Festivals & Fairs

Aug 24, 2017 - Sep 4, 2017

6 a.m. to midnight
6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Labor Day

Minnesota State Fairgrounds
1265 North Snelling Ave. N.
St. Paul

MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY (Tuesday, Aug. 29)
Adults (13-64): $9*
Seniors (65+): $9*
Kids (5-12): $9*
Children (Under 5): Free
* Discount applies to active military, spouses and kids; retired military and spouses; and military veteran and spouses when they purchase a ticket at the gate and present valid documentation of military service.

REGULAR FAIR-TIME ADMISSION TICKET PRICING AT THE GATE
Adults (13-64): $14
Seniors (65+): $12
Kids (5-12): $12
Children (Under 5): Free

What began in 1854 as a territorial fair to highlight agriculture and encourage farming in the region became the Minnesota State Fair in 1859, a year after Minnesota was granted statehood. To learn more about the fair’s rich history, click here.

Today, often referred to as the “Great Minnesota Get-Together,” the annual Minnesota State Fair is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. The fair attracts 1.8 million guests annually. Click here for attendance figures.

This end-of-summer tradition is always held the 12 days leading up to and through Labor Day. The 2015 Minnesota State Fair runs Aug. 27 - Sept. 7.

The fair employs nearly 80 year-round full-time staff members. During the summer, 300 seasonal staff are added. Close to 2,500 people are hired as fair-time staff members.

Located mid-way between Minneapolis and St. Paul, the 320-acre Minnesota State Fairgrounds is renowned for its beautiful gardens and architecture reflecting the art deco and Works Progress Administration eras.

Hundreds of events are held on the grounds throughout the year during the non-fair time, including horse and livestock competitions, hockey games, merchandise sales, expositions, car shows and more.