MEDIA KIT
Aug. 27 – Sept. 7, 2015 H mnstatefair.org
Dear Members of the Media and State Fair Friends,
The Minnesota State Fair is our state’s most treasured summer tradition
with a storied history of bringing people together. For more than a century
and a half, visitors from around the world have traveled to witness the finest
our state has to offer in all lines of endeavor, truly making it the Great
Minnesota Get-Together.
Countless stories are waiting to be told in agriculture, art, competition,
education, entertainment, environment, history and heritage, horticulture,
innovation and so much more. Please use this media kit as a guide to
planning your coverage.
We appreciate your continued support of the Minnesota State Fair and
look forward to making your work efficient, exciting and enjoyable. We
will see you Aug. 27 through Sept. 7 at the Great Minnesota Get-Together!
Enjoy!
Minnesota State Fair Marketing & Communications Team
Note: All information herein subject to change.
On the cover: See page 110 in the “What’s New!” section of this media kit
for more information on the 2015 commemorative art by Minnesota artist
Adam Turman.
1265 Snelling Avenue North H St. Paul, MN 55108-3099 H (651) 288-4400 H FAX (651) 642-2440 H mnstatefair.org
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Sections are organized alphabetically after the Media Services portion.
MEDIA SERVICES
5
Marketing & Communications Department.............................................................5
Media Resources...................................................................................................................5
Emergency.............................................................................................................................. 6
Interview Arrangements................................................................................................... 6
Media Photo Gallery........................................................................................................... 6
Online Media Room..............................................................................................................7
Photography Access & Video Footage Guidelines................................................7
Social Media.............................................................................................................................7
ATTENDANCE 9
Attendance Records........................................................................................................... 9
Attendance Worksheet................................................................................................... 10
COMPETITION & AG 11
Agriculture, Competition & Education.......................................................................11
CORPORATE PROFILE 23
Corporate Information....................................................................................................23
Minnesota State Fair Foundation...............................................................................23
Recycling & Composting Information......................................................................24
ENTERTAINMENT 25
Fireworks Spectacular.....................................................................................................25
Free Entertainment Stages...........................................................................................25
Free Entertainment on the Fairgrounds..................................................................32
Grandstand Concert Series...........................................................................................36
FOOD & BEVERAGE 43
All Foods.................................................................................................................................43
Concessions & Exhibits...................................................................................................43
Food Finder...........................................................................................................................43
New Foods............................................................................................................................43
Foods On-A-Stick ..............................................................................................................43
GETTING TO THE FAIR
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47
GUEST SERVICES 49
HISTORY 55
Minnesota State Agricultural Society History....................................................... 55
2015 Anniversaries............................................................................................................ 55
Fairchild and Fairborne Mascots.................................................................................56
Historical Dates................................................................................................................... 57
Historic Buildings & Landmarks................................................................................. 60
Minnesota State Fair History & Heritage Center.................................................64
State Fair Digital Archives..............................................................................................64
SPECIAL DAYS & EVENTS 65
Calendar/Day Designations...........................................................................................65
Fun Finder.............................................................................................................................70
Special Events & Ceremonies......................................................................................70
SPECIAL EXHIBITS 73
Exhibits................................................................................................................................... 73
Sponsor Exhibit Booths & Activities.........................................................................78
Touring Promotional Exhibits.......................................................................................83
TICKETED ATTRACTIONS
85
Adventure Park...................................................................................................................85
Kidway.....................................................................................................................................85
Mighty Midway................................................................................................................... 86
New Attractions..................................................................................................................87
Other Ticketed Attractions...........................................................................................87
TICKETING & SAVINGS
89
Ticketing................................................................................................................................ 89
Savings................................................................................................................................... 90
TRIVIA93
WHAT’S NEW!
97
Attractions............................................................................................................................97
Competitions.......................................................................................................................97
Commercial Exhibits & Non-Food Concessions..................................................97
Entertainment....................................................................................................................101
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Events....................................................................................................................................102
Exhibits.................................................................................................................................102
Food.......................................................................................................................................104
Other New Elements......................................................................................................109
INDEX113
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Media Services
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
DEPARTMENT
The marketing & communications department handles all media inquiries
for the Minnesota State Fair. Types of inquiries may include: production and
package story assistance; Grandstand access for footage of evening concerts;
interview/appearance arrangements with free stage artists, concessionaires,
vendors and State Fair experts; corporate communication; media exhibit space;
and media parking.
Marketing & Communications Department Contacts:
BRIENNA SCHUETTE
Marketing & Communications Manager
LARA HUGHES
Communications Supervisor
CHRISTINE NOONAN
Marketing Supervisor
DANIELLE DULLINGER
Marketing & Communications Specialist
BROOKE BLAKEY
State Fair Police Public Information Officer
Contact Information:
All department contacts can be reached via:
Email: media@mnstatefair.org
Media Relations Hotline: (651) 288-4321
Special Note: The Media Relations Hotline will be answered leading up to and
after fair time Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (except on
state holidays) and during fair time Monday, Aug. 24 through Monday, Sept. 7
from 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
MEDIA RESOURCES
DAILY MEDIA UPDATE: The Daily Media Update is another tool
for media personnel covering the fair. The update provides day-specific
information on photo opportunities, Grandstand ticket availability, special
events, breaking news and more. The Daily Media Update will be sent as a
PDF via email each morning of the 2015 State Fair. To receive this exclusive
update, email media@mnstatefair.org, and ask to be put on the list.
MEDIA RELATIONS HOTLINE - (651) 288-4321: This hotline will be
answered leading up to and after fair time Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m. (except on state holidays) and during fair time Monday, Aug. 24
through Monday, Sept. 7 from 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
MEDIA TWITTER - @MSFMEDIA: This Twitter account tweets official
Minnesota State Fair news, special announcements and other newsworthy
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fair happenings intended for media use only. These tweets will streamline the
process of disseminating information, especially during breaking news times.
All official updates will be posted via this account. The account is protected
and requires members of the media to send a “follow” request via the
@MSFMedia account.
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER FOR STATE FAIR POLICE:
For information regarding incidents, investigations and police activity during
the fair, members of the media may contact:
Brooke Blakey
Public Information Officer
State Fair Police
(651) 288-4502
brooke.blakey@mnstatefair.org
STATE FAIR SCHEDULE RESOURCES: Daily schedules, the State
Fair Fun Finder and smartphone app are resources for story ideas and
daily events. Daily schedules can be found at any information booth or at
mnstatefair.org/general_info/daily_schedules.html. The State Fair Fun
Finder is a searchable tool that may be utilized from mnstatefair.org or the
smartphone app. The Fun Finder offers a complete schedule and description
of all event and exhibit schedules at the State Fair. The smartphone app
features the Fun Finder, Food Finder and Merch Search tools along with
entertainment and schedule information. The app is completely free and is
designed to work without Wi-Fi or a data plan, except when updating. Use
these resources for the most complete State Fair daily schedules.
EMERGENCY
Police: (651) 288-4500
The police station is located at 1826 West Dan Patch Ave. across from
West End Market and is open 24 hours a day during the fair.
Medical: (651) 288-4500
Fire: 9-911 from any State Fair phone
TTY: (651) 642-2402
INTERVIEW ARRANGEMENTS
The marketing & communications staff is available to make connections and
coordinate interviews with concessionaires, exhibitors, competitors, free
stage artists, attraction operators and State Fair staff. Please call the Media
Relations Hotline at (651) 288-4321.
MEDIA PHOTO GALLERY
Our photo gallery is a royalty-free source of high-resolution images that
may be used with television, print or electronic news stories. Please visit the
media photo gallery at mnstatefair.org/general_info/media_galleries.html.
Click on a thumbnail to enlarge a photo then right click or drag the enlarged
photo onto your desktop to save. After the JPG appears on your desktop,
the photo will be suitable for print. Please credit the Minnesota State Fair
with use of all media gallery photos and list the event dates (Aug. 27 through
Labor Day, Sept. 7, 2015) whenever possible.
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ONLINE MEDIA ROOM
Our online media room is available to all media through the State Fair
website. To view State Fair news releases, fact sheets, State Fair photos and
this media kit, please visit mnstatefair.org/general_info/media.html or click
on the “media room” link at the bottom of mnstatefair.org.
PHOTOGRAPHY ACCESS & VIDEO FOOTAGE
GUIDELINES
For information about taking photographs or video footage on the
fairgrounds, please visit mnstatefair.org/general_info/media.html or click on
the “media room” link at the bottom of mnstatefair.org. It may be possible for
photographers and videographers to access the Grandstand to photograph
or film a brief portion of the evening’s concert. Please note that access may
be restricted depending on the artist. To inquire about obtaining permission
to photograph or film a Grandstand event, please contact the marketing &
communications department at media@mnstatefair.org or (651) 288-4321.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Find the State Fair on:
FACEBOOK:
facebook.com/minnesotastatefair
TWITTER:
@mnstatefair
INSTAGRAM:
@mnstatefair
PINTEREST:
pinterest.com/mnstatefair
YOUTUBE:
youtube.com/StateFairMN
FLICKR:
Flickr.com/groups/mnstatefairofficial/pool/
TWITTER FOR USE BY MEDIA (PROTECTED ACCOUNT):
@MSFMedia
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Attendance
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ATTENDANCE RECORDS
DAILY RECORDS
DayAttendance
Year Established
Thursday119,1452010
Friday 132,7382010
Saturday202,126 1998
Sunday209,9691994
Monday143,9981994
Tuesday133,5952014
Wednesday128,966
2006
Thursday155,183 1995
Friday
179,0522003
Saturday252,092 2014
Sunday 236,1972013
Monday164,2772013
CUMULATIVE RECORDS
RankAttendance
Year Established
1
1,824,8302014
2
1,790,4972009
3
1,788,5122012
4
1,776,2112010
5
1,769,8722011
6
1,762,9762001
7
1,741,8252003
8
9
1,731,1622013
1,706,4862002
10
1,693,2632008
11
1,689,0341998
12
1,683,4541997
13
1,682,6252000
14
1,681,6782007
15
1,680,5792006
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ATTENDANCE WORKSHEET
Day
Thursday
2014
2015
94,256
__________
Friday
132,738 (’10)
118,606
__________
Saturday
202,126 (’98)
178,498
__________
Sunday
209,969 (’94)
164,192
__________
Monday
143,998 (’94)
137,813
__________
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
133,595 (’14)
133,595
__________
128,966 (’06)
125,816
__________
155,183 (’95)
118,047
__________
Friday
179,052 (’03)
145,026
__________
Saturday
252,092 (’14)
252,092
__________
Sunday
236,197 (’13)
197,459
__________
Monday
164,277 (’13)
159,430
__________
1,824,830 (’14)
1,824,830
__________
RECORD TOTAL
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Records
119,145 (’10)
Competition & Ag.
AGRICULTURE, COMPETITION & EDUCATION
Agriculture is the foundation of the Minnesota State Fair. According to the
book History of the Minnesota State Agricultural Society (1910), the purpose
of the first territorial and state fairs was to ‘boost’ Minnesota. The theory was
simple: “Once the outside world heard of the existence of bona fide agricultural
societies in the territory, rumors of a frozen wasteland beyond Lake Superior
would quickly fade away...such a place [of rich agricultural exhibition] must be a
farmer’s paradise!” Today, the State Fair continues the tradition of showcasing
Minnesota’s agriculture. People come from all over the nation to show the
very best in livestock and crops. Far from a frozen wasteland, Minnesota is a
national leader in agricultural exports.
4-H Competitions
The 4-H Livestock show runs from Thursday, Aug. 27 through Sunday,
Aug. 30. This 4-H weekend becomes home to more than 2,500 animals.
Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for a complete schedule of 4-H
Livestock competitions. For interview requests or more information on 4-H,
please contact Wendy Huckaby at (651) 239-7554 or huckaby@umn.edu.
4-H BUILDING
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located on the east side of Cosgrove Street at the
intersection of Wright Avenue
The 4-H Building displays the artwork, technology and other projects
created by talented Minnesota 4-H students. The Harkness Hall Stage
features musical performances and performing arts all 12 days of the State
Fair. 4-H’ers participate in cook-offs, fashion shows and other competitions.
Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for a complete schedule of 4-H
competitions and demonstrations.
4-H PURPLE RIBBON AUCTION
5:45 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, Located in AgStar Arena
Youth participants in the 4-H Purple Ribbon Auction proudly showcase their
award-winning animals. These animals and their owners have progressed
to the State Fair from county fairs around the state, where they placed
among the top entrants. These promising young Minnesotans will receive
proceeds from the sale of their animals at this auction for scholarships. Visit
mnpurpleribbonauction.org for more information.
4-H LAMA COSTUME COMPETITION
6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2, Located in AgStar Arena
4-H’ers and their llamas and alpacas dress in complementary costumes. This
creative and nationally recognized competition provides for a colorful and
visual experience. Please note: Lama is the correct spelling for the genus that
includes llamas and alpacas.
Agriculture Horticulture Building and Competitions
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (8 p.m. on Labor Day), Located between Carnes and
Judson avenues and Underwood and Cooper streets
The Agriculture Horticulture Building houses and displays the Ag-Hort-Bee
competitions such as Christmas Trees, Bee & Honey Culture, Farm Crops,
Crop Art and Scarecrows, Flowers, Fruits & Wines, and Vegetables & Potatoes.
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Also in this building is The Common Table: Minnesota Eats exhibit, The Dirt,
Minnesota State Florist Association’s Floralpalooza rotunda exhibit with this
year’s theme “Florists Helping Communities Thrive,” a rotation of various
flower shows, ag-hort-bee demonstrations and presentations, and the
Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild. Largest vegetable winners are also on display
all 12 days of the fair.
BEE & HONEY
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (8 p.m. on Labor Day), Located in the Agriculture
Horticulture Building
Experienced and amateur producers of honey and beeswax are invited to
display their products, including honey, candles, photography and more, in the
bee & honey show. Demonstrations and presentations daily. The popular Bee
Beard demonstration will be held for the 18th consecutive year. Gary Reuter,
apiary scientist at the University of Minnesota Bee Lab, will perform the daring
feat of placing 10,000 honeybees on the faces of two willing fair visitors,
forming a living beard of bees on Wednesday, Sept. 2 at 1 p.m.
CHRISTMAS TREE DIVISION
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (8 p.m. on Labor Day), Located in the Agriculture
Horticulture Building
The Christmas Tree exhibit and competition features Minnesota-grown
Christmas tree judging and displays. A new exotic tree competition was
added this year.
THE COMMON TABLE: MINNESOTA EATS
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (8 p.m. on Labor Day), Located in the Agriculture
Horticulture Building
This interactive exhibit inspires Minnesotans to get connected to the food
they eat. The actions we take every day matter, as we are all directly linked
to our food. Centering around six areas of action: Buy Local; Eat Local; Grow
Food; Nurture Soil; Promote Justice; and Reduce Waste. The Common Table:
Minnesota Eats exhibit provides a learning opportunity and takeaway for
every age and interest. The exhibit includes gardens, an interactive footscape,
dirt and compost displays, 400 edible plants and demonstrations, and
presentations by members of the local food community. Refer to the “What’s
New!” section of this media kit for more information and to the Fun Finder or
daily schedules for a complete schedule of presentations and demonstrations.
CROP ART & FARM CROPS
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (8 p.m. on Labor Day), Located in the Agriculture
Horticulture Building
Crop art is made from Minnesota-grown seeds, stems and other plant parts on
supporting backgrounds with or without the use of paints and dyes. This year
marks the 50th anniversary of crop art. For more information on anniversary
celebrations, see the “What’s New!” section of this media kit. Linda Paulson,
the daughter of the late State Fair Hall of Fame crop artist Lillian Colton, will
demonstrate crop art creations.
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THE DIRT
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (8 p.m. on Labor Day), Located on the northeast side of
the Agriculture Horticulture Building
Master gardeners, florists and other experts team up to offer informative
demonstrations and question-and-answer sessions at various times each day
of the fair. Demonstrations begin daily at 10 a.m. Refer to the Fun Finder or
daily schedules for a complete presentation and demonstration schedule.
MINNESOTA CRAFT BREWERS GUILD
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (8 p.m. on Labor Day), Located in the west hall of the
Agriculture Horticulture Building
The Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild returns to the Agriculture Horticulture
Building to present “Land of 10,000 Beers,” an educational, interactive and
enjoyable exhibit that celebrates Minnesota’s fast-growing craft beer industry.
The Guild will offer flights of craft beer from more than 50 Minnesota
breweries and brewpubs; educational stations showcasing the history,
agriculture and industry that supports Minnesota craft beer; and daily stage
programs that showcase what everyone should know about Minnesota craft
beer, the Guild and its members. Guests can stop by to enjoy Minnesota’s craft
beer and learn about the great craft beer revolution taking place in Minnesota.
Agrilympics
Celebrities compete in agricultural contests. All contests (unless otherwise
noted) are held on the stage located outside the northwest end of the Cattle
Barn. Land O’Lakes is the official partner of Agrilympics. Schedule includes:
• Friday, Aug. 28
2:30 p.m.:
• Tuesday, Sept. 1
12:20 p.m.:
22nd Annual Celebrity Milking Contest presented by
Minnesota Farmers Union - Celebrities vie for the title of
“Expert Cowhand” by hand milking a cow.
14th Annual Celebrity Farm Animal Calling Contest
presented by First District Association - Celebrities vie
for the title of Champion “Animal Caller.”
• Wednesday, Sept. 2
1 p.m.:
16th Annual Wool Pack-O-Rama - Wool Packing
Contest presented by Minnesota Lamb & Wool
Producers - Celebrities vie to be the champion wool
packer by packing wool into a wool bag as quickly as they
can. (Located at the Baa Booth, inside the Sheep Barn)
• Thursday, Sept. 3
12:20 p.m.:
• Friday, Sept. 4
2:30 p.m.:
14th Annual Celebrity Butter Carving Contest - Celebrities
will compete to see who is the best butter sculptor
by sculpting a one-pound block of butter into a
masterpiece.
16th Annual Agrilympics Medal Ceremony - Gold, silver
and bronze medals are awarded at the conclusion of the
week-long Agrilympics competition.
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Do you have a media celebrity interested in participating in this year’s
Agrilympics? If so, contact Doris Mold at (612) 414-7574 or
doris@moobooth.org.
AgStar Arena
Located on the north side of Judson Avenue west of the Horse Barn
AgStar Arena is home to horse, cattle, llama, goat and sheep competitions
among 4-H, FFA and open-class exhibitors. AgStar Arena was built in
2012; construction was supported by contributions to the Minnesota State
Fair Foundation.
Aisle of Breeds
9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (5 p.m. on Labor Day), Located in the center aisle of the
Horse Barn
A myriad of horse breeds are showcased throughout the 12 days of the State
Fair. Fair guests can stop by and meet horses and their owners, get answers to
equine questions and learn about horseback riding. Breeds include: Peruvian,
Norwegian Fjord, Paso Fino, Cleveland Bay, Pintabian, Pinto, Appaloosa,
Percheron, Quarter Horse, American Bashkir Curly, Clydesdale, Paint, Rocky
Mountain Saddlehorse, Standardbred and more.
Animal Vocabulary & Figures
• Pig
Mother: Sow
Father: Boar
Baby: Piglet
Number of piglets born at one time: 8 to 12
Gestation period: 114 days
• Chicken
Mother: Hen
Father: Rooster
Baby: Chick
Number of eggs at one time: 12 to 15
Incubation period: 21 days
• Cattle
Mother: Cow
Father: Bull
Baby: Calf
Number of calves born at one time: 1 to 2
Gestation period: 283 days
• Sheep
Mother: Ewe
Father: Ram
Baby: Lamb
Number of lambs born at one time: 1 to 3
Gestation period: 152 days
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Baa, Moo & Oink Booths
BAA BOOTH
Located near the south entrance of the Sheep Barn on the north side of
Judson Avenue between Liggett and Clough streets
The Baa Booth is an educational exhibit featuring sheep displays and hands-on
activities. The Baa Booth is open the first eight days of the fair.
