City of Plymouth, MN
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July/August 2026 Plymouth News
Plymouth News is published bimonthly by the City of Plymouth to update residents and businesses on city government news. The newsletter is mailed to all addresses in Plymouth and is available online.
To view past editions of the Plymouth News, visit the city newsletter webpage.
Plymouth’s signature summer event, Music in Plymouth, returns for the 54th year Wednesday, July 8 at the Hilde Performance Center, 3500 Plymouth Blvd.
Presented by the Plymouth Civic League and City of Plymouth, the event begins at 5:30 p.m. and offers food, fun and entertainment – featuring a performance by the Minnesota Orchestra.
Music in Plymouth Lineup
Music in Plymouth begins with a welcome, followed by performances featuring The Jolly Pops and Power of 10. Roving entertainers will also perform around the grounds of the Hilde, and a variety of children’s activities will be available throughout the evening.
After the opening lineup, the Minnesota Orchestra will perform classic and modern scores leading up to the grand finale – a spectacular fireworks display. A wide variety of food trucks and beverage concessions are available at the event. Attendees may also bring picnic suppers, and blankets/chairs for seating.
Reserving Spots, Free Shuttle
Due to extensive underground wiring and sprinkling systems at the Hilde, staking and roping off seating areas is strictly prohibited. Those attending Music in Plymouth may not place blankets, chairs or tarps on the grounds until after 7 a.m. the morning of the event. Clear tarps are not permitted as they may burn the grass.
Plymouth Metrolink will shuttle attendees to the event at no cost from three park-and-ride locations – Plymouth Creek Elementary School (16005 41st Ave N.), the Plymouth Community Center (14800 34th Ave. N.) and West Lutheran High School (3350 Harbor Lane N.). Shuttle service will be available from 5-11 p.m.
The all-volunteer Plymouth Civic League presents the free event with the support of the City of Plymouth, businesses and residents. Those interested can help support the event through a tax-deductible donation. For details, visit musicinplymouth.org.
The City of Plymouth continues to seek public input for its 2050 Comprehensive Plan as the project advances toward preparing a visioning memorandum.
Get involved at plymouthmn.gov/2050compplan:
- Map it: Drop a pin using an interactive mapping tool to highlight areas of opportunity across the city
- Take a survey: Share broader feedback about what’s working, what’s not and what residents would like to see in Plymouth’s future
- Share it: Encourage friends and family who live, work or frequently visit Plymouth to take the online survey, or facilitate a small group discussion with a DIY Workshop Kit, available through the Community and Economic Development Department
The city is working with its consultant, Houseal Lavigne, to develop a visioning memorandum that includes a vision statement, goals and preliminary future land use plan. The memorandum will be based on the public input received and the existing conditions assessment of the city, which was created at the start of the project.
Moving forward through the 18-month process, input gathered will result in a final comprehensive plan that will serve as a roadmap for how Plymouth grows and evolves over the next 20 years.
The plan will guide decisions related to land use, housing, transportation, parks, infrastructure and more.
The City of Plymouth continues to monitor water levels on Medicine Lake, and this information is available to the public on the city’s website.
The water monitoring buoy tracks the water level and temperature in the lake and updates an interactive dashboard every eight hours that can be found at plymouthmn.gov/medicinelakelevels.
The purpose of monitoring the water level is to determine when slow no-wake speeds should be put into effect by the city to reduce shoreline erosion.
Slow no-wake speeds are enforced when the water level exceeds 889.4 feet for three consecutive days and remain in place until the lake level drops to 889.4 feet or below for at least three consecutive days. This program is a partnership between the cities of Plymouth and Medicine Lake.
For more information about this program, contact the Water Resources Division at engineering@plymouthmn.gov or 762-509-5500.
Published each June, the City of Plymouth's annual drinking water report is now available to view online. Like past years, Plymouth’s water met or surpassed all 2025 state and federal water quality testing, regulations and requirements. The report contains monitoring results from previous year(s).
