Minneapolis City government offices, including Minneapolis 311 and the Minneapolis Service Center at 505 Fourth Ave. S., are closed Friday, July 4, to observe Independence Day. City offices resume regular business hours on Monday, July 7.

There will be no collection of City Holiday Garbage and Recycling Collection on Friday, and the Solid Waste and Recycling customer service office is also closed. The City's metered parking spaces are not enforced July 4. Other metered parking restrictions in Minneapolis may be in effect and subject to enforcement, including Park Board, University of Minnesota and private organizations that operate their own meters. Always read the information posted on the meter to be certain.

Minneapolis police and fire emergency services and 911 are not affected on July 4.

Even with the brief City offices and services closures, there is still plenty to do this holiday weekend. In fact, City leaders encourage visitors to plan ahead and consider alternative transportation options. Visitors can support the As You Go Mpls campaign by leaving their cars at home and traveling to downtown by transit, walking, biking or rolling. The campaign celebrates getting around in ways that boost health, save money and reduce stress.

Be aware of major holiday events

Here are major events going on this holiday weekend, including road closures:

• Come hungry for the Taste of Minnesota July 5, and 6 in downtown Minneapolis. Located along Washington Avenue and Nicollet Mall, the event promises a feast of food, culture and music for the whole family.
  • Road closures include 3^rd Street South from 2^nd Avenue South to Hennepin Avenue, and Marquette Avenue South from 4^th Street to 2^nd Street South
  • Metro Transit is offering free rides both days. Visit the Taste website to download tickets.
  • There will be several cooling and water stations around Taste as well.
• The Minneapolis Convention Center is “serving” the USA Volleyball Junior National Championship today through July 6.
• The Minnesota Lynx will host a three-game home stretch at Target Center when they play the Washington Mystics today, the Golden State Valkyries on July 5 and the Chicago Sky on July 6.
• The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board hosts “Red, White & BOOM!” on the City’s Riverfront on July 4. The fireworks show starts at 10 p.m.
  • Roadways around the river will be closed for festivities, including Main Street, West River Parkway and the 3^rd Avenue bridge.
  • There will also be limited access on 2^nd Street South and one lane on Hennepin Avenue crossing the river.
  • The Stone Arch Bridge will be closed to pedestrians and bicycles.
• Target Field will be host to a three-game series between the Minnesota Twins and Tampa Bay Rays July 4-6.