Aug. 27–28: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Aug. 29: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Aug. 30: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
(Note: Baa Booth and Sheep Barn close at
3 p.m. for Livestock Arrival & Departure.)
Aug. 31–Sept. 2: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sept. 3: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
(Note: Baa Booth closes at 2 p.m. and
Sheep Barn closes at 5 p.m. for Livestock
Arrival & Departure.)
MOO BOOTH & MILKING PARLOR
Located in the Cattle Barn on the south side of Judson Avenue between
Stevens and Liggett streets
The Moo Booth is a family-friendly exhibit where guests can watch cows
being milked, take part in educational activities and learn about the care and
management of cattle.
Aug. 27–28: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Aug. 29: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Aug. 30: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
(Note: Moo Booth and Cattle Barn close at
3 p.m. for Livestock Arrival & Departure.)
Aug. 31–Sept. 2: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sept. 3: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
(Note: Moo Booth closes at 2 p.m. and
Cattle Barn closes at 5 p.m. for Livestock
Arrival & Departure.)
Sept. 4: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sept. 5–6: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sept. 7: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
(Note: Moo Booth closes at 3 p.m. and Cattle
Barn closes at 5 p.m. for Livestock Departure.)
LAND O LAKES® STAGE ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE
Located at the Moo Booth, outside the Cattle Barn on Judson Avenue
• Milking Demonstrations
Daily at 10 a.m., noon, 2, 4 & 6 p.m. (no 2 p.m. on Sept. 3 or 6 p.m. on Sept. 7)
• Hand Milking
Daily at 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.
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• Make It Better with Butter (daily butter carving contest)
Daily at 10 a.m.
• 4-H Livestock Demonstrations
At various times. See the Fun Finder or daily schedules.
• Talk to the Animals Show
Aug. 28, 29, 30 & Sept. 4, 5, 6, at 12:20 p.m.
Presented by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, fair visitors learn
about, see and meet farm animals.
• Milk Moo-stache Contest
Saturday, Aug. 29 at 2:30 p.m.
Prizes are awarded to the person in each of three age categories for the
best milk mustache.
• Cottage Cheese & Yogurt Eating Contest
Friday, Sept. 4 at 10:30 a.m.
• Butter Carve-O-Rama
Friday, Sept. 4 at 4:30 p.m.
Butter carving contest that awards prizes to the best carving in each of
three age categories.
• Milk Chug-A-Lug Contest
Saturday, Sept. 5 at 2:30 p.m.
Prizes are awarded to the top milk drinkers in each of three age categories.
• Great Minnesota Moo-Off
Sunday, Sept. 6 at 2:30 p.m.
Prizes are awarded to the best moo-er in each of three age categories.
OINK BOOTH
Located in the east end of the Swine Barn off Stevens Street
Presented by the Minnesota Pork Board, the Oink Booth is an educational
exhibit where visitors can see a sow and piglets up close, test their knowledge
of the swine industry and sport free pig ear headbands.
Aug. 27–28: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Aug. 29: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Aug. 30: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Note: Oink Booth and Swine Barn close at
3 p.m. for Livestock Arrival & Departure.)
Aug. 31–Sept. 2: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sept. 3: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Note: Oink Booth closes at 2 p.m. and
Swine Barn closes at 5 p.m. for Livestock
Arrival & Departure.)
Sept. 4: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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Sept. 5–6: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sept. 7: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
(Note: Oink Booth closes at 3 p.m. and Swine
Barn closes at 5 p.m. for Livestock Departure.)
CHS Miracle of Birth Center
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (3 p.m. on Labor Day), Located on the south side of
Judson Avenue between Clough and Nelson streets
The CHS Miracle of Birth Center debuted at the fair in 2001 and moved to its
current location in 2006. This agricultural education exhibit is the birthplace
of nearly 200 animals, including calves, lambs and piglets during the fair’s
12-day run.
CHRISTENSEN FARMS STAGE SCHEDULE
Presented by MLBA and the MN Farm Bureau Foundation
Located outside the CHS Miracle of Birth Center
The Christensen Farms Stage features the fun, the educational and the zany
daily with Thank a Farmer Magic Show and performances by students in FFA
talent shows. Don’t miss a sheep shearing demonstration on Saturday, Sept. 5
at 2 p.m. Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for a complete schedule.
NURSERY OF KNOWLEDGE
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (3 p.m. on Labor Day), Located in the northwest corner of
the CHS Miracle of Birth Center
This area features agricultural education information presented by volunteer
veterinarians and University of Minnesota veterinary students. At Nursery
of Knowledge: Presentations on urban chicken farming, raising goats and
aquaponics. New this year: Poultry specialist Dr. Evan Van Beusekom will share
his extensive knowledge in poultry health, especially regarding the recent avian
influenza outbreak and how it has affected the poultry industry in Minnesota.
Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for a complete schedule.
Creative Activities
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located in the Creative Activities Building
The Creative Activities department presents an annual exhibition of the
finest needlework, handcrafts, baking and canning that Minnesota has to
offer. Participation is limited to Minnesota residents. In 2014, more than
2,000 participants exhibited more than 7,500 items (more than 2,800 in
baking and special contests alone). Creative Activities also includes a kitchen
and general demonstration area with presentations or live judging occurring
every day of the fair. The center display case for the 2015 State Fair features
the work of Minnesota award-winning modern furniture makers and designers.
Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for complete Creative Activities
Demonstration Kitchen and Area schedules.
Education Building and K-12 Competitions
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located on the east side of Cosgrove Street between
Wright and Dan Patch avenues
The Education Building showcases a variety of educational exhibitors, as
well as the K-12 Competition. Formerly the education department, the K-12
Competition presents an annual exhibition of the work of Minnesota students
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in kindergarten through grade 12. Examples of displays include drawings,
paintings, sewing, reports and creative writing, photography, woodwork
and more.
ROBOT DEMONSTRATIONS
Daily at 10 a.m., noon & 3 p.m., Located in the Education Building
Each day of the fair, robotics teams demonstrate how their constructed robots
work. Watch as the teams navigate through various tasks that FIRST (For
Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition
set up to showcase the skills and inner-workings of their robots. Teams may
choose audience members to “drive” the robots for a hands-on experience.
Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for the demonstration schedule.
EquiMania!™
9 a.m. to 7 p.m., (5 p.m. on Labor Day), Located in the Horse Barn
This comprehensive horse exhibit features full-size skeletons and anatomy
models, dental tools, tail-braiding and leg-wrapping activities, an 80-foot-long
digestive tract, and stations detailing horse behavior, rider safety, careers
and more. Presentations on topics such as farrier work, massage therapy and
equine chiropractic will take place Sept. 1-6. This free interactive education
center for horse enthusiasts of all ages is presented by the Minnesota State
Fair and Equine Guelph, the horse owners’ center at the University of Guelph,
Ontario, Canada. Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for a complete
presentation schedule.
Fine Arts Center and Exhibition
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located on the southeast corner of Randall Avenue and
Cosgrove Street
The Fine Arts department presents an annual exhibition that is the result of
a juried competition. Participation is open to all living residents of Minnesota,
and each may submit one work for consideration. Only those works selected by
the jurors are displayed in the Fine Arts Center during the State Fair. In 2014,
a total of 2,107 pieces were submitted, and 325 works were accepted. The
Minnesota State Fair’s Fine Arts Exhibition is the state’s largest juried art show.
Winning pieces are displayed every day of the fair in the Fine Arts Center.
Select artwork will be sold at the Fine Arts Center with 20 percent of the
proceeds benefiting State Fair arts programs through the Minnesota State Fair
Foundation 501(c)(3).
STUDIO: HERE
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located in the Fine Arts Center
Each day of the fair, a practicing Minnesota artist will create artwork and have
opportunities to interact with fair guests. This special exhibition provides a
window into the working artist’s world and an up-close look at the ‘nuts-andbolts’ of how an art object is created. The participating artists work in a variety
of 2D and 3D media and include: Cindy Koopman (printmaker), Greg Graham
(painter), Moira Bateman (mixed media sculpter), Todd Bridigum (drawer/
printmaker), Yudong Shen (watercolor artist), Patrick Kemal Pryor (painter),
Leslie Barlow (painter), Miranda Brandon (photographer), Eric William Carroll
(photographer), Jenn Ackerman (photographer), Matt Semke (multimedia
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process artist) and Kimberlee Joy Roth (ceramicist/slip-caster). Refer to the
Fun Finder or daily schedules for the artist schedule.
BE A FINE ARTS DETECTIVE
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located in the Fine Arts Center
Participants use clues and observation skills as Fine Arts detectives to find
specific pieces throughout the exhibition. Fair guests earn a ribbon for finding
all the pieces.
Hop, Flop and Sniff
Located in the Poultry Barn, south wall
Visitors can visit the rabbit exhibit and learn to distinguish the variations of
sizes, shapes, fur types, colors, tails and ears. A sampling of rabbit breeds will
be exhibited throughout all 12 days of the State Fair. Refer to the Fun Finder
or daily schedules for exhibit hours.
Kemps Little Farm Hands
Sponsored by Kemps, Cub Foods, John Deere Company, Cargill
and Minnesota Corn Growers Association
8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Located on the southwest corner of Lee Avenue and
Cooper Street
Little Farm Hands is a free, hands-on agricultural education exhibit that walks
children through the agricultural process from farm to grocery store. Farm
hands, adorned with work aprons, help with farm chores, collect goods to
sell at the farmers market and then spend their earnings at the grocery store.
Interview contacts: Michelle Butler at (651) 288-4480 or the Media Relations
Hotline at (651) 288-4321. See the brochure at mnstatefair.org/general_info/
brochure_rack.html.
SEED SURVIVOR
8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Located in Little Farm Hands Exhibit Building
Seed Survivor is an interactive exhibit that encourages children to understand
the elements plants need to grow. The display features multimedia and
virtual reality games, an insect video scope, planting station, talking walls and
more. Seed Survivor is designed to teach youth that plants need water, light,
healthy soil and nutrients to survive. Through virtual simulation, Journey 2050,
which is part of the Seed Survivor exhibit, has fair visitors interact with farm
families in Kenya, India and Canada, and discover how our decisions impact the
environment, economy and the community.
Livestock Arrival & Departure
Livestock Arrival & Departure occurs in all livestock areas (except the
Horse Barn and CHS Miracle of Birth Center) on Sunday, Aug. 30, Thursday,
Sept. 3 and Labor Day, Sept. 7. During this time, barns and areas of the
livestock facilities close early to prepare for different breeds and classes of
animals to move into the barns. Facilities will close at 3 p.m. on Sunday,
Aug. 30; and 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 3 and Labor Day, Sept. 7. Refer to the
Fun Finder or daily schedules for animal display dates, times and locations.
Livestock Judging Locations
Livestock competition takes place in several barns, the Exercise Ring, AgStar
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Arena and the Warner Coliseum. Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for
the complete livestock judging schedule.
The following descriptions will make judging areas easier to find:
EXERCISE RING: Located south of the Warner Coliseum.
AGSTAR ARENA: Located on the north side of Judson Avenue, just west of
the Horse Barn.
POULTRY BARN: Judging takes place on the east side of the Sheep &
Poultry Barn.
SHEEP BARN: Judging takes place on the west side of the Sheep & Poultry
Barn. This barn is labeled “Goat” during the last four days of the fair.
SWINE BARN: There are two rings in the Swine Barn, located roughly in the
center of the building.
WARNER COLISEUM: Main entrance on the south side of Judson Avenue
between Liggett and Clough streets, directly across from the Sheep
& Poultry Barn.
Minnesota State Fair Horse Show
One of the premier horse expositions in the Upper Midwest, the Minnesota
State Fair Horse Show features many competitions, breeds and demonstrations
– all free with fair admission. The show is a 12-day multi-breed event consisting
of performance, pleasure and stock horses, including a 2-day cutting horse
event. Bull riding takes over the Warner Coliseum at 3 & 6 p.m. on Labor Day,
Sept. 7. Check out the complete Horse Show schedule at mnstatefair.org/
competition/horses.html or refer to the Fun Finder and daily schedules.
Poultry Exhibition Information
The Minnesota State Fair has canceled its poultry shows for the 2015 Great
Minnesota Get-Together. The cancellations are in response to a directive issued
by the Minnesota Board of Animal Health due to the H5N2 highly-pathogenic
avian influenza (HPAI). The Poultry Barn will feature interactive displays and
presentations about Minnesota’s poultry industry and its huge contribution
to the state’s economy. For more information about what’s happening in the
Poultry Barn this year, see the “What’s New!” section of this media kit.
What do judges look for?
Beef Cattle
Beef cattle are evaluated on the basis of meat production. Importance is placed
on the animal’s size for its age and growth potential. Desired characteristics
are ample substance of bone, length of leg and body, evidence of muscling in
shoulder, rump, back and thigh, good skeletal conformation, sound feet, legs
with no deformities, and muscular and athletic bodies.
Dairy Cattle
Dairy cattle are judged using four major categories: 1) general appearance,
including femininity, harmonious correlation of parts, attractive carriage and
graceful walk; 2) dairy character emphasizing long, flat, angular bones and
smooth, flat muscles without extra fat; 3) body capacity, which must appear
large in proportion to the size of the animal and provide ample digestive
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capacity, strength and vigor; and 4) mammary system, including a strongly
attached, well-carried udder, which can sustain heavy production and a long
period of usefulness.
Sheep
Sheep are evaluated on the basis of breed type with the emphasis on such
traits as color of face, ears and legs, size and carriage of ears, and wool
covering face and legs. Their meat productivity is judged by size, overall
dimension, scale and frame, weight for age and muscle content. Wool
productivity is evaluated by the fineness, uniformity, freedom from debris
and length of hair shaft.
Swine
Swine are evaluated by their structural and skeletal conformation, strength
through the back, depth of chest, lung capacity, width in back and rump
represented by muscle (not fat), muscle structure, length of legs and body
and smoothness of belly.
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Corporate Profile
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CORPORATE INFORMATION
The Minnesota State Fair is defined by law as a public corporation and a
quasi-state agency. The fair receives no financial appropriations of any kind
from any government agency and is completely financially self-supporting.
The fair is governed by the Minnesota State Agricultural Society, which is
charged exclusively with governance of the State Fair. Society delegates
represent all 87 county fairs in Minnesota, along with delegates from 43
regional and statewide agricultural groups. At its annual meeting each
January, this group of delegates elects a 10-member board of managers
to set policy and provide oversight for the fair. Nine members represent
the Agricultural Society’s nine regional districts, and the 10th member (the
president) serves at large.
The society has remained dedicated to its original purpose of promoting
Minnesota agriculture since its inception in 1854, four years before Minnesota
became a state.
In addition to financing the annual production of the fair, the State Agricultural
Society is responsible for all capital work and maintenance of the 320-acre
fairgrounds, which is classified as state property. Fairgrounds facilities and
infrastructure are conservatively valued at more than $230 million. In a typical
year, the Agricultural Society will invest between $6 million and $7 million in
improvements and maintenance. The state invests nothing. The fair has 78
year-round full-time staff members. During the summer, about 400 seasonal
staff are added to complete fair preparations. There are close to 2,700
fair-time staff members.
MINNESOTA STATE FAIR FOUNDATION
Offices located year-round at the J.V. Bailey House. Hours during the
State Fair are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
In 2002, the State Fair created the Minnesota State Fair Foundation, a
501(c)(3) nonprofit, to help preserve and improve State Fair buildings,
grounds and educational programs. Led by a 20-member Board of Directors,
the Foundation is the State Fair’s fundraising partner that exclusively grants
funds for capital and program improvements in agriculture, art, environment,
history and education.
The Foundation has developed major funds for the Lee & Rose Warner
Coliseum, the CHS Miracle of Birth/FFA Center, Moo Booth, AgStar Arena
and West End Market, including the new State Fair History & Heritage Center.
Foundation donors have helped fund preservation of the J.V. Bailey House, the
Grandstand Marquee and livestock barns; beautification of the fairgrounds with
trees, gardens, public art, vines and recognition benches; and programs such as
Giant Sing Along, Alphabet Forest, the History Walking Tour and Archives, Arts
A’Fair and Share Your State Fair Story.
The Foundation garners awareness year-round through Friends of the
Fair, providing many ways to contribute and volunteer for the Foundation.
For interviews and information pertaining to the Minnesota State Fair
Foundation, please contact Jesse Poppe at (651) 288-4325 or
jesse.poppe@msffoundation.org.
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FRIENDS OF THE FAIR MEMBERSHIPS
Friends of the Fair is an annual giving program, offering exclusive membership
benefits such as gate tickets, access to preferred seating for Grandstand
shows, commemorative bricks, benches and more. Contributions support the
Foundation’s mission to support State Fair buildings, grounds and educational
programs. As a special thank you, new and renewing Friends of the Fair who
stop by the Foundation offices at the J.V. Bailey House during their State
Fair visit will receive a 2016 State Fair wall calendar filled with State Fair
photographs (while supplies last). Learn more about Friends of the Fair and
the Foundation at msffoundation.org/contribute/friends-of-fair.
RECYCLING & COMPOSTING INFORMATION
The Minnesota State Fair has been recycling since the mid-1980s. Currently,
the fair recycles paper, glass, metal, fluorescent bulbs, vehicle and appliance
batteries, antifreeze, beverage containers, automotive oil, tires, grease, meat
scraps, manure, construction material, plastic shrink wrap, wood waste,
paint, food waste, cardboard, concrete, oil filters, plastic bottles, laser toner
cartridges and more.
Fair Recycling Facts:
• Grease from the fair is recycled and turned into biodiesel fuel.
• The fair’s recycled meat scraps go through a rendering process that
separates the protein and fat. The protein is then used as an ingredient in
animal feed. Fat later goes into cosmetics and soap.
• 60 tons of food waste were collected during the 2014 fair and recycled.
• More than 400 bottle-recycling receptacles were placed around the
fairgrounds in 2014.
• 34 tons of glass, plastic and aluminum were collected and recycled during
last year’s fair.
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Entertainment
FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR
Sponsored by Mazda
Fireworks follow each evening’s Grandstand show (weather permitting).
Times vary, but fireworks shows generally start between 10 and 11 p.m.
FREE ENTERTAINMENT STAGES
For complete genre and biographical information on entertainers,
visit mnstatefair.org/entertainment/FE_all_stages_2015.html.
For interview and appearance arrangements with free stage artists,
please contact the marketing & communications department at
media@mnstatefair.org or (651) 288-4321.
Leinie Lodge Bandshell
Sponsored by Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Co.
Located on the west side of Cosgrove Street, north of the Space Tower
• AUG. 27 – SEPT. 7
The Willis Clan (country, Celtic dance, Irish, Americana, swing): 10:30
& 11:45 a.m. (no 10:30 a.m. performance on Sept. 3)
• AUG. 27 – SEPT. 5
Amateur Talent Contest Semifinals (variety, family): 6 p.m.
• AUG. 27 & 28
Tonic Sol-fa (vocal, pop, a cappella): 1 & 2:30 p.m.
Caitlyn Smith (country, pop, singer-songwriter): 3:30 & 4:45 p.m.
• AUG. 29 & 30
Steve Meisner (polka, traditional, accordion): 1 & 2:30 p.m.
Pine Leaf Boys (Cajun, Zydeco, Louisiana): 3:30 & 4:45 p.m.
• AUG. 31 & SEPT. 1
The 34th Infantry Division “Red Bull” Band (military band, patriotic, pop):
1 & 2:30 p.m.
The Wright Brothers (country, vocal): 3:30 & 4:45 p.m.
