Magical Summer Outing for Seniors: Discover Alebrijes on Raspberry Island
Looking for a colorful, fun, and free summer adventure right here in Saint Paul? We’ve got just the thing for you!
This summer, Raspberry Island transforms into a magical outdoor gallery with “Alebrijes: Keepers of the Island” — a vibrant art exhibit featuring 16 massive, fantastical creatures straight from Mexican folklore. These sculptures aren’t just colorful—they’re huge, imaginative, and packed with personality.
🐉 What Are Alebrijes?
Let’s take a quick trip (in our imagination!) to Mexico City in the 1930s, where a folk artist named Pedro Linares fell ill and began dreaming of strange, magical animals—think frogs with wings, lions with bird feathers, and cats with dragon tails. These creatures called out a mysterious word: “Alebrijes!”
When Pedro recovered, he brought his dream to life using papier-mâché, and soon, an entire tradition of colorful, whimsical sculptures was born.
Fast forward to today, and these works of art have grown in scale and fame—appearing in parades, museums, and now, right in our backyard on Raspberry Island!
🎨 Why You Should Go
Whether you’re an art lover, nature enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good adventure, this event is perfect for seniors who want to:
- Enjoy a beautiful stroll along the Mississippi River
- Experience a new culture through art
- Spark curiosity and creativity
- Spend time with friends or family outdoors
- Take fun photos with giant, colorful creatures!
Plus—it’s a great way to stay active, soak up the sunshine, and maybe even make new friends.
📍 Event Details
- Dates: Now through October 26, 2025
- Where: Raspberry Island, Saint Paul, MN
- Cost: Absolutely FREE!
- Getting There: Limited parking is available. If possible, take a walk, carpool, or use public transportation. Parking is also available at Harriet Island and nearby ramps.
👉 Bonus Tip: Don’t miss the Community Celebration on Saturday, June 14, from 12–5 p.m. It’s a great time to enjoy the exhibit with music, food, and festivities.
💬 Final Thoughts
You don’t have to travel far to have a cultural adventure—just grab a comfy pair of walking shoes and head to Raspberry Island. Let the Alebrijes spark your imagination and connect you with a tradition that’s inspired generations across the globe.
Need help planning your visit or want to coordinate with others? Contact East Side Elders—we’re always happy to help make meaningful outings happen for our community.