St. Paul’s vibrant cultural presence was brought to life with energy this past weekend as Rondo Days, the city’s largest and most beloved festival, made a grand return after a five-year hiatus.
The wait was well worth it. Legendary hip hop figures MC Lyte and Rakim headlined the event, promising—and delivering—a night of phenomenal performances that echoed the golden era of the 1980s.
The anticipation was palpable as festival-goers streamed into the area, filling the streets with a joyous buzz. Local vendors lined the avenues, offering diverse food, crafts, and merchandise while local artists entertained the crowds with their talents. The atmosphere was electric yet orderly, a credit to the seamless coordination by festival security.
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When MC Lyte took the stage, the crowd erupted. Her rendition of classics like “Lyte as a Rock” had fans rapping along word-for-word, their nostalgia-infused enthusiasm lighting up the evening sky. Rakim followed suit, his timeless flow and lyrical prowess captivating an audience that spanned generations. His “Paid in Full” performance felt like a communal anthem, bringing everyone together in lyrical unity.
But beyond the musical legends, the real triumph of Rondo Days emerged from the tireless efforts of its new directors, Gayle Smaller and Nick Mohammed. Gayle, the son of Rondo Days co-founder Floyd Smaller, and Mohammad brought a touch of legacy and vision to the festival. Floyd and Marvin Anderson launched the inaugural Rondo Days in 1983, marking a tradition celebrating the community’s rich history and resilience.
Under the current guidance, the festival not only revived but thrived, offering a perfect blend of heritage and youthful flavor. Their meticulous planning and fresh perspectives were evident in every detail, ensuring festivities ran smoothly and joyously.
As the night drew to a close, attendees unanimously agreed that Rondo Days’ triumphant return heralded a future as bright and promising as its celebrated past. The festival had returned and firmly reestablished its place as the heartbeat of St. Paul’s cultural identity.
See photo highlights from Travis Leee below. Al Brown contributed to this story.
