What’s New & Ways to Save at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair

We have scoured the details, found the fun, got the scoop, and have been thinking about the 2025 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 2025 Minnesota State Fair.

Here is your big list of new attractions and exhibits at the Minnesota State Fair.

**Minnesota State Fair Prize Pack Giveaway has ended**

Minnesota State Fair 2025: What’s New, Fun & Family-Friendly

The Great Minnesota Get-Together is back August 21–September 1, 2025, with new attractions, rides, exhibits, and tasty treats for the whole family. Whether you’ve got toddlers, teens, or grandparents in tow, here’s your guide to what’s fresh at the fair this year.

🎨 2025 Featured Fair Design

This year’s exclusive fair artwork is a colorful parade of classic fair icons that cleverly spell out “Minnesota State Fair ’25.” Look closely and you’ll spot corn on the cob, pickle pizza, chocolate chip cookies, a corndog, the wild rice cheeseburger, livestock, the Skyride, and more. Designed by State Fair staff artist Samuel Tapia, the illustration is featured on T-shirts, mugs, tote bags, kitchen towels, magnets, posters, and more—available at State FairWear Gift Shops or statefairwear.com.

🎢 New Rides for 2025

The Thunderbird – Soar 180 feet in the air on the tallest portable swing in North America. You’ll get breathtaking views of the fairgrounds (Adventure Park, $8 per rider).
Overdrive – Spin at top speeds under dazzling lights at Mighty Midway.
The Scorpion – Tilt, swing, and soar on this three-armed thrill ride at Mighty Midway.
Hampton Space Age – A gentle spaceship ride perfect for little astronauts (Kidway).
Jumbo (Flying Elephant) – Take the reins and fly on your own magical elephant (Kidway).

🚀 Journey to Space + NASA Exhibit

Step inside the International Space Station experience with hands-on exhibits for all ages. Aug. 21–24, NASA lands at the fair for the first time! See five full-scale spacesuits, a moon rock from Apollo 15, and meet NASA Deputy Chief Flight Director (and Minnesota native) Michael Lammers. Located in the North End Event Center; free with fair admission.

🌼 Bachman’s Floral Rotunda

Celebrate Minnesota’s “Up North” beauty—from Lake Superior to the Boundary Waters—in this floral showcase honoring native plants, pollinators, and 140 years of Bachman’s. Located in the Agriculture Horticulture Building.

🐐 New Competitions & Creative Themes

From sable goats and FFA floral displays to mini quilts, bug-themed cupcakes, and “Life on the Lake” cake designs—this year’s contests offer plenty of creativity for the kids to admire (and maybe inspire future fair entries!).

minnesota state fair kidway and midway discount cards

🏟 Warner Coliseum Renovation

Check out the progress on the Coliseum’s $22 million update, with new ramps, accessible seating, and donor opportunities to “name a seat.”

📚 Learning & Culture

Math On-A-Stick – Make shapes, play games, and help create Minnesota’s Largest Pattern Block Mosaic (Aug. 31).
Hmong Minnesota Day – Celebrate 10 years with music, dance, martial arts, and more (Sept. 1).
History On-A-Schtick – Laugh along as Minnesota icons take the stage for a quiz show.
Minnesota Ag in the Classroom’s “Read and Grow” story time in your state fair round up. Princess Kay of the Milky Way will be reading Tales of the Dairy Godmother with us on Wednesday, Aug. 27 at 10 and 11 a.m.

🍕 Food & Location Updates

Pickle pizza lovers rejoice—Rick’s Pizza now has two locations!
A new “Street Eats” spot at Randall & Underwood features Summer Lakes Beverage, Scenic 61 by New Scenic Café, and BABA’s.
Several favorites have moved—check the Official MN State Fair App to find them.

🤝 New Sponsor Booths & Exhibits

From Bush’s® Beans’ giant photo ops to Voyageurs National Park’s 50th anniversary activities, plus free SugarBee apple samples and a Navy VR experience—there’s plenty of bonus fun across the fairgrounds.

📅 Dates: August 21 – September 1, 2025
📍 Location: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul, MN
💡 Tip: Plan your day with the Fair Finder tool or the Official MN State Fair App to make sure you hit all the must-sees for your family.