City of Plymouth water is tested weekly by an independent, state-certified laboratory. Results are submitted to the Minnesota Department of Health. Plymouth’s water is regularly tested for more than 100 contaminants, such as bacteria, nitrates, pesticides, solvents and metals. Water is also tested multiple times per day for appropriate chemical levels and water quality. View the report at plymouthmn.gov/waterreport.
The public may download the water report, or request a paper copy by calling 763-509-5000 and arranging to pick it up during normal business hours (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday) at Plymouth City Hall, 3400 Plymouth Blvd.
Kids Fest
The annual Kids Fest is set for 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20 at the Hilde Performance Center, 3500 Plymouth Blvd. The free event features stage entertainment, a STEAM Zone (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math), sponsor activities, inflatables, bounce houses and more. Food trucks and concessions will be available.
Hilde Amplified
This brand-new ticketed event brings two nights of live music to the Hilde Performance Center July 31–Aug. 1, featuring nationally recognized artists and a summer soundtrack worth turning up. On Friday night, Brett Young takes the stage with Ashley McBryde, Rodney Atkins and Matt Stell. Saturday’s lineup features Third Eye Blind, Plain White T’s, Moon Taxi and lovelytheband. Learn more at hildeamplified.com.
Hilde Nights
Free concert series at the Hilde Performance Center. Thank you to this year's Hilde Nights sponsors: Renewal by Andersen, Plymouth Lions, Kyle Vitense – State Farm Insurance, First Class Plumbing LLC and Gateway Fiber.
- 6-10 p.m. Friday, July 17: Kat Perkins Country Roads Band will take the stage to perform fan-favorite country songs. Opening act, the Nathan Dean Band, kicks off the night with country, rock and pop favorites. Learn more at plymouthmn.gov/specialevents.
- 6-10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28: Opening act, The Holy Rocka Rollaz, will take listeners back to the days of classic early Rock ‘n’ Roll. Then, the Fabulous Armadillos will take the stage covering songs from fan-favorite genres – country, Motown, heavy metal, ‘70s soft rock and more. Learn more at plymouthmn.gov/specialevents.
Plymouth Farmers Market
2-6 p.m. Wednesdays at Parkers Lake Playfield, 15500 County Road 6. A variety of local vendors sell fresh produce, prepared foods and handcrafted items. Three Farmers Markets, slated for July 15, Aug. 12 and Sept. 16, will be held on Plymouth Boulevard. Learn more at plymouthmn.gov/farmersmarket. The Plymouth Farmers Market is sponsored by Revolution Chiropractic Wellness Center.
Summer Beach Series
The Beaches, Bands and Brews event is set for 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7 at East Medicine Lake Park, 1740 E. Medicine Lake Blvd. This free beach event features a performance by Sawyer’s Dream.
As the use of electric-assisted bikes (ebikes) continues to increase, the City of Plymouth reminds riders to prioritize safety, use good trail etiquette, and stay informed about laws and guidelines.
“As ebike use continues to grow in our community, it’s important that riders understand and follow the safety laws designed to protect everyone on our trails and roadways,” said Public Safety Director Erik Fadden. “That includes wearing helmets, riding responsibly and recognizing that Minnesota law requires ebike operators to be at least 15 years old. By following these guidelines, riders can help ensure a safer experience for themselves and others.”
Per Minnesota State Statute 169.011, Subdivision 27, ebikes can typically be used wherever traditional bikes are allowed, unless restricted by a local authority or trail regulation, as long as they meet the following requirements:
- Must have two or three wheels, a saddle (seat) and fully operable pedals
- Electric motors must be 750 watts or less
- Must meet one of the following electric-assist bicycle class requirements:
- Class 1 – an electric assist up to 20 mph with no throttle
- Class 2 – an electric assist up to 20 mph with a throttle
- Class 3 – an electric assist up to 28 mph with no throttle
- Riders may not modify an ebike to change the speed capability/speed limit control so that it no longer meets its labeled class requirements
Below are a few other general reminders for ebike users:
- Use safe speeds – slow down around curves and hills with limited visibility
- Yield to other trail users – slow down when approaching others and allow pedestrians and slower trail users to have the right of way, especially in crosswalks
- Practice good trail etiquette – always pass on the left and give an audible signal prior to passing
- Wear a bicycle helmet and other appropriate safety gear
Ebikes vs. Emotos
Ebikes are electric bicycles with functional pedals, and top speeds up to 28 mph. Because they meet bicycle definitions, they generally follow bicycle laws and do not require registration.
