The Minnesota State Fair, one of the most anticipated events in the region, is almost here! With it’s rich history and wide array of attractions, this annual fair has become a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike. Get ready to indulge in delicious food, enjoy thrilling rides, explore agricultural exhibits, and immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere. Mark your calendars, because the 2023 edition of the Minnesota State Fair is set to open it’s gates on August 21st and will run through September 1st. Prepare yourself for eleven days of excitement, entertainment, and unforgettable memories at this iconic event.
What Days Are the MN State Fair Open?
The Minnesota State Fair, often referred to as the “Great Minnesota Get-Together,” is an annual event that brings together people from all walks of life for twelve exhilarating days of fun, food, and entertainment. In 2023, this much-anticipated fair will kick off on August 24th and run through Labor Day, which falls on September 4th. With a generous time span like this, fairgoers have ample opportunity to plan their visits and experience everything the fair has to offer.
During the fairs run, it will be open to the public every day, ensuring that nobody misses out on the excitement. Whether you’ve a weekday off and want to avoid the weekend crowds or prefer the liveliness of the weekends, you can mark your calendar with confidence knowing that the Minnesota State Fair will be awaiting your arrival.
To truly make the most of your visit, take advantage of the diverse range of services available. There are various ticket options to suit every budget and preference, from single-day passes to season tickets that grant you access to all twelve days of festivities. For those seeking convenience, parking facilities are provided so that you can easily navigate to the fairgrounds and find a spot for your vehicle. Additionally, the fair offers shuttle and bus services to lighten the load of transportation logistics.
Numerous attractions await fairgoers, including internationally renowned entertainment acts, thrilling rides, and captivating exhibitions. With such a vast array of options, planning your itinerary can be both exciting and daunting.
While the fair draws crowds from across the region, it’s always wise to plan your visit strategically to avoid peak times and ensure a smoother experience. Consider arriving earlier in the day to beat the afternoon rush or plan your trip during weekdays when the fair is typically less crowded. By doing so, youll have more freedom to explore and indulge in all the delights that the fair offers without being overwhelmed by the crowds.
The Minnesota State Fair is a not-to-be-missed event that spans twelve glorious days in late summer. With it’s diverse range of services, open access every day, and a multitude of attractions, fairgoers are encouraged to plan their visit strategically to make the most of this spectacular event. Dont miss out on the opportunity to experience the excitement, fun, and memories that the Minnesota State Fair has been providing for countless generations.
Food Options and Highlights at the Minnesota State Fair
- Corn dogs
- Deep-fried cheese curds
- Pronto pups
- Sweet Martha’s cookies
- Fried pickles
- Funnel cakes
- Mini donuts
- Roasted corn on the cob
- Walleye cakes
- Giant turkey legs
- Sweet corn ice cream
- Bison burgers
- Pork chop on a stick
- Hot beef sundaes
- Pizza on-a-stick
- Turkey legs
- Mini sconuts (scone donuts)
- Bottomless milkshakes
- Deep-fried oreos
- Mac & cheese bites
- Loaded tater tots
- Foot-long hot dogs
- Cotton candy
- Lemonade shake-ups
- Ice cream sundaes
With it’s reputation for delicious food, family-friendly attractions, and a wide variety of entertainment, it’s no wonder that the Minnesota State Fair has been dubbed the best state fair in the nation. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, this twelve-day extravaganza offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit event. In fact, the fair’s record-breaking attendance in 2019 only reflects the love and adoration it receives from fairgoers. So, what exactly makes the Minnesota State Fair stand out amongst the rest? Let’s dive into the captivating world of this exceptional state fair.
Is the Minnesota State Fair the Best State Fair?
The Minnesota State Fair is often hailed as the epitome of state fair excellence, garnering the prestigious title of the best state fair in the United States in 2015, as voted by readers of USA Today. It’s twelve-day duration, spanning from late August to early September, culminates on the celebratory occasion of Labor Day. Every year, an impressively large crowd of approximately two million fair enthusiasts flock to the event, making it a not-to-be-missed extravaganza.
