In a press conference at the 3M Open, Scheels was announced as an anchor tenant in the 105th Avenue Redevelopment District. Scheels will start construction soon on a 250,000 square foot sporting goods store. Since last year, site prep and infrastructure work has been taking place in the redevelopment district. Before the end of 2025, vertical construction will begin. The district will also be home to hotels, sports and entertainment uses, restaurants, and more.
Blaine will be the second Scheels location in the Twin Cities metro, joining Eden Prairie, and sixth in the state. “Minnesota has always been a proud part of the Scheels story, and we’re thrilled to make Blaine the next chapter, a thriving community that aligns perfectly with our values,” said Matt Hanson, Scheels CEO. “This new location will be built specifically with the Blaine and surrounding communities in mind, from local experiences to expert service. We are excited to continue our partnership with the city, to give back to Blaine’s dynamic community, and create a lasting impact for years to come.”
Strategically located near the National Sports Center and TPC Twin Cities, Scheels will sit at the heart of Blaine’s vibrant community and bring more than 500 new jobs to the region. “We are excited to welcome Scheels to Blaine as part of a transformational redevelopment project,” said Blaine Mayor Tim Sanders. “This store will anchor a destination that offers more than just shopping. It is about creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors through recreation, dining, and community connection.”
The store will deliver more than just retail, it will offer a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. From signature attractions like the Ferris wheel and candy shop to the 16,000-gallon saltwater aquarium filled with over 600 fish, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. The location will also feature a wildlife mountain, interactive arcade games and specialty treats, a restaurant serving gourmet soups and sandwiches, jerky, homemade fudge, specialty coffee, and more.
“The addition of Scheels to Blaine is a major win for our community,” said Interim Blaine City Manager Erik Thorvig. “This project will bring hundreds of quality jobs to the area, boost our local economy, and help create a vibrant destination. Scheels is also known for giving back, and we are excited to welcome a company that will be a true community partner.”
The new Blaine store will be the 37th Scheels location when it opens in 2028.
For more information on the 105th Avenue redevelopment district, visit BlaineMN.gov/105thAvenueRedevelopment
Blaine City Hall
10801 Town Square Drive NE Blaine, MN 55449
763-784-6700
Communications@BlaineMN.gov
City Council
MAYOR
Tim Sanders
763-203-3286
TSanders@BlaineMN.gov
WARD 1
Chris Ford
612-494-8275
CFord@BlaineMN.gov
Tom Newland
651-271-3341
TNewland@BlaineMN.gov
WARD 2
Leslie Larson
612-489-9651
LeslieLarson@BlaineMN.gov
Jess Robertson
763-607-2233
JRobertson@BlaineMN.gov
WARD 3
Terra Fleming
612-513-5231
TFleming@BlaineMN.gov
Chris Massoglia
612-524-9447
CMassoglia@BlaineMN.gov
INTERIM CITY MANAGER
Erik Thorvig
763-785-6120
EThorvig@BlaineMN.gov
Recycling Calendar
Upcoming Meetings
City Council*
September 3 | September 15
October 6 | October 20
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
City Council Workshops
September 3 | September 8 | September 15
October 6 | October 13 | October 20
5:30pm | Cloverleaf Farms Room
Natural Resources Conservation Board*
October 21
7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
Park Board*
September 23 | October 28 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
Planning Commission*
September 9 | October 14 7pm | City Hall Council Chambers
*Meetings can be seen on cable channel 16 and 799. Meeting agendas and live and on demand videos are available at BlaineMN.gov/Agendas.
Connect with your community and sign up for topics that interest you BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe
Partnership BlaineMN.gov/ CommunityConnect
CityConnect is published bimonthly by the City of Blaine and distributed to all residents and businesses. Past copies of the city newsletter are available at BlaineMN.gov/Newsletter
New Junior Citizens Academy
Offers Behind-the-Scenes Look at Police and Fire
For the first time, the City of Blaine is offering high school students the chance to step into the world of public safety through the Junior Citizens Academy - a two-day, hands-on experience held over MEA break, October 16 and 17, 2025.
