This week the topic is not necessarily specific to Minnesota because a lot of US states do these, but the Minnesota Renaissance Festival (Ren Fest) is a huge favorite from my childhood. It is located in Shakopee, MN and is not far from Valleyfair if you wanted to knock out both attractions in a couple days. The Ren Fest is definitely worth saving a whole day for, there are so many fun things to do and so much great food to indulge in.

The event usually goes on from August to October and is only open on the weekends. Parking is free and the entrance fee is around $20, but you can generally find cheaper tickets or discounts at gas stations or grocery stores. You can also buy season tickets if you want.

The amazing thing about the Renaissance Festival is how passionate people get about it. People dress up and get to live in a different world for a little while. One thing I really liked as a kid, and still enjoy seeing at the festival, was Twig the Fairy. She dresses up and walks around to give little jewels to children. She stays completely silent all day! You can check her out on Facebook along with a bunch of other fairies and mermaids.

There are lots of fun activities including comedy acts, playing chess on a giant board, amusement rides, and a jousting competition. There are plenty of things for kids to do as well. You can purchase a lot of cool costumes and trinkets here too. There is a trail at the park that goes down into some woods with a beautiful stream and "fairy houses". This is a nice place to get away from the noise for a little while and take pictures!


Thanks for listening! Check out Part 1 of the Minnesota Monday series.