2025 Rhythm on the Rails
Rhythm on the Rails is back for the summer! On Wednesday nights throughout June and July, this free, six-week concert series is held on Lewis Street in the heart of historic Downtown Shakopee. All concerts feature a regional headliner and local opening act. Rhythm on the Rails runs from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and the family-friendly concerts include kids’ activities.
Be sure to grab dinner or a snack from Rhythm on the Rails’ lineup of food vendors. Local restaurants including O’Brien’s Public House, Don Ramon’s, and OG ZaZa Pizza will be on hand dishing up their specialties. Other options include food trucks Amazing Momo, Game Day Grub, Rollin Nolen’s BBQ, Shoo-Ga, Cave Cafe, Westy’s Shako Shack, and for dessert, Hopper’s Mini Donuts. Alcoholic beverages will be offered by O’Brien’s Public House.
2025 Rhythm on the Rails Music Lineup
June 18: NEIL! Martin Zellar’s Tribute to Neil Diamond
Martin Zellar is best known as the lead singer and songwriter for critically acclaimed alt-country band the Gear Daddies, but he’s also beloved for his long-running Neil Diamond tribute show. Expect to sing along to hits like “Sweet Caroline,” “Cherry, Cherry,” and “Cracklin’ Rosie.”
Opening act Travis Thamert is a singer and songwriter who has competed on NBC’s The Voice.
June 25: Thunderstruck – America’s AC/DC
Thunderstruck captures the sound and spirit of AC/DC in an engaging live show. The Louisville, Kentucky-based band has toured across the country and has performed at major music festivals.
Opening act Coconut Tiger is a rock cover band that specializes in channeling the energy of an arena on any size stage.
July 9: Xpedition
Xpedition celebrates the golden age of arena rock with a tribute show that features the music of Journey, Foreigner, Kansas, Styx, and Bon Jovi. The band is known for spot-on lead vocal precision complemented by three-part backup harmonies.
Opening act Muddcat Melby performs classic rock covers from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s.
July 16: Def Leggend
Def Leggend channels Def Leppard with top-notch vocals and a compelling performance. The band has toured extensively throughout the U.S. and Mexico and is often referred to as the next best thing to Def Leppard.
Opening act Capitol Sons is a melody and guitar-driven rock band performing original songs.
July 23: Not Quite Brothers – Tribute to Arena Rock
Not Quite Brothers is an Iowa-based cover band that evokes fans’ favorite arena rock acts in their heyday. Expect an eclectic set list and huge sound.
Opening act Triggerfish is a classic rock, blues, and country cover band.
July 30: The Fabulous Armadillos Party Band
The Fabulous Armadillos cover an impressive range of genres including country, Motown, heavy metal, and 1970s soft rock—plus everything in between. Expect an excellent show from this eight-piece group.
Opening act Meat Raffle Tonight! covers rock, country, and 1980s alternative classics.
After experiencing Rhythm on the Rails, stay in Shakopee! Shakopee offers attractions including Valleyfair, Canterbury Park, and the Minnesota Renaissance Festival. It’s also conveniently located to area destinations like Chanhassen Dinner Theatres and Mystic Lake.