STAY & PLAY2022 STEP NATUREINTO ADVENTURE AT THE WILDLIFE REFUGE A EXPERIENCECULTURALANDTHRILLING VALLEYFAIRRETURNSCARNIVALEGRANDTO HORSE RACING MUCHAND MORE NATIONAL ACTS AND SPECIAL EVENTS AT CANTERBURY PARK
Bloomington Convention & Visitors Bureau . . . . . (952) 858-8500 Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce .. (612) 370-9100 Prior Lake Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . (952) 440-1000 Savage Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952) 894-8876
Chanhassen Dinner Theatres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Minnesota Renaissance Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Canterbury Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Mystic Lake Casino Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
STAY & PLAY2022
PHONE NUMBERS Medical, fire, police. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 911 M Health Fairview Ridges Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . (952) 892-2000 M Health Fairview Southdale Hospital . . . . . . . . . (952) 924-5000 Methodist Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (952) 993-5000 Mayo Clinic Health System, New Prague. . . . . . . (952) 758-4431 Ridgeview Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(952) 442-2191 St. Francis Regional Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . (952) 428-3000 MN Poison Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 (800) 222-1222
The Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Rhythm on the Rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Valleyfair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Ho ċokata Ti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Carver County Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Scott County Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Paisley Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Summer calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 FOR MORE INFORMATION Belle Plaine Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . (952) 873-4295
Page 2 • Stay & Play • 2022 index MinnesotaFEATURES
Shakopee Chamber & Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . (952) 445-1660 SouthWest Metro Chamber of Commerce . . . . . .(952) 474-3233 St. Paul Chamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (651) 223-5000 STAY & PLAY 2022 Editors: Mark Olson and Gregg Aamot Writers: Lydia Christianson, Jacqueline Devine, Alyssa Huglen, Tom Schardin, Mark Wasson For advertising information about Stay & Play, contact Southwest Newspapers, 12931 Eagle Creek Blvd. Savage, MN 55378. Call Laurie Hartmann at 952-345-6878 or JUSTCanterburyCREDIT:CanterburyONU.S.A.Copyrightlhartmann@swnewsmedia.com.email2022.PrintedintheTHECOVER:TheraceisonatParkinShakopee.SubmittedphotobyParkINCASE:EMERGENCY/MEDICAL
Valley National Wildlife Refuge . . . . .4 Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Walk out the door and into an adventure
Visit Ho Ċ okata Ti in Shakopee to learn about Dakota culture and its role in the shaping of Minnesota. Step back in time at The Landing in Shakopee or Minnesota Renaissance Festival and learn how things were done back in the day. Want a celebration or some rock ‘n’ roll? How about Rhythm on the Rails in downtown Shakopee? Later in the year, take a walk through the Carver or Scott County fairs and revel in the talents that neighbors bring to the community.
Consider this booklet a starter’s guide to some area highlights. The deeper you dive, the more you’ll discover.
Calling the south metro home means walking out the door and into an Spendadventure.themorning on a bike ride in the scenic Minnesota River Valley. Then enjoy the afternoon at Valleyfair on thrilling rides. Cap the day with races at Canterbury Park … or a musical at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres … or a concert at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel. You get the idea. Whether you’re entertaining out-of-town guests, or creating a bucket list of local attractions, there’s a lot to choose from.
2022 • Stay & Play • Page 3 Pharmacy HuntingtonBank Lottery Postage Stamps TravelersExpress MoneyGram RedboxVideo OurServices: Floral Seasonal GardenCenter Bakery Deli FullServiceSeafood &MeatDepartment Sushi-MadeFreshDaily! Visit CUB.COM for WeeklySavings! OPEN 24HOURS 7DAYS AWEEK PHARMACYHOURS: Monday-Friday 9AMto 9PM Saturday & Sunday 9AMto6PM LIQUOR STOREHOU Monday -Saturda 9AMto 10PM Sundays 11AM to6PM YourLocal YourLocal OneStopShop, OneStop Shop, JustMinutesAway! JustMinutesAway! 1198VierlingDriveEast, Shakopee ExitoffofHWY169toMarschallRoad
STOP BY THE VISITOR CENTERS
EXPLORE THE NATURE PLAY AREA
For families with children looking to get outside, check out the Nature Play Area at the Old Cedar Avenue Trailhead, 9551 Old Cedar Ave. S., Bloomington. Think playground, but without the metal or plastic swings and slides. It offers activities like building an eagle’s nest and beaver dam, crossing a log bridge and building a stick fort. In addition, there is a free little library filled with nature-themed children’s books. Restrooms and running water are available onsite, with access to a handful of trails and viewing platforms from the trailhead.
Step into nature in the metro’s
One of the great amenities in the southwest metro is access to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Just a stone’s throw from the metro, one can find beautiful views, thousands of acres of nature, and more than 45 miles of trails. The refuge suggested a few things for visitors to explore.
