2026 Rhythm on the Rails
Soak up summer at Rhythm on the Rails, a free outdoor concert series in historic downtown Shakopee. Held over six weeks in June and July on Wednesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., each concert features a local opening act and regional headliner. Rhythm on the Rails is family-friendly and includes kids activities, plus you can grab dinner or a snack from local food vendors.
2026 Rhythm on the Rails Headliners
June 17: NEIL! Martin Zellar’s Tribute to Neil Diamond
Martin Zellar and his band will be performing Neil Diamond’s top hits, like “Forever in Blue Jeans,” “Sweet Caroline,” and “Cracklin’ Rosie.” Zellar is the lead singer/songwriter of the Gear Daddies and has been performing his Neil Diamond tribute since the 1990s.
June 24: Not Quite Brothers – Tribute to Arena Rock
Not Quite Brothers will be performing the arena rock hits of the 1970s and 1980s, with a setlist that frequently includes Tom Petty, Aerosmith, and KISS. The Gen Z cover band consists of twin brothers Sam Johnson and Ike Johnson, plus their friends Cooper Corcoran, Ben Schmelzer, and Nathan Klein.
July 8: Def Leggend – World’s Greatest Tribute to Def Leppard
Def Leggend covers songs from 10 Def Leppard albums with performances that channel the sound, visuals, and performance style of the iconic rock band. Formed in 2013, Def Leggend has toured extensively across the U.S. and Mexico.
July 15: World According to Garth
World According to Garth celebrates the music of country legend Garth Brooks. From “Friends in Low Places” to “The Dance,” the World According to Garth performs Brooks’ hits with accuracy and emotional depth.
July 22: Parrothead Paradise – A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett
Parrothead Paradise transports audiences with the sunny, beachy music of Jimmy Buffet. An 11-piece band conveys the tropical, escapist spirit of Buffet’s live shows.
July 29: The Fabulous Armadillos Party Band
The Fabulous Armadillos boast a wide-ranging set list with favorites from country, Motown, 1970s soft rock, and much more. The 8-piece band is known for their entertaining and musically spot-on performances.
2026 Rhythm on the Rails Food Trucks
By supporting food and drink vendors in the Lewis Street Lot, you can help keep Rhythm on the Rails free to attend. This year’s tasty line up of local eats offers something for everyone.
Amazing Momo: handmade Tibetan dumplings
Game Day Grub: sports-themed food truck serving burgers, chicken sandwiches, brats, and hot dogs
Hopper’s Mini Donuts: freshly-made mini donuts
O’Brien’s Public House: local Irish pub with a menu of comfort food
OG ZaZa: New Haven-style pizza
Rollin Nolen’s BBQ: barbecued meats and sides
Shoo-Ga Cane Juice Bar & Eatery: fresh-pressed sugar cane juice and Cambodian fusion fare
Texas Roadhouse: American favorites with a Southwestern twist
The Cave Cafe: wraps, rice bowls, and sandwiches
Westy’s Shako Shack: Philly cheesesteaks, chicken sandwiches, and more
Discover Shakopee this summer! Shakopee is home to Valleyfair, Canterbury Park, Mystic Lake Amphitheater, and the Minnesota Renaissance Festival. It’s also conveniently located to area destinations like Chanhassen Dinner Theatres and Mystic Lake.