Freedom Fest at Running Aces: Clay Walker Live in Concert

Looking for one of the biggest events of the fall in the Twin Cities? Mark your calendars for Freedom Fest at Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack in Columbus, MN, on Saturday, September 27, 2025. This all-day celebration combines live music, family fun, a car show, and a BBQ showdown—all supporting a great cause.

Clay Walker Headlines Freedom Fest

Country music fans won’t want to miss multi-platinum star Clay Walker as the headliner for Freedom Fest. With 11 No. 1 hits and more than 40 charting singles, Walker is known for timeless favorites like “If I Could Make a Living” and “She Won’t Be Lonely Long.” He’ll be joined by a talented lineup featuring Jake Nelson, Ryan Sullivan, and Cindy Jo with Dirt Road Dixie.

Freedom Fest isn’t just about music—it’s a night that makes an impact. 100% of ticket proceeds benefit the Invisible Wounds Project (IWP), a Minnesota-based nonprofit providing mental health and wellness services to military members, first responders, and their families.

Free Family-Friendly Fun All Day

Even before the big concert, the fun begins early with free events at Running Aces that don’t require a ticket:

  • 10:00 AM – Cruise “IN” For Heroes Car/Truck/Bike Show
    Classic cars, trucks, and bikes on display, plus a silent auction, vendor market, food trucks, and kids’ games.

  • 11:30 AM & 2:15 PM – Live Music by Shirts & Skins
    Get your groove on with a high-energy cover band playing throughout the day.

  • 1:00 PM – IWP Backyard BBQ Showdown
    Sample ribs and sides for just $2 each in the People’s Choice Tasting. Proceeds benefit Invisible Wounds Project. Winners for the car show and BBQ contest will be announced by 3:30 PM.

This is the perfect way to enjoy food, music, and fun before the evening’s main concert.

Freedom Fest Concert Details

  • Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025

  • Venue: Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack – 15201 Running Aces Blvd, Columbus, MN

  • Doors Open: 5:00 PM

Tickets:

  • General Admission – $60 ($70 day of show)

  • Pit Pass – $125 (includes GA)

  • Reserved Table Seating – $175 (includes IWP gift pack & Pit Pass access)

🎟️ All ticket proceeds directly support the Invisible Wounds Project. This event is rain or shine.

About the Invisible Wounds Project

Founded in 2018, the Invisible Wounds Project is dedicated to helping military personnel, first responders, frontline medical staff, corrections officers, and 911 dispatchers dealing with PTSD, trauma, and mental wellness challenges. Proceeds from Freedom Fest help fund therapy, support activities, and critical suicide prevention efforts.

Plan Your Trip to Running Aces

Running Aces is just 20 minutes north of St. Paul and offers a full hotel, card room, and live entertainment. Whether you’re coming for the day or making a weekend out of it, this is one destination worth the trip.

Don’t Miss Freedom Fest 2025

From the Cruise “IN” For Heroes Car Show to the Backyard BBQ Showdown and a night of unforgettable music headlined by Clay Walker, Freedom Fest at Running Aces is set to be one of the biggest fall events in Minnesota. Bring the whole family during the day and stay for the evening concert to support a cause that matters.