2025 State Fair New Foods List:

Afro Bean Pops: Savory deep-fried bites of ground black-eyed peas, onions, jalapeños, cilantro and seasonings. Served with a spicy red chili sauce atop a bed of mixed greens. (Vegan, Gluten Free)

At Afro Deli, located in the Food Building, east wall

Athena’s Whipped Feta: Whipped feta topped with schug (pronounced SH-ugh) – a Middle Eastern green sauce made with jalapeños, garlic, cilantro, parsley and fresh herbs – drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with crunchy toasted wild rice. Served with deep-fried pita bread tossed in Dino’s signature seasoning. (Vegetarian)

At Dino’s Gyros, located on the north side of Carnes Avenue between Nelson & Underwood streets

Birthday Cake Cookie Dough On-A-Stick: Cake batter cookie dough made from scratch and covered in a crunchy cake confetti shell. Topped with rainbow sprinkles and served on-a-stick. (Vegetarian)

At Kora & Mila’s Cookie Dough, located on the south side of Dan Patch Avenue between Cooper & Cosgrove streets

Bison Meatball Sub: Bison and bacon meatballs, from Minnesota-based Eichten’s Bison and Hidden Stream Farm, topped with bison gravy, quick-pickled cucumbers, crispy fried onions and sour cream. Served on a toasted wild rice hoagie bun.

At Minnesota Farmers Union Coffee Shop, located on the north side of Dan Patch Avenue between Cooper & Cosgrove streets

Cannoli Gelato Nachos: Cannoli chips topped with a scoop of cannoli-flavored gelato. Finished with chocolate sauce, rainbow sprinkles and a cherry. (Vegetarian)

At Mancini’s al Fresco, located on the north side of Carnes Avenue between Nelson & Underwood streets

Caprese Curds (pronounced kuh-PRAY-zay): Mozzarella cheese curds breaded with Italian seasoning and deep fried. Served over a bruschetta-flavored (pronounced broo-SKET-uh) blend of tomatoes and basil, and drizzled with balsamic glaze. Served with a side of crostini (pronounced krahs-tee-nee) for scooping. (Vegetarian)

At LuLu’s Public House, located at West End Market, south of Schilling Amphitheater

Cherry Bigfoot Limeade Float: Limeade juice topped with cherry Dole Soft Serve, garnished with a lime slice and a cherry. (Vegan, Gluten Free)

At Tasti Whip, located on the northwest corner of Dan Patch Avenue & Underwood Street

Chicken-Fried Bacon Fries: Beef bacon strips double-breaded in tempura flour and fried. Garnished with fresh parsley and served in a cup. Choice of two dipping sauces: Cashville Hot, a brown sugar Nashville-style hot sauce; or 24k Gold BBQ, a passion fruit Charleston gold barbecue sauce.

At Soul Bowl, located in the Food Building, east wall

Cinna-sugar Crust Tidbits: Freshly baked flaky pie crust strips covered in cinnamon and sugar. Served with a side of whiskey-flavored caramel dipping sauce. (Vegetarian, Vegan upon request)

At Sara’s Tipsy Pies, located in the Food Building, northwest wall

Croffle Cloud (pronounced craw-full): Croissant pressed in a waffle iron and topped with fresh whipped sweet cream, a drizzle of fruit puree and a cloud of cotton candy. Choice of three flavors: Banana Caramel – caramel drizzle with banana taffy cotton candy; Yuzu Meringue (pronounced yoo-zoo and mer-RANG) – yuzu puree with lemon meringue cotton candy; or Coconut Cream – coconut drizzle with coconut cotton candy. (Vegetarian)

At Spinning Wylde, located north of Wright Avenue between Cooper & Cosgrove streets, at Family Fair at Baldwin Park

Deep-Fried Tofuego Bites (pronounced toe-fweh-goh): Bites of breaded tofu, deep fried and tossed in a tangy, spicy sauce. Served on a bed of pineapple and napa cabbage slaw. Topped with sesame seeds and scallions. (Vegan)

At Rooted & Wild (Snack House), located in the Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum, south side