• SEPT. 2 & 3
Outstanding Senior Citizens Awards: 10:30 a.m. (Sept. 3 only)
Jeff Dayton (country, rock): 1 & 2:30 p.m.
Old Dominion (modern country, rock): 3:30 & 4:45 p.m.
• SEPT. 4 & 5
Kenny Neal (blues, R&B): 1 & 2:30 p.m.
Dallas Smith (country, rock): 3:30 & 4:45 p.m.
• SEPT. 6 & 7
Nora Jane Struthers & The Party Line (country, Americana,
singer-songwriter): 1 & 2:30 p.m.
The Main Squeeze (funk, R&B, New Orleans): 3:30 & 4:45 p.m.
C. Willi Myles (comedy): 6 p.m.
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Bandshell Tonight!
Sponsored by Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Co.
Located on the west side of Cosgrove Street, north of the Space Tower
All shows begin at 8:30 p.m.
• AUG. 27 & 28
Gaelic Storm (Irish, Celtic, traditional)
• AUG. 29 & 30
Terri Clark (traditional country)
• AUG. 31 & SEPT. 1
Andy Grammer (pop, rock, vocal)
• SEPT. 2 & 3
Lou Gramm “The Voice of Foreigner” (classic rock)
• SEPT. 4 & 5
Reel Big Fish (punk, pop, ska, horns)
• SEPT. 6 & 7
Home Free (vocal, pop, a cappella)
Community Stage (formerly the Education Stage)
Located on the east side of Cosgrove Street between Wright and
Dan Patch avenues, outside the Education Building
• THURSDAY, AUG. 27
Young Fiddlers Association of Minnesota: 10 & 11 a.m., noon
ABC Square Dancing: 1 p.m.
KVSC Radio FM 88.1: broadcasting 3:30-7 p.m.
• FRIDAY, AUG. 28
Polka Time Dancers: 10 & 11 a.m., noon
ABC Square Dancing: 1 & 3:30 p.m.
ComMUSICation: 4:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
• SATURDAY, AUG. 29
ClogJam: 10 & 11 a.m., noon
ABC Square Dancing: 1 & 3:30 p.m.
Zumba® Fitness: 4:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
• SUNDAY, AUG. 30
TC Line Dance Evolution: 10 & 11 a.m., noon
ABC Square Dancing: 1 & 3:30 p.m.
Zumba® Fitness: 4:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
• MONDAY, AUG. 31
Royal Sil-O-Ets Dancers: 10 & 11 a.m., noon
ABC Square Dancing: 1 & 3:30 p.m.
The Methodaires: 4:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
• TUESDAY, SEPT. 1
Pleasant Valley Cloggers: 10 & 11 a.m., noon
ABC Square Dancing: 1 & 3:30 p.m.
Wild Rose Cloggers: 4:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
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• WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 2
West Coast Swing Dancers: 10 & 11 a.m., noon, 4:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
ABC Square Dancing: 1 & 3:30 p.m.
• THURSDAY, SEPT. 3
Tango Society of Minnesota: 10 & 11 a.m., noon
ABC Square Dancing: 1 & 3:30 p.m.
The Show’d Up Band: 4:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
• FRIDAY, SEPT. 4
Krewe de Walleye: 10 & 11 a.m., noon
ABC Square Dancing: 1 & 3:30 p.m.
Rhythm & Swing: 4:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
• SATURDAY, SEPT. 5
River City Cloggers: 10 & 11 a.m., noon
ABC Square Dancing: 1 & 3:30 p.m.
West Coast Swing Dancers: 4:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
• SUNDAY, SEPT. 6
Wild Rose Cloggers: 10 & 11 a.m., noon
ABC Square Dancing: 1 & 3:30 p.m.
Rhythm & Swing: 4:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
• MONDAY, SEPT. 7
Tango Society of Minnesota: 10 & 11 a.m., noon
ABC Square Dancing: 1 & 3:30 p.m.
Tapestry Folk Dance: 4:30, 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
Family Fair Stage at Baldwin Park
Sponsored by Green Mill Restaurant
Located between Randall and Wright avenues and Cooper and
Cosgrove streets
• AUG. 27 – SEPT. 4
Minnesota State Fair County Fair Talent Contest Semifinals
(variety, family): 7 p.m.
• AUG. 27 & 28
Justin Roberts with Liam Davis (family, music): 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 3 p.m.
Sean Emery (comedy & juggling): 12:30 & 5 p.m.
(Sean Emery 12:30 p.m. performances will be ASL interpreted)
Break-Shop Bump’n (acrobatics, breakdance): 1:30, 4 & 6 p.m.
• AUG. 29 & 30
Magician Star Michaelina (magic, comedy): 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 3 p.m.
Sean Emery (comedy & juggling): 12:30 & 5 p.m.
(Sean Emery 12:30 p.m. performances will be ASL interpreted)
Break-Shop Bump’n (acrobatics, breakdance): 1:30, 4 & 6 p.m.
• AUG. 31 & SEPT. 1
Kenny Ahern (comedy, family): 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 3 p.m.
Sean Emery (comedy & juggling): 12:30 & 5 p.m.
(Sean Emery 12:30 p.m. performances will be ASL interpreted)
Break-Shop Bump’n (acrobatics, breakdance): 1:30, 4 & 6 p.m.
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• SEPT. 2 & 3
Alex Clark (comedy, variety): 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 3 p.m.
Sean Emery (comedy & juggling): 12:30 & 5 p.m.
(Sean Emery 12:30 p.m. performances will be ASL interpreted)
Break-Shop Bump’n (acrobatics, breakdance): 1:30, 4 & 6 p.m.
• SEPT. 4 & 5
Duke Otherwise (family, music): 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 3 p.m.
Sean Emery (comedy & juggling): 12:30 & 5 p.m.
(Sean Emery 12:30 p.m. performances will be ASL interpreted)
Break-Shop Bump’n (acrobatics, breakdance): 1:30, 4 & 6 p.m.
Minnesota State Fair County Fair Talent Contest Finals (variety, family):
7 p.m. (Sept. 5 only)
• SEPT. 6 & 7
Greg Frisbee (comedy, family): 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 3 p.m.
Sean Emery (comedy & juggling): 12:30 & 5 p.m.
(Sean Emery 12:30 p.m. performances will be ASL interpreted)
Break-Shop Bump’n (acrobatics, breakdance): 1:30, 4, 5:30 & 7 p.m.
Festival of Nations Demonstration Stage
Sponsored by International Institute of Minnesota
Located at the International Bazaar
Daily demonstrations and shows are at noon, 1:30, 3 & 4:30 p.m.
• AUG. 27
Afro-Peruvian Festejo Dancers
• AUG. 28
Lebanese Belly Dancers
• AUG. 29
Armenian Dance Ensemble of MN
• AUG. 30
Sansei Yonsei Kai
• AUG. 31
Fin Hall Band
• SEPT. 1
Paulino Brener - Storyteller
• SEPT. 2
Cultural Society of Filipino-Americans Dance Troupe
• SEPT. 3
Fin Hall Band
• SEPT. 4
Palbasha Siddique
• SEPT. 5
Karen Culture Organization of MN Dancers
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• SEPT. 6
O’Shea Irish Dancers
• SEPT. 7
Al-Bahira Dance Theatre
The Garden
Sponsored by Treasure Island Resort & Casino
Located on the southeast corner of Dan Patch Avenue and
Underwood Street
Karaoke by Mia Dorr’s Premier Entertainment from noon to 5 p.m.; River Rats
Dueling Pianos nightly at 6:30, 7:30, 8:30 & 9:30 p.m.
International Bazaar Stage
Sponsored by Summit Brewing Co.
Located at the International Bazaar
• AUG. 27 & 28
Atahualpa (world, flute, Andean, Ecuador): 10:45 a.m., noon, 1:15 p.m.
The Pan-handlers Steel Drum Band (calypso, reggae, Caribbean): 3:15,
4:30 & 5:45 p.m.
• AUG. 29 & 30
Dirty Shorts Brass Band (jazz, New Orleans, blues, swing): 10:45 a.m.,
noon, 1:15 p.m.
The Good, the Bad and the Funky (R&B, funk, pop): 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m.
• AUG. 31 & SEPT. 1
The Bavarian Musikmeisters (German folk music, polka): 10:45 a.m.,
noon, 1:15 p.m.
Mollie B from RFD-TV (polka, traditional): 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m.
• SEPT. 2 & 3
The Robert Everest Expedition (world, Latin, jazz): 10:45 a.m., noon, 1:15 p.m.
Blindado Norteño (Tex-Mex, accordion, Norteño, world): 3:15, 4:30 &
5:45 p.m.
• SEPT. 4 & 5
Dao Lan Asian Dance Studio (Hmong folk dance troupe): 10:45 a.m.,
noon, 1:15 p.m.
Native Pride Dancers (Native American folk dance): 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m.
• SEPT. 6 & 7
Chinelos San Pablo Apostol (Mexican folk dance troupe): 10:45 a.m.,
noon, 1:15 p.m.
Tom Mason and the Blue Buccaneers (sea shanties, sing along, pirate
theme): 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m.
Bazaar After Dark
Sponsored by Summit Brewing Co.
Located at the International Bazaar
Shows are at 7:30 & 8:45 p.m.
• AUG. 27 & 28
Davina & The Vagabonds (jazz, blues, swing)
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• AUG. 29 & 30
UniverSoul (R&B, funk, soul)
• AUG. 31 & SEPT. 1
Sonny Knight & The Lakers (R&B, soul, horns)
• SEPT. 2 & 3
Lost Highway (modern country)
• SEPT. 4 & 5
Innocent Reggae Band (reggae, Caribbean)
• SEPT. 6 & 7
Malamanya (jazz, Latin, Cuban)
Ramberg Senior Center Stage
Sponsored by Cal Spas
Located on the west side of Underwood Street between Carnes and
Judson avenues across from the Agriculture Horticulture Building
• AUG. 27 & 28
The Mellow Fellows (vocal, old-time, choir): 10:30 & 11:45 a.m., 1 p.m. on
Aug. 27; 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on Aug. 28
The Parisota Hot Club (jazz, swing, acoustic): 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on
Aug. 27; 10:30 & 11:45 a.m., 1 p.m. on Aug. 28
• AUG. 29 & 30
The Marv Nissel Band (traditional polka): 10:30 & 11:45 a.m., 1 p.m. on Aug. 29;
3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on Aug. 30
Big Bob Scoggin (pop, rock, one-man band): 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on Aug. 29;
10:30 & 11:45 a.m., 1 p.m. on Aug. 30
• AUG. 31 & SEPT. 1
The Banjo Boy Variety Band (pop, sing along, old-time): 10:30 & 11:45 a.m.,
1 p.m. on Aug. 31; 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on Sept. 1
The Irish Brigade (Irish, Celtic, folk): 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on Aug. 31; 10:30 &
11:45 a.m., 1 p.m. on Sept. 1
• SEPT. 2 & 3
Jim Berner’s Music Legends (vocal, pop, storytelling): 10:30 & 11:45 a.m.,
1 p.m. on Sept. 2; 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on Sept. 3
The River Breeze Band (pop, old-time): 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on Sept. 2;
10:30 & 11:45 a.m., 1 p.m. on Sept. 3
• SEPT. 4 & 5
The Squires Band (country, old-time): 10:30 & 11:45 a.m., 1 p.m. on Sept. 4;
3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on Sept. 5
The Flemming Fold (bluegrass, folk, Americana): 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on
Sept. 4; 10:30 & 11:45 a.m., 1 p.m. on Sept. 5
• SEPT. 6 & 7
Hot Commodity Quartet (pop, doo-wop, a cappella): 10:30 & 11:45 a.m.,
1 p.m. on Sept. 6; 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on Sept. 7
The Jim Shannon Trio (jazz, old-time, piano): 3:15, 4:30 & 5:45 p.m. on
Sept. 6; 10:30 & 11:45 a.m., 1 p.m. on Sept. 7
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Schell’s Stage at Schilling Amphitheater
Sponsored by August Schell Brewing Co.
Located at West End Market, west side
• AUG. 27 – SEPT. 7
MNHS presents History On-A-Schtick (history, narrative): 9:30 a.m.
(ASL interpreted)
• AUG. 27 & 28
Reina del Cid (country, Americana, singer-songwriter): 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m.
The Good Intentions (Americana, bluegrass): 2:30, 3:30 & 4:30 p.m.
Tina & Lena (comedy, music): 6 p.m.
• AUG. 29 & 30
Janie Miller Band (pop, country, vocal): 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m.
The Minnesota State Fiddle Contest (instrumental fiddle, country, folk,
bluegrass): 2:30-5:30 p.m.
Steve Russell (comedy): 6 p.m.
• AUG. 31 & SEPT. 1
U.S. Navy Band Country Current (bluegrass, country, acoustic): 11 a.m.,
noon, 1 p.m.
The Moron Brothers (bluegrass, comedy, Americana): 2:30, 3:30 & 4:30 p.m.
50 Year Awards (honoring individuals with 50 years of fair participation):
5:30 p.m. (Aug. 31 only)
Lizzy – The Dream Girl (hypnotist, comedy): 6 p.m.
• SEPT. 2 & 3
Kris and the Riverbend Dutchmen (traditional polka): 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m.
The Barbary Coast Dixieland Showband (instrumental fiddle, country, folk,
bluegrass): 2:30, 3:30 & 4:30 p.m.
Jared Sherlock (magic, illusion, comedy): 6 p.m.
• SEPT. 4 & 5
Mark Kreitzer Band (bluegrass, country, singer-songwriter): 11 a.m.,
noon, 1 p.m.
Minnesota Bluegrass Duet Championships (acoustic guitar, instrumental,
country, folk, bluegrass): 2:30-5:30 p.m.
Divas Through the Decades (pop, vocal): 6 p.m.
• SEPT. 6 & 7
The Holy Rocka Rollaz (rockabilly, oldies, rock ‘n’ roll): 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m.
The Best Westerns (traditional country, western swing, jazz): 2:30, 3:30
& 4:30 p.m.
Mary Mack (comedy, regional humor): 6 p.m.
West End at Sunset
Sponsored by August Schell Brewing Co.
Located at the Schell’s Stage at Schilling Amphitheater
Shows are from 8-9:30 p.m.
• AUG. 27 & 28
Charlie Parr (folk, singer-songwriter, Americana, slide guitar)
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• AUG. 29 & 30
Crankshaft and The Gear Grinders (rock, blues, singer-songwriter)
• AUG. 31 & SEPT. 1
Becky Buller (singer-songwriter, bluegrass, country)
• SEPT. 2 & 3
Haley Bonar (pop, rock, singer-songwriter)
• SEPT. 4 & 5
The Bel Airs (rock, blues, R&B)
• SEPT. 6 & 7
The Cactus Blossoms (traditional country, singer-songwriter)
FREE ENTERTAINMENT ON THE FAIRGROUNDS
Alphabet Forest
9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Located at Baldwin Park
Fair guests are invited to step inside the Alphabet Forest to discover alphabet
activities for all ages. Guests can meet a different author each day at the
Blue Ribbon Author Showcase from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., take pictures with Fair
Letters, create alphabet Ferris wheels, add Minnesota fair words to the Fair
Dictionary or play the Fabulous Fair Alphabet game. Designed by Minnesota
author and illustrator Debra Frasier, this vocabulary-building game invites
families to collect words they see, read, hear, feel or taste at the fair. Players
who complete a game card win a blue ribbon at the Alphabet Forest at Baldwin
Park. To see the author schedule or get a game card, visit an information booth
or mnstatefair.org/entertainment/fair_alphabet.html.
Activities are brought to you by the Minnesota State Fair Foundation,
MELSA Metro Public Libraries, The Literacy Champions of the Minneapolis
Rotary Clubs, Red Wagon Books, Winding Oak, Northwood Industries and
Debra Frasier.
Arts A’Fair
Located at the Education Building Courtyard and at West End Market
In celebration of performing arts in Minnesota, drumming, dance and theater
in pop-up performances throughout the fairgrounds will entertain fair visitors.
Arts A’Fair features performances by 12 local performance groups. New at the
fair for 2015 are Children’s Theatre Company and Ifrah Mansour. Fair guests
can stop by the Arts A’Fair space in the Education Building to learn more about
these groups. Arts A’Fair is supported by contributions made to the Minnesota
State Fair Foundation.
• AUG. 27-29
Green T Productions: 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 12:30 & 1:30 p.m. (Education
Building Courtyard)
Black Storytellers Alliance: 3, 4, 5 & 6 p.m. (Education Building Courtyard)
Stages Theatre Company: 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 12:30 & 1:30 p.m. (West
End Market)
Duniya Drum & Dance: 3, 4, 5 & 6 p.m. (West End Market)
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• AUG. 30-SEPT. 1
COLLIDE Theatrical Dance Company: 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 12:30 & 1:30 p.m.
(Education Building Courtyard)
Ifrah Mansour: 3, 4, 5 & 6 p.m. (Education Building Courtyard)
Open Eye Figure Theatre: 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 12:30 & 1:30 p.m. (West
End Market)
Duniya Drum & Dance: 3, 4, 5 & 6 p.m. (West End Market)
• SEPT. 2-4
Zorongo Flamenco: 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 12:30 & 1:30 p.m. (Education
Building Courtyard)
Children’s Theatre Company: 3, 4, 5 & 6 p.m. (Education Building Courtyard)
In the Heart of the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre: 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 12:30
& 1:30 p.m. (West End Market)
Theatre of Fools: 3, 4, 5 & 6 p.m. (West End Market)
• SEPT. 5-7
Green T Productions: 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 12:30 & 1:30 p.m. (Education
Building Courtyard)
Children’s Theatre Company: 3, 4, 5 & 6 p.m. (Education Building Courtyard)
Z Puppets Rosenschnoz: 10:30 & 11:30 a.m., 12:30 & 1:30 p.m. (West
End Market)
In the Heart of the Beast Puppet & Mask Theatre: 3, 4, 5 & 6 p.m.
(West End Market)
Daily Mall Parade
Sponsored by Twin Cities Hyundai Dealers
The State Fair Mall Parade begins at 2 p.m. daily. The parade features
the high school marching band competition, floats, animals and special
attractions. The parade route begins near the Haunted House, heads north
on Cosgrove Street, west on Randall Avenue and south on Underwood Street.
Parade units are announced at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell, as well as at the
east side of the Family Fair Stage at Baldwin Park, where it is ASL interpreted.
MARCHING BAND COMPETITION
Sponsored by McDonald’s
High school marching bands compete during the State Fair Mall Parade at
2 p.m. The following is a list of participating high school bands and their
performance dates (dates and bands are subject to change):
• THURSDAY, AUG. 27
Eden Prairie, United Marching Band, Robbinsdale Armstrong, Rosemount
• FRIDAY, AUG. 28
Burnsville, Cretin-Derham Hall, Irondale, Robbinsdale Cooper,
St. Croix Falls (WI)
• SATURDAY, AUG. 29
728 Cadets, Edina, Moorhead, Rockford, Onalaska (WI)
• SUNDAY, AUG. 30
Becker, Cotter, New Prague, Stewartville, Spring Valley (WI)
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• MONDAY, AUG. 31
South Washington County, Clear Lake (WI)
• TUESDAY, SEPT. 1
Maple Lake, Minnetonka, Simley
• WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 2
East Central & Willow River, North Lakes Academy, St. Peter, Winona
• THURSDAY, SEPT. 3
Anoka, Somerset (WI)
• FRIDAY, SEPT. 4
Champlin, Minneapolis Southwest, Waseca
• SATURDAY, SEPT. 5
Altoona (WI)
• SUNDAY, SEPT. 6
Special guest: University of Minnesota Marching Band
• MONDAY, SEPT. 7
No marching bands
Flippenout Extreme Trampoline Show
11 a.m, 1, 4 & 5:30 p.m. Sept. 2-7, Located at Expo Place north of
Murphy Avenue between Cooper and Cosgrove streets
Flippenout is a high-energy trampoline show featuring world-class athletes and
acrobats reaching heights of more than 25 feet.
