The annual Minnesota State Fair is a cultural institution that showcases the best of the state’s agriculture, food, and entertainment. Held in late August and early September, the fair draws millions of visitors each year who come to enjoy a wide range of attractions, including farm exhibits, carnival rides, concerts, and, of course, delicious food.
The fair also boasts a rich history dating back to 1859 when it was first held in Minneapolis. Over the years, the fair has grown and evolved, moving to its present location in Falcon Heights in 1901. Today, the Minnesota State Fair is one of the largest and most popular state fairs in the United States, attracting over 2 million visitors annually.
With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that the Minnesota State Fair is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. So mark your calendars for the next fair and get ready to experience all that it has to offer.
Minnesota State Fair Attendance 2024
Prepare for an Unforgettable Experience.
- Dates: August 22 – September 2, 2024
- Location: Falcon Heights, Minnesota
- Expected Attendance: Over 2 million
- Admission: $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and children
- Exhibits: Agriculture, food, arts, and more
- Entertainment: Concerts, shows, and carnival rides
The Minnesota State Fair is an annual celebration of the state’s agriculture, food, and culture. With something for everyone to enjoy, it’s no wonder that the fair attracts millions of visitors each year.
Dates: August 22 – September 2, 2024
The 2024 Minnesota State Fair will be held from August 22 to September 2, a period of 12 days. This is the traditional timeframe for the fair, which has been held in late August and early September for many years.
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Why these dates?
The late summer timing of the fair coincides with the harvest season in Minnesota, allowing farmers to showcase their crops and livestock at the fair. Additionally, the weather in late August and early September is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and events.
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Planning your visit:
If you’re planning to attend the fair, it’s a good idea to purchase your tickets in advance, especially if you’re going on a weekend or holiday. You can purchase tickets online or at any Minnesota State Fair ticket office.
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Special events:
The fairgrounds are bustling with activity throughout the 12-day run of the fair. There are daily parades, concerts, and shows, as well as special events like the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off and the Butter Sculpture Unveiling. Be sure to check the fair’s website for a full schedule of events.
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Beat the crowds:
If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, try to visit the fair on a weekday or during the morning hours. The fair is typically less crowded on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, and the early morning hours (before noon) are also a good time to visit.
No matter when you decide to visit the Minnesota State Fair, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. With something for everyone to enjoy, the fair is a celebration of Minnesota’s agriculture, food, and culture that you won’t want to miss.
Location: Falcon Heights, Minnesota
The Minnesota State Fair is held in Falcon Heights, Minnesota, a city located just east of Saint Paul. The fairgrounds are easily accessible by car, public transportation, or even by foot or bicycle from nearby neighborhoods.
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Why Falcon Heights?
Falcon Heights was chosen as the location for the State Fair in 1901 because it offered a large, open space that was easily accessible from both Saint Paul and Minneapolis. The fairgrounds have been expanded and improved over the years, but they remain in the same general location.
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Getting to the fairgrounds:
If you’re driving to the fair, there are several parking lots available near the fairgrounds. You can also take public transportation, with several bus routes serving the fairgrounds. If you’re feeling active, you can even bike to the fairgrounds, as there are bike racks located throughout the grounds.
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Things to do near the fairgrounds:
In addition to the fair itself, there are several other things to see and do in Falcon Heights. The city is home to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds Park, which offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. There are also several restaurants and shops located near the fairgrounds.
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Making the most of your visit:
Once you’re at the fairgrounds, you’ll find a wide range of attractions and activities to enjoy. Be sure to check out the farm exhibits, food vendors, carnival rides, and concerts. And don’t forget to stop by the Information Booth to pick up a map and schedule of events.
With its convenient location and easy access to public transportation, the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in Falcon Heights is the perfect place to host this annual celebration of Minnesota’s agriculture, food, and culture.
Expected Attendance: Over 2 million
The Minnesota State Fair is one of the largest and most popular state fairs in the United States, attracting over 2 million visitors each year. This is due to a number of factors, including the fair’s long history, its wide range of attractions, and its convenient location.
The fair has been held annually since 1859, making it one of the oldest and most established state fairs in the country. Over the years, the fair has grown and evolved, adding new attractions and exhibits to keep up with the changing interests of its visitors. Today, the fair offers something for everyone, from farm exhibits and food vendors to carnival rides and concerts.
