026.

It has two main attractions. The Milk Carton Boat Races run in age-based heats throughout the day: Orcas for adults 18+ at 10am, Sharks for teens 13-17 at 11am, Minnows for kids 5-12 at noon (with an adult captain aboard), a stand-up paddleboard solo race at 1pm, and a grand finale showdown at 2pm. There’s also a Sandcastle Competition with registration at 9am, building at 10am, and judging and awards at 2pm, with Family and Friends class categories plus Best in Show.