Step into a 16th-Century Fantasy: Minnesota Renaissance Festival Returns August 16–September 28, 2025
Experience the Minnesota Renaissance Festival from August 16 to September 28, 2025. Enjoy themed weekends, live jousting, artisan markets, food, and entertainment at one of the country’s largest Renaissance fairs.
What to Know: A Fantastical Return
Transport yourself to a medieval-inspired realm! The Minnesota Renaissance Festival opens its gates for its 54th season, running weekends from August 16 to September 28, 2025, plus Labor Day (September 1) and a special Festival Friday (September 26). Doors are open 9 AM to 7 PM, rain or shine.
The fair unfolds on sprawling festival grounds in Shakopee, MN, near the Minnesota River—just a short trip from the Twin Cities. Expect 16 stages of performance, hundreds of artisans, live jousting, themed weekends, and classic Viking, medieval, and fantasy fun.
What’s New in 2025
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Penn & Teller return! The legendary duo that performed their first act at the MN Ren Fest in 1975 will bring their magic show back to the grounds on Saturday, August 16 with two special shows (2 PM & 4 PM).
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Fairywing Forest and Mermaid Cove—enchanting new areas where mythical creatures roam and imagination rules.
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Family favorites added: Children’s Costume Contest, Children’s Knighting Ceremony, and the whimsical Clover Cottage.
Tickets and event website: https://renaissancefest.com/
Themed Weekends — Something for Every Fantasy
| Weekend Theme | Dates | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Once Upon a Time | Aug 16–17 | Fairy tale costumes, princesses, mermaids, Penn & Teller shows |
| Highland Fling | Aug 23–24 | Scottish celebration, heavy games, kilt pride, Turkey Leg Trot 5K |
| Woofstock | Aug 30–Sept 1 | Dog-friendly fun, pet contests, half-price pet admission |
| Bold North Adventure | Sept 6–7 | Norse-themed games, Viking spirit, immersive lore |
| Experience Love for the Arts | Sept 13–14 | Mural competitions, dance, artistic performances |
| Wine, Chocolate & Romance | Sept 20–21 | Wine tastings, chocolate delights, romantic ambiance |
| Festival Friday | Sept 26 | Shoppers’ day, artisan discounts, hands-on demos |
| Oktoberfest | Sept 27–28 | Bavarian beer fest, steins, German-style fun |
Daily Attractions You’ll Love
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16 entertainment stages featuring jousting, street performers, musical acts, comedy, and interactive skits
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Engage with over 250 artisans selling handcrafted wares in the Artisan Marketplace
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Feast like royalty—120+ food booths, themed beverages, and ticketed experiences like Feast of Fantasy, a multi-course comedy meal.
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Delight in animal rides—elephant, camel, and llama rides, plus classic fair rides like swings and slides.
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Embrace festival nostalgia: characters roam the village, and medieval pageantry abounds.
Tips for Visiting
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Tickets & Parking: Purchase tickets online for savings. Parking passes are required—secure them in advance or ride the convenient Park & Ride shuttle service from metro locations.
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Timing: Arrive early—9 AM to 7 PM hours give you plenty of time to explore.
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Family & Pet Friendly: Dog-friendly on select weekends (like Woofstock), kids’ activities, and family contests make this a multi-generational must.
The Minnesota Renaissance Festival is more than a fair—it’s an experience that lights up the Twin Cities’ late summer. With themed weekends, family fun, legendary performances, and immersive fantasy, there’s something magical for everyone from August 16 through September 28.
Tickets and event website: https://renaissancefest.com/
Come dressed, come curious, and come ready to say Huzzah! to MN’s most beloved Renaissance celebration. Let the adventure begin.