Emotos are motorized vehicles with electric motors, but without pedals. Because of their higher power and speed, they are prohibited from trails, sidewalks, and park areas. Emotos require registration and a motorcycle license to operate.
Register for fall activities
Registration for fall Parks and Recreation activities begins:
- Plymouth residents: Wednesday, July 15 – 6 a.m. online or 10 a.m. on the phone/in person
- Nonresidents: Wednesday, July 22 – 6 a.m. online or 10 a.m. on the phone/in person
- Swimming registration for all: Wednesday, July 15 – 6 a.m. online or 10 a.m. on the phone/in person
The guide is expected to arrive in mailboxes early July. View the guide online and register at plymouthmn.gov/recguide.
Photo Contest
The annual Picture Plymouth Photo Contest begins Wednesday, July 1, and photographers of all levels may submit their best shots. Top photos receive prizes and have a chance to be published in Plymouth News and Plymouth Magazine, which co-sponsors the contest with the City of Plymouth. All photo entries must be submitted digitally via plymouthmag.com from July 1-Aug. 31.
Each entrant must live, work or attend school in Plymouth and photos must be taken in Plymouth from Sept. 1, 2025 to Aug. 31, 2026. After the contest closes, visit plymouthmag.com to vote for the Readers’ Choice winner Sept. 15-30. For contest rules, visit plymouthmag.com.
Used Oil Drop-Off at the Maintenance Facility
A free, 24-hour drop-off site for used motor oil, antifreeze and oil filters is available at the Plymouth Maintenance Facility, 14900 23rd Ave. N., adjacent to the fuel pumps. Do not leave empty containers.
Residents using the site should read and follow all posted instructions to prevent contamination. The city’s vendor, East Side Oil, provides reprocessing that turns the waste product into fuel for heaters and asphalt plants.
The neighborhood get-together tradition, Night to Unite, returns to Plymouth this summer.
Set for 6-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4, Night to Unite is a statewide community-building event focused on crime prevention, strengthening neighborhood connections and building positive relationships with public safety personnel. Residents are encouraged to organize neighborhood block parties as an opportunity to reconnect with neighbors, welcome new residents and strengthen community ties. For details, visit plymouthmn.gov/ntu.
Participants are invited to attend the Materials Pickup Event 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, July 21 at the Northwest Greenway Pavilion, 5250 Peony Lane. Attendees can pick up public safety informational materials to distribute to their neighbors during their Night to Unite block party, explore public safety vehicles, and view a K-9 demonstration beginning at 7 p.m.
Alert Plymouth: A citywide test of the emergency notification system, Alert Plymouth, is set for 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4. Alert Plymouth can call, text and/or email residents in an emergency. Update contact information and sign up at plymouthmn.gov/alertplymouth.
Outdoor Water Restrictions
Outdoor water use restrictions are in effect from May through September for all city water customers. Plymouth prohibits outdoor lawn watering from noon to 5 p.m. on all days. Residents and businesses must also follow an odd-even schedule when sprinkling lawns – addresses ending in an odd number may water on odd-numbered calendar days, while addresses ending in an even number may water on even-numbered days. Automatic irrigation systems should be adjusted accordingly. For details and exceptions, call the hotline at 763-509-5512 or visit plymouthmn.gov/watering.