Modeled after the long-running adult Safety Services Citizens Academy, this brand-new program invites students in grades 9–12 to go behind the scenes with Blaine Police and the Spring Lake Park-BlaineMounds View Fire Department. Participants will spend one full day at the police department and one full day at the fire station, engaging in interactive activities designed to showcase the inner workings of public safety and emergency services.
The Junior Citizens Academy aims to provide a fun and informative look into the daily responsibilities of police officers and firefighters, while also inspiring the next generation of public safety leaders. It also serves as a great introduction for students who may be interested in joining the Public Safety Cadet Program (formerly known as Explorers).
This free program is open to Blaine residents and Blaine High School, Centennial High School, or Spring Lake Park High School students. Space is limited to just 24 participants, and lunch will be provided each day. Do not miss this exciting opportunity to get hands-on, real-world experience in the field of public safety!
Learn more and apply at BlaineMN.gov/JuniorAcademy For questions, contact CommunityOutreach@BlaineMN.gov.
Department Spotlight
Public Works Sewer/Storm Division
Most people do not give much thought to what happens after water swirls down the drain or rain disappears into a storm grate, but for the Sewer/Storm Division, that is where the work begins. This team is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and oversight of Blaine’s sanitary sewer and stormwater systems. On the sewer side, staff manage 32 lift stations, ensuring they operate continuously. They also maintain 329 miles of sewer pipe and more than 8,000 manhole structures, all vital to safeguarding public health, meeting environmental regulations, and supporting everyday life in Blaine.
On the stormwater side, the division inspects and maintains 107 miles of ditch network and 534 stormwater basins. These efforts help manage runoff, reduce the risk of flooding, and improve water quality through a variety of treatment practices.
Along with their daily operations, the Sewer/Storm Division also conducts routine inspections, cleaning, and preventive maintenance. This proactive approach improves system reliability, reduces emergency repairs, and supports the City’s long-term infrastructure sustainability. By effectively managing both sanitary and stormwater systems, this team ensures Blaine remains a safe, functional, and environmentally responsible community.
You can learn more at, BlaineMN.gov/PublicWorks
SBM Fire Open House
Saturday, September 27 10am-noon, Station 3 11920 Ulysses Street NE
There will be a hose station for participants to spray a fire hose, fire extinguisher training, station tours, a vehicle extrication demonstration, a safety house demonstration, the Blaine Police K9, Allina ambulance, Anoka County Dispatch, CenterPoint Energy, a scavenger hunt, and more!
For more information, please contact SBM headquarters at 763-486-4336 with any questions.
Blaine Police Community Alliance
Get Involved
The Blaine Police Community Alliance is a collaborative group, organized by the Blaine Police Department, made up of police personnel and representatives and leaders within the City of Blaine.
The BPCA will provide advice, suggestions, and assistance to the Blaine Police Department to aid in serving, communicating with, and understanding the perspective of community members.
The purpose of the BPCA is to address community concerns, develop community engagement initiatives, and break down barriers between residents and police to build trust and mutual respect.
To get involved, fill out the online application at BlaineMN.gov/BPCA
Candidates must complete a criminal background check and have a brief interview before becoming members.
Blaine Public Works Sewer/Storm Division
Stay Informed on City Business
The City of Blaine works hard to keep residents informed about the decisions that shape the community. Whether it is a new development proposal, a public hearing, or an update to city ordinances, there are several easy ways to stay in the loop.
City Council and Board and Commission Agendas
Agendas outline all items up for discussion or vote and include links to staff reports, maps, and other background information. This includes the City Council as well as boards and commissions such as the Planning Commission, Park Board, and Natural Resources Conservation Board.
• Where to find them: Visit BlaineMN.gov/Agendas to view upcoming and past agendas.
• How to watch meetings: Most meetings are streamed live on BlaineMN.gov/Video, broadcast on cable channel 799 and 16, and available on-demand for later viewing.
