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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.

Excessive heat doesn't stop fairgoers at the Great Minnesota Get-Together

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.
by Cari Spencer

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Job Interview: Amusement ride inspector keeps the Minnesota State Fair’s Midway mighty

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.
by Lukas Levin

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Rejected! Or art that didn’t make the State Fair

Rejected! Or art that didn’t make the State Fair

The Burl Community Art Gallery in St. Paul hosts “Rejected!”, an exhibition featuring around 70 Minnesota artists whose works were not accepted into the State Fair’s Fine Arts Competition.
by Alex V. Cipolle

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New nonalcoholic drinks to try at the Minnesota State Fair in 2024

New nonalcoholic drinks to try at the Minnesota State Fair in 2024

If you’re a beverage goblin — someone who needs three drinks at all times — you’ll love this list. Here’s where to find new, nonalcoholic drinks to help keep you hydrated or caffeinated during this year’s fair.
by Lisa Ryan

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After 75 years, Salem Dining Hall continues to be a family affair, iconic stop for fairgoers

After 75 years, Salem Dining Hall continues to be a family affair, iconic stop for fairgoers

Salem Lutheran Church Dining Hall has maintained a significant presence at the Minnesota State Fair for 75 years, drawing on a deep-rooted community of volunteers and evolving to meet the changing tastes of fairgoers.
by Sam Stroozas

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71st Princess Kay of the Milky Way crowned ahead of Minnesota State Fair

71st Princess Kay of the Milky Way crowned ahead of Minnesota State Fair

Her first official duty as Princess Kay will be to sit in a rotating cooler in the Dairy Building to have her likeness sculpted in a 90-pound block of butter the first two days of the Minnesota State Fair.
by Anna Haecherl

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