The 40th season of the Minnesota Renaissance Festival will open its front gates on August 28 with a weekend event for the whole family based on the traditional Silk Road: Discover the Riches!
The Silk Road, considered the world’s oldest and longest trade route, stretched across Europe, Africa and Asia for more than 5,000 miles. Major stops along the Silk Road included Egypt, present day Turkey, China and Greece. Fine products from these countries were than transported to England. Luxurious silks, exotic colors, delicate trinkets and fine china were popular during the Renaissance period.
The weekend will consist of a Belly Dancing competition, belly dance lessons and performances, martial arts demonstrations, Middle Eastern music, Hookah demonstrations, Japanese art and calligraphy, an Arabian Horse show and much more.
Returning this year is the 2nd Annual National Bird Show. Guests are invited to participate in wild bird demonstrations provided by The Raptor Center as well as lessons on an how to holistically care for your bird.
The 40th annual Minnesota Renaissance Festival runs weekends and Labor Day, Aug. 21 – Oct. 3 and Friday, Oct. 1 from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., rain or shine.
The festival is located on Hwy 169, seven miles south of Shakopee. Price of admission is $20.95 for adults; $11.95 for children 5-12; four and under are free; Pets $10.00 with photo.
Discount tickets are available at participating Super America, Whole Foods Market and Walgreens stores. Free parking is provided by your select GMC and Buick dealers. For more information, visit www.renaissancefest.com or call 952-445-7361.