Public Hearings
Public hearings give anyone the chance to share their thoughts with the City Council or other boards and commissions before a decision is made. Notices are published in the City’s official newspaper and posted online.
• Stay updated: View the most recent public notices at BlaineMN.gov/ PublicNotices.
• Get involved: Attend in person or watch the live stream on the city website or on cable.
Ordinance and Code Changes
From zoning updates to new community regulations, ordinance changes can affect how our neighborhoods grow and function. Drafts and final versions are available for review.
• Track changes: Visit BlaineMN.gov/CityCode for the full city code and recent amendments.
• Sign up for alerts: Subscribe to email and text notifications at BlaineMN.gov/ NotifyMe and choose Public Notices/Press Releases
New Development Updates
Stay informed about projects shaping Blaine’s future. The City’s online development map shows the locations of projects, along with details such as project type, status, and timelines. Visit BlaineMN.gov/ DevelopmentMap to explore what is happening around the City.
Your Voice Matters
City decisions impact daily life—from the look of neighborhoods to the services the City offers. By staying informed, residents can take part in shaping Blaine’s future.
For more information or assistance finding an agenda, ordinance, or hearing notice, call 763-784-6700
FlashVote
Help Make Blaine Better in One Minute
The City of Blaine is working with FlashVote to engage the community and gather valuable input from residents. Selected Blaine residents may receive text messages from FlashVote. We encourage you to sign up if you receive a text message. Personal or demographic information collected by FlashVote is never shared with the City or anyone else.
You can also sign up now at BlaineMN.gov/FlashVote or by calling 775-235-2240
Tree Planting Grant Program
Metropolitan Council Awards $94,880 Grant
The City of Blaine was awarded a $94,880 grant from the Metropolitan Council Community Tree Planting grant program to remove diseased ash trees located in three areas around the City and to plant new trees in Little League Park, Territorial Park, and Elizabeth Marie Park. Trees were selected to improve the diversity of the tree canopy, match the moisture and sun conditions of planting locations, and provide shade to parking lots and picnic areas. Limiting the overplanting of one species of tree will help protect the City from pests, such as the Emerald Ash Borer, or diseases, such as Dutch Elm Disease. A more diverse urban forest is a more resilient forest.
Looking to add trees to your yard? Consider planting a tree that is less common to help diversify your tree canopy. Options include:
• Serviceberry
• Hackberry
• Honeylocust
• Kentucky coffee tree
• River birch or Paper birch
• Ohio Buckeye
• London Plane tree
• Yellowwood
• Ironwood
• Blue Beech
• Bicolor Oak
• Basswood
• Horse chestnut
Once you have planted your tree, pay special attention to it for the first couple of years to help it thrive!
1. Water Wisely - Young trees need consistent watering, especially in the first two to three years. Water slowly and deeply at the base of the tree one to two times per week—more often during hot, dry periods.
2. Mulch Matters - A 3-4 inch layer of mulch around the tree (but not touching the trunk) helps retain moisture, regulate temperature, and prevent weeds.
3. Protect the Trunk - Avoid bumping the tree with lawnmowers or trimmers. Leave a mulch ring to protect the base and avoid damage that can lead to disease.
4. Structural Pruning - After the tree has established in its new location, usually a couple growing seasons, it is time to make some strategic pruning cuts. This promotes the tree to grow into its proper form
Public Right-of-Way
What Is the Public Right-of-Way and Why Are Utility Companies There?
You may have noticed utility crews working along the edges of streets, sidewalks, or boulevards and wondered why. In most cases, these areas are part of the public right-of-way, and utility companies are allowed to access them—provided they have the proper permits from the City of Blaine. Over the last two years the City has seen a large influx of fiber companies installing infrastructure in the right-of-way.
What is the Public Right-of-Way?
The public right-of-way is land designated for public infrastructure, usually extending beyond the curb or street and often into the boulevards. This space allows for the installation and maintenance of essential systems, such as:
• Water and sewer lines
• Gas pipelines
• Electrical systems
• Telephone, cable, and fiber-optic internet lines
Why Do Crews Need Access?
