If someone says “This isn’t your mother’s music festival,” they are not referring to Lakefront Music Fest, whose crowd includes everyone from teenagers to young adults and families, but definitely leans towards your Minnesotan parents. Formally known as the Lakefront Jazz & Blues Festival, the festival is nowadays split into two nights — rock and country — and this year will be headlined by rock duo and married couple Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo on Friday and singer-songwriter Dierks Bentley on Saturday.
Lakefront Music Fest is held at Lakefront Park; every year one main stage where all six acts play is erected in a field. Last year, the festival introduced a pit to the space for the first time, allowing a group of festival-goers to stand or mosh by the front of the stage. The remainder of the crowd spreads out behind these most enthusiastic attendees in lawn chairs and on picnic blankets. This is the kind of festival where you pull up for some good music and a beer and then head home at a reasonable hour — none of that raving into the night you did in your 20s. The festival gates open at 5 p.m., and the last act is scheduled for 9:45.
Hosted by the Prior Lake Rotary Club, the funds raised at Lakefront Music Fest are funneled back into the community via the Prior Lake Rotary Foundation, which supports educational, humanitarian and environmental activities in Prior Lake and nearby public schools. The Laker Athletic Booster Club, Patrons of the Arts and Parent, Teach, Child Organizations all receive support from the festival.
The Specs
- Over 30,000 people are expected to attend Lakefront Music Fest.
- Single-night tickets start at $75 per night and range up to $105 after June 1. The full breakdown of ticket tiers and prices can be found here.
- Check out Fifty Grande’s guide to the best things to do in Minneapolis here.
FAQs
Where does the festival take place?
The festival is held at Lakefront Park in Prior Lake, Minnesota.
What’s the best way to get there?
It’s easiest to drive to the festival grounds, however, if you’re flying in, the closest airport is Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport.
What’s the bag policy?
You can bring one clear bag per person no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or one small clutch bag or purse no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5.
Are there any age restrictions?
No, the festival is open to all ages. While children are welcome, and those 10 and under are admitted for free, the festival notes that there are no activities organized with children in mind.
Who’s on this year’s lineup?
Lakefront Music Fest’s lineup includes Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, Dierks Bentley, BERLIN, Elle King, BTO (Bachman-Turner Overdrive) and Morgan Evans. The event will be emceed by Adam West of KOOL 108 and Muss of K102.