State Fair

The 2026 Minnesota State Fair runs Aug. 27 through Sept. 7. For all of the events at the MPR booth and Dan Patch Park, go to mpr.org/statefair.

Lots of muscle and wedge shapes: What are they judging?
In addition to Midway rides and food on a stick, the Great-Minnesota-Get-Together offers hundreds of competitions. Can you guess what they're judging, with just a few hints?
Ex-inmate finds work, possible new beginning, at State Fair
A team of sanitation workers clean the fair through the night. For one of them, the job is a welcome opportunity.
Missing parts, broken and dislocated bones: What are they judging?
For some, the Minnesota State Fair is all about competition. There are ribbons given out for everything from barrel racing to beeswax carving. Every day this week, All Things Considered is asking: "What's being judged?" With a few hints, can you figure it out?
A sketchy look at the Minnesota State Fair
More than 50 artists gathered to draw the sights and spectacles of the fairgrounds.
This family has been selling you hot dogs at the fair for 70+ years
If you're going to the State Fair, you'll probably eat at least one hot dog. One family has been making sure you get that hot dog for over 70 years.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar at the Minnesota State Fair
Gary Eichten interviews Minnesota's senior senator in front of a live audience at the Minnesota State Fair.
Noise, movement and household items: What are they judging?
For some, the Minnesota State Fair is all about competition. Every day this week, All Things Considered is asking: "What's being judged?" Here are some hints. Can you figure it out?