What Hastings Is Talking About Today
From Rivertown Days anticipation to quirky foodie news and heart‑warming animal stories, our small river town is buzzing with activity. Grab a mug, settle in, and enjoy this local roundup delivered with a wink and a smile. AI Image by Local Pigeon.
Rivertown Days Buzz
A Coffee Cart with Heart
There’s something special about pouring coffee for those who pour their hearts into caring for others. This week the Caffeinated Rooster set up shop to serve health‑care workers, and folks couldn’t help but feel the love. The owners thanked staff for their tireless dedication and hinted that after this feel‑good service, they’re shifting into Rivertown Days mode. Expect this good‑hearted crew to bring their signature blend to the festival grounds. For more on their appreciation post, visit.
Grab Your Rivertown Days Pass
Early birds flocked to secure weekend passes for Rivertown Days, and for good reason: a pre‑sale ticket covers all the music stages and carnival fun rivertowndaysmn.com. Kids 12 and under are free, making it a bargain for families rivertowndaysmn.com. The official site explains that pre‑sale passes are emailed directly to you, and there’s a discount versus buying at the gate rivertowndaysmn.com. If you haven’t snagged yours yet, hurry—prices rise once the gates open! Get your pass and check out the festival details at the same time.
A Brew Fit for a Hockey Day
In the middle of festival prep, Hastings’ own Spiral Brewery announced a treat for craft‑beer lovers: a signature brew created for Hockey Day MN 2026. The new beer will debut in the Rivertown Days beer tent, and announcements about Hockey Day match‑ups will take place on the main stage at 6 p.m. Friday. Sponsors will also hand out free can koozies while supplies last. It’s a delicious example of how our town supports both local business and state‑wide events.
Arts & Crafts Fair Meets Pup Adoption
Rivertown Days isn’t just about music and beer. At Jaycee Park, the Arts & Crafts Fair will feature more than 80 vendors along the Mississippi River—and Animal Ark volunteers will be there with adoptable dogs. Shoppers can browse handcrafted goods, nibble on treats and meet dogs in need of loving homes It’s a perfect combination of shopping and community service. Don’t forget to say hello to the volunteers and learn how to get involved.
Live Music & Entertainment
Confluence Hotel Concert Lineup
If crowds aren’t your thing but you still crave live music, The Confluence Hotel has you covered. Their summer schedule features Blues & Schmooze on Thursday evening, backyard jams on Friday and Saturday, and Acoustic Afternoons on Sunday. Their July calendar lists Pat Wagner on July 17, Tom Peschges on July 18, Brad Marx and Rizer on July 19, and Elly Rowan on July 20 confluencehotel.com. Grab a drink and enjoy these free performances on the patio..
Around the Mic with Rising Stars
Though not one of our top ten stories, it’s worth noting that Hastings Community TV recently spotlighted local band Quail. The group blends hardcore and shoegaze and was featured on the “Around the Mic” series. Their song “Rats” from the new album Air Conditioned Television has locals buzzing. Catch them at Zhora Darling in Minneapolis if you missed the segment.
Sports Highlights
U13 Girls Finish Strong at USA Cup
Our U13 girls soccer team capped an impressive season by competing in the prestigious USA Cup. Coaches and parents cheered as the girls showcased their skills against national competition. Social posts showed them smiling with medals, emphasizing how far they’ve come since spring practice. Their grit and teamwork exemplify what Hastings youth sports are all about.
Community & Civic Updates
Tri Shaw Garage Project Nears Completion
Cycling Without Age is rolling closer to reality in Hastings. The Tri Shaw garage, built with donations and volunteer labor, is almost finished. The project will house trishaws—bicycle‑powered rickshaws—that allow volunteers to give free rides to seniors and others with limited mobility. Organizers promise a full list of supporters at the grand opening This initiative highlights our community’s generosity and commitment to inclusivity. Learn more or sign up.
Hastings City Update: News You Can Use
Every week, the City of Hastings releases a community newsletter packed with useful info. The July 16 update encourages residents to register their National Night Out block party and offers a detailed schedule of Rivertown Days events. It also asks for feedback on the city website, warns about emerald ash borer pests and promotes upcoming fun like Comedy in the Park and Music & Market. Staying informed has never been so convenient.
Local Eats & Treats
A Peachy Mystery at Ze’s Diner
Ze’s Diner sparked a guessing game by announcing that fresh Georgia peaches had arrivedrss.app. The diner teased that two sweet surprises are in the works and offered a free treat to the first person who guesses correctlyrss.app. Locals speculated about cobblers, shakes and pie—because nothing says summer like juicy peaches. Keep an eye on their page for the big reveal.
Deals and Dinners Around Town
While Ze’s preps peaches, other eateries are offering seasonal specials. Spiral Brewery’s new beer pairs well with festival fare, and the Caffeinated Rooster continues to serve smiles alongside their brews. Watch for lunchtime food trucks during Rivertown Days and pop‑up dinners at the Confluence Hotel. It’s a feast of options for every palate.
Pets & Adoption
Meet Duke: Loyal Dog Seeks a Home
At Animal Ark, Duke the German Shepherd mix is waiting for his perfect match. The shelter describes him as strong, intelligent and loving. He knows basic commands and is housebroken but prefers a calm, adult‑only home with no small animals. Duke loves fetch and needs a confident, breed‑savvy adopter. Could that be you? Share his story and help him find the family he deserves. Meet Duke in person by contacting Animal Ark.