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ATTEND AN EVENT Events and programs are happening weekly, so visit the refuge’s website at www.fws.gov/refuge/minnesota-valley/events or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MNValleyNWR to view and sign up for upcoming programs. Events range from birdwatching walks, seasonal recreational activities like fishing, to yearly celebrations. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the refuge, meet with staff and volunteers, and to connect with community members.
backyard Minnesota Valley refuge offers outdoor adventure MINNESOTA VALLEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE Hours: Trails open sunrise to sunset every day of the year Cost: Free Info: 5900Minnesota_Valley;www.fws.gov/refuge/952-854Location: Here are a few places to visit in the Minnesota River National Wildlife REFUGE HEADQUARTERS AND CENTEREDUCATIONBLOOMINGTONANDVISITOR 3815 American Blvd. E., Bloomington RAPIDS LAKE EDUCATION VISITORAND CENTER 15865 Rapids Lake Road, Carver LOUISVILLE SWAMP UNIT 3801 145th St. W., Shakopee BASS PONDS UNIT 2501 86th St. E., Bloomington CEDAR AVENUE BRIDGE AND TRAILHEAD 9898 Old Cedar Ave. S., Bloomington The Bloomington Visitor Center serves as a gateway to a Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge adventure. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THIA XIONG/USFWS The Nature Play Area at the Old Cedar Avenue Trailhead offers a chance for children to build an eagle’s nest. welcome
Gain insight of what to explore on the refuge at its visitor centers, located in Bloomington (3815 American Blvd. E.) and Carver (15865 Rapids Lake Road). Staff and volunteers can direct visitors to their next adventure on the refuge, share recent wildlife sightings, or lend seasonal outdoor equipment like binoculars. Explore exhibits or bird watch at the Checkfeeders.outthe refuge’s website for updated open hours: www. fws.gov/refuge/minnesota-valley.
2022 • Stay & Play • Page 5 CANTERBURYPARK.COM HOTSEATS. ColdDrinks. FASTHorses.
The sunset offers spectacular views to hikers at the Cedar Avenue Bridge. COURTESY OF LOGAN SAUER/USFWS
RECREATE Visitors can enjoy more than 45 miles of trails on foot or by bicycle year round, find a multitude of birds and other wildlife to watch or photograph, shore fish for native Minnesota freshwater species, hunt in select areas of the refuge, or take part in free educational programs about nature. Visit the refuge website to start planning an adventure: visit-us/activities.www.fws.gov/refuge/minnesota-valley/ Visitors fi sh at Bass Ponds in Bloomington.
There are 45 miles of trails in the refuge.
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF THIA XIONG/USFWS
The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge stretches over 14,000 acres along the Minnesota River, from Bloomington to Henderson. Try one of these easy and nearby adventures: bird watching at the Old Cedar Ave and Bass Ponds trailheads on the Long Meadow Lake Unit in Bloomington; hike the winding River Bottoms Trail in the Bloomington Ferry Unit for great views of the Minnesota River; explore a paved trail via bike or stroller along the Minnesota River Greenway Trail in Burnsville; or visit a glacial erratic found at the Louisville Swap Unit nearViewShakopee.refuge trail maps for details at www.fws. gov/refuge/minnesota-valley/visit-us.
PHOTO
ADVENTURE THROUGH THE REFUGE
PHOTO COURTESY OF SARA PACE
Firefly Viewing Nights is an event at the Arboretum that is fun for the whole family.
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chanhassen is a destination for any nature lover. With over 1,200 acres of green space and gardens, exhibits and a variety of events sure to interest everyone in the family, it’s a great place to stop and smell the roses. Here are five things people should know about the Arboretum, suggested by the Arboretum’s PR and Media Specialist Sarah Jackson.
The Arboretum offers wide, open acres to explore — on foot or by car. Three-Mile Drive gives visitors an overview of the expansive grounds and many destinations (trails, forests, wetlands, open meadows andThree-Mileprairies). Walk allows visitors to go deeper into special areas full of surprising seasonal flowers, shrubs and vines.
know about the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
The Arboretum is fun for families, including those with young children. In addition to plastic-free nature play structures outside at the Arboretum’s Marion Andrus Learning Center, there is a hedge maze, a sculpture garden, a treehouse area in the shade tree exhibit and countless other areas that are ideal for connecting with nature from a child’s point of view. Storytime in the library is another popular activity, along with summer classes and camps for kids and even entire families.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BOUDREAU-LANDISJASON
MINNESOTAARBORETUMLANDSCAPE
Five to
Gather at the garden
CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH NATURE
EVENTS GALORE
The Farm at the Arb helps connect people with not only the land but also the food it can provide with demonstration gardens and special events for the public. Near the farm’s big, red historic dairy barn, the Tashjian Bee & Pollinator Dis-
covery Center teaches all ages about the importance of pollinators.
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
There is always something to do at the Arboretum, thanks to a packed schedule of events, including an outdoor Summer Music Series starting in June, Firefly Viewing Nights, Taste & Toast and Art in the Garden events. In the fall, events include the Arb Glass Pumpkin Patch, AppleJam, Field Fest, Scarecrows in the Garden, a Fall Color Run and Ar-BOO-retum. Guided yoga, hikes and walks are also offered year-round at the Arb.
things
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The Arboretum was founded more than 60 years ago and includes a collection of plants like none other in the world. It includes showy annuals and tropicals, but also extremely hardy plants that can thrive in InMinnesota.manycases, the flowers, plants and trees at the Arboretum were developed by scientists on its very grounds. That includes the honeycrisp apple and more than 100 other edible and ornamental plant introductions that home gardeners and farmers grow every year.
In the spring, the gardeners plant 25,000 to 30,000 annuals in the Griggs/Burke Annual Garden.
Location: 3675 Arboretum Dr., Chanhassen Hours: Open by reservation 8 a.m.-7 p.m. daily Cost: Admission is free for members, $15 for non-members ages 16 and older and free for ages 15 and younger Info: arb.umn.edu
VARIETY OF PLANTS
MANY WAYS TO EXPLORE
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The Chanhassen Dinner Theatres has served over 12.5 million guests in its time.
DinnerChanhassenTheatres
OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN CDT has an excellent summer musical theatre camp program for kids and teens. The camps are taught by the same professionals that act on the stages and create the theater’s design elements. This makes the camp experience unique.
