Homestead Pickin Parlor

The Homestead Pickin' Parlor was a beloved acoustic and folk music staple located at 6625 Penn Ave S in Richfield, Minnesota. For over 45 years, the shop served as the "home of folk music" in the Twin Cities

Founded in November 1979 by Marv and Dawn Menzel, the Parlor was a local institution for bluegrass, folk, and old-timey acoustic musicians.

It was a multipurpose shop that offered instrument sales (guitars, banjos, mandolins), repairs, sheet music, and music lessons

It was well-known for its frequent jam sessions and acted as a major creative hub for acoustic artists, even providing musicians for Garrison Keillor's A Prairie Home Companion.

After nearly 47 years of operation, the Homestead Pickin' Parlor permanently closed its doors on July 31, 2025. The difficult decision to close was prompted by a change in landlords, which led to an unsustainable rent increase for the marginally profitable music store. Owner Marv Menzel, who was long overdue for retirement, officially closed the storefront.