The Ultimate Guide to the 2025 Minnesota State Fair: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to "The Great Minnesota Get-Together," where nearly 2 million visitors flock annually to celebrate the heart and soul of Minnesota. The Minnesota State Fair, held at the 322-acre fairgrounds in Falcon Heights, is a vibrant showcase of agriculture, culinary innovation, arts, and entertainment. With over 500 food items, 900 free performances, 30 carnival rides, and countless exhibits, planning your visit is essential to make the most of this 12-day extravaganza. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 2025 Minnesota State Fair, from new foods and top attractions to practical tips for first-time and seasoned visitors. Let’s dive in!

The Legacy of the Minnesota State Fair

The Minnesota State Fair, one of the oldest and largest in the United States, began in 1854 as a territorial fair organized by the Minnesota Agricultural Society. The first official State Fair occurred in 1859, shortly after Minnesota’s statehood, and moved between cities like Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Rochester before settling in Falcon Heights in 1885. Over its 160+ years, the fair has faced cancellations only six times—due to the Civil War (1861–1862), the World’s Columbian Exposition (1893), World War II (1945), a polio outbreak (1946), and the COVID-19 pandemic (2020).

Today, the fair is a cultural cornerstone, blending its agricultural roots with modern attractions. It’s the largest state fair by daily attendance and the second-largest by total attendance, behind only the State Fair of Texas. In 2019, it welcomed a record 2,126,551 visitors, and in 2024, it saw 1,925,904 attendees. Notable moments include Theodore Roosevelt’s 1901 “speak softly and carry a big stick” speech, Dan Patch’s 1906 pacing record, and John Philip Sousa’s 1927 debut of “The Minnesota March.” This rich history sets the stage for the 2025 fair, promising a blend of tradition and innovation.

Did You Know? The fairgrounds’ 322 acres include over 80 historic buildings, many listed on the National Register of Historic Places, like the 1909 Grandstand and the 1936 Agriculture Horticulture Building.

Essential Information for 2025

When is the Minnesota State Fair?

The 2025 Minnesota State Fair runs from August 21 to September 1, concluding on Labor Day. Operating for 12 days, the fair opens at 6 a.m. and closes at midnight daily, with gates closing at 10 p.m. (9 p.m. on Labor Day). These extended hours provide ample time to explore the fairgrounds’ many offerings.

Where is the Fair Located?

The fair takes place at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in Falcon Heights, a suburb nestled between Minneapolis and St. Paul, near the University of Minnesota’s Saint Paul campus. The address is:

1265 Snelling Ave N, Falcon Heights, MN 55108

The fairgrounds span 322 acres, featuring iconic landmarks like the Grandstand, Space Tower, and Giant Slide, alongside historic barns and modern exhibit halls. Its central location makes it accessible from the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

Tickets and Gate Hours

Admission prices for 2025 vary by age and purchase timing:

• Adults (13–64): $20 at the gate, $15 with pre-fair discount (available until August 20, 2025)
• Seniors (65+): $18 at the gate
• Kids (5–12): $18 at the gate
• Children (4 and under): Free

Tickets are available at the Minnesota State Fair Ticket Office, online at mnstatefair.org, or at Cub Foods locations from July 13 to August 20. Pre-fair discounts save $5 per adult ticket, making early purchase a smart move. Gates operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily (9 p.m. on Labor Day), with fairgrounds open until midnight (10 p.m. on Labor Day).

Discount Days: Special promotions include:

• Thrifty Thursday (Aug. 21): Reduced admission for all attendees.
• Military Appreciation Day: Discounts for active and retired military and their families.
• Seniors Day: Reduced admission for seniors (65+).
• Kids Day: Discounts for children (5–12).

Exact dates and details are available at mnstatefair.org. Note that Grandstand concerts require separate tickets, starting at $35, in addition to fair admission.

Pro Tip: Purchase Grandstand tickets early, as popular acts like Meghan Trainor and The Avett Brothers sell out quickly.

What’s New at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair?

