We have scoured the details, found the fun, got the scoop, and have been thinking about the 2026 Minnesota State Fair all year! We have the skinny on what’s new, how to save, and make plans for your day of fun at the great Minnesota Get Together!
First off! What’s new at the 2026 Minnesota State Fair.
Here is your big list of new attractions and exhibits at the Minnesota State Fair.
Minnesota State Fair 2026: What’s New, Fun & Family-Friendly
The 2026 Minnesota State Fair is bringing plenty of new things to see, do and explore at the Great Minnesota Get-Together. From a giant new observation wheel and dinosaur fossils to new rides, accessibility improvements and a renovated fairground landmark, there’s plenty to add to your State Fair must-do list.
Here are some of the biggest new attractions, experiences and changes to know about before you go.
🎡 Ride the New America Wheel
One of the biggest additions to the 2026 State Fair is the brand-new America Wheel, a 230-foot-tall observation wheel located in the North End.
The ride features 45 gondolas and offers panoramic views stretching up to 14 miles in every direction. The attraction celebrates America’s 250th birthday with displays and themes highlighting U.S. presidents, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and national parks.
Where: Southwest corner of Randall Ave. & Cooper St.
When: Daily, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. (8 p.m. Labor Day)
🦖 Explore Ultimate Dinosaurs
Dinosaur fans won’t want to miss Ultimate Dinosaurs, presented by the Science Museum of Minnesota.
The exhibit features life-size skeleton casts, real fossils and augmented reality experiences showcasing dinosaurs that evolved in isolation across the Southern Hemisphere.
The exhibit also brings things closer to home with real Minnesota fossils, including the state’s official fossil—the giant beaver.
Where: North End Event Center
Cost: Free with fair admission
When: Daily, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. (8 p.m. Labor Day)
On select days, visitors can also meet Science Museum paleontologists and learn more about fossils at Fossil Corner.
🎬 Watch Minnesota-Made Films
Families and film fans can catch a lineup of Minnesota-made short films and animation during Films at the Fair.
Presented by Square Lake Film & Music, the free screenings feature a different lineup each night, showcasing independent filmmakers from around the state.
Where: Pet Pavilions
When: Aug. 28-29 and Sept. 4-6 at 8:30 p.m.
Cost: Free with fair admission
🌎 Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday
The State Fair is marking America’s 250th birthday with patriotic displays, gardens, exhibits and special activities throughout the fairgrounds.
One highlight is the Gate 16 Garden, a 60-foot garden inspired by historic Victory Gardens. It combines flowers, fruits and vegetables in a colorful edible landscape.
Visitors can also follow a two-mile self-guided History Walking Tour featuring historical stops throughout the fairgrounds. Pick up a tour brochure at any of the 12 stops, and complete eight or more stops to receive a prize.
Other America250 highlights include a George Washington agricultural exhibit, patriotic floral displays and special programming during Military Appreciation Day on Sept. 1.
🏛️ Check Out the Renovated Warner Coliseum
The Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum is back after undergoing its first major renovation in its 75-year history.
The $24 million project modernized the building while preserving its role as a home for livestock and horse shows. Visitors will notice improved accessibility, renovated restrooms, updated seating, new lighting and displays highlighting the building’s history.
The Coliseum is also home to free livestock and horse shows throughout the fair.
Where: South side of Judson Ave. between Liggett and Clough streets
🎢 Two New Midway Rides
Thrill seekers have two new rides to check out at the Mighty Midway:
Thor sends riders soaring through the air with twists, turns and upside-down thrills.
Juke Box Funhouse is a music-themed fun house filled with twists, surprises and larger-than-life music icons.
Where: Mighty Midway
When: Daily, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. (8 p.m. Labor Day)
🏴☠️ Two New Kidway Rides
Little fairgoers have two new rides to try at Kidway.
Pirate Jet lets young riders climb aboard a pirate ship that glides through the air.
Ghost Pirate Dark Ride takes kids through a spooky-but-silly adventure filled with gentle scares.
Where: Kidway
When: Daily, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. (7 p.m. Labor Day)
💜 Celebrate Prince’s Minnesota Legacy
The State Fair is honoring Minnesota music legend Prince with several special touches in 2026, marking the 10th anniversary of his passing.
The Gates Ajar garden features hundreds of purple flowers, Prince’s iconic symbol and a representation of First Avenue’s famous stars.
There’s also a special Prince tribute at the Giant Sing Along, where fairgoers can sing along to some of his biggest hits.
Prince tribute: Aug. 27-Sept. 6, 8-9 p.m.; Sept. 7, 7-8 p.m.
