Shaking Up Your Summer in Shakopee
Summer is here — it’s about time to plan out the next few months of warm weather fun! Kids on summer break, outdoor activities, parties and barbecues, how will you find time to squeeze in everything you’d like to do into a summer vacation? More importantly, how will you find somewhere to travel that everyone in the family will enjoy? Good news: Shakopee, Minnesota is exactly the place you need.
Shakopee has the makings of a perfect summer vacation destination, with great food, festivals, fairs, all in one place. Whether you make it a weekend or a full week, you’ll find something exciting awaiting you and your family in Shakopee. What are you waiting for?
Minnesota State Fair
From August 24th through Labor Day, experience the event that brings everyone together, the Minnesota State Fair. This year for the first time, one of the tallest traveling Ferris Wheels in the country is coming to the fair! On the Grand Stand, you’ll be able to catch spectacular acts such as Jim Gaffigan, Sam Hunt, Usher, and so many more. Munch on delectable fair treats like cotton candy, corn on the cob, and juicy hot dogs. There will also be plenty of activities for the kids to enjoy too, so bring the whole family along for the fun. You can purchase your gate admission tickets online right now.
Minnesota Renaissance Festival
This year’s Renaissance Festival is jam-packed with exciting events and activities that folks of all ages will enjoy. From August 19th until October 1st, you can take a step back into the Middle Ages along with your family. Come in costume and grab a turkey leg to eat before catching the jousting competition. Just like the State Fair, the Renaissance Festival will have live acts across 16 stages so there is something to see every day.
Don’t forget the weekend themes! Each weekend throughout the festival has a different theme and each theme will have corresponding events and activities unique to that weekend. Check the schedule so you don’t miss anything!
Great Midwest Ribfest
While the Ren Festival spans across multiple months, the Great Midwest Ribfest is in town for one weekend only! This year is the fourth iteration of this celebration of great food and it’s better than ever. The power is in your hands at the Great Midwest Ribfest. You’ll find tasty eats from companies like Aussum Aussie, Big Boned BBQ, Porky N Beans, and so many more. Once you’ve sampled a few, cast your vote! This isn’t just a food festival; it’s a competition! You decide who wins the top prize.
In addition to the spectacular grub you’ll be eating, there will also be live entertainment for your enjoyment. See Lonestar, the Romantics, and Little Texas, all for free! Admission to the fest is free as well so don’t miss out on this delicious opportunity.
Lakefront Music Fest
For just two days, the Lakefront Music Fest will be bringing you an impressive show. One night will be rock themed with acts like The Fray and the second will be country themed featuring Billy Currington and David Nail. This is exciting on its own but additionally, Camp Fest will be at Lakefront to excite and entertain the kids. Kids will get to sleep overnight in tents so make sure to pack bug spray, sleeping bags, and pillows. This is a great way to get the kids involved while still being able to enjoy the concert. The Lakefront Music Fest is taking place on July 14th and 15th so get your tickets today.
Rhythm on the Rails
Rhythm on the Rails isn’t a singular event, but rather a 5-week, free outdoor concert right in downtown Shakopee. With different musical acts coming through every week, you’ll have multiple opportunities to experience this extravaganza of musical prowess. This year, you’ll be able to see Church of Cash, The Outer Vibe, Chris Hawkey, Lost Highway, and Martin Zellar. Each show takes place on a Wednesday which provides a great break in the middle of the week to unwind and relax. There will also be an impressive kids’ area for the little ones to retreat and let loose on bounce houses. You might even leave the event with a tiger or a butterfly in tow after the kid see the face painters! You don’t have far to travel for this fun event because it’s right in downtown Shakopee.
Rock and Rockets
The high point of summer for many people is usually Independence Day. Luckily, Shakopee knows exactly how to celebrate the holiday. With tons of food trucks, live musical acts, and stellar fireworks displays, you’ll honor the founding of the United States in the most fun way possible. Plus, admission is free!
“Wacipi”, which means “they dance” in the Dakota language, is exactly what will be taking place at the Wacipi Festival. This extravagant celebration of Native American culture is complete with a master of ceremonies and two drum groups. See authentic performances from musicians and dancers in the Intertribals and Round Dance. If you’re feeling brave, join in! Not only is this a fun event, but it’s an educational one for the whole family.
Scott County Fair
The best five days of summer take place right in Scott County. The Scott County Fair is stacked from beginning to end this year with events like tractor pulls, monster trucks, a demolition derby, and musical acts on the main stage. If you think you have the power, sign up for the Strongman Competition and compete for the title. With so much going on throughout the fair, there will be something for everyone in the family to enjoy!
Huber Park Event Series
Huber Park is home to a ton of great events throughout the year, but none more exciting than the summer event series. Situated right on the waterfront, the park offers gorgeous views and also, great entertainment. See fun, local acts on stage from the comfort of your lawn chair or blanket. Huber Park also hosts a summer movie night a few times a year. The movie schedule isn’t set yet, but we know they’ll have some fun flicks for the whole family. Check back later to see the full schedule of events.
With so much to do this summer, there’s no excuse to miss out on Shakopee. Exciting food, stellar musical performances, out-of-this-world fireworks displays — all in one spectacular place. Visit Shakopee for all of this and so much more!