FUN BEYOND MAIN STAGE
Venturing to the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres for a night of entertainment is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For the past 54 years, the dinner theater has been a fixture in Chanhassen and the surrounding communities, according to Public Relations Director Kris Howland. The theater has served over 12.5 million guests in its time. Here are five things to know about the legendary entertainment venue.
LOCAL EMPLOYER Not only does the theater company provide a wide variety of premier entertainment and dining experiences for guests of all ages to enjoy, it is also a major employer as CDT, in full operation, employs up to 300 people year-round.
Location: 501 W 78th St., Chanhassen Box Office phone hours: Mondays 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesdays-Saturdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; closed Sundays Info: To purchase tickets call 952-9341525 or visit chanhassendt.com
PRODUCING AND PERFORMING CDT is a producing theater company. It casts and hires local artists to design, build and perform in all performances for its Main Stage. It’s different from attending a production that one might see downtown that is touring the area. Those are productions that are made elsewhere, from other regions, and brought to the Twin Cities on buses andThetrucks.dinner theater’s productions are all created and built on site at CDT and performed by local musicians and artists, all members of the same professional unions people would experience on Broadway stages. This is something special, making the CDT product 100% Minnesota-made.
Minnesota-made entertainment at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres
Guests can enjoy dinner before watching a multitude of different entertainment experiences, including live musical theater, Stevie Ray’s Comedy Cabaret and an acclaimed concert series.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAN NORMAN
NATIONAL STATUS CDT is one of only a handful of professional status dinner theaters in the country. At last count, there were fewer than 10. Later this fall, CDT will host the annual National Dinner Theatre Conference, hosting producers and artists from across the country.
Also, Brindisi’s Pub is a favorite casual dining hangout featuring two daily happy hours, free live entertainment every Thursday night and a lovely patio seasonally. In addition, CDT has a couple of banquet spaces where guests can hold wedding ceremonies, receptions and other events.
Over 12.5 million guests served “Footloose” is playing on the Main Stage through September.
Location: Queen’s Gate, 12364 Chestnut Blvd., King’sShakopeeGate, 3525 145th St. W., Shakopee Time: 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 20-Oct. 22, plus Labor Day (Sept. 5) and Fest Friday, Sept. 30. Festival Gate Admission Adult: $25.95 Senior (65+): $23.95 Child (5-12): $16.95 Children 4 and under: Free Advance Admission Adult: $22.95 Child (5-12): $14.50 Season Pass Admission Adult: $99.95 Child (5-12): $59.95 Weekend Pass Adult: $40 Info: www.renaissancefest.com; 952-4457361
The Minnesota Renaissance Festival will have a Viking-themed weekend this year. The Bold North Vikings Invasion weekend Aug. 28 and 29 will feature a Valhalla Mead Hall inside of a large Vikings encampment.
OF AMORE FOTOGRAPHY
RENAISSANCEMINNESOTAFESTIVAL
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The Vikings are coming
FestivalRenaissancegears up for its 51st year
“Mead is very popular at the festival so this is another location where you can actually get mead,” Stephanie Whipps, corporate compliance and communications director of Mid America Festivals, the company that runs Renaissance Festivals in Minnesota (in it’s 51st year), Michigan, Kansas and Florida. The festival is a 16th century European village with more than 16 stages of all different entertainment ranging from family oriented to PG-13 and up. This year will have over 250 artisans who make handmade“Mostwares.ofthe time, you’re dealing with the person in the booth that actually makes the product, so that’s pretty special,” Whipps said. On top of the stages and vendors, there are hundreds of mobile characters that will interact with guests.
FILE PHOTO A knight sticks his tongue out at the rival crowd during the jousting competition at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival.
The Viking Encampment will have a greater presence at this year’s festival, with more weapons demonstrations and storytelling performances throughout the day. COURTESY
PHOTO
There is also live contact armored jousting four times a day during each weekend. “It’s easy to come in the morning and stay all day because you get lost in all the to-dos,” Whipps said. “We have games and food and entertainment and shopping. Kind of your all-in-one destination.” This year will also feature a new mead, black currant, a Greek food location and multiple new acts. Veteran festival goers can rest assured that Puke and Snot will be back this year.
The Highland Fling will kick off the weekends this summer on Aug. 21 and 22 with multiple weight challenges, a Scotch egg eating contest, a keg toss and a kilt competition.Sept.4,5and 6 will be “Wine, Chocolate and Romance,” with wine tasting, a cupcake battle, free wedding vow renewals and a cake-smashing competition. Feel free to bring your dog Sept. 11 and 12 during Woof Stock. Dog agility demos, a dress up contest and ugliest dog competition will provide entertainment. There will also be a canine king and queen. Fill up your tummy and shake it Sept. 18 and 19 during “BBQ, Bellies and Beer,” where you can learn how to belly dance or watch professionals while you eat a brat.
Everyone can be a little Irish Sept. 25 and 26 during “Shamrocks & Shenanigans,” where visitors will see pickle jousting, Irish dancers and a mashed potato-eating contest.Closing out the festival Oct. 2 and 3 is Oktoberfest where you can taste Summit beer, compete in stein holding, yodeling or in a lederhosen and dirndl costume contest.
Page 10 • Stay & Play • 2022 ® JUNE22-AUG3 EVERYWEDNESDAY-6PM-9PM LEWISSTREET-DOWNTOWNSHAKOPEE FREEWEEKLYCONCERTSERIES WWW.RHYTHMONTHERAILS.COM *NOCONCERTONJULY6 ARCHALLIES JUNE22 GEARDADDIES JUNE29 THECROWNJEWELS JULY13 THEROLLINGSTONERS JULY20 FREEFALLIN’ JULY27 FABULOUSARMADILLOS PARTYBANDFT. CHRISHAWKEY AUGUST3 E EST. D OWN T OWN SHA K OPEE
“It is an undiscovered gem of an intimate outdoor setting offering great sight lines and acoustics featuring national acts,” said Jeff Maday, Canterbury Park’s media relations manager.