Water Efficiency Rebate Program
Plymouth’s Water Efficiency Rebate Program is accepting applications for projects that replace inefficient toilets, irrigation systems, sprinkler heads, washing machines and dishwashers with WaterSense® or Energy Star® certified devices. The rebate is for purchases made after July 1, 2026. This initiative is supported by a grant from the Metropolitan Council to encourage reduction of municipal water use. Rebate funds are limited and will be issued to qualified applicants on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. All applications are reviewed and rebates are not guaranteed. Interested residents can ask questions by contacting WERP@plymouthmn.gov or 763-509-5500. For more information, visit plymouthmn.gov/waterrebate.
Keep Pets Leashed
To keep pets and people safe, Plymouth city ordinances require dogs to be leashed at all times when off private property. Unleashed pets can pose risks to themselves and others, and owners can face a fine of up to $128.
To report violations, call the public safety non-emergency number at 952-258-5321. Visit plymouthmn.gov/dogpark to learn about leash-free areas at Plymouth dog parks.
Pet Clean Up
Pet owners must clean up after their pets to protect Plymouth’s lakes and streams – it’s also the law (Plymouth City Ordinance 915.19). Pet waste contains bacteria and excess nutrients that can harm water quality and cause algal blooms. Pet owners should carry a bag or other method for proper disposal during walks and throw pet waste in the trash. Pet waste should also be picked up in residential yards to prevent runoff.
Yard Waste Site Hours – The city-operated Yard Waste Site, 14900 23rd Ave. N., is open 3-8 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Hours of operation change in September. The site is closed Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the season. Only Plymouth, Wayzata, Long Lake and Medicine Lake residents may use the site. Identification is required. For details, visit plymouthmn.gov/yardwaste or call 763-509-5930.
Below are upcoming volunteer opportunities:
- Adopt a Spot: See what areas of the city are available for groups and businesses to adopt by visiting plymouthmn.gov/adoptaspot.
- Art Ambassador: Greet visitors and answer questions about rotating art exhibits at the Plymouth Community Center during the late afternoon/evening and weekends. Must be 16 years of age or older.
- Hilde Amplified: Join in on the fun of volunteering for ticketed concerts at the Hilde Performance Center on Friday, July 31 and Saturday, Aug. 1.
- Millennium Garden Work Sessions: Weed, deadhead and prune to keep the garden looking lovely during staff-led events 9-11 a.m Tuesdays, July 14 and Aug. 11.
- Tree Mulching Events: Help protect trees in city parks by spreading mulch around them to improve water retention 9-11 a.m. Wednesdays, July 22 and Aug. 26.
- Native Plant Garden Club: Weed and maintain the pollinator garden while learning about native plants at Fazendin Park during these volunteer-led events. 6-8 p.m. July 7, 9, 21, 23, and Aug. 18 and 9-11 a.m. Aug. 20.
- Police Explorers: Explore law enforcement careers. Must be 14-20 years of age and able to meet weekly during the school year. Applications are due Saturday, Aug. 1.
To find out more about these and other opportunities, visit plymouthmn.gov/volunteer or call 763-509-5230.
Samayita Ghosh gives and gains through volunteering
As a volunteer, Samayita is able to share her passion for helping the community through special events and beautifying Plymouth’s gardens.
Samayita said: “Volunteering in Plymouth for more than eight years has been a deeply meaningful part of my journey as an immigrant in the United States. When I first arrived, everything felt new and unfamiliar, but volunteering gave me a sense of purpose, connection and belonging. It helped me learn about the community. I have proudly contributed as a long-term volunteer at the Millennium Garden, the Engineering Department, the Farmers Market, and Bark in the Park. I was also interviewed by CCX Media, where I shared my perspective on diversity in Plymouth and my journey as a volunteer. This experience made me feel truly seen and valued as part of this community. Each experience has shaped me, and I am truly grateful for how this journey has supported my growth. Most importantly, over all these years, I have met so many amazing people who have made this journey even more special and memorable.”
Because Samayita volunteers, the city is able to provide fantastic service to residents at special events and keep gardens looking beautiful.