🎤 Experience Cultural Destinations Day
On Sunday, Sept. 6, Dan Patch Park will celebrate Minnesota’s diverse cultural traditions during Cultural Destinations Day.
The theme, “Many Rhythms. One Celebration,” brings music, dance, art, food and cultural experiences together in one place. Expect everything from Afrobeats and reggae to salsa, samba, K-pop, Bollywood and line dancing.
Visitors can also meet artists, chefs and storytellers, explore cultural traditions and participate in hands-on activities.
Where: Dan Patch Park
When: Sept. 6, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cost: Free with fair admission
🍔 Find a New Food Destination at Eat Together
Eat Together is a new foodie destination in the North End featuring nine food vendors, shaded seating, ambient lighting and samples.
Two of the vendors are new to the fair: Jive Turkey BBQ and Solem’s French Fries. Several returning favorites will also be serving food here.
Where: North End, northeast corner of Lee Avenue & Underwood Street
🐷 Celebrate Fair Favorites’ Big Birthdays
Several State Fair favorites are celebrating milestones in 2026.
- Fairchild turns 60.
- The iconic Tilt-A-Whirl turns 100.
- The CHS Miracle of Birth Center celebrates 25 years of showcasing farm animal births.
- Eco Experience celebrates 20 years.
- The Minnesota Horticultural Society celebrates 160 years.
- The State Fair’s Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum celebrates 75 years.
Fairchild fans can even meet the beloved gopher mascot daily at Visitors Plaza.
♿ More Accessibility Improvements
The State Fair has added several accessibility enhancements for 2026, including:
- New adult-size changing tables
- Pre-scheduled ASL interpretation at select evening concerts
- Navigational assistance for guests who are blind or have low vision
- Additional prerecorded audio descriptions
- Braille signage at Ultimate Dinosaurs
- A second Prayer & Meditation Tent
- More accessible sidewalks and curb cuts
- Additional lighting in the North End
The fair also expanded bike parking capacity with additional bike racks at its three free bike lots.
🧑🌾 The 4-H Building Is Getting a Major Makeover
The historic 4-H Building is beginning a major transformation after the 2026 fair.
While visitors can still enjoy the building this year, construction will begin after the fair and continue into 2027. The project will create updated spaces for STEM activities, agriculture, entrepreneurship, performing arts and more.
A teaching kitchen, media studio, new stages and improved accessibility are also part of the project.
Tip: Come back in 2027 to see the completed transformation.
🎨 New Competition Themes
The Creative Activities Building has several fun new competition themes for 2026:
- Cake Decorating: Board games
- Decorated Cookies: Explore the Galaxy
- Decorated Cupcakes: Under the Sea
A new cookbook, “50 Years of State Fair Recipes,” will also feature 100 blue-ribbon-winning recipes from State Fair competitions dating from 1976 to 2025.
🍟 Save on Midway and Kidway Rides on Select Days
The State Fair is changing up its ride promotions in 2026. Instead of the former early-bird specials, visitors can save on Mighty Midway and Kidway rides and games all day on:
- Thursday, Aug. 27
- Monday, Aug. 31
- Tuesday, Sept. 1
- Wednesday, Sept. 2
- Labor Day, Sept. 7
🚲 A Few Things Have Moved
Several attractions, concessions and other fair favorites have new locations this year.
The Rock Wall and Turbo Bungy have moved to Cooper Street near the America Wheel, while the new Summer Lakes Boat House has opened in the North End with indoor and outdoor seating, food, drinks and live entertainment.
The State Fair also recommends using the Fair Finders feature or the official Minnesota State Fair app to check for location changes before heading to your favorite food or shopping stop.
🎨 Don’t Miss the 2026 Featured Fair Design
The 2026 State Fair featured design celebrates classic fair favorites with a colorful, modern illustration featuring everything from a Ferris wheel and burger to crop art, flowers, animals and other iconic fair imagery.
The design appears on State Fair merchandise including T-shirts, posters, tote bags, mugs, magnets, postcards and pins.
Where to shop: State FairWear locations throughout the fairgrounds and online.
📅 Plan Your 2026 Minnesota State Fair Visit
With new rides, attractions, food destinations, exhibits and family experiences, there’s plenty to discover at the 2026 Minnesota State Fair.
And don’t forget to check out the 36 new foods and nine new food vendors joining the fair this year—because no trip to the Great Minnesota Get-Together is complete without trying something deliciously new!
