2024 Minnesota Renaissance Festival Preview

Huzzah!  The Minnesota Renaissance Festival is back for its 53rd season.  Seven weekends of 16th-century fun kick off on August 17 and run Saturdays and Sundays through September 29, 2024 plus Labor Day, September 2 and Festival Friday, September 27.

The nation’s largest renaissance festival has something for all ages.  Explore the replica European village and immerse yourself in 16 stages of live entertainment, over 500 tasty food and beverage options, a marketplace with over 250 artisans, and kids’ games, rides, and attractions. 

Daily Events

In addition to included-with-admission entertainment like live jousting, comedy, juggling, and musical acts, each day at the Minnesota Renaissance features ticketed daily events.  Book a spot at the Feast of Fantasy for a six-course meal and two-hour comedy act.  Treat yourself and your special someone to the Renaissance Romance package, which includes wine and snacks in a picturesque garden setting.  Enjoy festive beverages and lively entertainment with the Pub Crawl, Much Ado About Mead, and Wine and Wits events.

For younger visitors, there’s a daily Kiddie Krawl open to children ages 4-9.  Solve riddles and challenges, meet fantastical characters, and enjoy a snack at the end of the journey.

Be sure to buy your tickets for daily events ahead of time, since they sell out quickly.

Theme Weekends 

Each weekend of the Renaissance Festival features a unique theme.  Save the date for your favorites, and check the festival website for the most up-to-date information about special events, tastings, and contests. 

Once Upon A Time—August 17-18 

Escape to a magical realm of princesses, fairites, knights, mermaids and more.  Enter the Fairy House competition for the chance to win a prize, and sample sips from Woodchuck Hard CIder and J Bird Wines.

Bold North Adventure—August 24-25 

Channel your inner Viking and test your skills in daring competitions.  Donate at the festival’s annual blood drive this weekend to receive free admission.

Highland Fling—August 31-September 2 

Wear your favorite kilt and celebrate Celtic heritage.  Cheer on the competitors in a series of seven games testing their strength and skill.

Woofstock—September 7-8 

Bring your furry friend along for dog-themed contests, races, and treats.  Plus, your pooch gets  half-price pet admission (check out the dog rules and registration beforehand to ensure your visit goes smoothly).

Wine, Chocolate & Romance—September 14-15 

Raise a glass to romance and friendship with a weekend filled with wine and chocolate.  Free vow renewals will be available for couples who want to celebrate their special bond.  Bakers can enter the Cupcake Royale contest for the chance to win prizes.

Experience Love For The Arts—September 21-22 

Admire paintings, dance, singing, and other forms of art.  Check out the annual mural competition for a creative take on visitors’ favorite parts of the Renaissance Festival.

Festival Friday—September 27 

Kick off the final weekend with a day of shopping deals.  Plus, school and homeschool groups can enjoy discounted admission and educational artisan demonstrations and entertainment.

Oktoberfest—September 27-29 

Hoist a stein to send off the 2024 season with a weekend of beer and Bavarian-inspired fun.

After you’ve experienced the Minnesota Renaissance Festival, check out Shakopee’s other exciting attractions! Shakopee is home to Valleyfair, Canterbury Park and the Minnesota Renaissance Festival. It’s also conveniently located to area attractions like Chanhassen Dinner Theatres and Mystic Lake.

Book your stay in Shakopee today!