SELTZER FEST It’s scheduled for June 11 and will bring together exciting flavors and versions of many gluten-free favorites at Canterbury Park.The festival will give fans the opportunity to sample and explore over 100 different seltzers from vendors from all over the Twin Cities area.
Back this summer is also return of Saturday night racing, which starts at 5 p.m. It’s been absent the last two summers due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“When the pandemic struck in 2020, the horse racing season began later than usual and operated under severe capacity restrictions,” Maday said. “That caused a change to the Monday through Thursday night racing schedule to best capture a national wagering audience. Last year, Sunday racing returned along with many of the fan-favorite events, such as corgi racing, that populated the summer schedule.” Here are a few other events to look forward to at Canterbury Park during the season:
PHOTOS COURTESY OF COADY PHOTOGRAPHY
Over the last two summers, the COVID-19 pandemic has limited the number of fans at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, but larger crowds are expected again this season.
The season at Canterbury Park in Shakopee runs through Sept. 17 with racing Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday starting at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m.
TASTE OF CANTERBURY
Events to look forward to inCanterburyatParkShakopee
2022 • Stay & Play • Page 11
PUZZLE DERBY Like puzzles? The first-ever Puzzle Derby competition will be coming to Canterbury Park Aug. 7. Race the clock before live racing kicks off against other groups of four as they try to determine the Jigsaw Puzzle champion for the day.
CANTERBURY PARK Location: 1100 Canterbury Road South, Shakopee Racing: Wednesday, Thursday and Saturdays, 5 p.m. Sunday, 1 p.m. Season ends Sept. 17. Admission: $10 for adults. $5 for ages 5 to 17. Free for ages 4 and under. $2 discount by purchasing online at tickets. canterburypark.com Info: 952-445-7223, canterburypark.com
Canterbury Park in Shakopee is not just about wagering on the horses.There’s a lot more to do there than picking a superfecta, where you correctly select the first four finishers in a race. The Canterbury Park Summer Concert Series was done last summer for the first time and it returns again this year.
The new Saturday event series is expected to bring loads of taste to your taste buds, including Tacos and Tequila June 4, Bourbon and Whiskey Smokehouse July 9 and Asian Bistro July 30. This is a themed entertainment experience that will show what Canterbury’s kitchen can offer, including specialty food, cocktails and pairings during live racing action.Tacos & Tequila will feature hand selected and freshly made Mexican favorites served over multiple courses. Bourbon and Whiskey Smokehouse will provide savory and sweet all-American flavors, everything from smoked meats to mac and cheese. Asian Bistro will feature some classic dishes with some exciting new flavors.
More than just horse racing
Who says bingo has to be boring?
Location: 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd., Prior Lake Hours: Always open Info: //mysticlake.com; 800-262-7799
Mystic Lake Casino Hotel features variety of entertainment
MYSTIC LAKE CASINO HOTEL
Mystic Lake Casino Hotel has 766 hotel rooms. With the addition of the Promenade Hotel Tower and luxury suites, it’s one of the largest hotels in the Twin Cities. The Promenade Tower offers upscale guestrooms with golf course views, sun bay seating areas, vestibule entrances and residential layouts. The Luxury Suites have contemporary furnishings, living areas and oversized bathrooms. For reservations call 800-548-8536.
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THE MEADOWS OF MYSTIC LAKE
Mystic Lake Casino offers Cosmic Bingo at 11 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. Late nights, loud music, black lights and bingo amp up the entertainment. Paper packages are just $10 and electronic packages are only $25. Doors open at 10:30 p.m. with Early Birds at 10:45 p.m.
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At Mystic Lake Casino Hotel there are 10 bars and restaurants, ranging from a relaxed steakhouse to a noodle bar. Restaurants include the Mystic Steakhouse where you can enjoy cuts of USDA prime-aged heritage beef, seafood and fine wines.
This scenic and challenging course is a full-service golfing destination, enhanced by nearby food and entertainment venues, including The Meadows Bar and Grille and Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, and the golf shop. For tee times, rates and policies visit www. golfthemeadows.com.
Mystic Lake Casino features hundreds of slot machines, multiple blackjack tables, and never-ending bingo fun.
Minnehaha Cafe is a classic all-American restaurant serving up favorites like hot turkey sandwiches, burgers and seasonal salads. Sweet Temptations serves ice cream, along with a full menu featuring house-made cookies, cupcakes and other sweet treats. Other restaurants include The Meadows Bar and Grille, Fusion Noodle Bar, Gambler’s Grille and Mystic Deli. After a meal, guests can enjoy a cocktail at one of the many bars, including Drinx Bar, the Lobby Lounge and the Promenade Bar.
BARS AND DINING
COSMIC BINGO
SUBMITTED
Many people think of casinos as playgrounds for adults, and Mystic Lake Casino Hotel is no exception.
HOTEL ROOMS
Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd., Prior Lake. BY JACQUELINE DEVINE
The Midwest’s premier gaming facility includes three hotel towers, 150,000 square-feet of casino and bingo space, seven restaurants and spa services — and also hosts internationally recognized music, entertainment and comedy acts at its showroom, ballroom, comedy club and amphitheater.Herearesome things to check out at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, as noted on its website.