Dill Pickle Iced Tea: Brewed black tea infused with dill pickle flavor and served with a dill pickle spear. Garnished with a rim of chamoy, Tajín, salt and dill. (Vegan, Gluten Free)

At Loon Lake Iced Tea, located on the west side of Underwood Street between Wright & Dan Patch avenues

Fawaffle (pronounced fuh-wah-full): Falafel – a traditional Middle Eastern fritter of chickpeas and herbs – pressed in a waffle iron, topped with tahini (pronounced tuh-hee-nee) butter, and served with cherry tomatoes, traditional hummus, green shatta (pronounced sha-tah), mint and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. (Vegetarian)

At BABA’S, located on the west side of Underwood Street between Lee & Randall avenues

Flauta Dippers (pronounced FLAU-tah): Seasoned shredded chicken stuffed in rolled corn tortillas and fried. Served in a cup filled with mild tomatillo (pronounced toe-mah-tee-oh) salsa, sour cream and crumbled cotija (pronounced kuh-tee-huh) cheese.

At El Burrito Mercado, located at the International Bazaar, south wall

Freaky Fryday: Chicken-fried vegan bacon served with vegan fried chicken strips infused with bacon flavor. Optional toppings include mini donut cinnamon sugar & maple syrup, pickle seasoning & ranch dressing, spicy buffalo sauce & dragon dust – or a combination of all three. (Vegan)

At The Herbivorous Butcher, located in the Food Building, west section, south wall

Grandma Doreen’s Dessert Dog: Vanilla ice cream, created by Minnesota Dairy Lab, sandwiched between two pieces of Grandma Doreen’s Coffee Cake – a family recipe from Elgin, Minn. – made by Wrecktangle Pizza. Skewered on-a-stick and drizzled with house-made strawberry rhubarb jam. Garnished with cinnamon

toast-flavored crispy treats, whipped cream and sprinkles. (Vegetarian)

At West End Creamery, located at West End Market, northwest section

Green Apple Sucker Ice Cream: Tart green apple ice cream with swirls of sweet caramel – flavored like a caramel apple lollipop. Served in a cup. (Vegetarian, Gluten Free)

At Granny’s Apples + Lemonade, located in the Food Building, west wall

Hot Honey Jalapeño Popper Donut: Hand-cut yeast-raised donut frosted with homemade jalapeño cream cheese. Topped with crumbled bacon, pickled jalapeños and drizzled with hot honey.

At Fluffy’s Hand Cut Donuts, located on the northwest corner of Carnes Avenue & Chambers Street

Hot Honey Pizza Ballzz: Three pizza dough balls stuffed with cheese curds, pepperoni, herbs and Parmesan cheese. Brushed with garlic butter and topped with more pepperoni, herbs and Parmesan cheese. Finished with a drizzle of hot honey sauce.

At Green Mill, located on the east side of Cooper Street between Randall & Wright avenues, at Family Fair at Baldwin Park

Hula Kalua Pork (pronounced hoo-la and kuh-LOO-uh): Slow-smoked pork collar caramelized with Hawaiian barbecue sauce, inspired by the flavors of traditional Hawaiian Kalua pork. Served atop a charred banana leaf with banana chips and Japanese quick-pickled cucumbers on the side. Finished with a sprinkle of coarse red sea salt.

At RC’s BBQ, located on the north side of West Dan Patch Avenue between Liggett & Chambers streets

Land of 10,000 Cakes: A Bridgeman’s Marble Sundae of Butter Brittle Ice Cream layered in a cup with a trio of mini Nadia Cupcakes – Creme Brulee, Loaded Pistachio and Chocolate Bliss. Topped with whipped cream and a cherry. (Vegetarian)

At Bridgeman’s Ice Cream, located on the northeast corner of Judson Avenue & Liggett Street

Patisserie Sweets in Two Varieties: Two pastries from Patisserie 46:

Apple Glaze: Pull-apart donut dough baked with Minnesota-grown Honeycrisp apples. Topped with brown sugar pecan streusel and orange blossom maple glaze. (Vegetarian)

Banana S’more: Baked brown-butter crumb cake with bananas, marshmallows and chocolate chunks. Topped with a graham cracker streusel. (Vegetarian)

At Minnesota Farmers Union Coffee Shop, located on the north side of Dan Patch Avenue between Cooper & Cosgrove streets

Pimento Cheese Puffs (pronounced puh-men-toe): Pimento cheese – a blend of cheddar cheese, mayo and pimento peppers – wrapped in puff pastry and deep fried. Served with a side of pepper jelly. (Vegetarian)

At Shanghai Henri’s, located at the International Bazaar, north wall

Pizza Cheese Curd Tacos: Pepperoni, sausage and pizza-flavored fried cheese curds in a crispy flour shell, topped with marinara sauce and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.

