This bill appropriates a total of $2.5 million from the arts and cultural heritage fund for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support a community festival grant program administered by the Minnesota Humanities Center. The funding is designated for community-based organizations, cities, and counties to enhance cultural festivals and events across Minnesota. Eligible expenses include event programming, staffing, community outreach, transportation, facilities and equipment rentals, and signage. Additionally, up to $200,000 of the appropriated funds may be allocated for public safety expense reimbursement to county sheriff departments involved in these festivals.

The bill emphasizes prioritizing funding for specific cultural events, including the Somali Museum Annual Celebration, Twin Cities Jazz Fest, Selby Avenue Jazz Fest, Hmong Festival, Cinco de Mayo festival, Rondo Days in St. Paul, Hiddo Soor International Somali Cultural Festival in Plymouth, and Safe Summer Nights and Somali Independence Day in St. Paul. This initiative aims to promote cultural heritage and community engagement through diverse festivals and events throughout the state.