Summer has arrived in Scott County, and that means it’s time to soak up the sunny days and savor the warmer weather. From community festivals to farmers markets, there are endless events and activities happening across Scott County this summer for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Mark your calendars now for these not-to-be-missed summertime events:
Prior Lake Lakefront Music Fest Festival (July 12-13, 2024)
Kick off your summer in style at one of the largest outdoor music festivals in the metro area. The Prior Lake Lakefront Music Fest offers two days of vibrant music from rock and country superstars, plus food, drinks, arts, and crafts at scenic Lakefront Park. This year’s lineup includes rock legends Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo and country chart-topper Dierks Bentley lighting up the main stage. You can read more about it here.
Prior Lake Music in the Park (August 2, 30 and September 27)
Pack up your lawn chairs and blankets for Prior Lake’s beloved Friday evening summer concert series, Music in the Park. Sway and sing along to live music performances under the stars. With a family-friendly atmosphere, these free concerts are the perfect way to unwind at the end of the week.
Belle Plaine BBQ Days (July 19-21, 2024)
Get fired up for three mouthwatering days of barbecue deliciousness and summertime fun at the annual Belle Plaine BBQ Days festival. Carnival rides, live music, BBQ competitions, and street dances make this a highlight of the season. And you won’t want to miss the spectacular fireworks show at dusk on Sunday night!
Belle Plaine All-Wheel Wednesdays
Classic car lovers, start your engines! Cruise into downtown Belle Plaine every Wednesday evening this summer for All-Wheel Wednesdays. Admire hundreds of antique, custom and exotic vehicles on display during this lively weekly car show and auto enthusiast meet-up.
Scott County Fair (July 24-28, 2024)
Step right up to all of the nostalgic sights, sounds, and smells of this traditional county fair. Ride the Ferris wheel, test your skills at carnival games, cheer on 4-H livestock shows and exhibits, and of course sample classic fair fare like funnel cakes and cotton candy. Fun for all ages! Take a look at the events calendar and visit on any of the days to catch all the excitement.
Shakopee Rhythm on the Rails (June-August)
Continue the fun on Wednesday nights in Shakopee during Rhythm on the Rails. This free summer concert series in downtown Shakopee features live music performances by local bands, tasty food trucks, and family activities atop the charming antique rail cars.
Shakopee Farmers Market
One of the best ways to soak up summertime is by stopping by the bustling Shakopee Farmers Market every Sunday. Shop for the season’s freshest produce straight from local farmers. You’ll also discover honey, artisanal baked goods, handmade crafts and other unique products from community vendors.
Night to Unite (August 6, 2024)
Spend an evening connecting with your community during Minnesota’s annual Night to Unite. Neighborhood block parties, festivals and gatherings will be taking place across Scott County. Check with your city to find out specific details for family-friendly events happening in your local area.
Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Wacipi
Experience the culture and traditions of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community firsthand during their annual pow wow celebration August 16-18. The public is welcome to attend this vibrant festival filled with Native American dancers in colorful regalia, traditional drum circles and singers, indigenous foods, and arts and crafts.
Elko New Market Community Picnic
Pack up the family or meet up with friends on August 24th for Elko New Market’s delightful annual Community Picnic. Enjoy live music, lawn games, kiddie tractor pulls and other fun at this relaxed, small-town festival held at Wagner Park.
Get Ready to Take Part in the Summer Events
In addition to these featured events, there are always lively happenings going on across Scott County for you to discover and explore. Catch an auto race under the lights at the famed Elko Speedway. Scream your way through rollercoaster rides at Valleyfair amusement park or catch live harness racing at Canterbury Park. If you love to volunteer for any of the causes happening around the community, you can do it as well.
Visit quaint farm shops and farmer’s markets. Check out parks and trails perfect for summer strolls or bike rides. Kids can let loose on playgrounds, in interactive fountains or building castles in the sand at area beaches. And don’t forget about movies under the stars all summer long at the Shakopee Drive-in Theater.
With gorgeous parks and trails, exciting attractions, delicious eateries, unique shops and endless special events there are so many ways to soak up sunny days in Scott County. Visit www.greatscottcounty.org or follow Explore Scott County on Facebook to stay on top of all the seasonal happenings. Here’s to making unforgettable summertime memories with family and friends in 2024!