At Richie’s Cheese Curd Tacos, located on the west side of Chambers Street between West Dan Patch & Carnes avenues

Pot of Gold Potato Dumplings: Cheesy garlic mashed potatoes folded into flaky dumplings, by Twin Cities-based Saturday Dumpling Co., and deep fried. Served with a side of Top the Tater^® “The Original” Chive Onion dip. (Vegetarian)

At O’Gara’s at the Fair, located on the southwest corner of Dan Patch Avenue & Cosgrove Street

Shrimp & Pork Toast On-A-Stick: A mixture of ground pork and shrimp combined with Hmong aromatics – lemongrass, ginger, garlic, shallots and Thai chilis – seasoned with fish sauce, spread on Texas toast and deep fried. Served on-a-stick with a side of apricot jelly hot sauce.

At Union Hmong Kitchen, located at the International Bazaar, south wall, west corner

Smashadilla (pronounced smash-ah-dee-yah): Smashed seasoned ground beef and Gouda cheese grilled on a flour tortilla. Served folded and dressed with caramelized onions, lettuce, pickles and Gass Station Grill’s homemade burger sauce.

At Gass Station Grill, located on the west side of Cooper Street between Dan Patch & Judson avenues, outside southeast corner of the Food Building

Somali Street Fries: A blend of Somali Beef Suqaar (pronounced sooh-car) – spiced beef, vegetables, cheese and herbs – piled atop a bed of french fries. Topped with white garlic sauce and green jalapeño hot sauce.

At Midtown Global Market’s Oasis Grill & Hoyo Sambusa,* located in the Taste of the Midtown Global Market booth at the International Bazaar, east wall

*New Vendor

Sweet Squeakers: White cheddar cheese curds coated in a funnel cake batter, deep fried, and topped with a scoop of fresh lemon whipped cream. Finished with a drizzle of berry sauce. (Vegetarian)

At The Blue Barn, located at West End Market, south of the History & Heritage Center

Tandoori Chicken Quesaratha (pronounced kay-suh-raw-tah): Spiced tandoori chicken layered with a blend of Monterey Jack & mozzarella cheese and a mixture of sauteed onions, mixed bell peppers, jalapeños, corn, cilantro and green chilis. Folded inside paratha (pronounced pa-rah-tah) bread and griddled on a flat top grill. Served with a side of Holy Land’s Avocado Cilantro Lime Sauce.

At Holy Land, located at the International Bazaar, southeast corner

Timber Twists: A savory mixture of Italian sausage, mozzarella, cream cheese and barbecue rub piped into three large manicotti shells, then wrapped in bacon. Cooked in a wood-fired smoker for an infusion of smokey flavor. Served with a side of Giggles’ signature barbecue sauce.

At Giggles’ Campfire Grill, located on the southeast corner of Lee Avenue & Cooper Street at The North Woods

Triple Chocolate Mini Donuts: Chocolate mini donuts dusted with powdered sugar, drizzled with chocolate icing, and topped with chocolate sprinkles and mini milk chocolate chips. Served in a bucket rimmed with more chocolate icing and sprinkles. (Vegetarian)

At Solem’s Cheese Curds & Mini Donuts, located on the east side of Underwood Street between Murphy & Lee avenues

Uncrustaburger: A 4 oz. hamburger patty with cheese, pickles and special sauce, sandwiched between two deep-fried peanut butter & grape jelly Uncrustables^®.

At Coasters, located on the southeast corner of Carnes Avenue & Liggett Street

NEW FOOD VENDORS:

Beans & Beignets (pronounced ben-yays): Beans & Beignets serves freshly made beignets (deep-fried pastry dough topped with powdered sugar), plus a variety of iced and hot beverages, including tea, coffee, chai lattes and espresso drinks.