The Landing, a Minnesota River Heritage Park, shows visitors how 19th century Minnesotans lived.
The
FILE PHOTO
The park grounds are open daily and access is free, except for access to the interior of the historic buildings, which costs $5 for a guided tour. Visitors should expect to walk one to two miles during their visit. Landing showcases Minnesota
Taking a step back in time
The historical buildings are laid out in a timeline from the pre-territorial era through the late-1800s.
“Now you’re interacting with one of our staff members, usually in period clothing representative of the time, but you’re actually getting to try your hand at some of those different activities,” Walker said.
1800s-era
Historic buildings at The Landing in Shakopee.
Visitors can explore the site by themselves, or through a tour with a costumed guide, and watch as costumed interpreters re-enact history events. Monday is “wash day,” in which a staff member, usually dressed in 1880s period clothing, will set up wash equipment and let people use old scrub boards.
“What do you bring with you? What do you leave behind? How do you choose your farm site? How do you build a farm out in the middle of the big woods,” Walker asked, adding that there are multiple hands-on activities, like sawing logs, building a log cabin, farm chores and taking care of animals.
The “Journey to Minnesota” is the most interactive program, according to Bill Walker, supervisor for historical participation at Three Rivers Park District, which operates the park. The program walks participants through the different steps that they might take as new immigrants coming to Minnesota in the 1850s.
THE LANDING Location: 2187 Highway 101 E Shakopee Hours: 5 a.m.-10 p.m. Cost: Park is free; two-hour program, $4.80 per participant Info: www.threeriversparks.org/location/landing; 763-559-9000
The park also features .7 miles of biking trails, 1.7 miles of dog trails along the Minnesota River or through the historic village and a one-mile turf trail along the Minnesota River that features some of the best bird watching in the metro area and allows snowshoeing in the winter. “During the winter you can actually see a lot of activity ... everything from river otters to beavers, because they’re easier to track in the area,” Walker said. “But the views from the river are spectacular.”Thereisalso a general picnic area for families to relax or have a snack. Visitors can also rent a picnic shelter for various events like weddings or family reunions.
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Starting in 2019, the park moved away from a model where people would buy a ticket and interact with reenactors on any given Saturday, living the life of a frontiersperson.
June 22: Arch Allies June 29: Gear Daddies July 13: The Crown Jewels July 20: The Rolling Stoners July 27: Free Fallin’ Aug. 3: Fabulous Armadillos Party Band featuring Chris Hawkey
PHOTO
2. FOOD AND DRINK VENDORS
The concert series features live music performances from popular regional headliners. COURTESY FILE PHOTO
This year’s Rhythm on the Rails has expanded to six nights instead of five. Heather Proskey, the Shakopee Chamber’s main street and special events director, said this extra night has been added due to a high level of interest from the community. The concert series is bringing in headliners from around the region.
Page 14 • Stay & Play • 2022 Rhythm on the Rails is returning to Shakopee this summer with live music and additional fun activities for the whole family. Located on Lewis Street in downtown Shakopee, the free concert series kicks off June 22 and ends on Aug. 3. The concerts take place from 6-9 p.m. on Wednesday nights. Here are five things to look forward to at this year’s Rhythm on the Rails: 1. LIVE MUSIC
Bringing music to downtown 5 things to know about this year’s Shakopee concert series
Allie Doepke twirls around in her dress at Rhythm on the Rails in 2019.
Many popular local restaurants and breweries will be serving up food and drinks at the concerts. O’Brien’s Public House, Pablo’s Mexican Restaurant, Turtle’s Bar & Grill and Cookie Dough Bliss will have food trucks in the Lewis Street lot. A beer tent will also be featured, with Shakopee Brewhall and
OF SHAKOPEE CHAMBER
Heather Proskey, with the Shakopee Chamber, said Rhythm on the Rails has brought in around 4,000 attendees each night in recent years.
5. SUPPORTING DOWNTOWN
Proskey added that with shops open and the farmers market held ahead of the concerts, she hopes people will spend much of their day seeing what the downtown area has to offer.
Location: Lewis Street, downtown Shakopee Hours: Wednesday evenings, 6-9 p.m. Cost: Free Info: shakopee.org/rhythm-on-the-rails/ Badger Hill Brewing providing drinks. Food and drink tickets will be available on location.
4. FARMERS MARKET
A farmers market is being added to the festivities this year. It will take place each Wednesday of the concert series from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Lewis Street lot. The market will include vendors for produce, meats, cheeses and more. A coffee food truck will also be featured.
Rhythm on the Rails
PHOTO COURTESY OF SHAKOPEE CHAMBER
3. FUN FOR ALL AGES
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The Lewis Street lot will be the location for a Kids Zone for kids to partake in fun games and activities. Proskey said a big part of Rhythm on the Rails is making the concert series entertaining for all. “We make it fun and accessible for everybody,” she said. “Everything we do has a little element for everyone.”
With multiple downtown organizations sponsoring the concert series, Proskey said attending Rhythm on the Rails is a great way to support downtown Shakopee. “Downtown Shakopee is historic,” she said. “We want people to come into our downtown and see all the amazing businesses and restaurants we have here.”
Grand Carnival,
Live entertainment: There will be live music, dancing, acrobatics and more. Some shows will offer chances to join the Royal Court’s performers. “At Valleyfair, we want to make sure there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy,” said Kelsey Megard, the park’s public relations and communications manager. “These larger-than-life events create such a fun atmosphere in the park. “So whether you stop to watch a live show, dance along with performers in a parade or grab a tasty bite, we have made sure that there is something for everyone.”
