The Cedar Cultural Center

Give to support more  global music, dance, and connections in 2025

The Cedar Cultural Center opened its doors in 1989 when a group of citizens came together to convert a traditional movie theater into a space for music, dance, and community gathering. Now in our 35th year, The Cedar reaches 25,000 people through our programs and engages more than 1,000 artists and 250 volunteers annually. We are more than a music venue, we are a community of artists, music lovers, and supporters—like you—who share the belief that music can change the world and increase understanding between cultures.  

In the last three years, we have hosted artists from 74 countries, representing musicians from every continent except Antarctica. Thirty cents of every dollar we spend goes directly into the hands of these artists. Your donation today will help The Cedar next year: 

• Support artists through all phases of their careers by featuring emerging artists on stage and offering programs like our Cedar Commissions for emerging Minnesota-based composers and musicians.

• Foster intercultural appreciation and understanding by presenting over 150 performances annually, including the Global Roots Festival, the Nordic Roots Series,  and the free Summer at the Plaza Series. 

• Deepen partnerships with culturally-specific organizations working to preserve and celebrate their own traditions like the Afghan Cultural Center, Alliance Française, Common Hope, CLUES, Native American Community Development Institute, and the American Swedish Institute. 

• Strengthen the community by offering competitive employment in the music industry and providing critical gathering space to community organizations in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. 

We welcome donations of all sizes (and from all parts of the country and world). Your tax-deductible gift will ensure that The Cedar remains a place where new artists are supported, different cultures are celebrated, and meaningful connections are made through global song and dance.