🤝
36 New Foods to Try at the 2026 Minnesota State Fair
Get ready to eat your way through the Great Minnesota Get-Together! The Minnesota State Fair has announced 36 official new foods and nine new food vendors for 2026, adding even more delicious options to an already massive fair food lineup.
In total, the Minnesota State Fair offers about 1,600 foods at nearly 300 concession locations throughout the fairgrounds.
From pickle pie and Korean BBQ bao buns to strawberry ube sundaes and loaded fries, there are plenty of new bites to put on your must-try list. Here are all 36 new foods coming to the 2026 Minnesota State Fair!
1. Pickle Pie
Pie crust is filled with a blend of chopped pickles, pickle juice and cream cheese, then topped with homemade savory whipped frosting made with ranch and Cholula Hot Sauce. It’s finished with a gherkin and a sprinkle of dill.
Vegetarian
Find it at: LuLu’s Public House, West End Market, south of Schilling Amphitheater
2. Cracklin’ Corn Ribs
Corn cob quarters are dipped in tempura batter and fried, then brushed with seasoned butter and topped with bacon ranch, green onion and candied jalapeños. They’re served on a bed of pork rinds.
Find it at: The Blue Barn, West End Market, south of History & Heritage Center
3. Longanisa Cheese Curd Lumpia
Homemade Filipino longanisa pork sausage is combined with garlic and Wisconsin cheese curds, stuffed into a lumpia wrapper and deep-fried. It’s served with sweet chili sauce.
Find it at: Lumpia City, west side of Liggett St. between Carnes & Judson avenues
4. French Chouxnut Sundae
Bridgeman’s Salted Caramel Espresso ice cream is piled atop a choux pastry donut filled with milk chocolate mousse and topped with dark chocolate fondant icing and chocolate curls. Caramel drizzle, whipped cream and a cherry finish the dessert.
Vegetarian
Find it at: Bridgeman’s Ice Cream, northeast corner of Judson Ave. & Liggett St.
5. Korean BBQ Bao Buns
Vegan Chunk plant-based shredded “meat” is tossed in hot Korean barbecue sauce and topped with pineapple slaw. It’s served on folded, steamed bao buns.
Vegan
Find it at: Rooted & Wild by Snack House, Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum, south side
6. Surf ‘N’ Turf Burger
Lobster tossed in garlic-herb butter is stacked on a 1/3-pound seasoned grilled beef patty with pepper jack cheese. The burger is drizzled with homemade chipotle mayo and served on a toasted brioche bun with a lemon wedge.
Find it at: Cafe Caribe, south side of Carnes Ave. between Chambers & Clough streets
7. Butter Brew Mustache Pretzel
A handmade soft pretzel is shaped like a mustache, baked, coated in melted butter and tossed in a butter brew sugar mixture flavored with caramel, vanilla and butterscotch. It’s served with vanilla soft-serve dip.
Vegetarian
Find it at: Blue Moon Dine-In Theater, northeast corner of Carnes Ave. & Chambers St.
8. Bao Belly
Smoked barbecue pork belly is drizzled with RC’s hot sauce and yum yum sauce, then topped with pickled vegetables and cilantro. It’s served on folded, steamed bao buns.
Find it at: RC’s BBQ, north side of West Dan Patch Ave. between Liggett & Chambers streets
9. Blue Moon Crunch
Fluffy shave ice is infused with blue moon flavor, dusted with Fruity Pebbles™ cereal and drizzled with sweetened condensed milk. It’s inspired by the flavors of blue moon ice cream.
Gluten-free and vegan upon request
Find it at: Minnesnowii Shave Ice, west side of Nelson St. between Dan Patch & Carnes avenues
10. Walking Chopped Italian Grinder
This walking-style Italian grinder features sliced salami, pepperoncinis, green olives, artichokes, roasted red peppers and fresh mozzarella pearls tossed in Italian dressing. It’s layered over Dutch Crunch® Parmesan & Garlic Kettle Chips and drizzled with Calabrian chili aioli.
Find it at: Mancini’s al Fresco, north side of Carnes Ave. between Nelson & Underwood streets
11. Shakshuka Lamb Meatballs
Seasoned lamb and pork meatballs are stuffed with whipped garlic herb goat cheese and flash-fried. They’re served atop shakshuka—a blend of tomatoes, chili peppers, onions and spices—with parsley and chimichurri-spiced sourdough crostini.
Gluten-free upon request
Find it at: French Meadow Bakery & Cafe, north side of Carnes Ave. between Nelson & Underwood streets
12. Dubai Whoopie Pie
This Dubai chocolate-inspired whoopie pie features pistachio cream sandwiched between two dark chocolate cakes. It’s rolled in Dino’s Dubai crunch topping made with shredded filo, crushed pistachios, honey and brown sugar.