Univision MN Latin Days is July 23-24. It is a festival full of live musical performances, authentic Latin foods and a celebration of the culture. There will be performances from local musical and dance groups on the park’s superior stage.
There will be fireworks on the Fourth of July again.
is not just about the many fun attractions and different rides, including eight rollercoasters and a water park called Soak City.
Valleyfair
The 125-acre amusement park in Shakopee can also be a cultural experience throughout the summer. There are plenty of special events, including Grand Carnivale from June 25 to July 10. Grand Carnivale debuted last summer. During the summer’s 16day festival, the hosts will be King Carl Nivale, Queen Cara Nivale and their Royal Court. The event features:
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The Spectacle of Color Parade: There will be decorated floats, street performers and pulsating rhythms for spectators of all ages. During the parade, there will be dancing, singing and merrymaking.
FIREWORKS
TRICKS AND TREATS
and
Valleyfair has also announced that it is replacing its annual ValleySCARE and Halloween Haunt with Tricks and Treats, which is set to start Sept. 17 and run through Oct. 30. a global celebration, set to return to Valleyfair
Valleyfair features eight rollercoasters and a water park. SUBMITTED PHOTO
VALLEYFAIR Location: 1 Valley Fair Drive, Shakopee Hours: Check website for specific times Cost: Single-day passes start at $32.99 with two-day passes at $59.99 Info: valleyfair.com
Thrilling cultural experience
International Food Festival: It’s a block party and worldwide food festival. Participants can grab a Grand Carnivale tasting card to sample food from around the world.
Starting Aug. 12 and going through Sept. 5 will be Monster Jam Thunder Alley. There will larger-than-life trucks during that time. Park-goers can be part of a multi-passenger monster truck ride, which is from the driver’s point of view.
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SUBMITTED PHOTO Grand Carnivale is set for June 25 through July 10 at Valleyfair in Shakopee. The event is a culture celebration with live music, delicious international food, lively games and unique crafts.
Fireworks light up the sky above Valleyfair in Shakopee each summer. PHOTO
FILE
The park will be broken into two paths, allowing visitors to travel through the “Land of Tricks” or the “Land of Treats.” Within each are several locations for guests to experience everything, from spooky, slimy and strange activities to sweet and comforting attractions. Food, games, crafts and shows will also be available, while guests are encouraged to attend in costume and participate in trick-or-treating. The park’s most popular rides will also be open and running during this time. Valleyfair has been around since 1976. The theme park has grown to have more than 75 rides and attractions. The High Roller, a wooden roller coaster, is the oldest coaster at the park and has been since the park first opened. The Corkscrew, a steel looping roller coaster, has been around since 1980, while the Excalibur, a steel roller coaster with a wooden structure, has been running since 1989.
HOĊOKATA TI Location: 2300 Tiwahe Circle, Shakopee Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday Info: hocokatati.org
3. ARCHITECTURE AND LANGUAGE
Page 18 • Stay & Play • 2022 The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s cultural center Ho Ċ okata Ti centers much of its work on educating the public about Mdewakanton Dakota culture.Here are five unique things visitors should check out at Ho Ċ okata Ti this year, according to the center.
The cultural center has special design eleCenter offers insight to Mdewakanton Dakota culture
“Mdewakanton: Dwellers of the Spirit Lake” finishes off with where the SMSC is today, so visitors get a comprehensive understanding of who the Dakota people are.
PHOTO
2. GIFT SHOP Ho Ċ okata Ti has its own gift shop in the building featuring a variety of Native-made art, jewelry, books, beaded and quilled items, crafts supplies, home goods and botanicalAccordingsupplies.to the SMSC, the gift shop’s purpose is to further build upon Ho Ċ okata Ti’s ultimate mission of educating visitors about the Dakota people.
1. ‘MDEWAKANTON: DWELLERS OF THE SPIRIT LAKE’ Ho Ċ okata Ti features a 3,805-square-foot public exhibit called “Mdewakanton: Dwellers of the Spirit Lake.” The exhibit looks to provide a cultural experience that enhances visitors’ knowledge and understanding of the Mdewakanton Dakota people and their history. Visitors also get a closer look at items such as clothes, dolls, beaded objects andThetools.exhibit starts with “The Creation Story,” a video taking visitors through stories describing the creation of the Dakota people.
5 things to check out at Hoċokata Ti Ho Ċ okata Ti is the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s cultural center. The center looks to educate guests on Mdewakanton Dakota culture. COURTESY OF SHAKOPEE MDEWAKANTON SIOUX COMMUNITY
HoĊokata Ti has a public library on the ground floor that can provide additional learning opportunities and help with research about Dakota people and Native Americans across the continent. The library is open for guests to visit and read up on a number of topics drawing back to Native history, heritage and culture.
4. PUBLIC REFERENCE LIBRARY
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHAKOPEE MDEWAKANTON SIOUX COMMUNITY
Ho Ċ okata Ti has a public library on the ground floor that can provide additional learning opportunities and help with research about Dakota people and Native Americans across the continent. ments that help showcase the Dakota culture. HoĊokata Ti’s website states that “the tribe’s Mdewakanton heritage is embedded in every detail of the building’s design,” including custom-made Dakota patterns used for the event chairs and the creation of seven 40-foot tipis that border the exterior of the building. Hearing and reading the Dakota language throughout the public exhibit also provides a deeper understanding of the Dakota people.
“Mdewakanton: Dwellers of the Spirit Lake” is a 3,805-square-foot public exhibit at the cultural center and takes visitors through the history of the Mdewakanton Dakota people and culture.
