Guide to the Minnesota State Fair

Learn everything you need to know about the most anticipated celebration of the year!

Tickets
Fair Guides
Cultural Destinations Day
Grandstand Shows
Parking & Transportation
FAQs
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The Great Minnesota Get-Together

August 27 through Labor Day on September 7, 2026

This end-of-summer tradition is held at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds the 12 days leading up to and through Labor Day. From fried delights on-a-stick and crop art to baby farm animals and butter sculptures, you're sure to find something to suit your tastebuds and unique interests.

Tickets

Get discounted admission tickets ($17) before August 26, 2026

From August 27 through Labor Day on September 7:

  • Adults (13-64): $20
  • Seniors (65+): $18
  • Kids (5-12): $18
  • Children (4 and under): Always free

Get Tickets

Planning your visit to the 2026 Minnesota State Fair on a budget? From discount admission days and food deals to ride specials and free fair fun, there are plenty of ways to maximize your budget.

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More Fair Fun

Cultural Destinations Day at Dan Patch Park

Sunday, September 6

One celebration in collaboration with Cultural Destinations featuring various music genres (including Afrobeats, Salsa, Brazilian Samba, Hip Hop, Bollywood, and Reggae) with dance lessons, the Culture is Cool Fashion Show and a Culture Lab (offering ideas to integrate culture into everyday life), and a collaborative art canvas of belonging.

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Grandstand Shows

Bonnie Raitt

Minnesota State Fair Grandstand  Fairground Grandstand, 1265 Snelling Ave St Paul, MN 55108 Downtown

Getting There

Public Transit

State Fair Express Bus service features free parking and a direct bus ride to the fairgrounds for a small fee from farther-out suburbs around the Twin Cities. All buses arrive and depart from the Transit Hub at Gate 16.

Parking

Parking at the State Fair lots is $25 and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Each lot opens at 6 a.m. and overnight parking is not permitted.

Biking

Non licensed bikes and scooters can park in the free bike corrals from 6 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

  • South Bike Lot: Loop Gate (#9) on Como Avenue
  • North Bike Lot: North End Gate (#2)
  • West Bike Lot: Randall Ave-Buford Gate (#16)

All licensed bikes and scooters must park in the Motorcycle Lot ($15) or general parking lots ($25)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Minnesota State Fair wheelchair Accessible?

Yes, the Minnesota State Fair is wheelchair friendly, featuring a free wheelchair-accessible bus service, rentable equipment, as well as both designated parking and grandstand seating spots.

What is the Minnesota State Fair bag policy?

Bags, backpacks, and coolers are allowed on the premises at the fairgrounds, but may be subject to search. View the full list of allowed and prohibited items here.

Family Restrooms and Breastfeeding Facilities

The fairgrounds features a variety of care facilities and accessible restrooms with baby changing stations to make your family trip to the fair seamless. Discover where the family-friendly facilities are located on the fairgrounds here.

Lost & Found

During the fair, Lost & Found is located at 1842 West Dan Patch Avenue across from West End Market.

Contact Lost & Found at lostandfound@mnstatefair.org or 651-288-4555.

What happens if it rains?

The Minnesota State Fair and Grandstand shows happen rain or shine! In the case of severe weather, the grounds are equipped with shelters and an inclement weather plan.

What are the best rides at the Minnesota State Fair for families with young children?

The top rides at the Minnesota State Fair for families with young children include the Carousel, Ye Old Mill, Great Big Wheel, and Giant Slide.

What's the oldest attraction at the MN State Fair?

Ye Old Mill is the oldest attraction at the Minnesota State Fair. Premiering in 1915, the mill wheel has been channeling water and boats for over 100 years.

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