Vegetarian
Find it at: Dino’s Gyros, north side of Carnes Ave. between Nelson & Underwood streets
13. Chorizo Manchego Croquettes
Spanish-style potato croquettes are filled with manchego cheese and Spanish chorizo, lightly breaded and fried, then garnished with chives and drizzled with homemade lemon garlic aioli.
Gluten-free
Find it at: Paella Depot, south side of Judson Ave. between Clough & Nelson streets
14. Honey Brisket Battered Potatoes
Deep-fried Australian battered potatoes are topped with beef brisket, smothered in nacho cheese and drizzled with hot honey.
Find it at: Australian Battered Potatoes, south side of Judson Ave. between Nelson & Underwood streets
15. Hmong Corndog
Pork Hmong sausage flavored with ginger, garlic, fish sauce, chili and lemongrass is made in collaboration with Kramarczuk’s. The sausage is skewered, dipped in cornmeal batter and fried, then served with citrus Kua Txob sauce.
Find it at: Union Hmong Kitchen, International Bazaar, south wall, west corner
16. Tacos de Mole
Flour tortillas are filled with shredded chicken, cheese and house-made mole sauce, then deep-fried and drizzled with more mole sauce. Queso fresco finishes the tacos.
Find it at: El Burrito Mercado, International Bazaar, south wall
17. Jamaican Jerk Chicken Loaded Fries
Battered french fries are topped with Jamaican jerk chicken, melted cheese and green onions, then drizzled with ranch and jerk sauce.
Available Aug. 27-Sept. 1 only
Find it at: Midtown Global Market’s Irie Jamaican Express, Taste of the Midtown Global Market booth, International Bazaar, east wall
18. When Pigs Fly
This flight of pork sausages is wrapped in puff pastry and served on-a-stick. Varieties include Chorizo Sausage with chimichurri, Texas Two-Step Sausage with sweet pepper coleslaw, Oktoberfest Sausage with melted cheddar and chili crunch, and Porketta Italian Sausage with pickle aioli.
Find it at: Sausage Sister & Me, Food Building, east wall
19. The Fried and the Furious: Cubano Drift
A vegan Cuban-style sandwich gets the deep-fried treatment. A crunchy tortilla is filled with vegan Cuban pork, vegan Swiss cheese, dill pickle relish, vegan garlic mayo and mustard, with jalapeño citrus sauce on the side.
Vegan
Find it at: The Herbivorous Butcher, Food Building, west section, south wall
20. Strawberry Ube Sundae Tart
Strawberry and ube marshmallow cream is swirled with chocolate chips, chilled and scooped into a fudge-filled gluten-friendly shortbread crust. It’s topped with whipped cream, strawberry sauce and edible glitter sprinkles.
Gluten-friendly
Find it at: Sara’s Tipsy Pies, Food Building, northwest wall
21. Peri-Peri Bowl
Fried peri-peri hot chicken seasoned with African Bird’s Eye chili peppers, garlic, lemon and herbs is combined with mini beef sambusas and fried sweet plantains. It’s topped with peri-peri sauce and your choice of basbaas or spicy red chili sauce.
Find it at: Afro Deli & Grill, Food Building, east wall
22. Sligo Slider Bites On-A-Stick
Handmade dumplings are stuffed with a cheeseburger blend of beef, cheddar, pickle and onion. They’re skewered, deep-fried and served with homemade Thousand Island dressing.
Find it at: O’Gara’s at the Fair, southwest corner of Dan Patch Ave. & Cosgrove St.
23. Brandy Old Fashioned Cookie Dough
Edible cookie dough is infused with nonalcoholic brandy flavor and mixed with orange zest, cinnamon, dark chocolate chips and tart dried cherries. It’s served on-a-stick, dipped in brandy-flavored bittersweet chocolate and rolled in Biscoff® cookie crumbs.
Vegetarian
Find it at: Kora & Mila’s Cookie Dough, south side of Dan Patch Ave. between Cooper & Cosgrove streets
24. Apple Donut Ham Grinder
First Kiss® apples from Pleasant Valley Orchard are sliced into rings, battered, deep-fried and tossed in cinnamon sugar. They’re stacked with sliced uncured ham from Hidden Stream Farm, dressed arugula and Crybaby Craig’s Hot Honey, then served with herb-whipped ricotta on a toasted hoagie roll from Emma Krumbee’s Bakery.
