Renaissance faires in Minnesota

Minnesota's renaissance faire scene is anchored by the Minnesota Renaissance Festival, which began in September 1971 on a 22-acre field in Jonathan, drew more than 25,000 people to its opening, and later settled onto its grounds in Shakopee, where it runs on weekends in late summer. Wikipedia describes it as one of the oldest and largest Renaissance festivals in the United States, with annual attendance around 300,000 and more than 700 entertainers, 275 crafters, and 120 food booths, while its own organizers bill it as the largest in the country. The festival is owned and operated by Mid-America Festivals, a company that also owns the Bay Area, Kansas City, Michigan, and St. Louis Renaissance Festivals. Beyond the big Shakopee event, Minnesota stands out for its Norse-themed festivals rooted in the region's Viking enthusiasm: the Festival of Skalds in Angora, organized by Jacinda and Micah Hodges, owners of the Iron Ranger Arts shop, takes place on grounds meant to resemble a Viking encampment and celebrated its fourth annual edition in 2023. Separately, the Great Northern Viking Festival at the McGowan Farm Festival Grounds near Mankato offers a weekend of immersive entertainment and educational demonstrations, with a designated Family Day of kid-focused programming.

Sources: Minnesota Renaissance Festival – About Us · Wikipedia: Minnesota Renaissance Festival · Northern News Now – Festival of Skalds · Family Fun Twin Cities – Great Northern Viking Festival