The fair’s convenient location in Falcon Heights, Minnesota, also contributes to its high attendance. The fairgrounds are easily accessible by car, public transportation, or even by foot or bicycle from nearby neighborhoods. This makes it easy for people from all over the Twin Cities metro area and beyond to attend the fair.
Finally, the fair’s affordable admission price also helps to boost attendance. Admission to the fair is $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and children, and free for children under 5. This makes it a relatively inexpensive family outing, especially when compared to other attractions in the Twin Cities area.
All of these factors combine to make the Minnesota State Fair a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. With its long history, wide range of attractions, convenient location, and affordable admission price, it’s no wonder that the fair attracts over 2 million visitors each year.
If you’re planning to attend the 2024 Minnesota State Fair, be sure to purchase your tickets in advance, especially if you’re going on a weekend or holiday. You can purchase tickets online or at any Minnesota State Fair ticket office.
Admission: $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and children
Admission to the Minnesota State Fair is $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and children, and free for children under 5. This makes it a relatively inexpensive family outing, especially when compared to other attractions in the Twin Cities area.
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Why these prices?
The Minnesota State Fair is a non-profit organization, and the admission fees help to cover the costs of operating the fair, including the cost of entertainment, exhibits, and maintenance of the fairgrounds.
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Discounts and promotions:
There are a number of ways to save money on admission to the fair. For example, you can purchase tickets in advance online or at any Minnesota State Fair ticket office. You can also find discounts on admission tickets through AAA, the Minnesota State Fair Foundation, and other organizations.
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Free admission days:
There are also a few days each year when admission to the fair is free. In 2023, these days are August 22 (Opening Day) and September 2 (Labor Day). Keep in mind that these days are typically very crowded, so it’s best to arrive early if you plan to attend on a free admission day.
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Special admission programs:
The Minnesota State Fair also offers a number of special admission programs, such as the “Seniors Day” program and the “Kids Day” program. These programs offer discounted admission to seniors and children on certain days of the fair.
No matter how you choose to purchase your tickets, be sure to have them ready when you arrive at the fairgrounds. You can either print your tickets at home or show them on your mobile device.
Exhibits: Agriculture, food, arts, and more
The Minnesota State Fair is known for its wide variety of exhibits, which cover everything from agriculture and food to arts and crafts. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at the fair, no matter what their interests are.
One of the most popular exhibits at the fair is the agriculture building. This building is home to a variety of farm animals, including cows, pigs, horses, and chickens. Visitors can learn about the importance of agriculture in Minnesota and see firsthand how food is produced.
The food building is another must-see exhibit at the fair. This building is filled with vendors selling all kinds of delicious food, from classic fair fare like corn dogs and Pronto Pups to more unique items like alligator on a stick and deep-fried Oreos. There’s something to satisfy every craving at the food building.
In addition to agriculture and food, the fair also features a number of exhibits on arts and crafts. The fine arts building showcases the work of local artists, while the creative activities building offers hands-on activities for kids of all ages. There’s also a marketplace where visitors can purchase handmade goods from local vendors.
These are just a few of the many exhibits that you can find at the Minnesota State Fair. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
Here are some tips for making the most of your visit to the fair’s exhibits:
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Plan your visit in advance.
Check the fair’s website to see a list of all the exhibits and events. This will help you plan your day and make sure you don’t miss anything. -
Wear comfortable shoes.
You’ll be doing a lot of walking at the fair, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. -
Bring a reusable water bottle.
Staying hydrated is important, especially on a hot day. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up at one of the many water fountains located throughout the fairgrounds. -
Take breaks.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed at the fair, so be sure to take breaks throughout the day. Find a shady spot to sit down and relax, or take a ride on the Giant Slide.
Entertainment: Concerts, shows, and carnival rides
In addition to its exhibits, the Minnesota State Fair also offers a wide variety of entertainment options, including concerts, shows, and carnival rides.
The Grandstand is the main venue for concerts at the fair. This outdoor amphitheater hosts a variety of musical acts, from country and rock to pop and hip hop. The Grandstand also hosts other events, such as demolition derbies and motocross races.
The fair also features a number of other stages and venues where you can catch live music, comedy shows, and other performances. The Leinie Lodge is a popular spot for country music, while the Bandshell Stage features a variety of musical acts, from local bands to national touring acts.
And of course, no fair is complete without carnival rides. The Minnesota State Fair has a large midway area filled with rides for all ages, from gentle rides for little kids to thrilling rides for adults. There are also a number of games of chance and skill, where you can win prizes like stuffed animals and giant pickles.