Located on the northwest corner of Judson Avenue & Clough Street

Chocolate Strawberry Cup: Chocolate Strawberry Cup serves fresh strawberries in a cup with toppings in four flavors: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup (layered with Belgian-style chocolate, pistachio butter, kataifi (pronounced kuh-tay-fee) and pistachios); Matcha White Chocolate Strawberry Cup (layered with matcha white chocolate and melted chocolate topped with marshmallow sauce); Chocolate Strawberry Cup (covered with melted Belgian-style chocolate); and Chocolate Strawberries & Cream (covered in melted chocolate and topped with a tower of whipped cream and chocolate drizzle). All strawberry cups are gluten free, except the Dubai chocolate cup.

Located on the southwest corner of Dan Patch Avenue & Cooper Street

Greater Tater: Greater Tater serves Tater Kegs – jumbo deep-fried tots stuffed with savory fillings – in five flavors: Bacon Jalapeño; Bacon Cheddar; Breakfast Skillet; Cheese Bomb; and Reuben. Served with choice of sauces: thousand island, blue cheese, Top the Tater^®, maple syrup and ketchup. All Tater Kegs are gluten free.

Located on the west side of Liggett Street between Carnes & Judson avenues, outside the Horse Barn

Lumpia City (pronounced loom-pee-uh): Lumpia City serves lumpia – traditional Filipino fried spring rolls – in two fusion flavors: Pizza Lumpia (mozzarella, pepperoni, Italian sausage, pizza sauce and Italian herbs); and turon-inspired (pronounced tr-own) Ube (pronounced oo-beh) Butter Banana French Toast Lumpia (French toast strips soaked in ube butter syrup with caramelized bananas, dusted with powdered sugar).

Located on the north side of Judson Avenue between Liggett & Clough streets

Magdalena’s Chimney Cakes: Magdalena’s Chimney Cakes serves Chimney Cakes (a rotisserie-baked Hungarian pastry shaped like a cone) filled with vanilla ice cream and choice of Nutella^® or caramel spread and toppings (crushed OREO^® Cookies, rainbow sprinkles or frosted flakes).

Located on the north side of Judson Avenue between Clough & Nelson streets

Midtown Global Market’s Irie Jamaican: Midtown Global Market’s Irie Jamaican serves oxtail (jerk or barbecue) with festival (a sweet, fried bread); sweet plantains; coconut shrimp skewers; and a ginger & hibiscus drink.

(Aug. 27 to Sept. 1 only)

Located in the Taste of the Midtown Global Market booth at the International Bazaar, east wall

Midtown Global Market’s Oasis Grill & Hoyo Sambusa: Midtown Global Market’s Oasis Grill & Hoyo Sambusa serves Official New Food Somali Street Fries; cones of mini sambusas & full-size sambusas (beef or lentil) with choice of sauce; and slushies in two flavors (Vimto and watermelon). (Aug. 21-26 only)

Located in the Taste of the Midtown Global Market booth at the International Bazaar, east wall

Urban Glow Mocktails: Urban Glow Mocktails serves craft mocktails, including: Dirty NoTini (lemon, dill pickling spices & olive brine); Nojito (minty-lime with a hint of molasses); CosNo (cranberry, orange & lime); Grilled Peach No Fashioned (caramelized peach garnished with peach & cherry); Autumn Mule (apple, warm cinnamon & spicy ginger); Pineapple Upside Down Cake (chilled pineapple slushie); Bonspiel Blue (cucumber, lemon & blue tea); and Nitro Cold Brew (cold brew on tap, carbonated with nitrogen, with assorted flavor shots). Plus, small bites – Cheweenies (mini Kramarczuk’s all-beef hot dogs nestled in sweet Hawaiian rolls paired with mocktail-inspired mustards).

Located at the North End, northwest section, across from the North End Event Center

Information subject to change.