Giant Sing Along
Presented by Bremer Bank
9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Located on the south side of Murphy Avenue between
Underwood and Cooper streets
A participatory public art installation created by Montreal-based artists
Mouna Andraos and Melissa Mongiat, the Giant Sing Along offers an
opportunity for fair guests to join together in a one-of-a-kind experience.
A field of microphones welcomes everyone to sing along to this year’s voted
hits—karaoke style. A large screen features the lyrics of modern and nostalgic
songs, and software helps everyone sing in unison. Now in its fifth year, the
Giant Sing Along is co-produced by the Minnesota State Fair and the Minnesota
State Fair Foundation.
Lasertainment’s Laser Hitz Show
9:15 p.m. nightly, Located outdoors at the intersection of Cosgrove Street and
Randall Avenue
High-powered aerial laser beams dance above fair guests while colorful images
light up a gigantic screen—all choreographed to hit music.
Mascot Appearances
Free photo opportunities and autograph sessions with State Fair mascots
Fairchild and Fairborne occur daily at Visitors Plaza at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. The
mascots also appear in the daily parade at 2 p.m.
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Math On-A-Stick
Located on the southwest corner of Randall Avenue and Cosgrove Street
at Baldwin Park
To learn more about this educational exhibit, please see the “What’s New!”
section of this media kit.
The North Woods
Sponsored by Cabela’s and Good Health Saunas
Located on the east side of Cooper Street between Lee and Randall
avenues, east of Little Farm Hands
• All-Star Stunt Dogs Splash daily at 11 a.m., 2 & 4:30 p.m.
Trick dog show, dock dogs, water jumping. (All 11 a.m. performances are
ASL interpreted.)
• Timberworks Lumberjack Show daily at noon, 3, 5:30 & 7 p.m.
Lumberjack sports.
Pianos on Parade
Located at Carousel Park
Pianos on Parade is a project that places “artistically transformed” pianos
around St. Paul to encourage everyone to spontaneously engage in art and
music with one another. During the 2015 Minnesota State Fair, visitors can stop
by and tickle the ivories or relish the talents of fellow fair guests as a distinctive
piano resides at Carousel Park for all to play and enjoy during the 12 days of the
State Fair.
Talent Contests
MINNESOTA STATE FAIR AMATEUR TALENT CONTEST
For 43 years, this contest has been a fair favorite. Up to 10,000 fans will attend
the finals at 7:30 p.m. in the Grandstand on Sunday, Sept. 6. Semifinals are
held nightly at 6 p.m. Aug. 27-Sept. 5 at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell Stage.
Semifinalists were selected from more than 400 acts that auditioned in late
July and early August in one of three divisions (open, teen and preteen) for a
chance to move on to the semifinal round held during the fair. One hundred
and twenty semifinalists then compete for a place among the performers in the
finals round. The final round of competition at the Grandstand will feature the
26 remaining contestants vying for cash prizes.
All amateur talent contest events are free with the purchase of a fair admission
ticket. For more information, please contact the entertainment department at
(651) 288-4395.
For a complete list of past amateur talent contest winners, view the “Amateur
Talent Contest Winners” PDF at mnstatefair.org/general_info/media.html.
MINNESOTA STATE FAIR COUNTY FAIR TALENT CONTEST
The Minnesota State Fair County Fair Talent Contest features winners from
county fair talent contests around the state. Semifinals are held nightly at
7 p.m. Aug. 27-Sept. 4 at the Family Fair Stage at Baldwin Park. Finals are
held at the Family Fair Stage on Saturday, Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. Participants who
finish first and second in each division (open, teen and preteen) in the Sept. 5
finals advance to the State Fair Amateur Talent Contest Finals at 7:30 p.m. on
Sunday, Sept. 6 at the Grandstand.
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The X-Zone
Located on the northwest corner of Murphy Avenue and Underwood Street
• 3rd Lair SkatePark (skateboard and BMX bike demonstrations):
Aug. 27–30: Noon, 1:30, 3, 4:30 & 6 p.m.; Aug. 31–Sept. 3: 4:30 & 6 p.m.;
Aug. 31–Sept. 3, the “2015 Summer Series Championships” will take place
from noon to 3 p.m.; Sept. 4–7: Noon, 1:30, 3, 4:30 & 6 p.m. Riders featured
in the shows will be on hand to teach students the basics of skateboarding.
Lessons cost $20 and last 20 minutes.
GRANDSTAND CONCERT SERIES
Sponsored by Sleep Number
Grandstand Artist Information
DEF LEPPARD with special guests Styx and Tesla
Thursday, Aug. 27, 7 p.m. • $67, $52 (Very limited seating available)
Def Leppard: With 100 million records sold worldwide and two prestigious
Diamond Awards to their credit, Def Leppard continues to be one of the most
important forces in rock music. Over the course of their 30-year career, the
band has produced a series of classic groundbreaking albums that set the
sound for generations of music fans and artists alike. Hit singles include “Rock
of Ages,” “Too Late for Love,” “Animal,” “Photograph” and the iconic “Pour
Some Sugar on Me.” (defleppard.com)
Styx: Styx has performed more live shows since 1999 than all of the previous
years of its career combined. Two Super Bowl appearances, box office
chart-topping tours with Def Leppard, Journey, Boston, REO Speedwagon and
Bad Company, two more studio albums and no end in sight, the band continues
to perform all over the world. Having sold more than 30 million records
worldwide, Styx is known for classic rock radio standards such as “Come Sail
Away,” “Renegade,” “Blue Collar Man,” “Fooling Yourself” and “Too Much Time
on My Hands.” (styxworld.com)
Tesla: Tesla is a multi-platinum-selling rock band from Northern California
known for their melodic songs and down-to-earth appeal. After playing
several showcases in Los Angeles, the band quickly released its debut album,
Mechanical Resonance in 1986. This album produced the hard rock hits and
crowd favorites “Modern Day Cowboy” and “Little Suzi,” reached the Top 40 on
the album charts and eventually went platinum. The band has released many
albums since their debut and still tours to perform its classic hard rock hits.
(teslatheband.com)
KEITH URBAN Raise ‘Em Up Tour 2015 with special guest Kelsea Ballerini
Friday, Aug. 28, 7:30 p.m. • $64, $49 (No tickets currently available)
Keith Urban: Country music singer, songwriter and guitarist Keith Urban has
an impressive music career spanning the course of three decades. Hailing
from Australia, the “Somebody Like You,” “Days Go By” and “You’ll Think of
Me” artist has stacked up nearly 20 No. 1 hits. His latest album Fuse brings
country music fans “Cop Car” and collaborations with Miranda Lambert on “We
Were Us” and Eric Church on “Raise ‘Em Up.” Urban has also been a judge on
“American Idol” for the past two seasons. (keithurban.net)
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Kelsea Ballerini: Country singer-songwriter and 21-year-old Kelsea Ballerini got
her start as a songwriter at age 13. Ballerini signed a record deal and released
her first single “Love Me Like You Mean It” in 2014. (kelseaballerini.com)
CARRIE UNDERWOOD with special guest Native Run
Saturday, Aug. 29, 7:30 p.m. • $65, $50 (No tickets currently available)
Carrie Underwood: Carrie Underwood emerged from the promise of her
2005 “American Idol” win to become a true superstar, spanning achievements
in music, television and film, where the 6-time GRAMMY Award winner has
amassed more than 95 major honors, sold more than 64 million records
worldwide and recorded 18 No. 1 singles. Her four albums – each certified
multi-platinum or platinum and each an American Music Awards winner as
Country Album of the Year – tallied 38 weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top
Country Albums chart. Last year, Underwood released Greatest Hits: Decade
#1, her first hits collection, which also features her record-breaking single
“Something in the Water.” (carrieunderwoodofficial.com)
Native Run: Virginia natives Rachel Beauregard and Bryan Dawley met
through mutual friends in college and started writing and performing
together shortly thereafter. After moving to Nashville, the duo immersed
themselves in performing and songwriting, which eventually led to their debut
album and single of the same name, Good On You – EP, released in 2014.
(nativerunmusic.com)
ALAN JACKSON with special guest Brandy Clark
Sunday, Aug. 30, 7:30 p.m. • $40
Alan Jackson: Since signing his record deal in June 1989, Alan Jackson has
sold nearly 60 million albums worldwide and ranks as one of the 10 bestselling vocalists of all time in all genres. He has released more than 60
singles – registering 50 Top Ten Hits and 35 No. 1 songs (including 26
Billboard No. 1s). He has earned more than 150 music industry awards, including
18 Academy of Country Music Awards, 16 Country Music Association Awards,
a pair of GRAMMYs and ASCAP’s Founders and Golden Note Awards. Jackson
received the first-ever ASCAP Heritage Award in 2014, having earned the title
of most performed country music songwriter-artist of ASCAP’s first 100 years.
He is a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole
Opry. Some of his most well-known hits include “Where Were You (When
the World Stopped Turning),” his duet with Jimmy Buffett “It’s Five O’Clock
Somewhere” and “Gone Country.” (alanjackson.com)
Brandy Clark: Brandy Clark has enjoyed great success as a songwriter
and is now critically acclaimed as a singer, too. She received two 2014
Country Music Award nominations for New Artist of the Year and for
Song of the Year (for Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow,” which she
co-wrote with Musgraves and Shane McAnally) and won the 2014 Music
Row Breakthrough Artist Award. Her debut album 12 Stories was named
the best album of 2013 in any genre by New York Magazine and the New York
Post, among others. She co-wrote Miranda Lambert’s No. 1 hit “Mama’s Broken
Heart,” The Band Perry’s hit “Better Dig Two,” as well as songs recorded by
Sheryl Crow, LeAnn Rimes, Darius Rucker, Keith Urban, Gretchen Wilson and
more. (brandyclarkmusic.com)
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HAPPY TOGETHER TOUR 2015
Monday, Aug. 31, 8 p.m. • $21
The Happy Together Tour 2015 features The Turtles with Flo & Eddie;
The Association; Mark Lindsay, Former Lead Singer of Paul Revere & The
Raiders; The Grass Roots; The Cowsills; and The Buckinghams. Some of
the most popular bands and performers of the ‘60s and ‘70s, these groups
collectively produced many hit singles including, “Happy Together,”
“Cherish,” “Kicks,” “Let’s Live for Today,” “Take A Letter to Maria” and
“Don’t You Care,” respectively.
MEGHAN TRAINOR with special guests Olivia Somerlyn and Who Is Fancy
Tuesday, Sept. 1, 7:30 p.m. • $35
Meghan Trainor: Pop singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor first made a name for
herself in the summer of 2014 with the release of her debut single “All About
That Bass.” Her album Title, released in January 2015, includes that smash
hit along with her other hits “Lips Are Movin” and “Dear Future Husband.”
When she was still in high school, Trainor landed a deal with a Nashville music
publishing company and started writing songs for artists from all corners of
the music world. A multi-instrumentalist who put out three albums on her
own by the age of 17, the 21-year-old Massachusetts native has penned tracks
for everyone from GRAMMY-winning country superstars Rascal Flatts and
GRAMMY-nominated country artist Hunter Hayes to reggae/rock/R&B group
Common Kings and Hot Chelle Rae singer Ryan Follesé. (meghan-trainor.com)
Olivia Somerlyn: California native and 21-year-old Olivia Somerlyn is a pop
singer-songwriter who either writes or co-writes all her own music and lyrics.
Her latest single “Parachute,” which she co-wrote with Nick Jonas, reached
No. 1 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. She has opened for top acts
Jessie J, the Jonas Brothers, Big Time Rush, Victoria Justice and, most
recently, Meghan Trainor. Multi-instrumentalist Somerlyn also plays piano,
keyboards and guitar. (oliviasomerlyn.com)
Who Is Fancy: Jake “Fancy” Hagood is the mastermind behind the music
project Who Is Fancy. Hailing from Bentonville, Ark., Who Is Fancy was raised
on contemporary Christian music and taught himself to play piano at age 11.
Shortly thereafter, he began writing his own songs. He debuted the pop hit
single “Goodbye” in February to much success and airplay.
(whoisfancymusic.com)
PATTI LABELLE with special guest the Commodores
Wednesday, Sept. 2, 7:30 p.m. • $45
Patti LaBelle: Patti LaBelle, often called the Godmother of Soul, got her start
as part of the Ordettes in 1959. The group went through several name changes
such as the BlueBelles and LaBelle, and they produced the hits “Down the Aisle
(The Wedding Song)” and “Lady Marmalade,” which was the group’s first No.
1 hit. In 1977, the group decided to focus on solo projects. LaBelle recorded
the ballad “The Best is Yet to Come,” which garnered LaBelle her first solo
GRAMMY Award nomination. “On My Own,” a duet with Michael MacDonald
became a No. 1 hit in 1986. Beyond her music career, LaBelle has taken on
acting and Broadway performances, guest starring in the TV series “American
Horror Story,” as well as competing on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars.” She
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continues to tour the country performing her hits from an impressive,
decades-long musical career. (pattilabelle.com)
Commodores: The Commodores’ hits are widely known by all generations.
“Brick House” and “Easy” are some of the band’s greatest hits, but “Nightshift”
brought the Commodores their first GRAMMY win in 1985. Getting their start
in Alabama, the band was discovered by Berry Gordy after opening up for The
Jackson 5. The Commodores went on to sell more than 60 million records for
Motown. The American funk and soul band had its greatest successes in the
1970s and ‘80s, but they continue to perform their hits and new music around
the country. (commodoreslive.com)
LYNYRD SKYNYRD with special guest Collective Soul
Thursday, Sept. 3, 7:30 p.m. • $42
Lynyrd Skynyrd: Known for popularizing the southern hard rock genre during
the 1970s, Lynryd Skynyrd rose to worldwide recognition with anthems “Sweet
Home Alabama” and “Free Bird.” Their legacy began about 40 years ago in
Jacksonville, Fla., and halted for a decade with the 1977 plane crash that
killed three band members. Since then, the band has begun performing and
recording again. The group has since been ranked by Rolling Stone magazine
as one of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time and has been inducted into the
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They continue to tour and record with a catalog of
more than 60 albums under their belts. (lynyrdskynyrd.com)
Collective Soul: Collective Soul was formed in Stockbridge, Ga. in the early
1990s. The group broke into mainstream popularity when they rose to
international fame in 1993 with the rock anthem “Shine” from their debut
album Hints Allegations and Things Left Unsaid. Defined by guitar-driven
songs and passionate vocals, the multi-platinum quintet has a catalog of
No. 1 hits, including “Precious Declaration,” “Listen” and “Heavy.” Collective
Soul will release their ninth album, See What You Started by Continuing, this
fall. (collectivesoul.com)
A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION WITH GARRISON KEILLOR
Friday, Sept. 4, 7:45 p.m. • $32, $25
A Prairie Home Companion is a radio variety show starring humorist and
Minnesota native, Garrison Keillor. The program features tales from Lake
Wobegon, “where the women are strong, the men are good-looking, and all the
children are above average.” Keillor first broadcast A Prairie Home Companion
in 1969. It has existed in its current format since 1974. Today, 4 million listeners
hear his unique brand of satire each week on more than 600 public radio
stations and abroad on America One and the Armed Forces Networks in
Europe and the Far East. (prairiehome.org)
The Current’s Music On-A-Stick featuring THE AVETT BROTHERS with
special guest Preservation Hall Jazz Band
Saturday, Sept. 5, 7:30 p.m. • $45, $35
The Avett Brothers: From North Carolina, brothers Scott and Seth Avett make
up the indie rock/bluegrass/folk band The Avett Brothers. The brothers got
their start as members in the band Nemo, but in 2000, with Nemo guitarist
John Twomey, they released the album Avett Brothers. After Nemo broke up at
the close of 2000, the brothers focused on their new band The Avett Brothers.
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The band toured around the country and released a number of albums until
2009, when the hit “I and Love and You” brought the band widespread
popularity. The album of the same name peaked at No. 16 on the charts and
brought with it an international tour. The Avett Brothers’ next studio album
The Carpenter was GRAMMY-nominated for Best Americana Album in 2012,
and their latest album Magpie And The Dandelion brings folk rock songs
“Morning Song” and “Another is Waiting.” (theavettbrothers.com)
Preservation Hall Jazz Band: Getting its start in the 1960s, Preservation Hall
Jazz Band is steeped in tradition and boasts a rich history. More than 50 years
ago, Preservation Hall opened for exceptional musicians in the New Orleans’
traditional jazz scene. The jazz hall garnered much success. It was decided
that the band would go on the road, thus creating the group that has seen
numerous members, but still continues to play and tour to this day. Featuring
horns, vocals, drums, piano and more, the band released its first full album of
all-original material in its 50-year career in 2013 with hits like “That’s It!” and
“Rattlin’ Bones.” (preservationhalljazzband.com)
MINNESOTA STATE FAIR AMATEUR TALENT CONTEST FINALS
Sunday, Sept. 6, 7:30 p.m. • FREE with fair admission
The State Fair Amateur Talent Contest has been a Minnesota State Fair
tradition for 43 years. Approximately 400 talented performers auditioned in
late July and early August in one of three divisions (open, teen and preteen) for
a chance to move on to the semifinals round held during the fair. One hundred
and twenty semifinalists then compete for a place among the performers in the
finals round. The final round of competition at the Grandstand will feature the
26 remaining contestants vying for cash prizes.
MERLE HAGGARD & KRIS KRISTOFFERSON with special guest
Sturgill Simpson
Monday, Sept. 7, 7:30 p.m. • $35
Merle Haggard: Over the course of a remarkably prolific five-decade career,
Merle Haggard has released close to 70 albums and 600 songs, 250 of which
he has written himself. Some of his most memorable albums include The
Fightin’ Side of Me, Someday We’ll Look Back, If We Make It Through December
and A Working Man Can’t Get Nowhere Today. Haggard was elected to the
Songwriters’ Hall of Fame in 1977. In 1994, his wealth of artistic achievements,
including 38 No. 1 hits, earned him induction into the Country Music Hall of
Fame. Since his music career began, he has launched an incredible string of
classic hits, including “Sing Me Back Home,” “Today I Started Loving You Again,”
“The Fightin’ Side of Me,” “If We Make It Through December” and “Okie From
Muskogee.” (merlehaggard.com)
Kris Kristofferson: Country music Hall of Famer and Golden Globe winner Kris
Kristofferson is known for writing and recording such hits as “Me and Bobby
McGee,” “For the Good Times” and “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down.” With nearly
30 albums under his belt, the 78-year-old is still crooning classics and writing
hits with the likes of Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard. His songs and lyrics
transformed country music, allowing for more focus on empathy, emotion and
truth. Kristofferson’s writing chops earned him a place in the Songwriters Hall
of Fame in 1985. His acting career spans more than five decades, with co-stars
ranging from Barbra Streisand in 1976’s A Star Is Born to Dolly Parton in 2012’s
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Joyful Noise. His expansive career and impressive songwriting skills make
Kristofferson a legend and an idol to today’s breakthrough country musicians.
(kriskristofferson.com)
Sturgill Simpson: With comparisons to Waylon Jennings and Merle Haggard,
Sturgill Simpson is paving a way for himself in the “outlaw country” landscape.
Simpson has released two albums and four singles since 2013, best known
for “Turtles All the Way Down” and “Living the Dream.” He has opened for
artists like Dwight Yoakam, Willie Nelson and Zac Brown Band, and the
Kentucky native has said he writes music that pertains to his life in the most
introspective, honest way possible. Simpson was recently nominated for
the Americana Music Association’s Emerging Artist of the Year Award. He is
renowned for bringing traditional country music to the forefront once again.