Utility companies access the right-of-way to:
• Install new service for homes or businesses
• Upgrade existing infrastructure for better reliability
• Repair damage or restore service after outages
These activities ensure residents have dependable access to electricity, water, natural gas, and internet. What About Permits?
Before starting any work, utility companies must obtain a permit from the City of Blaine. This permit process ensures:
• The work is done safely and in compliance with local regulations
• Traffic and pedestrian access are managed
• Crews follow restoration standards for streets, sidewalks, and landscaping
What Can Residents Expect?
You may see temporary digging, construction equipment, and utility flags marking underground lines. The City requires that all disturbed areas be restored as closely as possible to their original condition once the work is complete.
Have Questions?
The City maintains an online data portal that shows all the utility permits issued for the last two years. This is a good place to see which company may be working in your neighborhood. You can view the information at BlaineMN.gov/UtilityPermitData
If you have concerns about work happening in your neighborhood or want to learn more about the public right-of-way, contact the Blaine Engineering Department at BlaineMN.gov/Engineering
Funding for Water Education
Activities and Projects
Have a water-related education project that needs funding? Coon Creek Watershed District has grant money available for water resource education activities and projects that help fulfill its mission to protect and preserve local water resources. Grants range from $500 - $1,000 and are reimbursement-based.
Eligible applicants include non-profits, K-12 educators, businesses, and civic groups located within the Coon Creek Watershed boundaries. Examples of eligible activities include field trips to outdoor spaces such as Blaine Wetland Sanctuary, classroom supplies for water-related science lessons, native plants and supplies for volunteer planting projects, educational workshops, exhibit rentals, and continuing education opportunities like Project WET.
For more information, visit CoonCreekWD.org/grants-library or email info@cooncreekwd.org
Fall Leaf Raking
Don’t Rake Your Leaves into the Street
Please keep in mind that all decaying plant material that ends up in the City’s ponds and streams contributes to greater phosphorus load and poor water quality. Please do not rake leaves into the street. Drop-Off Options
Residents may bring leaves and grass to the Anoka County Compost sites. The hours for the sites are:
Bunker Hills, Coon Rapids
13285 Hanson Boulevard NW, Coon Rapids MN
April - November, weather permitting
Monday - Friday: 10AM - 7PM
Saturday: 9AM - 5PM
Sunday: Noon - 5PM
December - March, weather permitting Saturday: 9AM - 1PM
Both sites are closed on most federal holidays.
Visit BlaineMN.gov/CompostSites for the most up to date information.
Rice Creek, Lino Lakes
7701 Main Street, Lino Lakes MN
April - November, weather permitting
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10AM - 7PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 10AM - 7PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 9AM - 5PM
Sunday: Noon - 5PM
December - March, weather permitting Saturday: 9AM - 1PM
Upcoming Street Sweeping and Winter Plowing
The street sweepers will be out this fall so please remember that the following items should not be placed on any City streets as they make it difficult to sweep in the fall and plow in the winter:
• Non-working vehicles
• Garbage cans
• Basketball hoops
Also, this is a good time to check your mailbox condition to see if it can handle the weight of the winter snow.
For more information on street sweeping and snow plowing activities, visit BlaineMN.gov/PublicWorks
8am — noon
3rd Saturday of Each Month
Drop-Off Location
Recycle Technologies
Enter at 1525 - 99th Lane NE
The City of Blaine sponsors a recycling drop-off day the third Saturday of each month. Participants do not need to be a Blaine resident to bring items to the drop-off day. Please note, no garbage will be accepted. Follow the signs for the entrance and staff directions through the drop-off process. The recycling drop-off day is funded by Anoka County and Minnesota SCORE funds (Select Committee on Recycling and the Environment).
Recycle Technologies
763-559-5130
RecycleTechnologies.com
Cash or Check Only
Mattresses, box springs, appliances, fluorescent lamps, electronics, rechargeable batteries, and tires are some of the items collected. Free items include scrap metal and vehicle batteries.