In 2019, the fair reached unprecedented heights in terms of attendance, attracting an astonishing record-breaking number of 2,126,551 individuals. It comes as no surprise, considering the numerous attractions and activities that draw visitors from far and wide. The fair prides itself on being a cultural hub, showcasing Minnesotas rich heritage and traditions, as well as it’s diverse culinary scene.
From the moment you step foot on the fairgrounds, a euphoric blend of sights, sounds, and sensational aromas permeates the air. Each corner reveals a new adventure, be it indulging in delectable deep-fried treats, witnessing awe-inspiring entertainment, or witnessing the unbounded creativity displayed in competitions and exhibits of various crafts and agriculture. The fairs organizers leave no stone unturned when it comes to ensuring an exhilarating experience for guests of all ages.
Moreover, the Minnesota State Fair embraces the spirit of inclusivity and community, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff engrossed in exploring the exhibits, a thrill-seeker captivated by exhilarating rides, or simply in search of an evening packed with top-tier live performances, this fair has it all. The dedication of it’s organizers, coupled with the fervor of it’s attendees, has solidified it’s status as the pinnacle of state fairs, where cherished memories are made year after year.
State Fair Attractions: Midway Rides, Games, and Thrill-Seeking Experiences
- Roller coasters
- Ferris wheel
- Bumper cars
- Carousel
- Haunted house
- Tilt-a-Whirl
- Giant swing
- Water slide
- Zip line
- Axe throwing
- Laser tag
- Go-kart racing
- Funhouse
- High-flying trapeze
- Carnival games
- Bungee jumping
- Virtual reality experiences
- Fireworks show
Located in Falcon Heights, Minnesota, the Minnesota State Fairgrounds is a vibrant hub that welcomes visitors throughout the year. However, it’s important to note that certain areas may be restricted during special events. Larpenteur Avenue and Underwood Street, as well as Gate 3 at Snelling and Hoyt avenues, are typically open for pedestrian and bicycle traffic, offering glimpses of the fair’s lively atmosphere even outside it’s annual festivities.
Is the Minnesota State Fair Open Year Round?
The Minnesota State Fair is a renowned annual event that takes place in St. Paul, Minnesota. However, many people are unaware that the fairgrounds are actually open to the public throughout the year, except during special events. It serves as a vibrant hub of activity and entertainment, welcoming visitors and locals alike to explore it’s expansive grounds.
Situated at the intersection of Larpenteur Avenue and Underwood Street, one of the entrances to the fairgrounds is accessible to pedestrians and cyclists only. This area provides a seamless connection for those looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride while exploring the fairgrounds. Here, guests can immerse themselves in the beautiful surroundings and relish the tranquil atmosphere that envelops the space.
Another entrance known as Gate 3, located at Snelling and Hoyt avenues, is also open exclusively to pedestrians and cyclists. This entry point grants individuals the opportunity to enter the fairgrounds without vehicular traffic, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
These closures are subject to change and typically aim to accommodate the needs of specific gatherings or functions. Therefore, it’s always advisable to check the fairgrounds official website or contact the management for up-to-date information regarding closures and any other pertinent details.
Source: Fairgrounds Access – Minnesota State Fair
Conclusion
With an array of thrilling rides, captivating live performances, mouthwatering culinary delights, and a myriad of showcases celebrating the state's rich heritage and culture, the fair promises an unforgettable experience for all who attend. From the exhilarating adrenaline rushes on amusement park attractions to savoring delicious food-on-a-stick creations and immersing oneself in the vibrant ambiance of live concerts, the fair embodies the spirit of community and joyous celebration. Marking a beloved tradition that brings people together, the Minnesota State Fair holds the promise of creating cherished memories, fostering connections, and embracing the spirit of genuine enjoyment for all who step foot on it’s lively grounds.