
Mystic Lake Amphitheater to Open Summer 2026 in the Twin Cities
SHAKOPEE, Minn. – AUGUST 19, 2025 – Today, Live Nation and Swervo Development Corp announced that Mystic Lake Amphitheater, the first large-scale outdoor amphitheater in the Twin Cities, will open in summer 2026. The 19,000-capacity venue will bring a full season of live entertainment to the region and will deliver an estimated $138 million in annual economic impact to the local economy.
“Minnesota has long been a powerhouse music market, and Mystic Lake Amphitheater will bring even more world-class performances to fans across the region,” said Josh Lacey, Minnesota Market President at Live Nation. “This one-of-a-kind venue blends the energy of live performance with the natural beauty of Minnesota, creating a new summer tradition for fans and artists alike.”
Purpose-Built for the Twin Cities
The amphitheater is located just five miles north of naming rights partner Mystic Lake Casino Hotel. Owned and operated by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC), Mystic Lake is a prominent entertainment destination in the Midwest and plays a significant role in both the local community and the region’s economy. Mystic Lake will enhance the fan experience with amenities including a custom-designed photo installation and complimentary shuttle service from its nearby casino resort.
“This venue and our collaboration marks an exciting time in the SMSC and Mystic Lake’s long-standing commitment to the broader community and to the entertainment and hospitality experiences that we deliver for our guests,” said Angela Heikes, president and CEO of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Gaming Enterprise, which operates Mystic Lake Casino Hotel. “Mystic Lake Amphitheater will stand as an entertainment landmark for Minnesota, celebrating talent, creating lasting memories, and delivering both remarkable experiences and meaningful impact across our region.”
Driving Economic Growth
According to a study by Oxford Economics, the amphitheater will generate $73 million in annual fan spending at local restaurants, hotels, and shops. That spending will produce $11 million in tax revenue and support a total economic impact of $138 million each year in the region. About half of that impact is expected to come from visitors traveling from outside the metro area. In addition, the venue will create more than 700 new jobs.
“The new amphitheater represents a major milestone for Shakopee. It’s sure to be a catalyst for further development in this up-and-coming area, and for increased tourism, economic activity, and year-round experiences in our community,” said Shakopee Mayor Matt Lehman. “This project will not only attract top-tier performers but also support our local businesses and reinforce that Shakopee is a premier entertainment destination. There isn’t a bad seat in the house.”
Designed for Fans, Built for Artists
Mystic Lake Amphitheater is built for live music and puts both fans and artists at the center of every detail. Fans will enjoy superior acoustics, clear sightlines, and the intimacy of a covered lower bowl, while a spacious outdoor plaza offers room to gather against sweeping views of the Minnesota River Valley. Artists will enjoy spacious dressing rooms with elevated interiors designed for comfort.
“A project like this only happens with the strength and commitment of partners like Live Nation and Mystic Lake Casino Hotel,” said Ned Abdul, President and CEO of Swervo Development Corp. “The addition of a world class music venue has the music industry and music fans buzzing with anticipation. Everyone involved in this development has a track record for creating something special that will offer something fresh and unique to Minnesota’s vibrant concert landscape.”
Fans can look forward to a full summer season of national headliners, international touring acts, and standout regional talent. Additionally, the venue will host community and private events.
In partnership with Swervo Development Corp, Live Nation will oversee operations including booking touring talent and delivering exceptional hospitality. For those seeking premium experiences, luxury suites and VIP boxes are available to offer concertgoers exclusive perks and unforgettable moments.
Follow Mystic Lake Amphitheater on Instagram @mysticlakeamp, on X @mysticlakeamp, on Facebook @mysticlakeamp, and at mysticlakeamp.com for updates.
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About Live Nation Entertainment
Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Sponsorship. For additional information, visit livenationentertainment.com.
About Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
Owned and operated by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel is the premier resort destination in the Midwest. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel creates original and exciting entertainment experiences for its guests with gaming, distinctive bars and restaurants, indoor and outdoor concert venues, unique special events, and luxurious accommodations, all just 25 minutes southwest of Minneapolis/Saint Paul. In 2018, Mystic Lake opened Mystic Lake Center, a new event space and hotel tower. Offering state-of-the-art technology, this 70,000-square-foot venue hosts groups of all sizes for conferences, expos, weddings, and other events. With 766 new and renovated modern hotel rooms, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel is one of the largest hotels in the Twin Cities area.