Find it at: Minnesota Farmers Union Coffee Shop, north side of Dan Patch Ave. between Cooper & Cosgrove streets
25. Banana Butterscotch Barnraiser
Vanilla pound cake is layered with roasted bananas, butterscotch sauce and caramelized croissant croutons made by Patisserie 46. It’s topped with whipped cream from Stony Creek Dairy and a nut-free cereal mix made with Corn Chex®, Biscoff® cookie butter, chocolate chips, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla and salt.
Vegetarian
Find it at: Minnesota Farmers Union Coffee Shop, north side of Dan Patch Ave. between Cooper & Cosgrove streets
26. Bucket of Chicharrones
Freshly deep-fried chicharrones—or pork rinds—are sprinkled with chili pepper and lime seasoning and served with three dipping sauces: hot sauce, creamy chipotle sauce and chamoy.
Find it at: San Felipe Tacos, southwest corner of Dan Patch Ave. & Underwood St.
27. Sweet Peach Lemonade Sparkler
Fresh-squeezed lemonade is layered with peach syrup and peach sweet cream cold foam, then topped with popping candy and garnished with a peach slice.
Gluten-friendly and vegetarian
Find it at: Quench’d: Lemonade/Bottled Water, south side of Dan Patch Ave. between Nelson & Underwood streets
28. Elote Tots
Deep-fried tater tots are tossed in Tajín and topped with an elote-style sauce made with roasted corn, diced peppers, cheddar cheese, crema and cream cheese. Cotija cheese and more Tajín finish the dish.
Vegetarian
Find it at: Tot Boss, east side of Underwood St. between Wright & Dan Patch avenues, south of Kidway
29. Caramel Apple Iced Tea
Black tea brewed with natural tart apple flavor is topped with caramel-infused cold foam and garnished with a Caramel Apple Pops® lollipop.
Gluten-friendly and vegetarian
Find it at: Loon Lake Iced Tea, west side of Underwood St. between Wright & Dan Patch avenues
30. Strawberries & Blueberry Creme Parfait
Fresh whole strawberries are layered with blueberry non-dairy whipped topping and garnished with gluten-free waffle chips.
Gluten-friendly and vegan
Find it at: Strawberries ‘N Creme, west side of Underwood St. at Wright Ave.
31. Dockside Poppers
Seasoned cream cheese, bacon, artichoke hearts and jalapeño peppers are combined, breaded and lightly fried. They’re served with homemade tomato chili jam.
Find it at: Summer Lakes Boat House, southwest corner of Randall Ave. & Underwood St.
New vendor
32. Mango Sticky Rice Refresher
Coconut milk, evaporated milk, condensed milk, mango flavoring and half-and-half are poured over ice and topped with fresh and dried mango. A dried mango sugar rim finishes the drink.
Gluten-friendly and vegetarian
Find it at: Chan’s Eatery, east side of Underwood St. between Murphy & Lee avenues
33. Strawberry Crunch Mini Donuts
Strawberry donuts are dusted with vanilla sugar, drizzled with vanilla icing and topped with homemade strawberry streusel crunch. They’re served in a bucket rimmed with vanilla icing and more streusel crunch.
Vegetarian
Find it at: Solem’s Mini Donuts, east side of Underwood St. between Murphy & Lee avenues
34. Pumpkin Bar Funnel Cake
Real pumpkin, cinnamon, sugar and vanilla are blended into original funnel cake batter and deep-fried. The funnel cake is brushed with melted butter and topped with homemade cinnamon cream cheese frosting.
Vegetarian
Find it at: Taulelle’s Jurassic Corn Dogs, east side of Underwood St. between Murphy & Lee avenues
35. Dill with it, Cookie!
White chocolate chips, finely chopped dill pickles and fresh dill are baked into a cookie, then finished with a sprinkle of sugar and Maldon sea salt.
Vegetarian
Created by Holman’s Table.
Find it at: Urban Glow Mocktails, North End, northeast section, across from the North End Event Center
36. Two-Tone Bloody Mary Mocktail
Homemade tomatillo salsa is layered with a zero-alcohol blend of tomatoes, herbs, spices and olive brine. It’s garnished with a skewer of pickle, cheese, tomato, olive and an Urban Glow Cheweenie™ sausage.