Each year, the fair introduces fresh experiences to keep visitors excited. For 2025, expect innovative foods, new attractions, and enhanced exhibits that add to the fair’s charm.

New Foods to Savor

Food is a star attraction at the Minnesota State Fair, with nearly 1,600 menu items across 300 concessions, including over 80 foods on-a-stick. In 2025, 33 new foods and eight new vendors debut, offering bold flavors and creative concepts. Here’s a curated top 15 list of new foods to try:

1. Dill Pickle Iced Tea (Loon Lake Iced Tea): Black tea infused with dill pickle flavor, served with a pickle spear and chamoy rim for a tangy twist.
2. Chicken-Fried Bacon Fries (Wrecktangle): Double-breaded beef bacon strips, deep-fried and paired with three dipping sauces.
3. Grandma Doreen’s Dessert Dog (Wrecktangle): Vanilla ice cream between coffee cake slices, topped with strawberry rhubarb jam and whipped cream.
4. Hot Honey Jalapeño Popper Donut (Mini Donuts): A yeast donut filled with jalapeño cream cheese, bacon, and hot honey drizzle.
5. Afro Bean Pops (Afro Deli): Deep-fried black-eyed pea bites with spicy chili sauce, blending African and Minnesotan flavors.
6. Cannoli Gelato Nachos (Mancini’s): Crispy cannoli chips topped with gelato, chocolate sauce, and sprinkles.
7. Bison Meatball Sub (Minnesota Farmers Union): Bison meatballs in savory gravy, served on a wild rice hoagie roll.
8. Caprese Curds (Cheese Curds): Mozzarella curds with Italian seasoning, paired with bruschetta and balsamic glaze.
9. Birthday Cake Cookie Dough On-A-Stick (Cookie Dough): Festive cookie dough with sprinkles, served on-a-stick.
10. Fawaffle (Baba’s): Falafel pressed in a waffle iron, served with tahini sauce for a crispy, savory treat.
11. Deep-Fried Ranch Pickle Chips (Ranch): Pickle slices coated in ranch-seasoned batter, served with ranch dip.
12. Maple Bacon Waffle Taco (Waffle Stand): A waffle shell filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, and maple syrup.
13. Smoked Salmon On-A-Stick (Nordic Waffles): Smoked salmon with cream cheese and dill in a waffle wrap.
14. Churro Ice Cream Sandwich (Churros): Cinnamon churros sandwiching vanilla ice cream, dusted with sugar.
15. Poutine Tots (Tot Boss): Tater tots topped with cheese curds and gravy, a nod to Canadian poutine.

The fair also introduces 70 new and 40 returning specialty beverages, including craft beers, seltzers, and non-alcoholic options like lavender lemonade. Download the New Foods Brochure and Specialty Sips Brochure at mnstatefair.org for a complete list and vendor locations.

Foodie Tip: Use the fair’s mobile app Food Finder to locate new foods and filter for dietary preferences like gluten-free or vegetarian options.

New Attractions and Exhibits

The 2025 fair introduces exciting additions to its lineup of attractions and exhibits:

• Space-Themed Exhibits: Interactive displays and rides celebrating space exploration, located near Adventure Park, perfect for science enthusiasts.
• Welcome Wall at Gate 9: A 40-foot art installation where visitors can purchase personalized tiles to commemorate their visit.
• Enhanced Crop Art Exhibit: Revamped displays in the Agriculture Horticulture Building showcase intricate seed art with improved viewing areas.
• Fermented Products Competition: A new category featuring artisanal pickles, kimchi, and vinegars, with tasting opportunities.
• Common Table Expansion: This interactive exhibit grows with new aquaponics systems, gardening workshops, and sustainable food displays.
• Digital Art Gallery: A new exhibit in the Fine Arts Center showcasing digital and AI-assisted artworks by Minnesota artists.

These additions complement staples like the Giant Slide and CHS Miracle of Birth Center, ensuring a mix of nostalgia and innovation. Check the Daily Schedules at mnstatefair.org for event times.