Here are some tips for making the most of your visit to the fair’s entertainment options:
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Check the fair’s website or app for a schedule of events.
This will help you plan your day and make sure you don’t miss any of your favorite performers. -
Arrive early for concerts and shows.
The most popular events tend to sell out quickly, so it’s best to arrive early to get a good seat. -
Take breaks from the rides and games.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the midway, but it’s important to take breaks and rest. There are plenty of places to sit down and relax throughout the fairgrounds. -
Stay hydrated.
Especially on a hot day, it’s important to drink plenty of water. There are many water fountains located throughout the fairgrounds, so be sure to fill up your water bottle regularly.
With so much to see and do, the Minnesota State Fair is sure to have something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in agriculture, food, arts, or entertainment, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the 2024 Minnesota State Fair:
Question 1: When is the 2024 Minnesota State Fair?
Answer 1: The 2024 Minnesota State Fair will be held from August 22 to September 2.
Question 2: Where is the Minnesota State Fair located?
Answer 2: The Minnesota State Fair is located in Falcon Heights, Minnesota, just east of Saint Paul.
Question 3: How much does admission to the fair cost?
Answer 3: Admission to the fair is $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and children, and free for children under 5.
Question 4: What are the hours of the fair?
Answer 4: The fair is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM each day.
Question 5: What are some of the exhibits at the fair?
Answer 5: The fair features a wide variety of exhibits, including agriculture, food, arts, and crafts. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Question 6: What kind of entertainment is there at the fair?
Answer 6: The fair offers a variety of entertainment options, including concerts, shows, and carnival rides. There’s also a wide variety of food and drink options available.
Question 7: Are there any discounts on admission to the fair?
Answer 7: Yes, there are a number of ways to save money on admission to the fair. You can purchase tickets in advance online or at any Minnesota State Fair ticket office. You can also find discounts on admission tickets through AAA, the Minnesota State Fair Foundation, and other organizations.
We hope this FAQ has answered some of your questions about the 2024 Minnesota State Fair. For more information, please visit the fair’s website.
Now that you know more about the fair, here are some tips for making the most of your visit:
Tips
Here are some tips for making the most of your visit to the 2024 Minnesota State Fair:
Tip 1: Plan your visit in advance.
Check the fair’s website to see a list of all the exhibits and events. This will help you plan your day and make sure you don’t miss anything.
Tip 2: Arrive early.
The fairgrounds open at 6:00 AM each day, but it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially if you’re going on a weekend or holiday. This will help you avoid the crowds and get a good parking spot.
Tip 3: Wear comfortable shoes.
You’ll be doing a lot of walking at the fair, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.
Tip 4: Bring a reusable water bottle.
Staying hydrated is important, especially on a hot day. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up at one of the many water fountains located throughout the fairgrounds.
Tip 5: Take breaks.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed at the fair, so be sure to take breaks throughout the day. Find a shady spot to sit down and relax, or take a ride on the Giant Slide.
Tip 6: Be prepared for the weather.
The weather in Minnesota can be unpredictable, so be prepared for anything. Bring a raincoat or umbrella in case of rain, and sunscreen and a hat in case of sun.
Tip 7: Have fun!
The Minnesota State Fair is a great place to have fun with family and friends. So relax, enjoy the food, the rides, and the entertainment, and make some memories that will last a lifetime.
With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a memorable experience at the 2024 Minnesota State Fair.
Conclusion
The 2024 Minnesota State Fair is shaping up to be a memorable event. With its wide variety of exhibits, entertainment options, and food vendors, the fair has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in agriculture, food, arts, or entertainment, you’re sure to have a great time at the fair.
Here are some of the main points to remember about the 2024 Minnesota State Fair:
- The fair will be held from August 22 to September 2 in Falcon Heights, Minnesota.
- Admission to the fair is $18 for adults, $16 for seniors and children, and free for children under 5.
- The fair features a wide variety of exhibits, including agriculture, food, arts, and crafts.
- The fair offers a variety of entertainment options, including concerts, shows, and carnival rides.
- There are a number of ways to save money on admission to the fair, including purchasing tickets in advance or through AAA or the Minnesota State Fair Foundation.
We hope this article has given you all the information you need to plan your visit to the 2024 Minnesota State Fair. We encourage you to come out and experience all that the fair has to offer. You’re sure to have a fun and memorable time.
See you at the fair!