Photo Courtesy of Minnesota State Fair

Ways to Save at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair

Before-the-Fair Savings

Pre-fair discount admission tickets are $17 (a $3 discount off the regular adult admission price and a $1 discount off the regular seniors and kids admission prices) and are valid any one day of the 2025 fair for any age (children 4 & under are always free). Also prior to the fair, Mighty Midway and Kidway ride & game tickets are $20 for a

25-ticket Fun Card, $40 for a 50-ticket Fun Card, $80 for a 100-ticket Fun Card and $160 for a 200-ticket Fun Card.

Discount State Fair admission tickets, discount Mighty Midway and Kidway ride & game tickets on a Fun Card, and regular-price Blue Ribbon Bargain Books (sponsored by Minnesota Lottery) are available through Aug. 20 at the State Fair Ticket Office located at 1640 Como Ave., participating Cub stores and numerous locations in greater Minnesota and Hudson, Wis. (while supplies last). Discount admission tickets may also be purchased through

Aug. 20 online at mnstatefair.org and by phone through Etix at 1-800-514-3849. Note: The deadline for mail delivery has passed.

During the fair, the regular admission price is $20 for adults (13-64); $18 for seniors (65+); and $18 for kids (5-12). Children 4 and under are always admitted free. Mighty Midway and Kidway tickets purchased during the fair are

$1 per ticket, $40 for 44 tickets, and $70 for 80 tickets. Throughout the fair, Blue Ribbon Bargain Books are $5 and available at State FairWear Gift Shops and Bargain Book Carts (while supplies last).

Visit mnstatefair.org/tickets/admission-tickets/ for more information.

Special Deal Days

The State Fair kicks off with savings on Opening Day, Aug. 21. Discounted admission is $18 for adults (13-64) and $15 for seniors (65+) and kids (5-12) when purchased at the gate.

Monday, Aug. 25, and Thursday, Aug. 28, are Seniors Days. Seniors (65+) are admitted for $15 when tickets are purchased at the gate.

Military Appreciation Day is Tuesday, Aug. 26, when active military and their families, as well as retired and veteran military and their spouses, are admitted for $15 when they purchase admission at the gate and provide documentation of U.S. military service.

Wednesday Aug. 27, and Labor Day, Sept. 1, are Kids Days. Kids (5-12) are admitted for $15 when tickets are purchased at the gate.

In addition, many vendors feature special day deals for all State Fair guests on Opening Day, Aug. 21; Seniors Days Aug. 25 & 28; Military Appreciation Day, Aug. 26; and Kids Days, Aug. 27 & Sept. 1. Participating vendors will display a special day deal sign and are listed in the Deals, Drawings & Giveaways Guide (sponsored by Human Touch) available at all information booths and at mnstatefair.org. Select vendors also feature last chance deals on Labor Day, Sept. 1.

More Fun for Less at Mighty Midway & Kidway

Specials are offered every weekday on rides and games at Mighty Midway and Kidway. All-day specials run Thursday, Aug. 21; Tuesday, Aug. 26; Wednesday, Aug. 27; and Monday, Sept. 1. Early Bird specials are offered until 1 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 22; Monday, Aug. 25; Thursday, Aug. 28; and Friday, Aug. 29.

Blue Ribbon Bargain Book

The 2025 Blue Ribbon Bargain Book (sponsored by Minnesota Lottery) offers 100 coupons offering savings on food, merchandise and attractions throughout the fairgrounds. Coupons are valid all 12 days of the fair, and a preview of the bargains is available at mnstatefair.org/blue-ribbon-bargain-book/. Bargain Books are $5 and available at the State Fair ticket office, participating Cub stores and at many locations in greater Minnesota and Hudson, Wis. (while supplies last), and during the fair at State FairWear Gift Shops and Bargain Book Carts on the fairgrounds (while supplies last). Books purchased during the fair support the Minnesota State Fair Foundation’s mission to preserve and improve fair buildings, the fairgrounds and educational programs.

Deals, Drawings & Giveaways Guide

Available to view and print at mnstatefair.org/discounts/ or for pick up at any information booth, the Deals, Drawings & Giveaways Guide (sponsored by Human Touch) details special day deals, freebies and places to sign up for the chance to win prizes.