To join in on the rewarding work of volunteering, please visit plymouthmn.gov/volunteer or contact volunteer@plymouthmn.gov.
A draft of the City of Plymouth’s Climate Action and Resiliency Plan is available to view online at plymouthmn.gov/climateplan. The draft plan outlines goals, strategies and actions to examine and implement at a city level regarding climate action and community resilience.
Those interested are encouraged to submit feedback about the plan via an online survey at plymouthmn.gov/climateplan by Wednesday, July 15.
At press time, the plan was set to be considered by the Environmental Quality Committee, the Planning Commission and the City Council in June. The plan is anticipated to come to City Council again later this summer for consideration.
About the Plan
The City of Plymouth is in the process of developing a Climate Action and Resiliency Plan around three pillars – Advancing Equity, Climate Change Mitigation, and Increasing Community Resiliency. Plan efforts kicked off in the summer of 2025 with the help of consultant paleBLUEdot and a grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Learn more about the plan at plymouthmn.gov/climateplan.
Butter Chicken Currys & Cocktails is now open at 16605 County Road 24 Suite 205, serving diverse flavors of India in a casual dining setting.
Hashtag India opened in April at 3195 Vicksburg Lane N. Suite D, serving authentic Indian cuisine, including street food favorites, mandi and royal curries.
Hippo Pockets is now open at 1400 County Road 101 Suite B, offering warm tortilla pockets stuffed with a range of ingredients, along with bubble tea and sides.
Kids’ Hair is now open at 1400 County Road 101 N., providing haircuts for kids of all ages in a fun, safe and comfortable environment.
Precision Shooting Center opened in May at 2415 Annapolis Lane N., Suite 170, offering simulator-based firearms range and immersive training.
Plymouth-based CDS Vision was named a Minnesota Cup semifinalist for its AI-powered electrical estimating app for contractors.
The filing period for City Council seats in the upcoming general election begins Tuesday, July 14. The deadline to file is 5 p.m. Tuesday, July 28. Filing can be completed with the city clerk during normal business hours, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, at Plymouth City Hall, 3400 Plymouth Blvd.
The four-year term city seats that will be on the Nov. 3 ballot include the Mayor, Ward 2 council member (southwest Plymouth), Ward 4 council member (northeast Plymouth) and an At-Large council member (citywide).
To file for office, candidates must be eligible to vote and at least 21 years old by the time they take office. Candidates must live in the district for which they are running for at least 30 days before the election. The filing fee is $5. Contact City Clerk Jodi Gallup at 763-509-5080 or jgallup@plymouthmn.gov with questions.
City of Plymouth Parks and Recreation and Hello! Plymouth bring nationally recognized artists to the Hilde Performance Center, 3500 Plymouth Blvd., for a new ticketed concert July 31-Aug. 1.
Set at the one-of-a-kind Hilde stage, Hilde Amplified blends the energy of a major concert with the laid-back feel of a summer night on the lawn.
Attendees can enjoy performances under the stars, food and drinks, and more.
The Line-Up
Hilde Amplified kicks off Friday, July 31 with chart-topping country artists Brett Young, Ashley McBryde, Rodney Atkins and Matt Stell.
Saturday, Aug. 1 features alt-rock favorites Third Eye Blind, Plain White T’s, Moon Taxi and lovelytheband.
“The Hilde Performance Center is one of the Twin Cities’ premier outdoor venues, with exceptional acoustics, expansive lawn seating and a welcoming atmosphere,” said Jennifer Tomlinson, Director of Parks and Recreation. “Hilde Amplified brings nationally recognized artists to Plymouth and creates a fun, high-energy experience for the community.”
Single-day and two-day tickets are on sale at hildeamplified.com.
About Hilde Amplified
Hosted by the City of Plymouth Parks and Recreation Department and Hello! Plymouth, Hilde Amplified is a new ticketed concert at the Hilde Performance Center featuring nationally touring artists in an outdoor setting with convenient access to nearby dining, hotels and other amenities for event attendees.
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