Maple Grove Weekly Update: Chalkfest Returns Under New Leadership
Chalkfest returns June 13-14 with a new community partnership. Maple Grove Senior High celebrates Class of 2026 at U.S. Bank Stadium.
This week brings exciting developments to Maple Grove as the community prepares for summer celebrations and marks important milestones for local students. From the revival of a beloved street art festival to graduation ceremonies and ongoing infrastructure investments, here is your roundup of what is happening around the city.
Chalkfest Returns Next Weekend Under New Partnership
One of Maple Grove’s most beloved summer traditions is officially back. Chalkfest returns to downtown Main Street on June 13 and 14, with an additional public viewing day on Monday, June 15. The free, two-day street art festival will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days at Town Green, located at 7991 Main Street N.
The event’s return comes after the Maple Grove Business Association dissolved in December 2025 following 24 years of operation due to funding shortfalls. However, a new collaborative partnership has stepped in to revive the festival. Experience Maple Grove, the Maple Grove Arts Center, and internationally recognized chalk artist and co-creator Shawn McCann have joined forces to bring fresh energy to the event. Professional and amateur chalk artists from around the world will transform the pavement into large-scale murals, with visitors able to watch the artwork take shape in real time. The festival includes a free Kids Zone with hands-on chalk activities, food vendors, live entertainment, and interactive art experiences for all ages.
Class of 2026 Graduates at U.S. Bank Stadium
Maple Grove Senior High School celebrated its graduating seniors at commencement on Sunday, June 7, at 6 p.m. CCX Media provided live streaming coverage of the ceremony held at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The event marked the culmination of years of academic achievement for the Class of 2026, with a replay available on CCX Media’s cable channels and website.
The senior all-night party followed the commencement service, giving graduates one final opportunity to celebrate with classmates. Graduating seniors reflected on their high school experience, with many citing challenging coursework and extracurricular involvement as highlights of their time at MGSH. The school’s Crimson Way character development program continues to prepare students for success as future leaders.
Community Center Expansion Advances Toward Fall Construction
The City of Maple Grove continues to make progress on its Community Center renovation and expansion project. Phase one of construction is already underway, and phase two is anticipated to begin construction in September 2026. Design plans for phase two were approved by the City Council in January, and the design team has advanced to construction documents.
The city is seeking a sales tax exemption for this regional recreation asset during the 2026 legislative session, with the estimated sales tax for the project valued at $2.375 million. Throughout phase two improvements, the Parks and Recreation Department will continue offering programs and services at alternate locations across the community, with department offices temporarily relocating to the Government Center during construction.
Summer Programming Kicks Off Across the City
Maple Grove residents have plenty of opportunities to enjoy community events in the coming weeks. The city’s annual online photography contest runs through June 30, with residents able to submit photos taken in Maple Grove for a chance at cash prizes and recognition in city publications. The Maple Grove Farmers Market, voted the 2025 Best Farmers Market in the state by Minnesota’s Best Readers’ Choice, continues every Thursday at the Community Center through October 15.
The Sounds of Summer concert series kicks off at Town Green on June 22, offering free concerts and movies in the park throughout the season. Meanwhile, the Maple Grove Rotary Club is hosting a Community Open House at Central Park on June 16 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., offering residents a chance to meet local leaders and learn about nonprofit organizations making a difference.
For more information on city news, events, and services, visit the official City of Maple Grove website at maplegrovemn.gov.