5. ADDITIONALOPPORTUNITIESEDUCATIONAL
The grounds at Ho Ċ okata Ti are home to restored prairie and wildlife, offering a unique look at endangered landscapes. The cultural center also hosts multiple public events throughout the year featuring Native American authors, artists, Dakota language, and other opportunities to learn more about Dakota culture and ways of life.
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The fair is planned and managed by the nonprofit Carver County Agricultural Society board of directors, who meet monthly in the winter and bi-monthly in the summer to assure the fair’s success.
The 2022 fair will be the 110th fair at the Waconia Fairgrounds.
Gates open at 8 a.m. daily Exhibit buildings and barns open: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily Commercial buildings open: noon-9 p.m. Wednesday; 10 a.m.9 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Location: 501 West Third Street, Waconia Admission: Ages 6 and under: Free Ages 7 and older: $8 Info: www.carvercountyfair.com; 952-442-2333
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5 fun things to try at the fair include: Food! There will be 35-plus food stands/trucks at the 2022 fair. Experience local agriculture with animal and garden exhibits, and horse shows Live music. 15 bands are scheduled to play over the five-day event Midway rides. 18 rides on site, something for all ages. Free grandstand shows, including side-by-side races, Motokazie, NTPA tractor pull and local tractor, semi and pickup pulls. (The demolition derby on Sunday night requires a grandstand admission, but is always a good show.)
There are 18 rides at the Carver County Fair midway.
The Carver County Fair is the largest community gathering in Carver County.
THINGS TO TRY AT THE FAIR
The Carver County Fair is a five-day event held annually the second full weekend in August.
Food, music, art, livestock — county fairs have it all. This year, visitors can enjoy the Carver County Fair from Aug.Diane10-14.Polzin, with the Carver County Fair, shared few things readers may not know about the Carver County Fair:
Anyone can enter exhibits at the fair for an opportunity to compete for ribbons and premiums; it is a great opportunity to showcase talents.
Source: Diane Polzin, Carver County Fair
SUBMITTED PHOTOS A pedal tractor pull is part of the fun at the Carver County Fair.
The largest community gathering in county Carver County Fair is Aug. 10-14
CARVER COUNTY FAIR
Time: Wednesday, Aug. 10-Sunday, Aug. 14
This year’s Scott County Fair will be held July 27-31 — complete with new and updated attractions.Scott County Fair manager Erika Ediger-Connolly shared the following tidbits about this year’s fair: The 2022 Scott County Fair will be the 165th and will be held at the fairgrounds in TheJordan.fair has its own carousel (named Aimee) and it own Ferris wheel (named BigOneEli).of the fair’s newer attraction is “Remember Our Fallen,” which honors people who have died from wounds suffered in war zones since the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Acts on the main stage will include IV Play, Dustin Evans, Mudcatt Melby and Church of Cash. Some new food items will make their fair debut, including hot beef sundaes, Venezuelan cuisine, Italian custard, sweet teas and street tacos. Fair will be 165th
The demolition derby is a longstanding tradition at the Scott County Fair. A rodeo is one of the attractions at the Scott County Fair.
Animal barns are a longstanding attraction at the Scott County Fair.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
SCOTT COUNTY FAIR
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DID YOU KNOW?
The Scott County Fair offers a variety of attractions, includingIrish Dancers, magicians andstunt jugglers. Here are just a fewof the Miracleothers:ofBirth barn Draft horse shows LumberjackCloggers shows Wood carvings
Time: Wednesday, July 27-Sunday, July 31 Fair Hours: Wednesday: Noon-1 a.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10 a.m.-1 a.m. Sunday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Building Hours: Wednesday: Noon-9 p.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Location: 7151 190th St. W., Jordan Admission: Free for all ages Parking Rates: Daily per vehicle: $10 Season pass: $25 Motorcycles: $5 Info: 952-492-2436fairofficestaff@scottcountyfair.com;
Scott County Fair is July 27-31
Paisley Park tours are available year-round. Some things to know before you go: Tours available: Thursday through Sunday Location: 7801 Audubon Road, Chanhassen Ticket information: paisleypark.com/ticketswww.
An educational organization Fresh attractions at Paisley Park
An event
Paisley Park is located at 7801 Audubon Road, Chanhassen.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAISLEY PARK
The atrium at Paisley Park.
General contact: www.paisleypark.com; 952-495-6750
PAISLEY PARK
An interior view of Paisley Park.
DID YOU KNOW?
Paisley Park is more than the placewhere Prince lived and recordedsongs. of it as both a conceptand as a physical venue thatincludes: studio venue space
Stay & Play • 2022 Paisley Park, the home and music studio of the late pop star Prince, is one of the most iconic attractions in Carver County. Here is some information about current attractions at the museum, which is located at 7801 Audubon Road, Chanhassen: Paisley Park is an active museum, state-of-the-art recording studio, and concert venue. Tours include the main floor and studios, the soundstage where Prince performed and his private NPG Music Club, now fully operational as a café and social lounge that is also open to the public. Current tours also include “The Beautiful Collection,” an exclusive, limited-time exhibit of Prince’s bold, iconic shoes. More than 300 pairs are currently on display. The 65,000-square-foot creative sanctuary displays hundreds of Prince’s personal items, including clothing, awards, handwritten pages, musical instruments, vehicles, and rare music and video recordings. For more information and tour tickets, visit www.PaisleyPark.com.
Think
A live music
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Shoes, handwritten pages among items on display
A museum A recording
The Lakefront Music Fest, Prior Lake’s main summer shindig, is held at Lakefront Park. This year’s headliners include country singer Toby Keith on July 8 and rocker Sammy Hagar on July 9. More info at www. lakefrontmusicfest.com.
