2025 Renaissance Festival Preview
Experience the magic of a bygone era at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival! The seven weekend-long festival runs from August 16-September 28, 2025, plus Labor Day (September 1) and Festival Friday, September 26.
The largest renaissance festival in the country has something for everyone, including live entertainment, an artisan marketplace with over 250 vendors, delicious eats and craft beverages, games, and rides. There’s plenty for kids, too—meet the magical inhabitants of the Fairywing Forest and Mermaid Cove, stop by Clover Cottage for an enchanted storytime, get up close to slithering snakes, and much more.
What’s New in 2025
Did you know that Penn & Teller’s first-ever performance as a duo was at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival in 1975? To celebrate their 50th anniversary, the magic and comedy legends will be returning to their roots with a performance on August 16. Performance times and the location will be listed on the Minnesota Renaissance Festival’s website when available, along with further updates about new offerings.
Themed Weekends
Once Upon a Time (August 16-17) In addition to a performance by Penn & Teller, this fairy tale-themed weekend will feature a fairy house competition.
Highland Fling (August 23-24) Wear a kilt and celebrate Scottish heritage with games of strength and the Turkey Leg Trot 5K on scenic trails winding around the festival grounds.
Woofstock (August 30-September 1) Labor Day weekend is for the dogs, with half-priced pet admission and contests, races, and treats geared towards furry Renaissance Festival visitors.
Bold North Adventure (September 6-7) Expect a weekend of Viking-themed fun, complete with daring competitions.
Experience Love for the Arts (September 13-14) Painting, dance, music—appreciate the arts with the mural competition and other creative events.
Wine, Chocolate & Romance (September 20-21) Plan a romantic date at the festival with your special someone, or savor a wine-filled weekend with friends.
Festival Friday (September 26) Avid shoppers, this one’s for you—enjoy discounts from select artisans. For kids, there will also be interactive demonstrations in pottery, glass blowing, music, dance, and more.
Oktoberfest (September 27-28) Raise a stein to the Renaissance Festival’s final weekend, which will include plenty of beer and Bavarian-themed festivities.
Daily Events
In addition to free entertainment, each day of the Renaissance Festival features special ticketed events. At the Feast of Fantasy, enjoy a two-hour comedy show and six-course meal. Tour the realm with a tankard in hand on the Pub Crawl. At Much Ado About Mead, pair a flight of mead samples with a trivia challenge. Savor wine, appetizers, and entertainment at Wine and Wits.
More information about daily ticketed events is available here.
Practical Information
Save on admission by pre-purchasing tickets online. Season passes and weekend passes are available, as well as discounted ticket bundles for duos (one adult and one child) and families (two adults and two children).
If you’re planning to drive, it’s best to purchase an on-site parking pass in advance. Same-day parking passes will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Another great option is to utilize the convenient Park & Ride Service—park for free at one of several lots around the south metro and take a direct, non-stop bus ride to the Festival.
The Minnesota Renaissance Festival is dog-friendly—make sure to fill out the dog registration form beforehand and bring proof of vaccinations. Additional information about bringing your dog is available here.
After experiencing the Minnesota Renaissance Festival, stay in Shakopee! Shakopee is home to Valleyfair, Canterbury Park, and the Minnesota Renaissance Festival. It’s also conveniently located to area destinations like Chanhassen Dinner Theatres and Mystic Lake.