Exhibits, Attractions and Free Entertainment Options

Journey to Space – a free hands-on exhibit that gives a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of space exploration. Produced by the Science Museum of Minnesota and the California Science Center with support from NASA. Aug. 21-24 only: NASA lands at the fair for the first time. Led by NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio, NASA highlights the future of space exploration and the technologies making it possible. Located in the North End Event Center, Journey to Space is all 12 days, and the NASA exhibit is Aug. 21-24 only; both are free with fair admission. Additional information: mnstatefair.org/new/at-the-fair/journey-to-space/
Live music and entertainment lineup features more than 900 shows throughout the fairgrounds, including the Cosgrove Stage (sponsored by Allina Health | Aetna) where community groups perform; The Timberworks Lumberjack and All-Star Stunt Dogs Splash shows at The North Woods (sponsored by Good Health Saunas); family-friendly entertainment at the Family Fair Stage (sponsored by Green Mill Restaurant) at Baldwin Park; West End Market Stage at Schilling Amphitheater (sponsored by Pryes Brewing Company); Summit Stage at the Bazaar (sponsored by Summit Brewing Co.); MSF Amateur Talent Contest (sponsored by Chase) at the Bandshell; and more. Additional information: mnstatefair.org/free-live-music-and-shows/
Nightly fireworks spectacular (sponsored by Mazda)
The daily parade (sponsored by Rivian) at 2 p.m. features the high school marching band competition and is ASL interpreted
Dog agility demonstrations outside the Pet Pavilions (sponsored by AT&T)
Learn more and get inspired at free exhibits such as the Eco Experience (sponsored by Xcel Energy), DNR, The DIRT Demo Stage (sponsored by SPACE Trailers) and Moo Booth
Many free things to do with young fair fans at exhibits such as Alphabet Forest (sponsored by AmazeWorks), Math On-A-Stick and more. Additional information: mnstatefair.org/guides/kids/
Blue Ribbon BINGO includes five games per session and lasts about 30 minutes. Proceeds support the Minnesota State Fair Foundation 501(c)(3) and is located at Ramberg Center (sponsored by Cal Spas)
The Great Big Wheel (sponsored by TGK Automotive), located on the north end of the fairgrounds, carries riders to a height of 156 feet, offering breathtaking views of the State Fairgrounds and beyond. Two other rides that offer a special view of the fairgrounds include Skyride and SkyGlider (sponsored by Instagram Teen Accounts)
FAN Central (sponsored by Xfinity) features local sports teams and merchandise
A wide variety of horse breeds, from miniature to draft horses, can be seen daily throughout the fair in the Horse Barn; competing as part of the Minnesota State Fair Horse Show; and at two horse education exhibits (Aisle of Breeds and EquiMania!^TM), free with fair admission (Horse Barn is closed Aug. 26)
One of the largest livestock exhibitions in the Midwest with poultry, rabbits, goats, sheep, llamas & alpacas, swine, cattle and more, including FFA, 4-H and open class
The finest needlework, handcrafts, baking and canning that Minnesota has to offer presented in the newly updated Creative Activities Building, along with the Cambria Kitchen, home to daily demonstrations
The state’s largest juried art exhibition in the Fine Arts Center; and hundreds of ribbon winners in K-12 competitions, plus dozens of nonprofits – including the new Your Health, Your Way area – in the Education Building
Fruit, wine, Christmas tree, crop art, flower, vegetable, potato, bee & honey contests along with the Giant Pumpkin Contest in the Agriculture Horticulture Building (sponsored by Bremer Bank, a division of Old National Bank)
Shopping, specialty merchants and unique artisans are plentiful on the fairgrounds at: the Grandstand Exhibit Building (sponsored by Sleep Number), which has two levels of more than 160 vendors; Family Fair at Baldwin Park; International Bazaar; Home Improvement Building (sponsored by LeafFilter); Merch Market; West End Market; and more. More information: mnstatefair.org/guides/shopping/
In total, 1,600 menu items are available at nearly 300 different concession locations throughout the fairgrounds including many options in the Food Building (sponsored by Bush’s^® Beans)
The Dairy Building (sponsored by Paddle North), which is home to the famed Princess Kay butter sculptures and malts and sundaes, as well as several vendors selling outdoor gear, home improvement merchandise, wool products and more
Thank a Farmer Magic Show on the Christensen Farms Stage (sponsored by T-Mobile), where children of all ages learn about the role agriculture plays in our daily lives
The Kemps Little Farm Hands (sponsored by Kemps, Cub, Cargill and Minnesota Corn Growers Association), a mock farm agricultural education experience for ages 3-10
Karaoke and music in The Garden (sponsored by Treasure Island Resort & Casino)
Seven iconic fairgrounds spots for taking great photos are marked with a Selfie Spot badge (sponsored by State Farm). Here is a map of the seven locations: mnstatefair.org/faq/amenities/

