Outdoor Retailer shared details about the show’s inaugural Urban Outdoor Experiences in 2026 in Minneapolis.
The program, which will take place on Aug. 20 and 21 from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., includes hiking, trail running, yoga, biking, walking, birding and climbing. Hosted in partnership with local outdoor non-profit The Loppet Foundation, participants will use the Outdoor Retailer show app to access the schedule and discover the parks near the Minneapolis Convention Center.
“Minneapolis is the perfect city for real urban outdoor experiences,” said Stephen Regenold, a native Minnesotan, founder of Gear Junkie and member of the Outdoor Retailer Leadership Village, in a statement. “Starting each show day with trail runs, paddling, biking and other outdoor adventures is energizing and reflects the spirit of our industry and community. It’s exciting to see Outdoor Retailer creating these opportunities for all of us to get outside together.”
Urban Outdoor Experiences will be centered primarily at Theodore Wirth Regional Park, the crown jewel of the Minneapolis park system, according to a news release.
“Theodore Wirth Park is one of the most unique urban outdoor environments in the country,” said Meghan Cosgrove, executive director of the Loppet Foundation. “It’s minutes from the Convention Center but feels like a true escape into nature. With trails, water, forests, and year-round recreation, there’s something for everyone, and we’re excited to help Outdoor Retailer bring attendees into this extraordinary outdoor playground.”
The Outdoor Retailer Urban Outdoor Experiences Lineup
- Trail run and hike at Theodore Wirth Regional Park
- Mountain bike and road bike rides at Theodore Wirth Regional Park
- Paddling at Mississippi River and Theo Wirth Regional Park
- Birding with the Urban Bird Collective at Theodore Wirth Regional Park
- Climbing and yoga
Outdoor Retailer’s Minneapolis Debut
Outdoor Retailer heads to Minneapolis for the first time in August, and is being coordinated by an industry-led Leadership Village for the first time for its 2026 show. Also new this year is the Retail Playbook Lab, a half-day retailer conference with hands-on workshops. Outdoor Retailer has also announced details about its Industry Day conference, which debuted at the 2025 show.