Find it at: Urban Glow Mocktails, North End, northeast section, across from the North End Event Center
9 New Food Vendors at the 2026 Minnesota State Fair
In addition to the 36 new foods, the Minnesota State Fair is welcoming nine new food vendors in 2026.
dodopop
dodopop serves dirty sodas in six flavors:
- Megalodon: Dr Pepper®, raspberry syrup and coconut cream
- Golden Yeti: Orange pop, vanilla syrup and vanilla cream
- Liger: Lemonade, Starry™ and cherry syrup
- Big Red Dog: Pepsi, cherry and vanilla syrup with vanilla cream
- Sasquatch: Root beer, vanilla syrup and vanilla cream
- Babe’s Lemonade: Sparkling lemonade, blue raspberry syrup and raspberry popping pearls
Find it at: Northeast corner of Dan Patch Ave. & Cooper St.
Iemochi Japanese Confections
Iemochi serves Tanghulu, fruit skewered and coated in a hard candy shell. Choose from strawberry, green grape, Mandarin orange or a dual strawberry-and-grape mix.
All Tanghulu is gluten-free.
Find it at: International Bazaar, south wall
Jive Turkey BBQ
Jive Turkey BBQ brings several Southern-inspired options to the fair, including:
- Crack-n-Cheese® Bowl
- Soul Rolls
- Soul Punch muscadine lemonade
- Stuffed Turkey Legs with Cajun Shrimp and Alfredo
- Thanksgiving Stuffed Turkey Legs
- Hickory-smoked turkey legs
- Turkey barbecue sandwiches
Find it at: North side of Lee Ave. between Underwood & Cooper streets
Midtown Global Market’s El Taco Torro
El Taco Torro serves:
- Birria Crunch Bombs
- Fairground Fiesta Tacos
- Horchata
- Mangonada drinks
Available Sept. 2-7 only.
Find it at: Taste of the Midtown Global Market booth, International Bazaar, east wall
Minnesota’s Original Apple Fries
Fresh-cut apples are fried, tossed in cinnamon sugar and served with caramel. Apple Fries Deluxe adds whipped cream, and apple cider is also available.
Gluten-friendly and vegetarian.
Find it at: North side of Dan Patch Ave. between Underwood & Cooper streets
Roon’s Savories
Roon’s Savories serves hand-rolled waffle cones flavored with parmesan, cheddar and herbs. Choose from:
- BBQ Pulled Pork Mac
- Chicken Tinga & Rice
- Classic Chicken Salad
- Three Cheese Mac
The Chicken Tinga & Rice and Classic Chicken Salad options are gluten-free, while Three Cheese Mac is vegetarian.
Find it at: West side of Liggett St. between Carnes & Judson avenues
Saturday Dumpling Co.
Saturday Dumpling Co. brings three options to the Food Building:
- Chinese Sausage & Cheese Poppers
- Ube Cheesecake Wontons
- Salted Mango Yuzuade
Ube Cheesecake Wontons are vegetarian; Salted Mango Yuzuade is vegan.
Find it at: Food Building, east wall
Solem’s French Fries
Solem’s French Fries serves fresh-cut fries in four sizes, along with a dedicated sauce bar featuring self-serve spices and dipping sauces. The vendor also offers fresh-squeezed frozen lemonades, fountain sodas and bottled water.
Fries are gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan.
Find it at: East side of Underwood St. between Murphy & Lee avenues
Summer Lakes Boat House
Summer Lakes Boat House joins the fair with a full menu that includes:
- Dockside Poppers
- Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Skewers
- Crispy Chicken Sandwiches
- Riblets ‘N’ Chips
- Hand-cut Chips and Dips
- Slow-roasted ribeye sliders
- Wild rice walleye sliders
The vendor will also serve hard seltzer-based cocktails, mocktails made with Summer Lakes Beverage mixes and a full beer menu. Bottled cocktail mixes will also be available for purchase.
The brand-new building will feature live entertainment daily.
Find it at: Southwest corner of Randall Ave. & Underwood St.
Which New Minnesota State Fair Food Will You Try First?
With 36 new foods and nine new vendors joining the lineup, the 2026 Minnesota State Fair is giving food-loving fairgoers plenty of reasons to arrive hungry. From savory bites and over-the-top burgers to creative desserts, mocktails and plenty of Minnesota-inspired flavors, there’s something new to discover around nearly every corner.
Photo Courtesy of Minnesota State Fair
Ways to Save at the 2026 Minnesota State Fair
2026 Minnesota State Fair: Your Guide to Getting There, Saving Money & More
The 2026 Minnesota State Fair runs Aug. 27 through Labor Day, Sept. 7, bringing 12 days of food, rides, entertainment and family fun to the fairgrounds.
If you’re planning a visit, a little preparation can make your day much easier. From free Park & Ride options to discounted admission, the official State Fair app and plenty of free things to do, here are the details families should know before they go.