See a complete list of fees at BlaineMN.gov/ RecyclingSaturdays
Randy’s Environmental Services 763-972-3335
RandysEnvironmental Services.com
Randy’s offers free paper shredding. Please note, there may be long wait times for shredding. Four box or bag limit for paper shredding.
Bike Collection for Bikes4KidsMN.org
Drop off any size bicycle. Bikes will be refurbished or have their parts used in refurbishing other bikes. Bikes are then donated to people in need. There is no charge to drop off a bike. Bikes for Kids is part of the Robert & Wilma Burbach Bike Foundation. Bike collection is available from April through October.
Walters Recycling & Refuse 763-780-8464
WaltersRecycling.com/Blaine Contact Walters to report missed garbage, recycling, or yard waste pickup. City Recycling Information 763-785-6141
BlaineMN.gov/Recycle
RecConnect Fall 2025
Fall registration is now open. Check out all the great program offerings at BlaineParks.com/Register.
Sign up for the RecConnect online at BlaineMN.gov/NotifyMe, and choose News: BlaineParks.
Harvest Hustle
all ages
Come join us for a casual 5k walk/ run around the TPC Twin Cities golf course. It is a great way to start your Thanksgiving Day off burning calories ahead of the big meal. Fee includes a t-shirt. This is also a Toys for Tots Fundraiser Event.
For more information, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
QC Dance
ages 0 to 11, All classes held at QC Dance Studio, 9967 Ulysses Street NE, Blaine QC Dance provides quality dance instruction and a variety of fun opportunities to learn and demonstrate dance skills while building self-esteem. To encourage academic excellence as well as other involvements that contribute to the development of a multi-talented, well-rounded individual.
Mommy and Me ages 0 to 2
Parents and tots enjoy an exercise/activity class together. Rockin’ tots enjoy playful songs, fun with props and tumbling. Dads are welcome, too! The instructor will guide parents and children through play and exercise activities. Please wear comfortable attire and clean tennis shoes or ballet slippers. This class is perfect for children not ready to separate from mom or dad. Max 12.
Wednesdays, October 1 - November 5
5-5:30pm
$50 res; $55 nr
Kidlets: Intro to Dance ages 2 to 3
A delightful introduction to the art of dance with ballet basics, creative movement, fun with props and tumbling, all in a professional dance setting. Please wear a leotard (skirt attached is acceptable if not too long) or exercise/comfortable stretchy attire and ballet slippers. This class is perfect for the child who is comfortable separating from mom or dad. Max 12.
Wednesdays, October 1 - November 5
5-5:35pm
$55 res; $60 nr
Kidance: Intro to Dance ages 4 to 5
A delightful introduction to the art of dance with ballet basics, creative movement, fun with props and tumbling, all in a professional dance setting. Please wear a leotard (skirt attached is acceptable if not too long) or exercise/comfortable stretchy attire and ballet slippers. This class is perfect for the child who is comfortable separating from mom or dad. Max 12.
Wednesdays, October 1 - November 5
5:40-6:15pm
$55 res; $60 nr
Tech Academy
All classes are virtual
Home technical requirements for all classes:
• Computer: PC (Windows 7 or later) or Mac (macOS) with at least a 2GHz processor and 4GB of RAM
• Chromebooks, tablets, and phones typically do not work.
• Internet: Broadband internet
• Webcam
• Microphone and speakers
• Zoom installed on computer
More information about Parks and Recreation is available at 763-785-6164 or in the current Recreation
Hippity Hop ages 4 to 6
Dancers can begin or elevate their dance skills with the latest trends. Students will learn the latest styles of dance through body isolations, funky style steps and contemporary moves, all set to the latest pop and hip-hop music. Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers. Max 12.
