Huzzah! Minnesota Gets Surprise Show from Penn & Teller This Summer

They’re the most popular magic duo on the planet, with a long-running Las Vegas show, a hit TV series, and countless live appearances, and they’ll make a very special appearance in Minnesota this summer.

Penn & Teller, made up of Penn Jillette (the tall, talkative one) and Teller (the short, silent one), have been performing together for 50 years. And believe it or not, it all started here in Minnesota.

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A Legendary Duo with Minnesota Roots

Back in 1975, the duo teamed up with a third performer, Weir Chrisemer, forming a group called the Asparagus Valley Cultural Society. Chrisemer eventually stepped away, and Penn & Teller went on to become one of the most famous performing duos of all time.

Their very first performance happened in 1975 at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival, which at the time was just four years old and known as "A Celebration of Nature, Art, and Life."

Fast-forward to 2025, and the Minnesota Renaissance Festival now draws over 300,000 people annually to the grounds in Shakopee, and is one of the largest Renaissance Festivals in the country.

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A 50-Year Magic Milestone in Minnesota

To celebrate their 50th anniversary as a duo, Penn & Teller will return to where it all began, performing at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival on Saturday, August 16th.

This one-day-only performance marks a full-circle moment, and it will be included with regular admission. No special ticket is required to attend their show.

The Minnesota Renaissance Festival runs weekends from August 16th through September 28th, with bonus days on Friday, September 26th and Labor Day. Tickets are on sale now. You can see all the ticketing options here.