🚍 Getting to the Minnesota State Fair
Driving to the fair isn’t your only option. The State Fair offers several ways to get there without dealing with fairground traffic and parking.
Free Park & Ride
The State Fair offers free parking and free shuttle bus service from 32 Park & Ride locations throughout the Twin Cities.
This is one of the easiest options for families who want to avoid parking at the fairgrounds.
Express Bus Service
State Fair Express Bus service provides free parking and direct bus service to the fairgrounds for a small fee from 14 locations throughout the Twin Cities.
Bike Parking
Planning to bike? The fair has three free, secured and monitored bicycle parking areas with room for nearly 1,000 bikes.
Driving & Parking
Parking in the State Fairgrounds lots costs $25 per vehicle. Motorcycle parking is $15.
Fairground parking is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so consider taking a bus or using Park & Ride if possible.
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft have designated drop-off and pickup locations at the fair.
📱 Download the Official Minnesota State Fair App
The free Official Minnesota State Fair App is one of the most useful tools for planning your visit.
Use it to:
- Navigate the fairgrounds with an interactive map
- Search the daily entertainment schedule
- Find food vendors and specific foods
- Find shopping locations
- Check vendor locations and changes
- Plan your day by location or activity
Tip: Download the app before you arrive so you’re ready to go when you walk through the gates.
⏰ Minnesota State Fair Hours
The fairgrounds are open:
Aug. 27-Sept. 6: 7 a.m.-11 p.m.
Labor Day, Sept. 7: 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
Admission gates open at 7 a.m. each day.
Keep in mind that individual barns, exhibits and attractions may have different hours.
💰 How to Save Money at the Minnesota State Fair
There are several ways to save on admission, food, rides and more.
Buy Discounted Tickets Before the Fair
Pre-fair admission tickets are $17, compared with the regular adult admission price of $20.
Children ages 4 and under are always free.
Discounted admission tickets are available through Aug. 26, while supplies last.
2026 Admission Prices During the Fair
- Adults ages 13-64: $20
- Seniors 65+: $18
- Kids ages 5-12: $18
- Children 4 and under: Free
🎟️ Special Discount Days
Certain days offer discounted admission for specific groups.
Opening Day — Aug. 27
Adults: $18
Seniors and kids: $15
Seniors Days — Aug. 31 & Sept. 3
Guests ages 65 and older can get in for $15 at the gate.
Military Appreciation Day — Sept. 1
Active military members and their families, as well as retired and veteran military members and their spouses, can get in for $15 with documentation of U.S. military service.
Kids Days — Sept. 2 & Sept. 7
Kids ages 5-12 get in for $15 at the gate.
🎢 Save on Rides at Mighty Midway & Kidway
All-day ride and game specials are available on:
- Aug. 27
- Aug. 31
- Sept. 1
- Sept. 2
- Sept. 7
It’s a great opportunity to let the kids enjoy more rides without spending quite as much.
🎫 Get a Blue Ribbon Bargain Book
The Blue Ribbon Bargain Book includes 112 coupons for food, shopping and attractions throughout the fair.
The book costs $5, and coupons are valid all 12 days of the fair.
If you’re planning to eat and shop your way through the fair, this could easily pay for itself.
🍔 Find Deals With the Fair’s Deal Guide
The State Fair’s Deals, Drawings & Giveaways Guide highlights special-day deals, freebies and opportunities to win prizes.
It’s available online and at information booths throughout the fairgrounds.
🦖 Free Things to Do at the State Fair
You don’t have to spend extra money on rides and food to have a fun day at the fair. There are plenty of free attractions and entertainment options.
Ultimate Dinosaurs
Explore life-size dinosaur skeleton casts, real fossils and augmented reality experiences at Ultimate Dinosaurs in the North End Event Center.
The exhibit is free with fair admission and includes real Minnesota fossils, including the giant beaver, Minnesota’s official state fossil.
Live Music & Entertainment
The fair features more than 900 live entertainment performances throughout the 12 days.
You’ll find family-friendly shows, live music, lumberjack demonstrations, stunt dog shows and performances throughout the fairgrounds.
Daily Parade
The State Fair’s daily parade takes place at 2 p.m.
It’s a fun, free tradition that’s especially worth adding to your family itinerary.
Nightly Fireworks
End your fair day with the nightly fireworks spectacular.
Free Kids’ Activities
Families can find plenty of free educational and interactive activities, including:
- Alphabet Forest
- Math On-A-Stick
- Kemps Little Farm Hands
- Thank a Farmer Magic Show
- Eco Experience
- DNR exhibits
- Moo Booth
🍦 Don’t Forget the Food
There are approximately 1,600 menu items at nearly 300 concession locations throughout the fairgrounds.