Music in the Park: June 17, Aug. 19 Music in the Park in Prior Lake features free live music and food trucks. Sugar Buzz will perform on June 17 and Sawyer’s Dream on Aug. 19. More info at annual-events/summer-events.gov/government/departments/recreation/www.priorlakemn.
The fair in Jordan includes some new food items, including hot beef sundaes, Venezuelan cuisine and street tacos. Acts on the main stage include IV Play, Dustin Evans and Mudcatt Melby. More info at https:// scottcountyfair.org.
River City Days: July 29-31 River City Days, Chaska’s hometown festival, includes live music, water fights, a talent show, games, a parade and food served by area nonprofit organizations. More info at https://chaskarivercitydays.org.
JUNE Victoria Classic Car Nights: June 8 and 22; July 13 and 27; Aug. 10 and 24; Sept. 14 and Victoria28 Classic Car Nights brings classic cars from all over the metro area to downtown Victoria. More info at ci.victoria.mn.us/484/Community-Events.www.
Renaissance Festival : Aug. 20-Oct. 22
Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Wacipi : Aug. 19-21
Dan Patch Days : June 23-26
The Renaissance Festival is a 16th century European village in rural Shakopee with more than 16 stages of different entertainment. There are food and beverages for sale at the festival, as well as over 250 artisans who make handmade wares. The event is 9 a.m.-7 p.m. (rain or shine) Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 20-Oct. 22, plus Labor Day (Sept. 5) and Fest Friday, Sept. 30. Info at www.renaissancefest.com.
Summer fun in Carver and Scott counties
The wacipi (powwow) will be held at the Wacipi Grounds on the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community reservation in Shakopee. Accompanied by drum groups, Native American dancers will participate in dance competitions in categories such as Men’s Fancy, Jingle Dress, Fancy Shawl and Golden Age. Info at org/culture/wacipi-pow-wow.https://shakopeedakota.
Carver County Fair: Aug. 10-14
JULY Fourth of July, Chanhassen : July 2-4
The Carver Scott Threshers holds its 58th Annual Old-Time Harvest Steam & Gas Engine Festival in Jordan. The event features volunteers operating hundreds of old machines. There are vintage buildings to explore, markets, tractor pulls and a daily 1 p.m. parade. More info at verthreshers.org/harvest_festival.htm.www.scottcar-
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The Nordic Music Fest will be held Sept. 10 in Victoria. Dan Patch Days will be held June 23-26 in Savage. Chanhassen’s Fourth of July celebration will be held July 2-4.
Dan Patch Days, Savage’s annual music festival, includes Tim Sigler, Jud Hailey and The Dweebs and other acts. More info at www.danpatchdays.org.
Chanhassen’s 39th annual Fourth of July Celebration is a three-day event held at City Center Park and Lake Ann Park. Among the attractions: live music, local food vendors and – of course – a parade. More info Celebration.www.ci.chanhassen.mn.us/272/4th-of-July-at
Summer Jam : July 21-23
Rhythm on the Rails : June 22 and 29; July 13, 20 and 27; Aug. 3. Rhythm on the Rails, Shakopee’s longrunning music festival, is a free outdoor concert series. This year’s acts include The Gear Daddies, The Rolling Stoners and Free Fallin’. Concerts run from 6-9 p.m. More info at rhythmontherails.www.downtownshakopee.org/
This year, Valleyfair is replacing its ValleyScare attraction with Tricks and Treats, a fall festival and Halloween party combo. Meanwhile, ScreamTown returns to Chaska while Trail of Terror again appears in Shakopee. More info at trailofterrormn.com/https://screamtown.com/valleyfair.com/events/tricks-and-treats,www.andhttp://www.
Summer Jam is a three-day music festival at Canterbury Park in Shakopee. The main stage on #TCSJGivesBack-Minnesota Music Night will include Hairball, Fabulous Armadillos and Anderson. That night will also center around creating awareness for the CAP Agency of Scott, Carver and Dakota Counties. More info at https://tcsummerjam.com.
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This celebration of German heritage in Jordan will include a classic car cruise and street dance Friday night and a fishing tournament, 5K run, parade and Miss Jordan coronation Saturday. Steamboat Days : Sept. 9-11 Attractions at this Carver event include a beer tent, food vendors, a medallion hunt, live music and a Sunday afternoon parade. People are encouraged to park downtown and use the city’s trail systems to walk to the events. More info at www.carversteamboatdays.info. Volksfest : Sept. 10 Victoria’s early fall festival, Volksfest includes music, food trucks, bouncy houses for kids and other attractions. This year’s live music includes headliner G.B.D Leighton. More info at www.victoriavolksfest.com. Nordic Music Fest : Sept. 10 The 13th Nordic Music Fest in Victoria includes the music, food, culture and customs of the Scandinavian countries of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. Don’t forget the lutefisk toss! More info at www//nordicmusicfest.org. Halloween attractions: September and October, select dates
Scott County Fair: July 27-31
SEPTEMBER Heimatfest : Sept. 9-10
The fair in Waconia includes rides, food, exhibits and events ranging from a demolition derby to tractor pulls. Info at www. carvercountyfair.com.
AUGUST Old-time Harvest Festival : Aug. 5-7
Lakefront Music Fest : July 8-9
Page 24 • Stay & Play • 2022 952.233.5533|PRIORLAKE,MN HOCOKATATI.ORG Shakopee,MN|952.233.9151 DISCOVER DAKOTACULTURE PUBLICEXHIBIT Mdewakanton:DwellersoftheSpiritLake ExplorethelifewaysoftheMdewakanton people,pastandpresent. GOLFTHEMEADOWS.COM
