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.

Native communities take the stage on Indigenous Peoples’ Day at the Minnesota State Fair
NATIFS hosted Indigenous Peoples’ Day at the Minnesota State Fair on Sunday. This year, the Native News team from MPR News joined in on the day, sharing music, dancing and interviews at the MPR booth.
High heat could be dangerous for fairgoers — and animals
MPR News host Cathy Wurzer spoke with MPR meteorologist Sven Sundgaard about the heat. And she checked in with State Fair Veterinarian Scott Lang from Waseca Veterinary Clinic.
Journey around the world through a State Fair floral display
The day before the Minnesota State Fair opened, Kym Erickson and her crew were still hard at work placing flowers and setting scenes in the huge atrium of the Agriculture Horticulture Building. It’s a job that requires weeks of preparation leading up to the fair, and right down to the last minute the night before. 
Excessive heat doesn't stop fairgoers at the Great Minnesota Get-Together
The two on-site medical stations at the State Fair have boosted staffing in light of the riskier weather. As of Sunday afternoon, there was a slight increase in people seeking heat-related help at the stations.
Job Interview: Amusement ride inspector keeps the Minnesota State Fair’s Midway mighty
Although amusement rides are all about fun, they require a lot upkeep. Rob Gavel is one of the few amusement park inspectors in the world and it’s his job to make sure roller coaster safety manuals become reality.