Summer in Shakopee: Events, Activities and Things to Do
Every year, it seems to be that summer passes too quick and it’s gone before you had a chance to do half the things on your list! This year, start your planning early and get ready for a summer in Shakopee. Whether you want to come for the food, come for the festivals, or come for the experience, there is too much fun and excitement for you to miss out.
Located in the Minneapolis and St. Paul region of Minnesota, the Shakopee area, is “where the Midwest comes to play!” There are so many things to do in Minneapolis, and summer is the perfect time to do it! There is some of the best shopping in the region, coupled with world class horse racing, year-round casinos, and an arts scene that is sought after world over. You can get back to nature going camping or hiking, and of course, there is food and dining like nothing you have ever experienced. But don’t take it from us – start planning your trip!
Give Me All the Food
If it was the mention of food that got your senses tingling (or your mouth watering!), you won’t be disappointed by what the Shakopee and neighboring Valleyfair have to offer. You can start by blocking off the calendar every Friday night from May 11 to June 15 to come to Food Truck Friday. Whether you want hometown Midwest food, Mexican, or to try something completely different, there is sure to be something to tantalize your taste buds. If you prefer your food truck feasts with a nice, cold craft beer, check out the food truck schedule at Badger Hill Brewing Company.
If you happen to be out on a Wednesday, head to the Midway Movies at 6pm between Jul 11 – August 15 for a fun throwback film and free popcorn! And let’s not forget one of the best food events of the whole summer, the Minnesota Eats Food Festival at Valleyfair Amusement Park. Running every Saturday and Sunday from July 14 – August 5, this is your chance to taste some of the most unique – and most delicious – foods that Minnesota has to offer!
Your food adventures don’t have to be contained to Valleyfair however. On June 30th, head to Canterbury Park and spend the afternoon at the corgi races and cupcake festival. One of the best things to do in Canterbury Park, they’ll be cute dogs, and lots of cupcakes, so what else could you ask for? Unless of course you asked for a candy on top . . . in which case, you’ll be happy to know that Minnesota is home to the largest candy store! Head over to Jordan starting May 11th and fill your pockets with all your favorite sweet treats.
Take in an Experience
Visiting Shakopee is as much about taking in experience and living the life of the locals as it is about eating good food. Start your summer of experience by taking part in Minnesota’s Biggest Kentucky Derby Party. Held on May 5th at Canterbury Park, this is the place to be for the Kentucky Derby – hats, horses, and all!
May is a big month for things to do in Shakopee: on May 19th -20th, take place in the Run and Ride event at Valleyfair Amusement Park, and greet the park early with the sun. Enjoy this one of a kind event, where you can take part in a race before the gates of the park open. Choose your distance, bring your smile, and enjoy one of the most unique things to do in Valleyfair. And if you like what you see, return to the park the following weekend for Military Days: military members will receive free entry, with additional discounts offered for family members.
When Memorial Day rolls around, there will be lots of events in Minneapolis, and it is totally worth the visit. The Running of the Bulldogs will be held all afternoon on May 28th, in Canterbury Park, with lots of special family activities. Speaking of dogs, let’s not forget the Wiener Dogs & Donuts event on July 28th at Canterbury Park. With adorable pups and tasty donuts, this is one activity that the whole family will love. Or take advantage of the long weekend to bring the family to Sand Creek Adventures. Located in Jordan, this is the “ultimate outdoor challenge,” that is sure to have something to offer everyone!
And when May ends, and the long weekend is over, don’t be disappointed: things will gear up again in July with the Harlem Globetrotters Experience in Valleyfair. Get your tickets now for this special afternoon of basketball wizardry and family entertainment.
Concerts and Festivals
By now, the only thing missing from your summer of fun is taking in a music festival or concert. And don’t worry, we’ve got that covered too!
Lakefront Music Fest, established in 2010 takes place at Lakefront Park on July 13th, and is one of the largest outdoor music festivals in the metro area of the Twin Cities. With dedicated nights for country and rock, the festival is not only a great time, but it’s also a fundraiser for the Prior Lake Rotary Foundation.
Once you are in the music mood from Lakefront, you won’t want to quit. And you won’t have to, because one of the best free things to do in Shakopee starts the following weekend with Rhythm on the Rails. Taking place every Wednesday, from July 18th – August 15th, this concert series will have regional headliners, family activities, and lots of food vendors. Come on out and get your (free) groove on! An exciting event to hit Canterbury Park, add the Vans Warped Tour to your list of things to do in Shakopee, and don’t miss out on the largest traveling music festival in the United States. Tickets are on sale now, so make your plans and come join in on the fun!
Finally, visit Mystic Lake Casino to view their full line up of shows and events during the summer months.
With summer almost here, and so much to do, it’s time to make your plans for your visit to Shakopee. See you soon!