Wednesdays, October 1 - November 5
6:20-6:55pm
$55 res; $60 nr
Hip Hop ages 7 to 11
Step into the spotlight with the freshest dance moves! Students will learn the latest styles of dance, from body isolations, funky style steps and contemporary moves, all set to popular pop and hip-hop music. Wear comfortable clothes and clean sneakers. Max 12.
Wednesdays, October 1 - November 5
7-7:35pm
$55 res; $60 nr
Trick or Treat Dance Party ages 3 to 6
Come BOO-gie with us in your favorite costume for a Halloween themed dance class! We will crawl like spiders, float like ghosts, and dance like skeletons to fun and spooky Halloween songs. Your child will also make a fun craft. Please wear ballet slippers/ non-slip socks. Max 12.
Saturday, October 25
10:30am-noon
$30 res; $33 nr
For more information on dates, times and fees, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
For complete virtual class descriptions, visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Youth Curling
ages 8 to 18
During the seven sessions, youth will learn how to slide, throw the stone, and sweep the stone, along with the rules of the game. This program is a great place to try curling for the first time. Curling equipment is provided, but please wear comfortable clothes and socks that are warm enough for 45-degree air temperature, consider thin gloves, and bring a clean pair of athletic shoes (not worn from the parking lot into the building, please). Program held at Four Seasons Curling Club at Fogerty Arena. Please use the Curling Club entrance on the south side of the building. Register by September 30.
Sundays, September 28; October 5, 12, 19; November 2, 9, 23
1-3pm, $75
For more information on dates, times and fees, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Skyhawks Sports Camps
ages 2 to 7
Baseball Tots
Blue Heron Elementary
Tuesdays, September 16 - October 7
ages 2 to 3: 4:30-5pm
ages 3 to 4: 5:10-5:40pm
$69
Baseball
Blue Heron Elementary
Tuesdays, September 16 - October 7
ages 5 to 7: 5:50-6:50pm
$89
Soccer Tots
Jim Peterson Athletic Complex
Saturdays, September 13 - October 4
ages 2 to 3: 9-9:30am
ages 3 to 4: 9:40-10:10am
$85
Mini-Hawk Soccer
Jim Peterson Athletic Complex
Saturdays, September 13 - October 4
ages 5 to 6: 10:20-11am
$95
1st Down Tots
Jim Peterson Athletic Complex
Thursdays, September 18 - October 9
ages 3 to 5: 4:30-5pm
$69
Mini-Hawk Flag Football
Jim Peterson Athletic Complex
Thursdays, September 18 - October 9
ages 4 to 5: 5:10-5:55pm
$85
Flag Football
Jim Peterson Athletic Complex
Thursdays, September 18 - October 9
ages 5 to 7: 6:05-7:05pm
$89
Hoopster Tots
Centennial High School
Saturdays, October 25 - November 15
ages 2 to 3: 9-9:30am ages 3 to 4: 9:40-10:10am
$85
Basketball
Centennial High School
Saturdays, October 25 - November 15
ages 5 to 7: 10:20-11:20am
ages 8 to 11: 11:30am-12:30pm
$105
Pickleball
Centennial High School
Saturdays, November 22 - December 9
ages 5 to 7: 9-10am
$105
For complete class descriptions, visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Learn to Curl
ages 12 & up, participants under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
This clinic is a great way for anyone, age 12 to adult, to get their first exposure to the sport of curling. Each lesson is a 2-hour introduction and instructional session that teaches the basics of curling. Participants learn physical play, rules, and strategy. We strive for a low instructor to-student ratio with an emphasis on active participation. You finish off the session by playing a mini-game. Please have clean shoes (athletic shoes with rubber soles not worn from the parking lot into the building, please) and warm clothing (45 degrees at ice level). Please use the Curling Club entrance at the South end of the building. Held at Four Seasons Curling Club: Max 16.
Session 1: Sunday, November 2, 10am-noon
Session 2: Friday, January 30, 6:30-8:30pm $45/person/session
For more information on dates, times and fees, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Adult Zumba at QC Dance
All classes held at QC Dance Studio, 9967 Ulysses Street NE, Blaine
This specialty course is designed for those just starting their journey to a fit and healthy lifestyle or the older active adult. Zumba fitness is for everyone, all shapes and sizes and just about any age. With Zumba, the fun comes first, and the physical benefits follow. The class will be a fat burning, body shaping, fun workout! Max 12.