Top Attractions and Events

The Minnesota State Fair is a treasure trove of experiences, from iconic rides to educational exhibits. Here’s a detailed look at the must-see attractions for 2025.

Grandstand Concert Series

The Grandstand, built in 1909 and renovated in 2002, hosts world-class performances in a historic setting. The 2025 lineup features diverse acts (separate tickets required):

• Aug. 22: Meghan Trainor with ellis
• Aug. 25: Happy Together Tour 2025 (The Turtles, Jay and the Americans, and more)
• Aug. 26: Def Leppard with Brother Cane
• Aug. 27: Hank Williams Jr. with Marty Stuart
• Aug. 29: The Avett Brothers with The Milk Carton Kids
• Aug. 30: Nelly with Ja Rule, Mya, and Ying Yang Twins
• Sept. 1: The Rock and Roll Playhouse (Taylor Swift for Kids)

The Steve Miller Band, originally scheduled for August 28, canceled their 2025 tour. The fair is seeking a replacement; check mnstatefair.org for updates. Tickets start at $35, and past sellouts (e.g., The Chicks, Keith Urban) highlight the need to book early.

Livestock and Agricultural Exhibits

Agriculture is the fair’s heartbeat, with exhibits that educate and entertain:

• CHS Miracle of Birth Center: See nearly 200 newborn animals, including calves, piglets, and lambs, born during the fair. This exhibit offers hands-on learning about livestock farming.
• Cattle Barn, Sheep & Poultry Barn: Explore award-winning livestock like Holstein cows and Dorset sheep. Daily competitions highlight Minnesota’s best breeders.
• The Common Table: An interactive exhibit with gardens, aquaponics, and composting displays, teaching sustainable food production.
• Kemps Little Farm Hands: A free exhibit for kids ages 3–10, where they “work” a farm, from planting crops to selling at market. Download the brochure at mnstatefair.org.
• Giant Crop Displays: Marvel at record-breaking pumpkins and watermelons in the Agriculture Horticulture Building.

Creative Activities Building

This building showcases Minnesota’s artistic and culinary talents:

• Quilt Competitions: Admire intricate quilts with vibrant patterns, a tradition since the fair’s inception.
• Baked Goods and Preserves: See award-winning pies, jams, and breads, with occasional samples.
• Seed Art: The 2025 enhanced crop art exhibit features detailed designs made from seeds, a uniquely Minnesotan art form.
• Crafts and Needlework: Explore handmade pottery, embroidery, and woodworking displays.

Dairy Building and Princess Kay of the Milky Way

The Dairy Building is home to the iconic butter sculptures of Princess Kay of the Milky Way and her court, carved from 90-pound butter blocks in a refrigerated case. Sculptors work daily, creating lifelike portraits that celebrate Minnesota’s dairy industry. Don’t miss the all-you-can-drink milk at the Dairy Goodness Bar for $2.

Machinery Hill and The North End

Machinery Hill honors the fair’s agricultural roots with the Old Iron Show, featuring antique tractors and farm equipment demonstrations. It’s a hit with history buffs and families.

The North End offers modern attractions:

• Cats & Dogs: The Exhibition: An interactive pet exhibit with educational displays on animal care.
• Giant Slide: A 130-foot slide offering fun for all ages ($3 per ride).
• Timberworks Lumberjack Show: World-class lumberjacks compete in axe-throwing, log-rolling, and chainsaw carving.

Educational Exhibits

The fair is a hub for learning, with engaging exhibits for all ages:

• Eco Experience: Explore sustainability through hands-on activities about renewable energy, recycling, and green living.
• DNR Building and Park: Discover Minnesota’s wildlife with aquariums, a fish pond, and Smokey Bear appearances. The Volunteer Outdoor Stage hosts music and talks daily.
• Education Building: Home to the K-12 competition, showcasing student projects in art, writing, and robotics. Watch robotics teams demonstrate their creations.
• Alphabet Forest: A kid-friendly space at Baldwin Park for word games and the Fabulous Fair Alphabet Game Card, where completing tasks earns a blue ribbon.
• Math On-A-Stick: A hands-on math exhibit at Baldwin Park with games and a number scavenger hunt.

