Jacob Esser with his son, Levi, at the 2025 Dads of Down syndrome Raise the Roof fundraiser. Photos: Gina Zeidler Photography
DODs Days brings community, food and music together in St. Louis Park.
DODs Days isn’t just another music festival—it is a space where fathers of children with Down syndrome can connect with each other. “This is our most ambitious fundraiser yet, and it’s all about fueling the incredible and growing community of dads that has come together through [Dads of Down syndrome (DODs)],” founder Jacob Esser says. “Our goal is to bring even more dads together who are walking the journey of parenting a child with Down syndrome and the greater special needs communities, in the Twin Cities and beyond.”
Set for June 11 at the St. Louis Park Recreation Outdoor Center, the first DODs Days festival aims to bring families from all around the Metro to enjoy an evening of music by live bands and DJs, family activities, food trucks and a beer garden with a range of beverages. The Edina nonprofit’s free event invites guests of all ages to attend from 3–10 p.m., and donations are encouraged to support the organization’s mission.
The festival’s entertainment lineup will run throughout the duration of the event, creating an energizing backdrop. Local bands include Twin Star Rocket, The White Keys, Marvelous and DJ Benny Nord, who will host an interactive Kids’ Rave to give younger attendees a chance to step into the spotlight.
Jacob and Levi Esser with DJ Benny Nord.
For adults, the atmosphere continues with a curated beverage garden featuring beer, cocktails, mocktails and wine provided by NOLO’s Kitchen & Bar. Adding to the selection, Steel Toe Brewing will debut its custom DODs Hazy IPA. This new release will be available at select bars, liquor stores and restaurants following the festival. Furthermore, Parlour, Red’s Savoy Pizza and Revival food trucks will be serving up food throughout the event.
At its core, the evening is a celebration of fathers, empowering them to connect while inspiring advocacy for the Down syndrome community.
DODs
Instagram: @dadsofdownsyndrome
