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. Learn more about the State Fair’s rich history.
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. Check out recent attendance figures.
This end-of-summer tradition is held the 12 days leading up to and through Labor Day. The 2023 Minnesota State Fair runs Aug. 24-Labor Day, Sept. 4.
The State Fair’s mission is to educate and involve our guests by providing a world-class showcase that is innovative, entertaining and fun. We strive to:
-Showcase Minnesota’s finest agriculture, art and industry
-Present an unparalleled forum for knowledge and ideas
-Provide outstanding customer service
-Offer exceptional value
-Provide a safe, clean environment that is accessible to all
-Create unique experiences
The Minnesota State Fair employs nearly 80 year-round full-time staff members and approximately 150 seasonal and 1,750 fair-time staff members. Learn more about fair-time employment.
Located mid-way between Minneapolis and St. Paul, the 322-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 fairgrounds throughout the year during the non-fair time, including horse and livestock competitions, merchandise sales, expositions, car shows and more.
The Minnesota State Fair is a recipient of a 2013-14 BBB Torch Award for Ethics. The Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota presents the award annually to companies that display exemplary levels of ethics, customer service and integrity in all aspects of their operations.