Carnival Rides and Attractions

The fair offers over 30 rides across three areas:

• Mighty Midway: Classic carnival rides like the Tilt-A-Whirl and bumper cars.
• Kidway: Gentler rides for younger children, like mini roller coasters.
• Adventure Park: Thrilling attractions like rock climbing, a skyscraper ride, and turbo bungee jumping.

Permanent attractions include:

• The Great Big Wheel: A 156-foot Ferris wheel, the tallest traveling wheel in North America, offering views of the Twin Cities.
• Space Tower: A 330-foot tower ride with panoramic vistas.
• Ye Old Mill: A historic boat ride through a tunnel, perfect for families.
• Haunted House: A spooky walk-through for thrill-seekers.
• Skyride and SkyGlider: Aerial rides offering scenic fairground views.

Ride tickets cost $1 each, with most rides requiring 3–6 tickets. Daily wristbands offer unlimited rides for $30–$40, depending on the day.

Entertainment Extravaganza

With over 900 free performances across 100 acts, the fair is a paradise for entertainment lovers. From music to theater, there’s something for everyone.

Free Stages and Performances

Free entertainment is available at venues like the Schell’s Stage at Schilling Amphitheater and Family Fair at Baldwin Park. Highlights include:

• MSF Amateur Talent Contest: In its 52nd year, this competition showcases Minnesota’s top performers over 11 days, with finals on Labor Day.
• Arts A’Fair: Pop-up dance, music, and theater performances by local artists across the fairgrounds.
• State Fair Parade: A daily 2 p.m. parade with high school marching bands and colorful floats.
• History-on-a-Shtick: A vaudevillian show with sing-alongs, trivia, and Minnesota history, performed twice daily.
• Bluegrass Lawn Party: Daily bluegrass and folk music at the West End Market.

Check the Daily Schedules at mnstatefair.org for performance times and locations.

Special Events

Unique events add variety to the fair experience:

• Minnesota Newspaper Museum: Watch type-setting demonstrations and learn about the history of a free press.
• Pet Pavilions: Enjoy dog agility shows, pet surgery demos (ASL-interpreted at noon), and purebred dog exhibits.
• Blue Ribbon Bingo: Play bingo at the Ramberg Center for prizes.
• DIRT Demo Stage: Daily gardening and landscaping talks in the Agriculture Horticulture Building.
• Fireworks Spectacular: A nightly fireworks show at 9:30 p.m., weather permitting, visible from the Grandstand area.

Planning Your Visit

With so much to see and do, strategic planning ensures a seamless fair experience. Here’s how to prepare.

Getting to the Fair

The fairgrounds are accessible by multiple transportation options:

• Parking: Onsite parking costs $20–$25 per vehicle, with limited spaces. Free Park & Ride lots, serviced by shuttles, are available at over 25 locations, including the University of Minnesota campus. Shuttles run from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Public Transit: Metro Transit’s State Fair Express Bus operates from six locations ($5–$6 round-trip). The A Line and Route 3 buses stop at the Snelling Avenue entrance.
• Rideshare: Uber and Lyft have designated drop-off points near main gates.
• Biking: Free bike parking is available at several gates, with secure corrals monitored by staff.

Accessibility: The fairgrounds offer accessible parking, ramps, and a universally designed mobile restroom. Mobility scooters are available for rent ($40/day) on a first-come, first-served basis. A sensory-friendly morning on the midway caters to guests with sensory sensitivities; see the Accessibility Guide at mnstatefair.org.