Sponsors for a Day

Day sponsors will be at the corner of Wright Avenue and Underwood Street with activities and information about their organization. They include: Mall of America (Aug. 21); Thrivent (Aug. 22 & 24); Minnesota Oncology

(Aug. 23); Minnesota Senior LinkAge Line (Minnesota Board on Aging) (Aug. 25); Minnesota Manufactured

(Aug. 30); and APR Network (Aug. 31).

Free Guest Services & Information

The Great Minnesota Get-Together offers many free services and amenities for guests’ convenience, including: free trolley rides on the north end of the fairgrounds; information booths (sponsored by AAA) stocked with free Official Minnesota State Fair Maps (sponsored by The Minnesota Star Tribune); daily schedules; free ID wristbands to help reunite lost children and vulnerable adults with their families or guardians; a free Wi-Fi hotspot at the west Grandstand Plaza (sponsored by DragNFly Wireless Inc.); First Aid Stations (sponsored by Regions Hospital) located on the east and west ends of the fairgrounds; and more.

State Fair Transportation and parking options for 2025 include:

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.

State Fair Express Buses provided by Metro Transit, Minnesota Valley Transit Authority and SouthWest Transit drop off and pick up at the Transit Hub located at Gate #16 on the west end of the fairgrounds. See a State Fair map.
Bike parking, accessible parking and accessible buses are available at all locations.
Fares, discounts and hours vary by service provider; see websites below for more details.

NOTE: Grandstand shows typically end between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. followed by fireworks. On Labor Day, the last Grandstand show will end at approximately 4 p.m. with fireworks at 9 p.m.

Printable list of Park & Ride and Express Bus locations (coming soon)
Map of the Transit Hub showing specific Express Bus and Park & Ride Bus drop-off and pick-up spots (coming soon)

Metro Transit State Fair Express Bus Service

Park free and ride a bus for a small fee from six locations throughout the Twin Cities noted by numbered BLUE dots in the map below:

Maple Grove (weekends & Labor Day)
Blaine
Maplewood
Minnetonka
Bloomington
Cottage Grove

All lots except Maple Grove will operate the 12 days of the fair; Maple Grove will be open weekends and Labor Day. Round-trip tickets can be purchased in advance through Metro Transit’s app for $5; cash-only fares can be purchased at boarding locations for $6. For information on locations, schedules, bus ride pricing & discounts, how to conveniently buy bus tickets and more, check out Metro Transit.

Minnesota Valley Transit Authority State Fair Express Bus Service

Serving the south metro area, MVTA provides free parking and direct bus service all days of the State Fair from three locations noted by GOLD dots in the map below:

Eagan Transit Station
Shakopee (Southbridge Crossing Park and Ride)
Burnsville Transit Station

New in 2025, service from all three transit stations begins at 7 a.m.! Tickets are $6 round-trip and can be purchased in advance on the RideMVTA App or at the station when boarding, either with exact cash or a credit card. For details on locations, schedules, bus ride pricing & discounts, how to conveniently buy bus tickets and more, check out Minnesota Valley Transit Authority.

SouthWest Transit State Fair Express Bus Service

SouthWest Transit provides free parking and direct bus service to the State Fair from four locations noted by GREEN dots in the map below:

Eden Prairie (SouthWest Station)
Chanhassen (SouthWest Village)
Chaska (East Creek Station)
Carver (Carver Station)

New in 2025, bus service is available from all lots every day, including Labor Day, Sept. 1! Round-trip fare is $6 and can be purchased through the Token Transit App or at Express Bus stations. For more information on locations, schedules, bus ride pricing & discounts, how to conveniently buy bus tickets and more, check out SouthWest Transit.

2025 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/parking/.