Summer 2024: Canterbury Park is THE Place to Be

If you want a summer full of excitement and unforgettable experiences, visit Canterbury Park in Shakopee. This place is my absolute happy place once the warm weather hits.

Year after year, the iconic venue continues outdoing itself with an electrifying lineup of events and attractions that has something for everyone. And let me tell you, the 2024 summer calendar has me more amped than ever!

From musicals knives to mint juleps, here’s a look at all the can’t-miss happenings:

Double Down on Danger (April 20)

Let’s kick things off with a real bang!

The legendary Danger Committee from the Renaissance Festival brings its thrilling “Double Down on Danger” show to Canterbury on April 20th.

With two performances, you’ll get double the sharp wit and knives flying mere inches from your face. Talk about starting summer with an adrenaline rush!

Kentucky Derby Party (May 4)

Next up is one of the biggest Kentucky Derby bashes in Minnesota on May 4th. This is Derby Day done right, Canterbury style.

We’re talking live racing from Churchill Downs, flowing mint juleps, a red carpet for selfie opps, and contests for best dressed gents and ladies’ hats. The 70’s Magic Sunshine Band keeps the groovy vibes going all day and night.

Outdoor Concert Series

When summer hits, the music kicks into high gear with Canterbury’s outdoor concert series. Get ready to rock with Night Ranger (June 7) and Hairball’s arena rock tribute (June 14) before 38 Special (Aug 2) brings its classic southern anthems. Capping it off is country star Craig Morgan (Aug 16) with a stacked lineup of hits.

“Our concert area has incredible acoustics that make you feel like you’re onstage with the bands,” said Deb Schaber, Director of Entertainment. “It’s an amazing live music experience.”

Canterbury Park Rodeo (July 19-20) Next is an event you won’t find anywhere else nearby — an outdoor rodeo! The Canterbury Park Rodeo saddles up July 19-20 with bull riding, bronc busting, calf roping, barrel racing and more. Local country stars Ragtown get the party started July 19th.

“Having a rodeo this close to the Twin Cities is almost unheard of,” said Schaber. “With our huge outdoor space and top amenities, we’re giving fans a truly memorable experience.”

Charlie Berens Comedy Show (Sept 13) If you’re in need of a laugh break, Midwest comedy king Charlie Berens has you covered on September 13th. The Emmy winner and hilarious journalist-turned-viral sensation takes his take on Midwestern culture to the outdoor stage for two shows.

10,000 Lakes Concours d’Elegance (Sept 15)

Rev your engines for the 10,000 Lakes Concours d’Elegance car show on September 15th. After a four-year hiatus, this prestigious auto exhibition makes a roaring return to the Twin Cities to showcase Minnesota’s finest historic, rare and immaculately restored vehicles on full display on Canterbury’s infield.

With live horse racing running May 18 – September 28 alongside the hot casino action, Canterbury Park is officially the place to be this summer. Why stay cooped up when you can have an electric summer packed with entertainment?

“We’re really going all out to give people new reasons to make Canterbury their destination for summer festivities and fun,” said Schaber. “From big-name concerts to events you legitimately can’t find elsewhere, this is going to be a season to remember.”

Tickets and more details at canterburypark.com. Let the summer thrills begin!