Money-Saving Strategies

Keep your budget in check with these tips:

• Pre-Fair Tickets: Buy adult tickets for $15 before August 20, saving $5 per person.
• Blue Ribbon Bargain Book: This $5 book contains 100 coupons for food, merchandise, and attractions, valid all 12 days.
• Discount Days: Visit on Thrifty Thursday, Military Appreciation Day, Seniors Day, or Kids Day for reduced admission.
• Last Chance Deals: On Labor Day, vendors offer discounts on food and merchandise. Grab the Last Chance Deals flier at information booths.
• Free Water: Bring a reusable water bottle and refill at free stations across the fairgrounds.
• Share Food: Portions like Sweet Martha’s cookie buckets are large; split items to sample more.
• Free Exhibits: Prioritize free attractions like the DNR Building, Eco Experience, and Alphabet Forest to save on activities.

The Deals, Drawings & Giveaways Guide, available at information booths, lists additional savings and freebies.

What to Bring

Prepare for a long day with these essentials:

• Comfortable Shoes: The fairgrounds require extensive walking, so wear sneakers or supportive footwear.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with free refill stations.
• Backpack or Small Bag: Carry snacks, souvenirs, and essentials. Bags are subject to search; large backpacks are discouraged.
• Sunscreen and Hat: Protect against sun exposure, especially for daytime visits.
• Cash: Some vendors are cash-only, though most accept cards.
• Portable Charger: Keep your phone powered for photos, navigation, and the fair’s app.
• Rain Gear: Bring a poncho or umbrella for unexpected showers.

Prohibited Items: Firearms, knives, drones, large coolers, and selfie sticks are banned. See the full list at mnstatefair.org.

Navigating the Fairgrounds

The 322-acre fairgrounds can be daunting, but these tips simplify navigation:

• Download the App: The Minnesota State Fair app offers an interactive map, Food Finder, and daily schedules.
• Grab a Map: Free paper maps are available at information booths near main gates.
• Use Landmarks: Reference iconic spots like the Grandstand, Space Tower, or Giant Slide.
• Plan by Area: Group attractions by location (e.g., Machinery Hill, North End) to minimize walking.
• Rest Areas: Find seating and shade at West End Market, Family Fair at Baldwin Park, or the Ramberg Center.

The History Walking Tour Brochure, available at information booths, guides you through 12 historic sites, adding a cultural dimension to your visit.

Foodie’s Guide to the Fair

With nearly 1,600 menu items, the Minnesota State Fair is a culinary wonderland. Here’s how to navigate its food scene like a pro.

Classic Foods to Try

Beyond new foods, these iconic dishes are fair staples:

• Sweet Martha’s Cookie Jar: A bucket of warm chocolate chip cookies ($20) serves 3–4 people.
• Cheese Curds: Deep-fried, squeaky mozzarella curds from vendors like The Original Deep-Fried Cheese Curds.
• Pronto Pup: A cornmeal-battered hot dog on-a-stick, a fair classic since 1947.
• All-You-Can-Drink Milk: Unlimited milk for $2 at the Dairy Goodness Bar, available in flavors like chocolate and strawberry.
• French Fries: Fresh-cut fries from stands like Fresh French Fries, served in massive buckets.
• Deep-Fried Candy Bars: Snickers or Milky Way bars battered and fried, available at multiple vendors.

Food Strategies

• Use the New Foods Brochure: Plan your must-try items with this guide, which includes vendor locations.
• Visit Early or Late: Popular stands like Sweet Martha’s have shorter lines before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m.
• Share Portions: Many items are large; split dishes to sample more without overeating.
• Explore Cultural Flavors: New vendors like Afro Deli and Baba’s offer global dishes, while classics like Dino’s Gyros provide Mediterranean options.
• Check Dietary Options: The Food Finder tool lists gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan items, like veggie samosas or dairy-free smoothies.

Pro Tip: Start your food journey at the West End Market, where new vendors like Wrecktangle and Baba’s cluster, offering a mix of innovative and classic dishes.

Specialty Beverages

The fair’s 110 specialty beverages include:

• Craft Beers: Local brews from breweries like Summit and Surly at stands like Ball Park Cafe.
• Lavender Lemonade: A refreshing non-alcoholic option at multiple vendors.
• Milkshakes: Creamy shakes in flavors like malt and cookies-and-cream at the Dairy Building.
• Flight of Mini Donut Beer: A unique beer flight at the Mini Donut Beer Stand, infused with donut flavors.

