Minnesota Renaissance Festival

Step back in time and into the largest Renaissance Festival in the United States — right here in Shakopee, Minnesota. The Minnesota Renaissance Festival transforms a sprawling outdoor grounds into a living, breathing 16th-century European village each season, drawing more than 300,000 visitors annually for seven weekends of unforgettable adventure, entertainment, shopping, and feasting. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime devotee, the Festival delivers an immersive escape unlike anything else in the Twin Cities region.

Founded in 1971 as a celebration of nature, art, and life on a 22-acre field in Jonathan, MN, the Festival has grown over more than five decades into a Minnesota cultural landmark. Produced by Mid-America Festivals — the nation’s largest producer of outdoor themed events — the Minnesota Renaissance Festival celebrates its 55th season in 2026, open weekends from late August through early October, rain or shine.

Live Entertainment & Jousting

Across 16 lively stages, the Festival hosts an extraordinary lineup of performers — magicians, musicians, acrobats, comedians, jugglers, mimes, fire performers, and storytellers — running continuously throughout the day. Every visit offers something new to discover, and no two weekends are the same thanks to the Festival’s 7 themed weekends, each bringing its own unique flavor of celebration and spectacle.

The undisputed highlight for many visitors is the full-combat armored jousting, where mounted knights clash in the lists in front of a roaring crowd. It’s one of the most authentic and thrilling live experiences you’ll find anywhere in the Midwest — and it happens multiple times each festival day.

The Artisan Marketplace

The Festival marketplace is one of the most remarkable shopping experiences in Minnesota. More than 250 talented artisans display and sell their handcrafted creations — from hand-forged jewelry, leather goods, ceramics, glass art, and woodwork to custom costumes, hand-bound books, and one-of-a-kind treasures you simply won’t find anywhere else. Many artisans give live demonstrations of their craft throughout the day, including glass blowing, bronze casting, armor making, calligraphy, and more.

Shopping at the Renaissance Festival is an experience in itself — a winding village of timber and canvas stalls that rewards slow exploration and spontaneous discovery.

Feast Fit for Royalty

With more than 500 food and beverage selections, the Minnesota Renaissance Festival is as much a culinary adventure as a cultural one. Festival favorites include the legendary roasted turkey drumstick, scotch eggs, soup in a bread bowl, apple dumplings, and a wide variety of specialty meads, ales, and craft beverages. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, hearty, or adventurous, there’s something fit for every royal palate.

For those seeking a more elevated dining experience, the Festival also offers specialty feasts — including the Feast of Fantasy and Phantom’s Feast — interactive dining events that blend food, theatre, and the magic of the medieval world.

Games, Rides & Family Fun

Beyond the stages and marketplace, the Festival grounds are packed with more than 50 games, rides, and attractions that keep every member of the family engaged. Test your aim at archery ranges, try your hand at axe throwing, challenge a friend to a royal game, or climb aboard rides designed for little adventurers and thrill-seekers alike. The Festival is proudly family-friendly — children 4 and under are always admitted free.

Guests are enthusiastically encouraged to come in costume — and many do. From elaborate period-accurate garb to playful fantasy attire, dressing the part is one of the most beloved traditions of the Festival experience.

What to Expect at Each Visit

Getting There & Parking

The Minnesota Renaissance Festival is located at 12364 Chestnut Boulevard, Shakopee, MN — approximately seven miles south of Shakopee on Highway 169, and about 25–30 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and the Mall of America. The Festival is open rain or shine.

Frequently Asked Questions