Live Nation and Swervo Development Corp. announced August 19 that Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake has purchased the naming rights to the venue now known as Mystic Lake Amphitheater near Canterbury Downs in Shakopee. The companies also announced the first large-scale outdoor amphitheater in the Twin Cities will open next summer. The 19,000-capacity venue will bring a full season of live entertainment to the area and deliver an estimated $138 million in annual economic impact to the regional 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,” says Josh Lacey, Minnesota market president at Live Nation, in a prepared statement. “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
Mystic Lake Amphitheater is 5 miles north of naming rights partner Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake. 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 regional community and economy. Mystic Lake Amphitheater will enhance the fan experience with amenities including complimentary shuttle service from its nearby casino resort.
“This venue and our collaboration mark an exciting time for the SMSC and Mystic Lake’s long-standing commitment to the broader community and to the entertainment and hospitality experiences we deliver for our guests,” says 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.”
Mystic Lake Amphitheater Will Drive Economic Growth
According to a study by Oxford Economics, Mystic Lake Amphitheater will generate $73 million in annual fan spending at area 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,” says Shakopee Mayor Matt Lehman. “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. This project will not only attract top-tier performers, but also will support our area 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 sight lines, 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,” says 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, Mystic Lake Amphitheater 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.
