The Weekend's Perfect Storm Of Events In The Twin Cities
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Chances are some of your weekend plans may have you heading into the heart of the Twin Cities on Saturday.
On Saturday night, more than 60,000 fans are expected at the U2 concert at TCF Bank stadium. There is also a Twins game in the afternoon, a car show at the State Fairgrounds and the night will go out with a bang when fireworks wrap up the week long Aquatennial Festival.
All those events will bring more than 100,000 people downtown, according to the City of Minneapolis.
The University of Minnesota's parking officials warn that traffic will be another sight if you don't plan ahead.
That's the best advice Sandy Cullen can offer. As the U of M Assistant Director of Parking and Transportation, she's orchestrating the concert's master parking plan.
"Don't everybody come at 5 o'clock tomorrow. If we get everybody here at the same time, it will be a parking lot. Everybody needs to come and get here as early as they can, get into the parking lots and frequent the local businesses," said Cullen.
Across the street from the stadium, Buffalo Wild Wings Stadium Village expects record crowds all day. General Manager Eric Stanton shut down the restaurant's parking lot for the special event.
"I myself don't know what even my parking plans are tomorrow. I think I'll be doing a 20-25 minute walk myself for, you know, one less car in the parking lot," said Stanton.
Whether you are headed to the Aquatennial's Target fireworks down by the Stone Arch bridge, or to the Twins game, university officials recommend carpooling, using the light rail or buses. The University is providing concert shuttles from the state fairgrounds.
"Another interesting thing that's happening at the state fairgrounds this weekend the car show is going on, going to be busy on that side of town, too!" said Cullen.
If that isn't enough, road closures from Central Corridor light rail construction on the University's campus add one extra hassle on Washington Avenue and the Washington Avenue bridge.
However, for loyal U2 Fans, the hassle is worth every delay.
"It should be interesting, but it's a once in a lifetime thing that I don't want to miss, " said Kubinek.
In the event of severe weather, Mariucci Arena, Williams Arena/Sports Pavilion and the McNamara Alumni Center will be temporary shelter options.
According to University officials, U2 will play through rain. However, lightning would cause a delay in the concert.
Fans coming to TCF Bank Stadium should also be aware that umbrellas are not permitted inside the facility and instead are encouraged to bring rain gear and ponchos.
For more information on the U2 360 Tour concert at TCF Bank Stadium, please visit Gopher Sports and click the U2 concert ad on the right side of the homepage.
