Shakopee Area 2026 Summer Planning
Start planning a summer full of fun in Shakopee, from concerts and roller coasters to golf and live horse racing.
Catch a show at Mystic Lake Amphitheater
Brand new in 2026, Mystic Lake Amphitheater is a state-of-the-art performance venue with views of the Minnesota River Valley, an intimate covered lower bowl, and an elevated lawn. Over two dozen shows are scheduled for the inaugural season, including the Dave Matthews Band, John Mellencamp, Chris Stapleton, Mumford & Sons, Guns ‘n Roses, the Goo Goo Dolls, Mötley Crüe, and more.
Choose from reserved seating or bring your blanket and grab a seat on the lawn. In addition to a range of elevated food and drink options, you can bring your own snacks and water.
Celebrate the 50 seasons of fun at Valleyfair
The largest amusement park in the Upper Midwest is celebrating a milestone—2026 marks Valleyfair’s 50th season. With over 75 rides and attractions, Valleyfair offers something for everyone, from thrilling roller coasters to meet-and-greets with the Peanuts Gang in the family-friendly Planet Snoopy area. Admission to the park also includes Soak City Waterpark, which will feature a brand-new adventure in 2026.
Consider buying a season pass, which pays for itself after only a few visits and offers perks like free parking, free pre-K passes, and access to all other Six Flags parks across the Midwest. Valleyfair will open on May 10, with Soak City Waterpark opening on May 23.
Save the date for summer events
Immerse yourself in the fantasy world of the Minnesota Renaissance Festival, held weekends August 22-October 4, 2026, plus Labor Day and Festival Friday, October 2. The largest Renaissance festival in the United States features live jousting, stage acts and street performers, an artisan marketplace with over 250 vendors, and themed food and drinks. The festival is family-friendly, and kids can meet a mermaid, learn to juggle, and attend an enchanted storytime.
Enjoy a night out in downtown Shakopee at Rhythm on the Rails, a free six-week outdoor concert series held on Wednesday nights in June and July. The evening kicks off with a local opening act followed by a regional headliner, and there are also kids activities and local food and drink vendors.
Mystic Lake isn’t just the largest casino in the state—it’s also an entertainment destination. The Mystic Lake Showroom hosts acclaimed comedians and music acts year round. Head outdoors for free summertime events including Rock and Rockets, an evening of live music and fireworks (July 4), and the Great Midwest Rib Fest (June 25-27), featuring live music and pitmasters from across the country.
The Lakefront Music Fest is one of the largest music festivals in the Twin Cities, with one night devoted to country and the other to rock. This year’s festival runs from July 10-11, 2026 with Billy Idol headlining July 10 and Keith Urban headlining July 11. Additional acts include Jackson Dean, Karley Scott Collins, George Thorogood & The Destroyers, and Jefferson Starship.
Experience Native American culture at the SMSC Wacipi held August 14-16, 2026. The contest powwow features dancers competing in different categories and age groups, as well as vendors selling traditional handcrafts and food.
Cheer on the horses at Canterbury Park
Spend a day at the races at Canterbury Park, which hosts horse race meets on select dates from May 23-September 19, 2026. Most races are held on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Don’t miss Canterbury Park’s special events, including family-friendly activities and themed race days when wiener dogs, llamas, and other wacky animals face off.
Discover new attractions
Enjoy a fun, fast-paced golf experience at LaunchPad Golf The Meadows. Book a suite to play social games with friends or try out virtual courses or practice modes geared to experienced golfers. Keep the party going at one of the two on-site bars and the full-service restaurant.
Soak up patio vibes in the Shakopee Social District, a designated zone where you can buy a drink from a participating bar or restaurant and enjoy it outdoors on sidewalks, plazas, and participating businesses. The social district opens for the season on May 1, 2026.
Explore Shakopee’s local business
From the walkable historic downtown to the vibrant new Canterbury Commons neighborhood, there are dozens of local restaurants and unique retailers to discover. Taprooms, boutiques, barbecue, fine dining—Shakopee has something to satisfy every appetite and budget.
Spend your summer in Shakopee! Shakopee is home to 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.