And 2026 brings 36 new foods and nine new food vendors, so there’s plenty of new food to try.
Some of the new additions include pickle pie, Korean BBQ bao buns, strawberry ube sundae tart, elote tots, strawberry crunch mini donuts and a two-tone Bloody Mary mocktail.
🐄 See the Animals
The State Fair is a great place for kids to get up close to Minnesota agriculture.
Families can see:
- Cattle
- Pigs
- Goats
- Sheep
- Llamas and alpacas
- Rabbits
- Poultry
- Horses
- And more
The Horse Barn features a variety of horse breeds, while the fair’s livestock barns showcase animals competing in 4-H, FFA and open-class competitions.
Note: The Horse Barn will be closed Sept. 1.
👶 Visit Little Farm Hands
For younger kids, Kemps Little Farm Hands offers a hands-on mock farm experience designed for children ages 3-10.
Kids can learn about where food comes from while exploring a miniature agricultural world.
🎆 More Family Favorites
Other stops worth adding to your family itinerary include:
- Princess Kay of the Milky Way butter sculptures in the Dairy Building
- The Fine Arts Center
- Creative Activities Building
- Agriculture Horticulture Building
- Grandstand shopping
- International Bazaar
- West End Market
- The Giant Sing Along
- Skyride and SkyGlider
♿ Accessibility at the State Fair
The State Fair offers a variety of services and accommodations for guests with disabilities.
New in 2026 are:
- Two additional adult-size changing tables
- ASL interpretation at select evening music shows
- Navigational assistance for guests who are blind or have low vision
- Additional audio descriptions
- Braille signage at Ultimate Dinosaurs
- A second Prayer & Meditation Tent
Other accessibility services include sensory-friendly spaces, mobility scooter and wheelchair rentals, accessible transportation options, captioning, service animal information and more.
Sensory-friendly morning at Mighty Midway and Kidway: Aug. 31.
🧒 Don’t Lose the Kids
Information booths throughout the fair offer free ID wristbands to help reunite lost children and vulnerable adults with their families or guardians.
It’s a simple thing to do when you arrive and can give parents some extra peace of mind in the crowds.
🗺️ Plan Before You Go
The Minnesota State Fair can be overwhelming if you try to do everything in one day. Before heading out, decide which rides, attractions, foods and shows are your family’s priorities.
Our top planning tips:
- Download the State Fair app before you arrive.
- Check the daily schedule and choose a few must-see events.
- Use Park & Ride if you want to avoid fairground parking.
- Buy discounted admission before Aug. 26 if you’re able.
- Consider a Blue Ribbon Bargain Book if you plan to eat and shop.
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll cover a lot of ground.
- Check attraction and barn hours before making your itinerary.
- Build in time to wander. Some of the best fair discoveries happen when you don’t have a plan!
With a little planning, you can spend less time figuring out logistics and more time enjoying everything that makes the Great Minnesota Get-Together so special.
2026 Park & Ride Information
All information subject to change.
Park free and ride for free – serving 34 locations, most of which are close to the fairgrounds!
- Buses run regularly from the lots beginning at 8 a.m.; last bus TO the fair from a Park & Ride lot is at 8 p.m. (6 p.m. Labor Day). Last bus FROM the fair to a Park & Ride lot is at 11:30 p.m. (9:30 p.m. Labor Day). Travel times vary based on traffic and crowds.
- Grandstand shows typically end between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. (On Labor Day, the last Grandstand show ends at approximately 4 p.m. with fireworks at 9 p.m.)
- Accessible buses serve each route, frequency subject to availability. Those needing to transport an electric scooter should use the Oscar Johnson Lot.
During the fair, check our Parking Updates page for Park & Ride lot updates. Please note: If lots fill, they will reopen throughout the day as space becomes available.
Parking in Fairgrounds Lots
Parking in all State Fair lots is available on a first-come basis, and lots do fill quickly each day.
Fairgrounds parking lots open at 6 a.m., overnight parking is not permitted. See a State Fair map for locations and directions. Fairgrounds gate admission opens at 7 a.m. Parking ticket sales are from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (6 p.m. Labor Day).
Vehicle parking in State Fair lots is $25 (cash or credit/debit) and is paid for as you enter to park.
During the State Fair, parking and transportation updates for State Fair lots will be posted on the Updates page of the fair’s website at mnstatefair.org/updates/