(sturgillsimpson.com)
Grandstand Information
GRANDSTAND ENTERTAINERS BY YEAR
For a complete list of past Grandstand artists by performance year, view
the “Grandstand Entertainers by Year” PDF at mnstatefair.org/general_info/
media.html.
GRANDSTAND ENTERTAINERS BY NUMBER OF APPEARANCES
For a complete list of past Grandstand artists by number of appearances,
view the “Grandstand Entertainers Alphabetically & Including Number of
Appearances” PDF at mnstatefair.org/general_info/media.html.
GRANDSTAND TICKETS
Tickets to Grandstand shows can be purchased at mnstatefair.org, etix.com
or by calling (800) 514-3849. Mail order service is available, and requests
should be addressed to: Tickets, Minnesota State Fair, 1265 Snelling Ave. N.,
St. Paul, MN 55108.
The State Fair Ticket Office on the fairgrounds also sells tickets prior to
and during the fair.
Aug. 11 through Aug. 26, the State Fair Ticket Office is located at the Como
Loop Gate (#9). Ticket office hours are Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to
6 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Exceptions: Aug. 22 & 23, 10:30 a.m. to
3:30 p.m.; Aug. 24 & 25, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Aug. 26, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
During the fair, Grandstand tickets may be purchased at the ticket office
location at the east Grandstand Plaza. Tickets for upcoming performances
may also be purchased at this location. The ticket office opens at 10 a.m. daily.
Will-call tickets may be picked up on the day of the show beginning 90 minutes
prior to show time.
Admission to Grandstand events is free for children under two years of age if
they share a paid seat. Children under two who require their own seat must
have a ticket.
CANCELLATIONS
Grandstand shows are never cancelled without official notification from
the State Fair. Guests who have questions regarding the cancellation of a
Grandstand event should be directed to Guest Services in Visitors Plaza. Media
questions should be directed to the Media Relations Hotline at (651) 288-4321.
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GRANDSTAND GUIDELINES
Fair admission is not included with the purchase of a Grandstand show ticket.
Guests may enter the venue from gates at the east or west towers. Wheelchair
patrons may use the elevator on the east end or enter via the ramp on the west
end; access to the second level of the tower is also available via the center
Grandstand Ramp (enter only—no exit). Strollers and umbrellas are not allowed
in the Grandstand seating area. Parking for strollers is available outside the
Grandstand gates. For further information, call (651) 288-4427.
Grandstand gates open approximately 60 minutes before show time. Coolers
are not allowed in the Grandstand. Patrons and parcels are subject to search
before entering the venue. Smoking is allowed in designated areas only.
Smoking is not permitted in seating areas.
Video and audio recording equipment, including the use of selfie sticks, are
not allowed at any Grandstand show, with the exception of the amateur
talent contest finals on Sunday, Sept. 6. Still photography cameras may not be
allowed at some concerts. If still photography is allowed, pictures may be taken
from the ticket holder’s seat only. For information concerning still photography
at specific shows, contact the ticket office at (651) 288-4427.
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Food & Beverage
ALL FOODS
For a list of all available foods and their booth locations at the State Fair, visit
the Food Finder database at mnstatefair.org.
CONCESSIONS & EXHIBITS
The concessions and exhibits department is responsible for selecting
concessionaires and exhibitors for the annual 12-day State Fair. The process
is very competitive. Each year, many registrations are considered for a limited
number of licensing opportunities. The State Fair does not maintain a waiting
list. As licensing opportunities become available, vendors are selected from the
pool of registrations submitted. Several criteria are considered in registration
review: 1) experience at other fairs or shows; 2) booth presentation and
appearance; 3) balance of similar products/services around the fairgrounds;
4) appropriateness of product, service or presentation to the available site; and
5) physical requirements.
FOOD FINDER
Use this search engine on the State Fair website to find all available foods and
their booth locations. The Food Finder also includes information on vendors
participating in special day deals and discounts. All Blue Ribbon Bargain Book
participants, including those offering attractions and merchandise, are included
along with a photo and map of their locations.
NEW FOODS
For new foods and their locations, please see the listing in the “What’s New!”
section of this media kit.
FOODS ON-A-STICK
Alligator Sausage on-a-stick
• Bayou Bob’s Gator Shack
Dan Patch Ave. at Nelson St.
Bacon (fried) on-a-stick
• Big Fat Bacon
Carnes Ave. west of Nelson St.
Bananas (chocolate-covered)
on-a-stick
• Granny’s Cheesecake
Dan Patch Ave.
• Candy Factory - Murphy Ave.
Bomb Pops on-a-stick
• Rainbow Ice Cream - Dan Patch
Ave., Lower Grandstand, Liggett St.,
Underwood St. (2), Upper Grandstand
Breakfast Sausage Corndog
on-a-stick
• Hansen’s - Judson Ave.
Candy Apples on-a-stick
• Candy Factory - Murphy Ave.
• Netterfield’s - Cooper St.
Beef Kabobs on-a-stick
• Beef Kabobs - Underwood St.
Candy Bars (deep-fried) on-a-stick
• Deep-Fried Candy Bar Stand
Carnes Ave.
Bologna (deep-fried) on-a-stick
• Netterfield’s
Cooper St., north of Dan Patch Ave.
Caramel Chocolate-Dipped Bacon Ice
Cream Bar on-a-stick
• Pat’s Place - Mighty Midway
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Caramel Apples on-a-stick
• See Food Finder for various
locations
Cotton Candy on-a-stick
• See Food Finder for various
locations
Catfish on-a-stick
• Walleye On-A-Stick - Food Building
Deep-Fried Breakfast on-a-stick
• The Sandwich Stop - Clough St.
Cheese on-a-stick
• Cheese On-A-Stick - Judson Ave.,
Liggett St.
• Giant Slide/Lemonade - Nelson St.
Deep-Fried Buckeyes on-a-stick
• Spaghetti Eddie’s
Dan Patch Ave. and Cooper St.
Cheesecake (chocolate-covered)
on-a-stick
• Granny’s Cheesecake
Dan Patch Ave.
Chicken Bites on-a-stick
• LuLu’s Public House
West End Market
Chicken Nachos on-a-stick
• Tejas - The Garden
Chicken on-a-stick
• Chinatown Minn. - Food Building
• Spaghetti Eddie’s - Cooper St.
• Chicken-n-Chops - Judson Ave.
• Ragin Cajun - The Garden
Chicken (teriyaki) on-a-stick
• Chan’s Concessions - Judson Ave.
Chunks O’ Fruti Frozen Strawberry
Bar on-a-stick
• Key Lime Pie Bar - Cooper St.
Coffee (frozen) on-a-stick
• Minnesota Farmer’s Union
Coffee Shop - Dan Patch Ave.
Corndogs on-a-stick
• Big Dog Corn Dogs
Underwood St. (2)
• Campbell’s - Cosgrove St.
• Hansen’s - Judson Ave.
• Smoothies and Jurassic Dogs
Murphy Ave.
• Wild Bill’s Curly Fries - Nelson St.
• Corndogs - Lemonade - Liggett St.
• Super Dogs - Dan Patch Ave. (2)
• Midway Grill - Mighty Midway
• Netterfield’s - Cooper St.
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Deep-Fried Lobster on-a-stick
• LuLu’s Public House
West End Market
Fruit (fresh) on-a-stick
• Veggie Pie - Food Building
• Caribbean Fruit Smoothie
Liggett St.
Fruit (fried) on-a-stick
• Fried Fruit On-A-Stick
Carousel Park
Fudge Puppies on-a-stick
• Granny’s Kitchen Fudge Puppies
Underwood St.
Gluten-Free Beer-Battered Brat
on-a-stick
• Sonny’s - Food Building
Gyro on-a-stick
• Holy Land Deli
International Bazaar
Hot Dago on-a-stick
• Luigi Fries - Carnes Ave.
Hot Dish on-a-stick
• Ole & Lena’s - Liggett St.
Hot Dogs (wrap) on-a-stick
• Mike’s Hamburgers - Nelson St.
JonnyPops (frozen fruit bars)
on-a-stick
• JonnyPops - West End Market
Key Lime Pie Dipped in Chocolate
(frozen) on-a-stick
• Key Lime Pie Bar
Outside of the Food Building
Lamb Chop on-a-stick
• Lamb Shoppe - Food Building
Macaroni & Cheese on-a-stick
• LuLu’s Public House
West End Market
Marshmallows (chocolate-dipped)
on-a-stick
• Ultimate Confections
Lower Grandstand
Mashed Potatoes (deep-fried)
on-a-stick
• Potato Man & Sweetie
Liggett St., south of Carnes Ave.
Meatballs (Greek) on-a-stick
• Dino’s Gyros - Carnes Ave.
Meat Kabobs on-a-stick
• Beef Kabobs - Underwood St.
• Demetri’s Greek Food - Nelson St.
• MinneKabobs
Food Building, Dan Patch Ave.
• Netterfield’s - Cooper St.
Meatloaf on-a-stick
• The Blue Barn - West End Market
Northwoods Salad on-a-stick
• Giggles’ Campfire Grill
The North Woods
Nut Roll (chocolate-dipped)
on-a-stick
• Colonial Nut Roll - Dan Patch Ave.
Olives on-a-stick
• St. Martin’s Olives
International Bazaar
Olives (deep-fried) on-a-stick
• Fried Fruit - Carousel Park
Pickles on-a-stick
• Pickle Dog - Carnes Ave.
• Preferred Pickle - Liggett St.
• Sabino’s - Warner Coliseum
Pizza on-a-stick
• Calzone Pizza Booth
Carnes Ave.
Poncho Dogs on-a-stick
• Poncho Dogs
Dan Patch Ave., Liggett St.,
Clough St., Underwood St.,
Judson Ave.
Pork Chops on-a-stick
• Chicken-n-Chops - Judson Ave.
• Pork Chops & Turkey Legs
Adventure Park
• Ragin Cajun - The Garden
Pretzel Dog on-a-stick
• Der Pretzel Haus - Liggett St.
Pronto Pups on-a-stick
• Pronto Pups
Cosgrove St., Underwood St., Kidway,
Nelson St., Carnes Ave. (2), Cooper St.
Sausage on-a-stick
• Mancini’s Al Fresco - Carnes Ave.
Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Jalapeño
Poppers on-a-stick
• Sausage Sister & Me - Food Building
Scotch Eggs on-a-stick
• Scotch Eggs - Liggett St.
Shrimp Dog on-a-stick
• The Shrimp Shack - Underwood St.
Shrimp on-a-stick
• Old English Fish & Chips
Food Building, Liggett St.
• Holy Land Deli
International Bazaar
• Ragin Cajun - The Garden
Shrimp (grilled and wrapped in bacon)
on-a-stick
• The Shrimp Shack - Underwood St.
S’mores on-a-stick
• Ultimate Confections
Lower Grandstand
S’mores (deep-fried) on-a-stick
• Oodles of Noodles - Food Building
Spaghetti Eddie’s Super Stick
on-a-stick
• Spaghetti Eddie’s - Dan Patch Ave.
Spaghetti & Meatballs on-a-stick
• Oodles of Noodles - Food Building
45
Spudsters on-a-stick
• Potato Skins Booth - Food Building
Steak on-a-stick
• Ragin Cajun - The Garden
Stuffed Italian Meatloaf on-a-stick
• Green MIll - Baldwin Park
Sweetie’s Delights on-a-stick
• Mr. Potato & Sweetie - Liggett St.
Taffy Pops on-a-stick
• Isabelle Burke’s Olde Time Taffy
South of the Food Building
Tikka On-a-Stikka
• Hot Indian - Taste of Midtown Global
Market at the International Bazaar
Tornado Potato on-a-stick
• Sonny’s - Food Building
Vegie Fries on-a-stick
• Vegie Fries - Dan Patch Ave.
Vegetable Kabobs on-a-stick
• Vegie Fries - Dan Patch Ave.
Walleye on-a-stick
• Walleye On-A-Stick - Food Building
Texas Steak Dinner on-a-stick
• Texas Steak Out - Underwood St.
Wild Rice Corndog on-a-stick
• Wild Rice Specialties - Food Building
Texas Tater Dog on-a-stick
• Texas Steak Out - Underwood St.
Wonder Bar (chocolate-dipped ice
cream) on-a-stick
• Wells Concessions - Baldwin Park
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Getting to the Fair
ACCESSIBLE PARKING & TRANSPORTATION
A free parking lot with free wheelchair-accessible transportation to and
from the State Fair is available exclusively for visitors with disabilities and their
companions at 1039 De Courcy Circle (Oscar Johnson Arena), east of Snelling
Avenue off Energy Park Drive. The bus servicing this wheelchair-accessible
Park & Ride lot drops off and picks up at the Como Loop Gate (#9). This free
service is provided from 8 a.m. to midnight. Metro Mobility picks up and drops
off at the Como Loop Gate (#9) and the Hoyt-Snelling Gate (#2). Additionally,
parking spaces designated for vehicles with a valid disabled person’s parking
identification placard are located in many State Fair lots and are available on a
first-come basis at $13 per vehicle.
BICYCLE PARKING
Three free secured bike parking areas are available on the fairgrounds:
1) near the Como-Snelling Gate (#6); 2) by the Hoyt-Snelling Gate (#2); and
3) near the West End Gate (#16) at Buford and Randall avenues. The lots
are open from 6 a.m. to midnight and are the only locations where bicycles
may be parked. Except for authorized public safety personnel, no bicycles or
motorcycles may be operated on the fairgrounds or in the campgrounds
during the fair.
BIKE & RIDE
Bike & Ride allows riders to park and lock their bicycles at select Park &
Ride lots and take a free bus to and from the fair. For specific locations, visit
mnstatefair.org/general_info/get_here/park_ride.html.
EXPRESS BUS SERVICE
State Fair Express bus service is offered by Metro Transit, Minnesota Valley
Transit Authority and SouthWest Transit at dozens of sites located throughout
the Twin Cities area. Buses stop at the Transit Hub near the West End Gate
(#16). Round-trip bus fare is $5 for persons five years and older; children (four
and under) ride free with a paid fare. For site locations and service, contact a
Metro Transit representative at (612) 373-3333 or (612) 341-0140 (TTY). For
24-hour automated information, call (612) 341-4BUS. Visit mnstatefair.org/
general_info/brochure_rack.html for more information on getting to the fair.
METRO TRANSIT BUS STOPS
Metro Transit regular route bus stops bordering the fairgrounds are on Como
Avenue across from the Como Loop Gate (#9) and at the intersection of
Midway Parkway and Snelling Avenue opposite the East Dan Patch Gate
(#5). Route #3 travels on Como Avenue between downtown Minneapolis and
downtown St. Paul. Route #61 travels from either of the downtowns and drops
off on Larpenteur Avenue, just north of the fairgrounds. Route #84 travels on
Snelling Avenue between the 46th Street Station and Rosedale. During fair time
only, Route #960 travels from Hennepin Avenue in downtown Minneapolis
to the fairgrounds in about 15 minutes. Visit mnstatefair.org/general_info/
brochure_rack.html for more information. Metro Transit representatives are
also available at (612) 373-3333 or (612) 341-0140 (TTY).
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METRO TRANSIT GREEN LINE
To get to the State Fairgrounds via the METRO Green Line, board the light rail
at one of 23 stations between downtown Minneapolis and downtown St. Paul.
Depart the train at the Snelling Avenue Station. Then, at Snelling and University
avenues, board Metro Transit Bus Route #84, which will take you north to
the fairgrounds. The Route #84 bus drops off at Snelling Avenue and Midway
Parkway, opposite the East Dan Patch Gate (#5). For fares and detailed routes,
visit metrotransit.org/StateFair.
MOTORCYCLE PARKING
Motorcycle parking is available from 6 a.m. to midnight for $7 in a secured lot
on the south side of Como Avenue, across from Gate #7. Motorcycles parked
in other State Fair lots will be charged the regular $13 parking fee. Motorcycles
are not permitted on the fairgrounds.
PARK & RIDE
Free parking with free bus service to and from the fair is available at more than
30 locations within a short distance from the fairgrounds. Park & Ride bus
service operates from 8 a.m. to midnight daily. Buses servicing the free Park
& Ride lots drop off and pick up at the Transit Hub near the West End Gate
(#16) and across Snelling Avenue from the East Dan Patch Gate (#5). Visit
mnstatefair.org/general_info/brochure_rack.html for more information.
PARKING ON THE FAIRGROUNDS
The State Fair has approximately 9,000 parking spaces. Parking lots are
open from 6 a.m. to midnight daily. Overnight parking is not permitted on the
fairgrounds. Parking is $13 (cash only). Vehicles with trailers will be charged
$26 ($13 for vehicle and $13 for the trailer). Parking for vehicles displaying a
valid disabled persons parking identification placard is also available for $13.
All parking is limited and filled on a first-come basis.
48
Guest Services
ACCESSIBLE SERVICES
Accommodations for guests with disabilities include accessible restrooms,
assistive listening devices, sign language interpreters, electric scooter and
wheelchair rental, transportation, wheelchair battery recharging, curb cuts,
accessible parking and more. For a complete list of services, refer to the
Accessibility Guide at mnstatefair.org or at any information booth.
APP FOR IPHONE AND ANDROID
SMARTPHONES
The Minnesota State Fair’s App is available through the Apple App Store and
Android Market. It’s free and features the popular Food Finder, Fun Finder and
Merch Search tools along with entertainment and event schedule information.
BANKING SERVICES
Bremer Bank is located in Visitors Plaza and is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Banking services available include vendor coin and currency orders, deposit
processing, check cashing for Bremer Bank clients, new account openings, loan
applications, 24-hour ATM and night depository.
BARGAIN BOOK & STATE FAIR POSTER CARTS
2015 Blue Ribbon Bargain Books and commemorative art posters are available
for purchase at carts located: inside the Main Gate (Gate #5); on the corner
of Judson Avenue and Underwood Street (Gate #7); at the north end of the
fairgrounds near the Pet Center Information Booth (Gate #2); next to the
Information Booth south of the DNR Building; and inside the West End Gate
(#16). Carts are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Proceeds support the mission
of the Minnesota State Fair Foundation.
BATTERIES
A selection of regular batteries is available for purchase at Steichen’s Grocery
& Deli in the Commissary Building. An area for recharging wheelchair batteries
is located at Care & Assistance south of West End Market. Outlets to plug in
scooters are also available on the outside south wall of the Grandstand.
CAMPGROUNDS
State Fair campground space is limited. A reservation form must be completed,
submitted and confirmed prior to arrival. For reservation information, call
(651) 642-2379. The campgrounds are open Friday, Aug. 21 to Wednesday,
Sept. 9. The fee is $30 per night for standard-size sites; $35 per night for
campers wider than 8 feet; $45 for slide-out units; and $13 per night for extra
or towed vehicles.
CARE & ASSISTANCE
8 a.m. to 11 p.m., Located at 1838 Dan Patch Ave. across from
West End Market
Care & Assistance is headquarters for people of any age who have become lost
or separated from their group. Nursing and infant care facilities are available, as
well as an area to recharge wheelchair batteries.
49
CASH MACHINES
Cash machines are available at numerous locations throughout the fairgrounds.
Please consult a State Fair map for exact locations.
COMMENTS, COMPLAINTS & SUGGESTIONS
Feedback is welcome at Guest Services at Visitors Plaza. Hours are 7 a.m. to
11 p.m., or email guestservices@mnstatefair.org.
COPY & SCANNING SERVICES
Copy and scanning services are available for a nominal fee from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
at Guest Services at Visitors Plaza. See page 53 for services available at the
UPS Store.
DAILY SCHEDULES
Sponsored by the Minnesota State Lottery
Free schedules of each day’s events and a map of the fairgrounds are available
to guests at all information booths. Daily schedules can be viewed mid-August
at mnstatefair.org/general_info/daily_schedules.html.