Session 1: Wednesdays, October 1-22
8-8:45pm
Session 2: Wednesdays, November 5-26
8-8:45pm
$40 res; $45 nr
Flashlight Pumpkin Hunt
ages 10 and under w/parent/adult
Pumpkins are hiding and waiting to be found at Tom Ryan Park. Children along with their parents, can search the grounds for one pumpkin of their choice, celebrate by dancing under the stars with the family DJ, make a s’more, and play Halloween games. Fee includes a treat bag, one pumpkin, one craft, and refreshments. Come in a costume for the costume contest and bring a flashlight. Registration is required. Max 150. Registration deadline is October 11 or when spaces fill. Held at Tom Ryan Park. Friday, October 24, 7-8:30pm
Tom Ryan Park
$25 res; $30 nr
For information, visit BlaineMN.gov/Register
Prince & Princess Party
ages 10 and under w/parent/adult
Your little princess or prince can see Cinderella and her friends at the Princess and Prince Party. Come enjoy crafts, photo opportunities, tattoos, games, refreshments, face painting, a DJ, and lots of dancing. Come in your favorite royal costume and do not forget your camera. Event held inside of Blaine City Hall. Max 120. Saturday, November 8, 5-7pm
Blaine City Hall
$25 res; $30 nr
For information, visit BlaineMN.gov/Register
For a complete class description, ages, dates, times and fees, call 763-785-6164 or visit BlaineParks.com/Register
Adult 5-Person Basketball League
Officiated men’s basketball League. Players must be at least 18 years old. Games played at Centennial Middle School. Includes 10 games plus playoffs. Two officials per game and scorekeeper. Register by October 20. Game times vary in the evenings. Max teams 8.
Sundays, November 2 - February 15
6:15-10:15pm, $700/team
Blaine’s Summer Moments
Fun, Friends, and Festivities
Every year, Blaine welcomes millions of visitors, making the City a destination for people from across the country and around the world. But what makes Blaine truly special is how often residents come together to connect, celebrate, and enjoy everything our community has to offer. Whether it is neighbors sharing a backyard barbecue, families splashing at Lakeside Commons Beach, or crowds gathering at events, it is clear that Blaine thrives on togetherness.
This summer was full of opportunities to do just that. June started with the Sizzling Summer Kickoff at Tom Ryan Park—an afternoon of live music, food trucks, crafts, and family fun. Later in the month, Blaine Festival returned to Aquatore Park, drawing thousands for three days of carnival rides, live entertainment, local vendors, and more. The Aquatore Park bandshell, now a centerpiece for live performances, hosted music all weekend long.
The Performance in the Park concert series brought free outdoor shows to Tom Ryan Park and Aquatore Park, filling summer evenings with music and community spirit. The Mary Ann Young Center stayed busy with special gatherings for Blaine’s vibrant senior community.
Our youth programs were bustling this year, with 450 kids participating in PlayNet and 400 involved in park and rec youth sports. The annual Bike Rodeo gave children a chance to learn bike safety in a fun, hands-on way.
In August, Bark in the Park brought together 22 pet-focused vendors and a lively crowd of both people and their four-legged friends. Neighborhoods across the City came together for Night to Unite, with more than 100 block parties welcoming visits from public safety teams, public works staff, and city leaders. Blaine Safety Camp once again gave more than 100 incoming fourth graders two days of hands-on safety lessons mixed with games and activities.
Major events like the Target USA Cup and the 3M Open brought the world to Blaine. This year’s 3M Open saw its largest crowds since 2019, with residents joining in as spectators and volunteers to make visitors feel welcome.
Summer may be winding down, but the events keep coming.
To see what is next, visit BlaineEvents.com and keep the spirit of community going all year long.
