Eden Prairie’s Schooner Days returns this weekend with a growing vendor lineup, new food offerings, pony rides and the signature mix of small-town charm and community spirit that has defined the annual festival for more than six decades.
Hosted by the Eden Prairie Lions Club, the three-day event at Round Lake Park draws thousands of people annually. Schooner Days is the club’s largest fundraiser, with proceeds supporting a range of charitable causes, including the Minnesota Lions Gift of Sight Eye Bank, Minnesota Lions Hearing Foundation, Can Do Canines and True Friends Camp Eden Wood.
This year’s vendor marketplace, now in its third year, features more than 50 vendors offering everything from freeze-dried candy and Minnesota-themed T-shirts to 3D-printed toys and bucket-sized cookies. Organizers say spots filled within weeks of opening registration.
“We advertised through an event registry that vendors use, and we had to turn people away,” said Nan Vest, co-chair of marketing and communications for Schooner Days. “Some people were honestly mad they couldn’t get in. And by mad, I just mean disappointed – they’d say, ‘You don’t know how good we are!’ and we’d have to say, ‘We’d love to have you, but we’re full – sign up earlier next year.’”
Vest and fellow volunteer Nan Sward have streamlined the vendor sign-up process, shifting from paper forms to an all-digital system. Vest’s husband, Terry Eggan, manages the marketplace.
Some of this year’s vendor highlights include Sugar Creek Freeze-Dried Treats, Hometown Wears, Gress Custom Apparel, Grandma’s Cookies, Boba Tonka Bubble Tea, Baja Smoothies, Wanna’ Have a Shaved Ice, Happy Day Baking Company and Nothing Bundt Cakes.
Back this year are pony rides (not offered last year), henna artists, face painters and ETCHpressions by Brett and Babs, offering custom lettering. Chiropractors will be on hand for free on-the-spot adjustments, and folks from the Minnesota Renaissance Festival will host a booth in costume.
On the food side, visitors can try barbecue favorites from Smokestack Express, jumbo and snack-sized egg rolls from Egg Roll Queen and Polish specialties from PIEROGI2GOGI, including sweet cheese crepes, cabbage rolls and pierogis. Mason Jar Madness, known for its oversized ice cream creations, has become a social media favorite, Vest said.
Lions KidSight USA, a nationwide program aimed at ensuring children receive vision screenings and follow-up care, will again offer free screenings at Schooner Days. Last year, 89 children were screened and seven were referred for further care, according to Eden Prairie Lions Club member Therese Johnson. Screenings are available for children ages 6 months to 16 years, with parental permission.
Evening entertainment includes the beer garden and high-stakes bingo under the big tent. Cold beer, hard seltzers, wine and soda are available. Visitors can bring their own food or choose from the many vendors on site. “Some people just head straight to the bingo tent,” Vest said.
The carnival midway will offer rides for all ages, while families can find shade at picnic tables and enjoy free admission and parking. Golf cart shuttles will run from the Eden Prairie Community Center and high school parking lots.
According to organizers, Schooner Days has grown from a 3,000-person event to one drawing more than 15,000 last year. That growth, Vest said, is driven by outreach, word of mouth and an experience that appeals to all ages.
In a follow-up, Vest emphasized the festival’s community feel and inclusive spirit:
“We invite everyone to make it their own – whether it’s their first visit or their 60th,” she said. “It’s affordable and welcoming. Whether you want a healthy bite or to indulge in treats, catch up with neighbors or people-watch solo, there’s a little something for everyone.”
She added, “The best part is that it’s run by volunteers and supported by generous donors. When you spend money at Schooner Days, you’re helping people. To me, that’s a win-win.”
More to read: For Pilar Sisinni, Schooner Days isn’t just fun – it’s about community, tradition, and belonging. The Eden Prairie Lions Club fundraiser holds a special place in her family’s heart.
🎠 Schooner Days at a Glance
What: Schooner Days, the Eden Prairie Lions Club’s annual community festival
When: Friday, May 30, 4-11 p.m.; Saturday, May 31, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, June 1, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Round Lake Park, 16691 Valley View Road, Eden Prairie
Admission: Free
Parking: Available at the Eden Prairie Community Center and Eden Prairie High School. Golf cart shuttles provided. Handicap drop-off and parking available near the tennis courts.
Details: Carnival rides, bingo, beer garden, 50+ vendors, pony rides, free kids’ eye screenings, and more.
Vendor marketplace: Featuring specialty foods and hand-picked retailers. Open Friday, 4-9 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Bingo under the Big Top: Friday, 4-11 p.m.; Saturday, noon-11 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. High-stakes coverall games begin at 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
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