Family Guide to the 2026–2027 Chanhassen Dinner Theatres Season

If you’re looking for a memorable family outing in the Twin Cities, few places combine live entertainment and dining quite like Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. Located just southwest of Minneapolis in Chanhassen, Minnesota, it’s the largest professional dinner theatre in the United States and has been entertaining audiences for decades with Broadway-quality productions, delicious meals, and exceptional hospitality.

Whether you’re planning a date night, celebrating a birthday, introducing your kids to live theater, or looking for a unique multigenerational family experience, the 2026–2027 season offers something for nearly everyone.

Why Families Love Chanhassen Dinner Theatres

One of the biggest advantages of visiting Chanhassen Dinner Theatres is that dinner and entertainment are combined into one experience. Instead of rushing to find a restaurant before the show, guests enjoy a delicious meal right at the theater before the curtain rises.

Families appreciate:

• Broadway-style productions close to home
• Comfortable seating
• Friendly service
• Delicious meals included with most Main Stage tickets
• Free parking
• Easy drive from anywhere in the Twin Cities metro

It’s a wonderful way to introduce children and teens to live theater without traveling to New York or Chicago.

Main Stage Production: Guys and Dolls

The season begins with the timeless Broadway favorite Guys and Dolls, running through September 26, 2026.

Set in colorful New York City and Havana, this classic musical follows gamblers, showgirls, and unlikely romances through unforgettable songs and energetic dance numbers.

Popular songs include:

• Luck Be a Lady
• Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat
• Adelaide’s Lament
• I’ve Never Been in Love Before

The production features spectacular choreography, beautiful costumes, and plenty of humor that appeals to both adults and older children.

Recommended Age: Approximately 10 and older.

Main Stage Production: Annie

Beginning October 2, 2026, audiences can enjoy one of Broadway’s most beloved family musicals—Annie.

Based on the classic comic strip, Annie tells the heartwarming story of an optimistic orphan who never gives up hope, even during difficult times.

Families will recognize favorite songs including:

• Tomorrow
• It’s the Hard Knock Life
• Maybe
• You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile

This production is expected to be one of the biggest family favorites of the season and is suitable for audiences of all ages.

More Than Just Musicals

While the Main Stage productions are the biggest attraction, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres offers entertainment throughout the year.

Visitors can also enjoy:

• Tribute concerts
• Live music performances
• Holiday concerts
• Comedy performances
• Improv shows
• Special events

The venue’s Fireside Theatre regularly hosts concerts featuring music from legendary artists, while Stevie Ray’s Comedy Cabaret delivers family-friendly improv comedy based on audience suggestions.

Dinner Before the Show

One of the highlights of every visit is the meal.

Main Stage tickets generally include dinner before the performance, with menus featuring:

• Fresh salads
• Chicken
• Beef
• Seafood selections
• Vegetarian options
• Delicious desserts

Special dietary requests can often be accommodated with advance notice.

Arriving early allows plenty of time to enjoy dinner before settling into your seats.

Tips for Visiting with Kids and Teens

If you’re bringing children or teenagers, these tips can help make the evening enjoyable:

• Arrive at least an hour before showtime.
• Dress comfortably—business casual is common, but there’s no strict dress code.
• Allow time to browse the gift shop.
• Encourage younger audience members to use the restroom before the performance begins.
• Talk about the story beforehand to help younger children follow along.

For first-time theatergoers, remind kids about theater etiquette, such as silencing phones and waiting until intermission if they need to leave their seats.

Make It a Full Day Trip

A visit to Chanhassen Dinner Theatres pairs well with several nearby attractions.

Consider spending part of the day exploring:

• Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
• Lake Ann Park
• Downtown Chanhassen
• Paisley Park (for older music fans)

Adding another stop turns your theater outing into a memorable family day trip.

Why Live Theater Matters

Live performances offer something movies simply can’t replicate.

Children and teens experience:

• Live singing
• Professional musicians
• Incredible costumes
• Choreography
• Stage effects
• Audience interaction
• Storytelling without screens

It’s also an excellent way to encourage an appreciation for the performing arts.

Final Thoughts

The 2026–2027 season at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres offers something for everyone, from the energetic comedy of Guys and Dolls to the timeless family favorite Annie. Combined with outstanding dining, comfortable seating, and top-notch performances, it’s easy to see why families continue returning year after year.

Whether you’re planning a special celebration, introducing your kids to live theater, or simply looking for a unique night out, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres delivers an experience that’s entertaining, memorable, and uniquely Minnesota.