Shopping and Souvenirs

The fair is a shopper’s paradise, with unique vendors and artisanal goods:

• West End Market: A vibrant area with crafts, jewelry, and specialty foods like local honey.
• Grandstand Merchandise: Official fair gear, including t-shirts, hats, and mugs.
• History & Heritage Center: Books, prints, and memorabilia celebrating the fair’s history.
• Agriculture Horticulture Building: Local jams, pickles, and maple syrup from Minnesota producers.
• International Bazaar: Global goods like handmade textiles and spices.

On Labor Day, vendors offer Last Chance Deals on merchandise, perfect for discounted souvenirs.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

First-timers can maximize their experience with these tips:

• Arrive Early: Gates open at 6 a.m., and mornings are less crowded for food stands and rides.
• Pace Yourself: With 500+ foods, share items to avoid overeating.
• Check Weather: Late August can bring sun, rain, or cooler evenings; bring layers.
• Explore Free Exhibits: Save money with attractions like the DNR Building and Eco Experience.
• Bring Kids to Kidway: This area offers kid-friendly rides and activities.
• Download the App: Use it for navigation, food finding, and event schedules.

See Also:

20 Essential Tips for Your Ultimate Minnesota State Fair Experience (2025 Guide)

Unique Experiences for 2025

The fair offers one-of-a-kind moments:

• Butter Sculpting Live: Watch artists carve Princess Kay’s likeness in the Dairy Building.
• History Walking Tour: A self-guided tour of 12 historic sites, including the Grandstand and DNR Building.
• Robotics Demos: Interact with student robotics teams in the Education Building.
• Fermented Foods Tasting: Sample award-winning pickles and kimchi at the new competition.
• Art Crawl: Use the Art and Sculpture Guide to find photographs, sculptures, and architectural gems.

Health and Safety

The fair prioritizes visitor safety:

• Security: Walk-through metal detectors and bag searches are at all gates. Prohibited items include weapons and drones.
• First Aid: Stations near the Grandstand and Kidway are staffed by medical professionals.
• Lost and Found: Visit Guest Services near main gates to report or retrieve lost items.
• Weather Preparedness: The fair operates rain or shine; indoor exhibits like the Education Building provide shelter.
• Lost Children: The Care & Assistance Center near the Grandstand helps reunite lost children with guardians.

Minnesota State Fair FAQs

Answers to common questions to streamline your planning:

Can I bring my own food and drinks to the Minnesota State Fair?

Yes, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Sealed water bottles are permitted, but coolers are subject to inspection at entry gates.

Is the Minnesota State Fairgrounds wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the fairgrounds are fully accessible with designated parking, ramps, and mobility scooters available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.

Are pets allowed at the Minnesota State Fair?

Only service animals are permitted. Pets are not allowed, except for animals participating in fair competitions or exhibits.

How much does it cost to park at the Minnesota State Fair?

Onsite parking costs $20–$25 per vehicle. Free Park & Ride lots with shuttle services are available at multiple locations, including the University of Minnesota.

What are the best ways to save money at the Minnesota State Fair?

Buy pre-fair discount tickets ($15) before August 20, use the Blue Ribbon Bargain Book, visit on discount days, and bring a reusable water bottle for free refills.

What are the must-try foods at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair?

Try new foods like Dill Pickle Iced Tea, Chicken-Fried Bacon Fries, and Grandma Doreen’s Dessert Dog, plus classics like Sweet Martha’s Cookies and cheese curds.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The 2025 Minnesota State Fair is a celebration of Minnesota’s vibrant culture, from its agricultural roots to its culinary creativity and artistic spirit. Whether you’re tasting a Fawaffle, riding the Great Big Wheel, or watching a butter sculpture take shape, the fair promises unforgettable moments for all ages. Use this guide to plan your visit, share your favorite fair tips in the comments, and sign up for the fair’s e-newsletter at mnstatefair.org for the latest updates. Get ready for the Great Minnesota Get-Together—see you at the fair!