FIRST AID
Sponsored by Regions Hospital
First Aid West is located across from West End Market on West Dan Patch
Avenue, 8 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
First Aid East is located inside the north end of the 4-H Building on
Cosgrove Street, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Injuries and ailments can be treated at either first aid station. In the event
of serious illness or injury, contact the police at (651) 288-4500;
(651) 642-2402 (TTY).
HANDWASH STATIONS
Handwash stations are available in the Food Building and at most entrances to
buildings in the livestock area, including AgStar Arena, the Cattle Barn, Cattle
Annex, Sheep & Poultry Barn, Swine Barn and the CHS Miracle of Birth Center.
Please consult a State Fair map for exact locations. We invite guests to enjoy
time with the animals, but highly recommend washing or sanitizing hands
before and after visits and especially prior to eating.
HOURS OF OPERATION
Aug. 27–Sept. 6
50
Sept. 7, Labor Day
Adventure Park
10 a.m. to midnight
11 p.m.
Agriculture Horticulture Building
9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
8 p.m.
Barns
See daily schedule
Bargain Book
& State Fair Poster Carts
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
4 p.m.
Care & Assistance
8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
11 p.m.
CHS Miracle of Birth Center
9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
3 p.m.
Exhibit Buildings (most)
9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
9 p.m.
Entrance Gates
6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
9 p.m.
Fairgrounds
6 a.m. to midnight
First Aid West
8 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
First Aid East
8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
10 p.m.
Food Building
8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
10 p.m.
Guest Services
7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
11 p.m.
History & Heritage Center
9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
9 p.m.
International Bazaar
9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
10 p.m.
Kidway
9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
10 p.m.
Little Farm Hands
8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
7 p.m.
Lost & Found
8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
11 p.m.
Mighty Midway
10 a.m. to midnight
11 p.m.
Pet Center
8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
8 p.m.
Police Headquarters
Open 24 hours
Open 24 hours
Ramberg Senior Center
8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
8 p.m.
State Fair Foundation J.V. Bailey House
8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
6 p.m.
State FairWear Gift Shops Visitors Plaza and West End Gate
8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
9 p.m.
State FairWear Gift Shops Grandstand and Warner Coliseum
9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
9 p.m.
West End Market
9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
9 p.m.
10 p.m.
12:30 a.m.
INFORMATION BOOTHS
Sponsored by CenturyLink
Free daily schedules, sunscreen, maps and specialty brochures, including the
Deals, Drawings & Giveaways Guide, Minnesota State Fair Art & Sculpture and
Gardens brochures, Fabulous Fair Alphabet Game cards, History Walking Tour
brochures and more are available at all information booths. Booth locations and
hours of operation are as follows:
• DNR (Judson Avenue): 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Gate #5 (Dan Patch Avenue): 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
• Visitors Plaza: 7:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Agriculture Horticulture (Judson Avenue): 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Carousel Park (north side of West Dan Patch Avenue at Chambers Street):
8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Baldwin Park (Randall Avenue): 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Pet Center (Gate #2): 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Mighty Midway: 10 a.m. to midnight (11 p.m. Labor Day)
• Livestock Area (southeast corner of Judson Avenue and Liggett Street):
8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• West End Gate: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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LOST & FOUND ITEMS
During the fair, found articles should be turned in immediately to Lost
& Found located on West Dan Patch Avenue next to Care & Assistance.
Anyone looking for lost articles should check at this location between 8 a.m.
and 11 p.m. Items found between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m. should be turned in at the
Police Station next door. After the 2015 fair, contact Lost & Found at (651) 288-4555 from 9 a.m.
to 3 p.m. Tuesday Sept. 8 through Thursday, Sept. 10, and 9 a.m. to noon
Friday, Sept. 11. Starting Tuesday, Sept. 14 through Friday Sept. 25, contact
Lost & Found at (651) 288-4400 or visit the Administration Building on
Cosgrove Street from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
LOST PEOPLE
From 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., Care & Assistance, located across from West End
Market, is headquarters for people of any age who are lost or separated from
their group. If the lost person is a child, contact the Police Station at
(651) 288-4500, and an officer will bring the child to Care & Assistance.
MINNESOTA STATE FAIRWEAR GIFT SHOPS
Visitors Plaza – 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Lower Grandstand – 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Warner Coliseum North Entrance – 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
West End Gate – 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
State FairWear Gift Shops feature Minnesota State Fair merchandise, as
well as official 2015 State Fair Commemorative Art merchandise featuring the
work of Minnesota artist Adam Turman. Purchases made in State FairWear
Gift Shops support the mission of the Minnesota State Fair Foundation. The
State FairWear Gift Shop in Visitors Plaza is also open on Aug. 25 and 26 from
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
RELIGIOUS SERVICES
Religious services are offered on Sunday, Aug. 30 and Sunday, Sept. 6.
Ecumenical services are held at 9:15 a.m. at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell and at
7:45, 9:30 & 11 a.m. at the Crossroads Chapel on Underwood Street. A Catholic
mass is held at 9:15 a.m. at the Family Fair Stage at Baldwin Park.
SMOKING - DESIGNATED AREAS
For the comfort and safety of all, designated smoking areas have been
established at convenient locations throughout the fairgrounds. Smoking
(including use of electronic cigarettes) is permitted only in these areas. Each
designated smoking area consists of a bench and receptacle to safely deposit
spent cigarettes. Designated smoking areas are identified on all State Fair
maps at mnstatefair.org/general_info/get_here/maps.html or at any
information booth.
52
SUNSCREEN
Complimentary sunscreen will be offered in dispensers at all State Fair
Information Booths. For more information, please see the “What’s New!”
section of this media kit.
TROLLEYS
Presented by Texas on Tour
Three free trolleys will service the area from Dan Patch Avenue to Underwood
Street to Murphy Avenue to Cooper Street to Randall Avenue to Cosgrove
Street and back to Dan Patch Avenue from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. No service
from 2-3 p.m. due to the daily parade. Two of the three trolleys are ADA
accessible.
UPS STORE
The UPS store will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily in Visitors Plaza. Services
include: UPS shipping; U.S. Postal Service stamps, mailing and shipping;
packaging and mailing supplies (boxes, tubes, envelopes, greeting cards, etc.);
copying and printing; and fax sending and receiving. Contact the UPS Store
during the fair at (651) 603-6864 or prior to the fair at (651) 635-0636. Email
store2158@theupsstore.com for assistance and questions.
WI-FI HOTSPOT
Sponsored by DragNFly Wireless
Free Wi-Fi service is available in a hotspot located in the west
Grandstand Plaza.
An additional Wi-Fi location is located at the Xfinity booth at the entrance of
FAN Central.
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54
History
MINNESOTA STATE
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY HISTORY
The Minnesota Agricultural Society was founded in 1854 with a mission to
promote Minnesota’s agriculture by presenting an annual fair—the first of
which was held in 1855 in Minneapolis. Statehood was granted in 1858, and the
Society held its first State Fair in 1859, also in Minneapolis.
During the fair’s early years, the site of the exposition changed annually with
stops in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Red Wing, Winona and Owatonna.
In the 1870s and early 1880s, civic groups from both St. Paul and Minneapolis
worked to provide a permanent home for the fair in their respective cities. The
Minnesota State Fair finally found a permanent home at its present location
in 1885 when Ramsey County donated its 210-acre poor farm to the state for
use by the Agricultural Society, the governing body of the State Fair. Secure
in its new surroundings, the Minnesota State Fair began to grow. Physically,
the fairgrounds blossomed to 320 acres. Architecturally, it is home to many
historically significant structures, including the Fine Arts Center, Progress
Center, Grandstand, Warner Coliseum and Agriculture Horticulture Building.
An important change in the State Fair over the years has been in the growing
attractions offered to fair visitors. The character of early fairs was dominated
by agricultural exhibits and competitions, reflecting its original purpose of
encouraging farming in the state. While agriculture is still the primary focus,
the scope of activities has broadened to include large-scale entertainment,
technological and industrial exhibits and participation of scores of education
and government institutions.
Since its inception, the fair has been held every year with only five exceptions:
in 1861 and 1862 due to the Civil War and Dakota Indian Conflict, in 1893
because of scheduling conflicts with the World’s Columbian Exposition in
Chicago, in 1945 due to federal government travel restrictions during WWII,
and in 1946 due to a polio epidemic.
2015 ANNIVERSARIES
140 Years • 1875
• Known as “The Grasshopper Year,” the grasshopper plague was the worst in
history. It ruined crops in the southern and western parts of Minnesota, and
as a result, only 6,000 visitors attended the State Fair.
• Percheron and Norman draft horses made their first appearances
130 Years • 1885
• The first year the State Fair was held on the permanent fairgrounds
where it is still located – mid-way between Minneapolis and St. Paul off
Snelling Avenue
105 Years • 1910
• The first airplane flight in Minnesota was held on the fairgrounds in June
• President William Howard Taft addressed the Grandstand crowd on Sept. 5
• Presidential candidate Teddy Roosevelt spoke to fair visitors on Sept. 6
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100 Years • 1915
• Ye Old Mill opened at the State Fair
95 Years • 1920
• The Cattle Barn opened
• The first locomotive collision was staged at the Grandstand infield
90 Years • 1925
• President Calvin Coolidge made an address to the Grandstand audience
70 Years • 1945
• State Fair was cancelled by order of the federal government due to
transportation restrictions during World War II
60 Years • 1955
• Attendance topped the 1 million mark for the first time
50 Years • 1965
• Home Activities Annex (now known as the Creative Activities Annex)
was constructed
• The 330-foot Space Tower opened at the State Fair
• First year Princess Kay of the Milky Way and her court were sculpted
in butter
• Crop art made its debut at the State Fair
• Education Building opened and was dedicated by Vice President Hubert
H. Humphrey
40 Years • 1975
• First 12-day fair
• The Hippodrome was officially renamed the Coliseum
20 Years • 1995
• Independently operated Mighty Midway opened
• Kidway became a permanent feature
• Carousel Park opened for special events
• State Fair’s first web page launched
15 Years • 2000
• An all-time record Grandstand crowd of 22,117 attended Christina
Aguilera’s concert
10 Years • 2005
• The State Fair’s Veterans Memorial Garden was dedicated for the first time
for the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II
FAIRCHILD AND FAIRBORNE MASCOTS
In 1966, Fairchild the gopher became the official mascot of the State Fair and
was joined by his nephew, Fairborne, in 1983. Fairchild got his name, a play on
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the institution’s title, after a statewide naming contest. It’s also a tribute to
Henry S. Fairchild, the man who first suggested the Ramsey County Poor Farm
become the permanent site of the State Fair.
HISTORICAL DATES
FIRSTS
• 1854
Minnesota Territorial Agricultural
Society founded (governing body
of the fair)
• 1858
Minnesota admitted to the Union
• 1947
The Pronto Pup made its debut,
the first food on-a-stick
• 1954
First statewide Princess Kay of the
Milky Way contest
• 1859
First State Fair
• 1962
First year of “big name” evening
Grandstand entertainment
• 1860
Minnesota Territorial Agricultural
Society renamed Minnesota State
Agricultural Society
• 1971
Sculptor Linda Christensen’s first
year carving the Princess Kay
butter heads
• 1899
- First evening Grandstand
show, “The Burning of Manila”
fireworks presentation
- First year of electricity at the fair,
allowing it to run after sunset
• 1973
First Amateur Talent Contest
• 1903
First appearance of racehorse
Dan Patch
• 1904
First carnival midway
• 1907
First year of auto races
• 1910
First airplane flight in Minnesota
was featured at the fairgrounds
• 1911
Fine Arts Exhibition debuted
• 1916
First greenhouse built on the
fairgrounds
• 1933
- First Thrill Day
- First year “everyone pays” gate
- First fair to have four Ferris
wheels in one location
• 1988
First State Fair Llama Show
• 2011
First Military Appreciation Day
LASTS
• 1938
Last year the fair started on the
Saturday before Labor Day
• 1949
- Last year of horse races
- Last legislative appropriation
• 2002
Last year of auto racing at the
Grandstand
GENERAL/MOMENTOUS
OCCASIONS
• 1887
A mock battle staged by Civil
War veterans brought 80,000
spectators to the Grandstand
and surrounding area on Grand
Army Day.
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• 1901
U.S. Vice President Teddy
Roosevelt delivered his famous
“big stick” speech at the fair.
• 1906
Legendary pacer horse Dan Patch
set the world record time of 1:55
for one mile at the Grandstand.
• 1907
Fine Arts Center and Progress
Center built
• 1909
Grandstand built
• 1927
John Phillip Sousa composed the
“Minnesota March” and performed
it at the fair.
• 1928
F. Scott Fitzgerald waxed poetic
about the fair in his short story,
“A Night at the Fair.”
• 1944
Original wooden-domed
Agriculture Building burned down
• 1951
New Hippodrome (now the Lee &
Rose Warner Coliseum) replaced
the original built in 1906
• 1955
The State Fair passed the
1 million mark in attendance for
the first time.
• 1958
Pioneer Woman statue erected to
celebrate Minnesota’s Centennial
• 1964
- Skyride built
- Teen-Age Fair (Young America
Center) built
• 1966
Fairchild debuted as the State
Fair mascot
• 1971
Colorful arches formed the new
“Gateway to Progress” gate at
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East Commonwealth Avenue (now
Dan Patch Avenue) and Snelling
Avenue to welcome visitors to the
State Fair.
• 1975
Hippodrome renamed Coliseum
• 1980
Fine Arts Exhibition moved from
the Grandstand’s third floor into
the newly renovated Fine Arts
Center, one of the two oldest
State Fair buildings
• 1983
Fairborne debuted as the second
State Fair mascot
• 1984
International Bazaar opened
• 1991
- Visitors Plaza constructed
- Pet Center opened
• 2001
- SkyGlider constructed
- Adopt-A-Garden Program began
• 2002
- Minnesota State Fair Foundation
established
- Food Building renovated and new
Food Building Park constructed
- Grandstand bleachers razed and
renovation began
• 2003
Little Farm Hands exhibit opened
• 2004
The Grandstand renovation
project was completed and
included a new Grandstand Plaza
seating area, accessible entrance
and exit ramps and entertainment
production facility.
• 2006
- CHS Miracle of Birth Center built
- Coliseum re-named for Lee and
Rose Warner
- Historic greenhouse residence
restored and named J.V. Bailey
House
- Eco Experience took over the
Progress Center
• 2007
Food and agricultural waste
recycling program started
• 2008
New International Bazaar opened
• 2009
New Moo Booth opened
• 2012
AgStar Arena opened
• 2013
- More than 4,000 Vietnam-era
veterans walked in a “welcome
home” parade on Military
Appreciation Day.
- All-time Labor Day record
attendance of 164,277 set
• 2014
- West End Market and Transit
Hub opened
- On Saturday, Aug. 30, 252,092
visitors made it the bestattended single day in State
Fair history.
- All-time cumulative attendance
record of 1,824,830
NO FAIR
• 1861
Civil War
• 1862
Civil War, Dakota Indian Conflict
• 1893
World’s Columbian Exposition,
Chicago
• 1945
World War II federal governmentordered transportation restrictions
• 1946
Polio epidemic
EVOLUTION OF
GRANDSTAND SHOWS
Burning of Manila,” attracted huge
crowds and established fireworks
as a mainstay at the Grandstand.
• 1909
Present Grandstand built to
accommodate the huge crowds
attracted to harness racing by
world-famous pacer Dan Patch
• 1927
John Phillip Sousa was the fair’s
first well-known entertainer
and performed in the Plaza Park
outside the Grandstand.
• 1935
The old Grandstand fireworks
shows evolved into the State Fair
Revue, starring Radio City Music
Hall dancers, minor Hollywood
starlets and a smashing fireworks
finale.
• 1941
State Fair Revue promised 57
“headline” acts, but the show
was stolen on opening night by
ventriloquist Edgar Bergen and his
wooden sidekick Charlie McCarthy.
• 1957
Ricky Nelson starred in Children’s
Day shows shortly after his first
release, “I’m Walking,” made him a
teen heartthrob.
• 1962
First “big-name” night shows were
staged, starring Dennis Day, Jane
Russell and Jimmy Dean.
• 2000
An all-time record Grandstand
crowd of 22,117 attended Christina
Aguilera’s concert
CURIOSITIES
• 1887, 1888, 1889, 1898
Battle reenactments of
“Minnesota at Gettysburg,”
among others
• 1899
First evening fireworks show, “The
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• 1906
St. Paul Growers Association built
a model of the new State Capitol
out of onions
• 1915
Baby contest pitted city babies vs.
country babies and Minneapolis
babies vs. St. Paul babies
heckled into shortening his speech
at the Grandstand to make way for
the auto races
• 1965
Princess Kay of the Milky Way,
Mary Ann Titrud, wore royal robes
made from butter carton labels.
• 1920
50¢ all-you-can-eat buffet, served
on a conveyor belt and introduced
as the future of dining
• 1986, 1987, 1989
Aerialist Jay Cochran walked a
tightrope from the top of the
4-H Building to the top of the
Space Tower.
• 1920 & 1921; 1933 & 1934
Staged locomotive collisions in
Grandstand infield
• 2007
Robotic Milker introduced at
Cattle Barn’s Milking Parlor
• 1922
Vice President Calvin Coolidge
HISTORIC BUILDINGS & LANDMARKS
4-H Building
Located on the east side of Cosgrove Street at the intersection of
Wright Avenue
This magnificent three-story, monolithic concrete structure commands a
view of the entire fairgrounds and surrounding vicinity. Built after the 1938
State Fair by the WPA (Works Progress Administration), the 4-H Building was
dedicated in a ceremony on Aug. 29, 1940. Home to thousands of youth during
the fair’s 12-day run, the second-level kitchen serves more than 40,000 meals
throughout the fair.
Agriculture Horticulture Building
Located between Carnes and Judson avenues and Underwood and
Cooper streets
This octagon-shaped building hosts competitions, demonstrations, exhibits
and concessions related to agriculture, horticulture and bee culture. Opened
in 1947, its architecture mirrors the 4-H Building with the same lit tower,
vertical thrust and streamlined shapes. In 1885, a wooden-domed building was
constructed as the “main building,” and by 1910 it was solely for agriculture.
With an addition to this building in 1912, Minnesota could boast the largest
permanent building devoted to the exhibition of agricultural products in the
world. That building is no longer, due to fire on Nov. 10, 1944. The modern
Agriculture Horticulture Building, commonly referred to as Ag-Hort, resides
in the main building’s former footprint.
Cattle Barn
Located on the south side of Judson Avenue between Stevens and
Liggett streets
The Livestock Pavilion, or Cattle Barn, was built in 1920. The massive brick
structure covers 117,450 square feet with sufficient housing for 1,000 cattle.
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The structure has changed several times in its 92 years, most notably serving
in WWII as a home for the A.O. Smith Corporation that manufactured military
aircraft propellers. The 21,000-square-foot corrugated steel Cattle Annex
(Beef Barn) afforded more exhibit space in 1970. The most recent addition is
the Moo Booth exhibit, which was rebuilt in 2009 to showcase beef and dairy
cattle and the agricultural process from farm to table.
DNR Building
Located at the southwest corner of Carnes Avenue and Nelson Street
This wood structure is the largest log cabin on the fairgrounds. Known then
as the Conservation Building, it was erected in 1934 atop the former streetcar
loop, which extended Judson Avenue and allowed more accessibility to
the livestock area. A formal water fountain and gardens graced the south
side until 1971 when two connecting pools containing native Minnesota fish
and waterfowl took its place. 1971 was also the year the name changed to
Department of Natural Resources. A wetlands exhibit was added in 1992, the
ability for visitors to climb the fire tower returned in 2007, and in 2013, updated
aquariums and terrariums graced the interior.
Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum
Located on the south side of Judson Avenue between Liggett and
Clough streets
The original structure, known as the Hippodrome, was built in 1906 and was
used for horse shows and livestock judging. From 1909 to 1942, it was used
as the Hippodrome Ice Rink during the winter months and was considered, at
the time, to be the largest in the world. In 1943, the building was converted
to a government-run propeller plant, and horse shows came to a halt. After
WWII, the building was no longer structurally sound and was razed. In 1950
and 1951, the present structure was erected, and horse shows were reinstated.
The building continued to be called the Hippodrome until 1975 when a new
ice rink was installed and the name was changed to Coliseum. The rink was
permanently closed in 2014 due to declining use and deteriorating ice-making
equipment. However, the name Coliseum still remains with the 2006 naming
to honor Lee and Rose Warner. Mr. Warner was a member of the Agricultural
Society Board of Managers and the vice president of the Agricultural Society
from 1919 to 1944.
Commissary Building
Located north of the Sheep & Poultry Barn
Erected as a WPA project in 1938, this building’s purpose is to give a central
location to concession services and supply warehouses. From June 1943 until
May 1946, this building was used as a war plant, housing the cafeteria and plant
protection section of the A.O. Smith Corporation’s propeller plant. In 1946, the
building was reconverted for State Fair use and on Aug. 23, 1946, the west half
of the superstructure burned and was replaced by the present concrete block,
steel and wood structure.
Creative Activities Building and Annex
Located on the northeast corner of Dan Patch Avenue and Cosgrove Street
The first building on this site was erected in 1904 to serve as a manufacturer’s
building. After only a few years, it was changed to the Woman’s Building. In
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1911, a fine arts annex was built onto the Woman’s Building and formed a link
to the Schools Exhibits Building. The Woman’s Building changed its name to
Home Activities in 1952, and was razed in 1970. With the new structure in 1971
came a new name of Creative Activities to more accurately reflect its diversity
of exhibits.
FAN Central (formerly Modern Living Building)
Sponsored by Xfinity
Located on the west side of Underwood Street between Dan Patch and
Carnes avenues
Built in 1963 by the North Central Electric League as an exhibit of
electrical appliances and equipment, the building was appropriately named
Electri-City. In 1973, it was renamed the Modern Living Building, chosen
through a statewide contest. In 2009, it was re-purposed and is now known as
FAN Central where Minnesota sports teams are featured.
Fine Arts Center
Located at the southeast corner of Randall Avenue and Cosgrove Street
Built in 1907, the Fine Arts Center originally served as the Dairy Building and
eventually became Machinery Hall. In 1980, it became home to the fair’s Fine
Arts Exhibition, Minnesota’s largest juried art show. Before finding a permanent
home in the old Dairy Building, the Fine Arts Exhibition had been held at
various locations, including the third floor of the Grandstand.
Food Building
Located on the east side of Underwood Street between Dan Patch and
Carnes avenues
The Food Building, which houses dozens of food concessions, was partially
built and used during the 1948 State Fair and was completely finished in 1949.
Known at the time as the Food Show Building, it housed the Beer Garden, the
Food Show, dining halls and four corner refreshment concessions. In 2002, the
Food Building underwent an extensive renovation with many new food vendors
becoming part of the mix.
Grandstand
Located on the north side of Dan Patch Avenue between Chambers and
Nelson streets
The Minnesota State Fair Grandstand is the historic heart of the fairgrounds.
The original two-decked wooden Grandstand, built in 1885, was razed after
the 1908 State Fair. The current Grandstand, much larger than the original,
was built in 1909. Large bleacher structures were added in the late 1930s. In
November 2002, the fair began a two-year, $18 million project to renovate the
structure, adding new stairways, elevators, restrooms and seats, and removing
the deteriorating bleachers. The State Agricultural Society has committed
substantial resources to the renovation of this historic building to preserve it
for future generations of fair visitors.
The area beneath the Grandstand seating currently houses nearly 200 product
vendors on two floors of exhibit space. In the past, it has also been utilized as
an art gallery and automobile show space.
The State Fair Grandstand has always hosted a variety of entertainment
including horse and auto races, military spectacles, concerts, fireworks, staged
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train wrecks, livestock parades, motorcycle races, stunt flying shows, beauty
pageants, and speeches including Teddy Roosevelt’s “Speak Softly and Carry
a Big Stick.”
In 2009, the Grandstand celebrated its 100th anniversary. In conjunction with
this celebration, the entire Grandstand marquee was renovated and replaced
with high-efficiency LED light bulbs. The Minnesota State Fair Foundation’s
Grandstand Marquee Campaign contributed to the renovation.
Home Improvement Building
Sponsored by LeafFilter
Located on the west side of Cosgrove Street between Wright and
Dan Patch avenues
Built in 1973 in the Post World War II architecture style, this building is
characterized by boxy-shaped concrete and metal paneling. Housing
businesses exhibiting home articles such as sewing machines, air cleaners
and landscaping supplies, it was aptly named the Home Improvement
Building through a statewide contest.
Horse Barn
Located at the northwest corner of Judson Avenue and Liggett Street
The Horse Barn was originally built in 1937 as a WPA project. From June 1943
until September 1945, the Horse Barn served the war effort by housing the
machine shop of the A.O. Smith Corporation’s military airplane propeller plant.
Some modifications were made after WWII, and in 1947, horses, sheep and
4-H’ers returned for competition. Currently, the Horse Barn houses horses in
State Fair competitions, along with the popular Aisle of Breeds,
and EquiMania!TM, an equine education exhibit.
J.V. Bailey House
Located on the south side of Cosgrove Street, south of the Space Tower
Originally called the Officers’ Quarters, this was the fair-time home for State
Agricultural Society board members from 1911 to 1969. With the erection of
the first greenhouse, it also became the year-round residence to greenhouse
superintendents and groundskeepers from 1916 to 2004. Restored with
gifts to the Minnesota State Fair Foundation from Bailey Nursery Foundation
and the Gordon and Margaret Bailey Foundation, the property now provides
community meeting space and offices for the Minnesota State Fair Foundation.
On Aug. 27, 2006, the home was named in honor of J.V. Bailey, founder of
Bailey Nurseries. Mr. Bailey served the Minnesota State Fair as superintendent
of horticulture (1912-1934) and as a member of the Agricultural Society board
and president of the board (1933-1934).
Progress Center (Eco Experience)
Located on the north side of Randall Avenue at the intersection of
Cosgrove Street
Built in 1907, the Progress Center is one of the oldest two buildings on the
fairgrounds (the Fine Arts Center was also built in 1907). Originally constructed
as the Poultry Building and touted as “the largest exhibition building for poultry
in the world,” it has also been home to State Exhibits, Wonders of Technology
and, most recently, Eco Experience.
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Sheep & Poultry Barn
Located on the north side of Judson Avenue between Liggett and
Clough streets
The current Sheep & Poultry Barn was built as a WPA project in 1937. As with
many fair buildings in the livestock area, the A.O. Smith Corporation took
it over from 1943 to 1945 for WWII airplane propeller manufacturing. This
building once housed dog and cat shows, and only after the war did poultry
share its barn with sheep. Sheep, goats and rabbits can be found here today.
Poultry will not be exhibited at the 2015 State Fair due to H5N2 avian influenza.
Streetcar Arch
Located at the West End Gate
In 1934, the Emergency Relief Administration created a trolley entrance on the
south side of Judson Avenue, along with a new gate of brick construction with
permanent ticket sale booths supporting an arch bearing the inscription, “State
Fair.” It remained in that location until the 1980s when it was moved to a far
corner of the State Fair’s Como Avenue parking lots and was largely forgotten.
In 2013, the Streetcar Arch was restored and became a permanent part of the
West End Gate in 2014, once again welcoming hundreds of thousands of fair
guests to the Great Minnesota Get-Together each year.
Swine Barn
Located on the south side of Judson Avenue between Canfield and
Stevens streets
In 1935, the Swine Barn construction began under the ERA (Emergency Relief
Agency) and was completed in 1936 as a WPA project. Until 1943, swine shared
their space with sheep. Like many other fair buildings, it served the war effort
in WWII, when the A.O. Smith Corporation took it over for the grinding and
shipping operations of its propeller plant.
MINNESOTA STATE FAIR
HISTORY & HERITAGE CENTER
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, Located at West End Market, east side
The History & Heritage Center, a centerpiece of West End Market, opened
in 2014 and showcases the competition, entertainment, agriculture, food,
merchandise, rides & games and Minnesota industry that have been the
heart of the fair for a century and a half. Developed in partnership with the
Minnesota State Fair Foundation and the Minnesota Historical Society, the
center reflects the progression of change at the fair. Exhibits bring to life the
significant events, intriguing stories and inspiring traditions that have laid the
foundation for the present-day Great Minnesota Get-Together. Free with
fair admission.
STATE FAIR DIGITAL ARCHIVES
With a 150-year history connecting thousands of families and organizations in
Minnesota and surrounding states, the State Fair has retained documents and
images throughout the generations. Fair guests are invited to search for their
family’s name in the State Fair Archives, where annual reports and competition
results dating back to the 1880s are searchable and downloadable. The
archives are accessible online through msffoundation.org.
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Special Days & Events
CALENDAR/DAY DESIGNATIONS
Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for a detailed schedule of
performances, demonstrations and activities.
Thursday, Aug. 27 • Thrifty Thursday
Today’s Deals: Reduced admission–Adults (13–64) $11; Kids (5–12) $8.
Special ride & game promotions are offered at Mighty Midway and Kidway
all day. Many merchandise and food vendors offer special Thrifty Thursday
bargains for all fair guests.
STEM Day at Carousel Park (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.): The Land of 10,000 Lakes is
home to incomparable opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering
and Mathematics! Fair guests get an up-close look at intriguing, interactive
adventures brought to the fair by 25 organizations in the Minnesota STEM
Network, an initiative of SciMathMN: Chemically engineer slime; drive remote
cars through a roundabout and maneuver robots to tackle competition
challenges; test for chemicals in an aquaponics garden; experiment with air
pressure; launch hoop gliders; learn about pollinators, the current night sky
and how STEM relates to agriculture; design features for a futuristic city, a zoo
exhibit and bone stabilization devices; and more. On the Carousel Park stage,
engaging presentations feature Physics Force, The Bakken Museum and Fun
with Chemistry.
Opening Ceremony: At 10:15 a.m. at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell, State Fair
Executive Vice President Jerry Hammer and President Al Paulson declare the
State Fair officially open at the Opening Ceremony with the national anthem
and a flag raising by State Fair Police.
Friday, Aug. 28 • Governor’s Fire Prevention Day
Today’s Deals: Early Bird Specials are offered until 1 p.m. on Mighty Midway
and Kidway rides & games.
Around the fairgrounds: The 17th annual fun-filled, action-packed Governor's
Fire Prevention Day is the largest fire-prevention education event in the
world. Opportunities for families include learning about fire-safe behavior, fire
prevention, safe escape from a fire, as well as technological improvements
in burn treatment and firefighting equipment. Activities take place at various
locations throughout the fairgrounds. Presented by the Governor's Council on
Fire Prevention and Control.
Fire Explorer Challenge at Carousel Park (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.): Explorer posts
from around the state square off in a variety of competitions – gear donning,
ladder raising, spinal immobilization and others – culminating at 4 p.m. with
an awards ceremony. Explorers are young men and women who work with
adult mentors throughout the year to learn all the skills necessary for a firm
understanding of a firefighter’s job. Explorer skits also take place throughout
the day on the Carousel Park stage. A “State of Fire Prevention Address” from
fire service dignitaries will be presented on stage at 11 a.m.
“Hot Zone” at Expo Place (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.): Fair guests can learn life-saving
skills through activities and demonstrations: Explore the Safe Escape House
and bounce in the Safety Hopper; see demonstrations of kitchen fires, CPR and
AED, and basic animal rescue training; discover the latest technology used on
fire trucks and in tools and training; climb on antique trucks and operate
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an old hand pumper; try a virtual fire extinguisher; learn about burn and scald
prevention; and visit with the State Fair Fire Marshal and other experts. The
littlest firefighters can stop by for the famous red helmet giveaway.
Mock Car Crash Scene Demonstration at Family Fair at Baldwin Park (Noon
and 3:30 p.m.): Fire Explorers ages 14-20 manage the scene of a motor vehicle
collision and use many tools and techniques to free victims in the same way the
pros do. They’ll demonstrate their skills cutting away a car to access the victim,
provide medical care and transfer the patient to an ambulance.
Fire prevention focus at the DNR Building and Park (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.):
The Department of Natural Resources hosts games to help young and old
better understand how to prevent wildfires. Visitors can test their skills and
knowledge for prizes. They’ll learn about wildfire and campfire safety and
how experts use planning and techniques to help protect homes adjacent to
undeveloped land from the increased risk of wildfires. Fair visitors can climb
the Fire Tower (8 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting) and meet Smokey Bear
at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Flag-raising Ceremony at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell (10:15-10:30 a.m.): The
Governor’s Council on Fire Prevention and Control and firefighters from around
the state lead the State Fair’s flag-raising ceremony.
Saturday, Aug. 29 • 4-H Day
Prep45 Day at Carousel Park (9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.): Today celebrates the spirit
of the student-athlete with games, activities and interactive booths for the
entire family. Plus, 1500 ESPN’s SuperTalk Saturday radio broadcasts start
at 10 a.m.; Minnesota United player appearances and soccer demonstrations;
performances by Minnesota Boychoir and local high school marching bands;
and 94.5 KS95’s Lip Sync-Off Finale. Presented by 45TV, the exclusive home
of Minnesota State High School League tournaments.
Sunday, Aug. 30 • Minnesota Cooks™ Day
Minnesota CooksTM Day at Carousel Park (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.): Through
cooking demonstrations and lively discussions with chefs, cooks, farmers and
celebrities, the 13th annual Minnesota CooksTM Day highlights foods produced
in Minnesota and explores the critical role that family farmers and sustainable
agriculture have within our food system. Each hour, using goods supplied by
Minnesota farmers and producers, two chefs demonstrate how to prepare
flavorful recipes – cauliflower fritter, bison pot roast, Moroccan-spiced lamb,
North Shore bouillabaisse and wild rice croquettes, just to name a few. For a
complete schedule of chefs, farms and the recipes to be demonstrated, refer
to the Fun Finder or daily schedules. The program also includes music by Vicki
Emerson. Presented by Minnesota Farmers Union with support from Minnesota
Farmers Union Insurance, Farmers Union Industries, and Minnesota Grown.
Culinary volunteers courtesy of Le Cordon Bleu.
Today Only: The 31st Annual Milk Run, sponsored by Great River Energy,
Midwest Dairy Association and Minnesota Farmers Union, kicks off at 7:45 a.m.
Awards are presented to the top three finishers in each of 12 age categories.
Monday, Aug. 31 • Seniors, Kids & MN State Patrol Day
Today’s Deals: Reduced Admission–Seniors (65+) and Kids (5-12) $8.
Special ride & game promotions are offered at Mighty Midway and Kidway
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all day. Many merchandise and food vendors offer special Seniors & Kids Day
bargains for all fair guests.
Figure Skating Day at Carousel Park (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.): The artistry and
athleticism of wintertime’s most glamorous sport come to the fair on Aug. 31
to celebrate Saint Paul’s hosting of the 2016 Prudential U.S. Figure Skating
Championships. Olympic Gold Medalist and World Figure Skating Champion
Kristi Yamaguchi and national figure skater, choreographer and Minnesota
native Rohene Ward will sign autographs and answer fan questions. Local
figure skating clubs will perform on a plastic ice sheet, and an ice carver
will create a figure skating masterpiece. Meet U.S. Figure Skating mascot
Snowplow Sam, take “Kiss & Cry” selfies, play games and register to win prizes.
The 2016 Prudential U.S. Figure Skating Championships are Jan. 15-24 at Xcel
Energy Center in Saint Paul.
Minnesota State Patrol Day at Expo Place (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.): The Minnesota
State Patrol shows off an array of tools it uses to keep our roadways safe.
Fair visitors can stop by for an up-close look at a State Patrol helicopter,
Special Response tactical gear, vintage squad cars and motorcycles, a crash
reconstruction project, a DWI testing station, and how truck traffic stays safe
and legal. A rollover simulator removes any doubt about the importance of
seatbelts. Stage shows throughout the day feature K-9 demonstrations, airbag
deployments and the dangers of impaired driving.
Tuesday, Sept. 1 • Military Appreciation Day
Today’s Deals: Active military, retired military and veterans receive an
admission discount when they purchase a ticket at the gate and present valid
documentation of military service.
• Active military, their spouses and kids: $8
• Retired military and their spouses: $8
• Military veterans and their spouses: $8
Early Bird specials are offered on Mighty Midway and Kidway rides & games
until 1 p.m. Many merchandise and food vendors offer special Military
Appreciation Day bargains for all fair guests.
Military Appreciation Day at Expo Place (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.): This year, the fifth
annual Military Appreciation Day at the fair honors the nine congressionally
chartered veterans service organizations of the Minnesota Commander’s Task
Force: American Legion, American Ex-POWs, American Veterans, Disabled
American Veterans, Jewish War Veterans, Marine Corps League, Military
Order of the Purple Heart, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Vietnam Veterans of
America. Brought to the State Fair by the Minnesota National Guard, more than
50 educational booths from different branches of service and organizations
that support veterans and military families fill Expo Place with activities and
demonstrations. See military vehicles up close and more. Presented by USAA.
Celebrating Military Families at Carousel Park (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.): Fair guests
are invited to create thank-you cards for local veterans. Plus, the TRYathlon
Tour, brought to you by Radio Disney, stops in Minnesota on its cross-country
expedition to inspire kids and families to try new foods and fun moves. Activity
challenges promote nutrition, physical activity and a balanced lifestyle. On the
Carousel Park stage, Twin Cities Road Crew entertains with music, interactive
games, dancing and opportunities to win prizes hourly 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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Other Military Appreciation Day events: The day begins with a 9:30 a.m.
ceremony at the Veterans Garden on the south side of the Agriculture
Horticulture Building. It is followed at 9:45 a.m. with an opening ceremony
and flag-raising program at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell honoring the nine
veterans organizations of the Minnesota Commander’s Task Force. The 34th
Infantry Division “Red Bull” Band performs at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell at
1 and 2:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 2 • Read & Ride Day
Today’s Deals: Public library cardholders receive the following discounted
admission ticket price when they purchase a ticket at the gate and present
a valid library card. (Only one discount per card is permitted.) Reduced
admission: Adults (13-64) $11; Seniors (65+) $8; Kids (5-12) $8. Special ride
& game promotions are offered for everyone at Mighty Midway and Kidway
all day.
Read & Ride Day at Carousel Park (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.): Guests can join
Minnesota’s public libraries in celebrating readers. Performers take the stage
for yo-yo tricks, magic, hypnotism and old-time and bluegrass music. Tiny tots
build muscle and brainpower in an obstacle course just for them, and then
receive a copy of the picture book Moo! Fair visitors can join in on talks with
mystery writers from the Twin Cities chapter of Sisters in Crime. Guests can
show their library card and get a deck of “Get Carded: Make Your Next Stop the
Library” playing cards. Fair visitors have the opportunity to create art, get a free
bookmark, discover bookish fun with great Minnesota authors, venture on a
scavenger hunt and passport excursion to earn prizes, get goofy in an animated
photo booth to thank 1,000 teachers, register to win school supplies for a
favorite teacher, and more. Presented by public libraries and the Minnesota
Legacy Fund. For more information, visit readrideday.org
Thursday, Sept. 3 • Seniors Day
Today’s Deals: Seniors (65+) admitted for $8. Early Bird Specials are offered
until 1 p.m. on Mighty Midway and Kidway rides & games. Many merchandise
and food vendors offer special Seniors Day bargains for all fair guests.
Seniors Day at Carousel Park (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.): The 13th Annual State’s Largest
Senior Stretch & Stroll promotes fitness and good health for older folks and
is presented by UCare, Volunteers of America and Healthways SilverSneakers.
