Beginning Aug. 22, step into a realm of knights, nobles, and nonstop adventure as the Minnesota Renaissance Festival celebrates 55 years of legendary turkey legs, thrilling entertainment, artisan shopping, and unforgettable memories.
It’s that time of year again! The Minnesota Renaissance Festival returns Aug. 22, inviting guests to spend seven weekends immersed in a 16th-century village filled with thrilling, full-combat jousts, legendary turkey legs, artisan shopping, live entertainment, and unforgettable adventures. Celebrating its 55th anniversary, the festival continues a tradition that has delighted generations of families and friends from across Minnesota and beyond. Running every weekend from Aug. 22 through Oct. 4, plus Labor Day (Sept. 7) and Festival Friday (Oct. 2), there’s never been a better time to gather your friends, don your favorite garb, raise a goblet, and experience the magic of the realm.
THEME WEEKENDS
Every visit to the festival offers something new to discover. Each of the festival’s seven themed weekends features its own unique atmosphere, entertainment, activities, specialty shopping, and interactive experiences. From fairy tales and Highland celebrations to four-legged fun, artistic inspiration, and Oktoberfest festivities, every weekend brings a fresh reason to return. Whether you’re planning one unforgettable day or visiting throughout the season, each themed weekend offers a one-of-a-kind adventure.
PUT YOUR CREATIVITY TO THE TEST IN SEVEN CREATIVE COMPETITIONS
Show off your talents by participating in one of the festival’s seven creative competitions, each inspired by its corresponding theme weekend. Whether you’re decorating cupcakes, painting murals, or competing in other themed challenges, these competitions provide fun opportunities for guests of all ages to showcase their creativity while earning prizes, recognition, and even opportunities for free festival admission. Visit the Minnesota Renaissance Festival website for competition details, rules, and registration information.
DISCOVER DEALS & DISCOUNTS
The countdown to the 2026 Minnesota Renaissance Festival has begun, and there are more ways than ever to save on your royal adventure. Throughout the season, guests can enjoy advance ticket savings, special appreciation days, BOGO promotions, free admission opportunities, and other limited-time offers. Be sure to plan ahead and explore all the available discounts before your visit to make the most of your festival experience.
With 16 stages of live entertainment, more than 250 artisan merchants, thrilling full-combat jousting, seven themed weekends, and food fit for royalty, the Minnesota Renaissance Festival offers countless ways to create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re making your first journey to the realm or returning for another season of adventure, there’s something magical waiting around every corner. Join us as we celebrate 55 years of huzzahs, history, and merriment—and begin planning your royal adventure today!
Located in Shakopee, Minnesota, the Minnesota Renaissance Festival runs Aug. 22 through Oct. 4, 2026. The festival is open weekends, plus Labor Day (Sept. 7) and Festival Friday (Oct. 2), from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., rain or shine.
