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The Minnesota State Fair is still almost five months away — but on Memorial Day weekend, fair fans can get an early taste of the festivities. 

The State Fair will hold its fourth annual Kickoff to Summer at the Fair from May 23-26. For four days, visitors can come to the fairgrounds and check out 

a selection of foods, merchants and games.

Several classic vendors will be offering up much-loved fair fare, including Sweet Martha’s cookies, Rick’s pickle pizza and Nelson’s foot-long hot dogs. New vendors at this year’s kickoff event will include Trickster Tacos with urban Native cuisine and Peachey’s Baking Company with Amish donuts.

The 2024 Minnesota State Fair Grandstand lineup

Minnesota State Fair ticket prices will stay flat for 2024

Some items sold for thousands

Three stages will be open for performances throughout the weekend, featuring local bands and dance groups. Fairgoers can also play trivia, arcade games and take a ride on the giant slide.

Tickets for the fair kickoff go on sale Friday, April 5 at 10 a.m. They’re $13 online ahead of time or $16 at the gate — though there are daily limits on attendance. The fair is also opening free parking for the event.

This year’s Minnesota State Fair will run from Aug. 22 through Sept. 2. Fair officials have 

 several of the scheduled Grandstand performances.

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Estelle Timar-Wilcox

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The Minnesota State Fair is still almost five months away — but on Memorial Day weekend, fair fans can get an early taste of the festivities at the fourth annual Kickoff to Summer at the Fair.

Can’t wait for the State Fair? Summer kickoff event will return in May

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