The program begins at 9 a.m. with music of the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s by The Pearl
Brothers. At 10 a.m., media personality and writer Kevyn Burger kicks off a fun
program of gentle stretching and strengthening exercises led by SilverSneakers
instructors. The first 1,000 participants receive health-oriented giveaways.
UCare stays on to present a full afternoon of multicultural dance and music on
the Carousel Park stage. Hosted by comedian and radio personality Shed G,
the program features performances by Jovonta Patton & DFY, Hmong Peace
Dancers, Grupo De Danzas Colombianas, Somali Youth Dancers, Larry Yazzie &
Native Pride Dancers, Aztec Dance Group, Duniya Drum and Dance, and Gotta
Dance Line Dancers.
Today Only: 10:30 a.m. Outstanding Senior Citizens Award Ceremony at the
Leinie Lodge Bandshell. Presented by the Minnesota State Fair, the Minnesota
State Fair Foundation and the Minnesota Federation of County Fairs, this award
is given to two Minnesota seniors who have shown outstanding commitment to
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community service since reaching the age of 65.
Friday, Sept. 4 • MPR Day
Today’s Deals: Early Bird Specials are offered until 1 p.m. on Mighty Midway
and Kidway rides & games.
MPR Day at Carousel Park (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.): On the Carousel Park stage,
MPR News, 89.3 The Current and Classical MPR team up to present live
broadcasts and performances throughout the day. Presented by Minnesota
Public Radio.
Saturday, Sept. 5 • FFA Day
Today: A myriad of FFA judging events take place, including dairy cattle judging
in AgStar Arena and swine, sheep and market goats in the Swine Barn.
AARP Day at Carousel Park (9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.): After a welcome by
State AARP Director Will Phillips, featured entertainment on the Carousel Park
stage includes local jazz, bluegrass and classic rock bands. A “Life Reimagined”
presentation at noon explores how to build a plan to achieve career, retirement,
entrepreneurial and volunteer goals. AARP presents its Volunteer of the Year
Award at 12:30 p.m. “You Don’t Know AARP” is the theme of activity stations
throughout Carousel Park, where visitors can learn about activities, events
and causes that AARP is involved in, including support for caregivers, livable
communities, technology classes, Life Reimagined, and more. Presented
by AARP.
Sunday, Sept. 6 • Friends of the Fair Day
Rock in the Park featuring KQRS and 93X at Carousel Park (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.):
The popular KQRS Morning Show presents a special edition Sunday morning
broadcast live on the Carousel Park stage from 9 a.m. to noon. Next up is the
93X Morning Show broadcasting live from noon to 3 p.m., followed by a live
broadcast from 3-5 p.m. with hosts to be announced.
Monday, Sept. 7 • Kids & Last Chance Day
Today’s Deals: Kids (5–12) admitted for $8. Special ride & game promotions
are offered at Mighty Midway and Kidway all day. Many merchandise and food
vendors offer Last Chance bargains all day.
Hmong Minnesota Day at Carousel Park (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.): Festivities
celebrate the culture, history and arts of Hmong Americans and highlight their
many contributions since first arriving in Minnesota 40 years ago. Hosted
by American Legion 3H Post 1975 and the Minnesota Asian Peace Officers
Association, the opening ceremony honors Hmong veterans of the Secret War
and represents a passing of the torch from these veterans to younger Hmong
now serving in the armed forces and police and fire departments. Traditional
Hmong music and dance transition to hip-hop, break dancing and spoken word
as the daylong program on the Carousel Park stage portrays the evolution
of Hmong art forms. Entertainment highlights also include the winners of
Hmong New Year talent competitions and a fashion show fusing traditional
and contemporary dress. Highlighting Hmong culture and community, these
activities for the whole family are presented at Carousel Park by Hmong
Resource Fair, Hmong American Partnership, Center for Hmong Arts and
Talent, Community School of Excellence, Midwest Hmong Outdoors, Little
Mekong businesses and others.
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FUN FINDER
Use this search engine on the State Fair website for entertainment dates and
times, special demonstrations, attraction dates and times, events in Carousel
Park and more.
SPECIAL EVENTS & CEREMONIES
50 Year Awards
Monday, Aug. 31, 5:30 p.m., Located at the Schell’s Stage at Schilling
Amphitheater
This award honors individuals with 50 years of State Fair participation.
Flag Raising
Located at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell
With the exception of Aug. 27 & 28, flag-raising ceremonies occur daily at
10:25 a.m. On Aug. 27, the flag raising is at 10:15 a.m. during the Opening
Ceremony. On Aug. 28, the flag raising is at 10:20 a.m. as part of Governor’s
Fire Prevention Day.
31st Annual Milk Run
Sponsored by Great River Energy, Midwest Dairy Association
and Minnesota Farmers Union
Sunday, Aug. 30, 7:45 a.m., Starting on Randall Avenue
The 5-kilometer certified race begins near Randall Avenue and Underwood
Street, moves off the fairgrounds through the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul
campus and the St. Anthony Park neighborhood and finishes back on Randall
Avenue. Each participant receives a Milk Run T-shirt, admission to the fair, a
malt coupon, various sponsor products and the opportunity to win prizes.
Opening Ceremony
Thursday, Aug. 27, 10:15 a.m., Located at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell
Executive Vice President Jerry Hammer and President Al Paulson declare the
State Fair officially open. The ceremony features a welcome to guests from
around the world, the national anthem and a flag raising by State Fair Police.
Outstanding Senior Citizens Award Ceremony
Seniors Day, Thursday, Sept. 3, 10:30 a.m., Located at the
Leinie Lodge Bandshell
Two Minnesota seniors are selected and honored as Minnesota’s
Outstanding Senior Citizens. From a pool of nominees from each county in
the state, winners are chosen for their outstanding commitment to community
service since reaching the age of 65. A special reception for county winners
and their guests hosted by the Minnesota State Fair Foundation is held at the
J.V. Bailey House following the ceremony. Presented by the Minnesota State
Fair, the Minnesota State Fair Foundation and the Minnesota Federation of
County Fairs.
2015 Best Awards Ceremony
Thursday, Sept. 3, 10 a.m., Located at the International Bazaar Stage
State Fair superintendents and other State Fair organizers will nominate a
minimum of three exhibitors, vendors or concessionaires for the “2015 Best
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Awards.” A committee will then review nominations and select winners in eight
categories: Best Product or Service; Best Food or Beverage; Best Attraction;
Best Value; Best Customer Service; Best Midway Ride; Best Midway Game; and
Best Kidway Ride. Winners are announced at this ceremony.
62nd Princess Kay of the Milky Way Coronation
Wednesday, Aug. 26, 8:30 p.m., Located at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell
Since 1954, the Princess Kay competition has recognized young women who
live or work on one of Minnesota’s dairy farms. This year, dairy princesses
from throughout the state will compete to be crowned the 62nd Princess Kay
of the Milky Way. The princess will serve as a dairy community spokesperson
throughout the year, and she and the 11 finalists will have their likenesses
sculpted in butter during the fair. The competition is organized by Midwest
Dairy Association. For more information, please contact Jen Bellmont with
Bellmont Partners at jen@bellmontpartners.com or (612) 255-1112.
Veterans Garden Ceremony
Tuesday, Sept. 1, 9:30 a.m., Located at the Veterans Garden on the south
side of the Agriculture Horticulture Building
A ceremony honoring Minnesota’s veterans of military service and
commemorating the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II will be held
at the State Fair Veterans Garden. The Veterans Garden was established in
2005 to honor all Minnesotans who have served in the U.S. armed forces, from
territorial days through the present. The garden currently features plaques
honoring Minnesota veterans of the Civil War, World War I, World War II, the
Korean War and the Vietnam War, as well as a Blue Star Memorial honoring all
American military veterans and a Gold Star Families plaque that honors families
of those who died while in military service to our nation.
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Special Exhibits
BUTTER SCULPTURES
9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, Located in the Dairy Building
Princess Kay and her court will each have their likeness carved into a
90-pound block of butter by a live sculptor. One sculpture is created each day
of the fair, while the princesses and sculptor rotate in a 40° display cooler and
periodically answer questions from the audience. For more information, please
contact Jen Bellmont with Bellmont Partners at jen@bellmontpartners.com or
(612) 255-1112.
THE COMMON TABLE: MINNESOTA EATS
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily (8 p.m. on Labor Day), Located in the Agriculture
Horticulture Building
This interactive exhibit inspires Minnesotans to get connected to the food
they eat. For more information, see the “Competition & Ag.” section of this
media kit.
DNR BUILDING AND PARK
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, Located between Carnes and Judson avenues and
Clough and Nelson streets
DNR Building and Park feature information, demonstrations and displays on
Minnesota’s forests, rivers and wildlife. Inside the building are aquariums full of
Minnesota fish. Outside in DNR Park, fair visitors can look at a pond full of fish
species native to Minnesota, meet Smokey Bear and take part in activities and
demonstrations. DNR Stage provides music and talks about Minnesota’s wildlife
and environment. The DNR Fire Tower is open to climb from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
(weather permitting). Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for a complete
listing. Note: no waterfowl featured due to avian influenza.
DRIVEN TO DISCOVER
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, Located on the west side of Cosgrove Street between
Wright and Dan Patch avenues
The University of Minnesota’s Driven to Discover is a research facility featuring
collaboration between researchers and thousands of fair guests. More than
30 university departments are seeking adults and children for studies on
such diverse topics as language, health care, physical fitness, allergies and
much more. Guests can participate as part of a research study and meet
with researchers and learn about their work. Refer to the Fun Finder or daily
schedules for a complete schedule of studies.
ECO EXPERIENCE
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located in the Progress Center on the north side of
Randall Avenue
Presented by the Minnesota State Fair and the Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency, this exhibit is designed to inspire people to lead more sustainable lives
while improving quality of life and the environment. Eco Experience showcases
renewable energy and exhibits on air, water, land, green buildings, organic
agriculture and local foods. See descriptions of this year’s new activities in the
“What’s New!” section of this media kit.
Eco Experience includes a Sustainability Stage with environmental
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demonstrations, entertainment and in-depth presentations every hour from
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For a complete Sustainability Stage schedule, refer to the Fun
Finder or daily schedules. Visit ecoexperience.org for a full list of exhibitors.
For more information, visit ecoexperience.org or contact Pamela McCurdy at
pamela.mccurdy@state.mn.us or (651) 757-2559 (cell).
FAMILY FAIR
Sponsored by Coca-Cola and DirecTV
Located at Baldwin Park between Randall and Wright avenues and Cooper
and Cosgrove streets
Family Fair features attractions, concessions and entertainment including: Sean
Emery, a comedic juggler; Break-Shop Bump’n, music and dance performances;
the Alphabet Forest; Math On-A-Stick and more. For a listing of entertainment
at the Family Fair Stage, go to the “Entertainment” section of this media kit.
FAN CENTRAL
Sponsored by Xfinity
Located on the west side of Underwood Street between Dan Patch and
Carnes avenues
Minnesota sports teams are featured under one roof. Fair guests will have a
chance to see many of their favorite teams, meet and greet players, purchase
team merchandise and interact with the following: Minnesota Timberwolves,
Minnesota Lynx, Minnesota Wild, Minnesota Vikings, St. Paul Saints, the
Minnesota Vixen - Minnesota Women’s Hot Dish Football, Minnesota United FC,
RollerGirls and Running Aces.
GREAT BIG SANDBOX
8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located at Baldwin Park
Kids can dig, scoop, pour and burrow their toes in a giant sandbox made just
for them.
HEALTH-RELATED EXHIBITS
Health-related exhibits can be found throughout the fairgrounds and are listed
below by location.
• Carousel Park • Seniors Day, Thursday, Sept. 3
“The State’s Largest Senior Stretch & Stroll” where Minnesota seniors learn
how to stretch their muscles and stay fit and healthy. Music begins at 9 a.m.;
the event starts at 10 a.m.
• Health Fair 11 at the Fair
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located on the southwest corner of Dan Patch Avenue and
Cooper Street
In its 15th year at the State Fair, Health Fair 11 offers free or low-cost health
checks, as well as health education and information. This year’s opportunities
for guests include:
• Information on food allergies
• Annual flu shots
• Blood pressure checks, glucose readings, hearing assessments, blood
typing and memory-loss evaluations
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• Guides to fair vendors offering gluten-free food options
• Face-to-face consultations on Minnesota’s MNSure Health
Insurance program
• Relax and recharge electronics at the R&R Station
• Eco Experience
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located in the Progress Center on the north side of
Randall Avenue
Eco Experience offers an array of exhibits and demonstrations about clean
air and water, saving energy, climate change, recycling, healthy local food
and other ways to lead more eco-friendly lives. Many of the exhibits and
demonstrations are health-related. Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules
for a complete schedule. For new exhibits in Eco Experience, see the listing in
the “What’s New!” section of this media kit.
• Education Building
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located on the east side of Cosgrove Street between
Wright and Dan Patch avenues
Alcoholics Anonymous
Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota
Food and Drug Administration
Minnesota Board on Aging
Minnesota Department of Health
Minnesota HomeCare Association
Minnesota Lions Eye Bank & Hearing Foundation
Minnesota State Council on Disabilities
Minnesota Teen Challenge
National Alliance on Mental Illness
National Multiple Sclerosis Society of Minnesota
Visiting Angels
• Lower Grandstand
9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life
Pro Choice Resources
• Upper Grandstand
9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
New Life Family Services
• Medica Health Plans
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located on Carnes Avenue between Underwood and
Nelson streets.
Medica Health Plans provides insurance information for all age groups.
• University of Minnesota
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located on the south side of Dan Patch Avenue, between
Underwood and Cooper streets
The University of Minnesota building features interactive exhibits by diverse
colleges, departments and student groups. Some of the health-related
presentations come from the School of Nursing, College of Pharmacy, Stem
Cell Institute, and the Academic Health Center Student National Medical
Association, among several others.
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• University of Minnesota Driven to Discover
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located on the west side of Cosgrove Street between
Wright and Dan Patch avenues
Learn more about Driven to Discover on page 73.
HISTORY WALKING & CELL PHONE TOUR
Brought to you by the Minnesota State Fair Foundation and the Minnesota
Historical Society and funded by the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund
Guests can learn about State Fair history and explore all corners of the grounds
on this self-guided tour. Prizes are offered to those who visit eight stops on
the tour at the J.V. Bailey House or at the Minnesota Historical Society’s booth
in the Education Building until 6 p.m. (while supplies last). Tour brochures are
available at information booths and at each of the tour stops. There are three
new stops on this tour for 2015. For more information on the three new stops,
see the “What’s New!” section of this media kit. Guests can also hear sounds of
fairs past on the History Cell Phone Tour by calling (877) 411-4123 while at the
fair or from home.
INTERNATIONAL BAZAAR
9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Located on the south side of Judson Avenue between
Underwood and Cooper streets
The International Bazaar features free entertainment, food, crafts and wares
from around the world. Dance, instrument and craft demonstrations are
showcased daily on the Festival of Nations Stage. The free entertainment
stage, sponsored by Summit Brewing Co., features live performances by 18 acts
throughout the run of the fair. For a complete listing of entertainment on the
International Bazaar Stage, see the “Entertainment” section in this media kit.
MINNESOTA STATE FAIR ART & SCULPTURES
The Minnesota State Fairgrounds are home to exceptional art and sculptures.
View a brochure at mnstatefair.org/general_info/brochure_rack.html or pick
one up at an information booth to use as a guide to the State Fair’s most
artistic attractions.
MINNESOTA STATE FAIR GARDENS
The Minnesota State Fairgrounds are home to spectacular gardens and green
spaces. View a brochure at mnstatefair.org/general_info/brochure_rack.html
or pick one up at an information booth to use as a guide to the fair’s most
naturally colorful attractions.
MINNESOTA STATE FAIR
HISTORY & HERITAGE CENTER
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located at West End Market, east side
The History & Heritage Center, a centerpiece of West End Market, showcases
the competition, entertainment, agriculture, food, merchandise, rides & games
and Minnesota industry that have been the heart of the fair for a century and
a half. For the full description, please see the listing in the “History” section of
this media kit.
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MINNESOTA TERRITORIAL PIONEERS CABIN
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located on the west side of Underwood Street between
Carnes and Judson avenues
The Minnesota Territorial Pioneers Inc., established in 1897, is an organization
whose membership is limited to descendants of persons who became citizens
of the state of Minnesota on May 11, 1858. The first cabin on the fairgrounds
was built in 1900. In 1958, it was razed, and a log cabin at the State Fair
campgrounds was moved and refurbished for use as the new headquarters
on Underwood Street. The log cabin displays clothing, household articles and
tools, toys, photos and other interesting artifacts from territorial times, along
with pioneer-inspired gifts available for purchase.
MINNESOTA WINE COUNTRY
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located on the west side of Underwood Street, between
Judson and Carnes avenues
Fun, hands-on presentations and delicious tastings feature award-winning and
new wines from the best of Minnesota’s vineyards and wineries. Fair visitors
can join renowned local winemakers, chefs and experts to learn about and
try the best in: Minnesota wine, State Fair food pairings, local food and wine,
exploring local wineries and more. Free daily demonstrations are scheduled
from Friday, Aug. 28 through Sunday, Sept. 6 at 3:30 p.m. each day. Live music
from 6:30-9:30 p.m. each night. Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for a
complete schedule. For more information, contact Shelli Lissick with Bellmont
Partners at shelli@bellmontpartners.com or (651) 276-6922.
MINNESOTA NEWSPAPER MUSEUM
9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (6 p.m. on Labor Day), Located on the east side of
Cosgrove Street, on the street level of the 4-H Building, outside
Letterpress printing is experiencing a huge resurgence in popularity. See it
in its original form as the sights and sounds of an old-time newspaper office
come alive in this living-history exhibit operated by the Minnesota Newspaper
Foundation. Ink-stained volunteers produce souvenir issues of the daily
“Maynard News” using linotype (a process of forcing hot lead into a casting
box to form a “line of type”), a large cylinder press and a folder. The museum
offers insight on the importance of Minnesota community newspapers, the
opportunity to visit with “Editors of the Day,” free hand-folded hats made from
newspapers, hot-off-the-press merchandise and more.
OLD IRON SHOW
8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Located on Lee Avenue between Underwood and
Cooper streets
Rare, valuable and fully operational antique farm equipment is displayed
and demonstrated.
PET CENTER
Sponsored by Sam’s Club
8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Located on the north side of Murphy Avenue between
Underwood and Cooper streets
The Pet Center features Minnesota Purebred Dog Breeders Association
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exhibits and demonstrations, the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association pet
surgery suite and other pet-oriented commercial exhibits and concessions. Pet
spay and neutering surgeries are presented in the surgery suite daily at 10 a.m.,
noon, 2 & 4 p.m. The St. Paul Police K-9 Foundation offers demonstrations
daily at 7 p.m. All K-9 and agility demonstrations are presented outside on the
lawn east of the Pet Center. Refer to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for a
complete schedule of Pet Center events.
WEST END MARKET
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (some vendors and attractions are open earlier or later),
Located at the west end of the fairgrounds
West End Market debuted in 2014 and is a neighborhood of new State Fair
sights, sounds, tastes and experiences, featuring the History & Heritage Center;
the Schell’s Stage at the Schilling Amphitheater with entertainment all 12 days
of the fair; dozens of artisans, craftspeople and specialty merchants; and many
food and beverage options.
WISER LIVING
9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Located on the east side of Cosgrove Street, on the street
level of the 4-H Building, outside
This interactive exhibit is designed for all ages and helps fair visitors learn
about the many products and services available in our communities to
maximize independence, choice and fulfillment as people age and care
for themselves and others. The Front Porch Stage will feature speakers,
demonstrations and entertainment. Wiser Living is a partnership of the
Minnesota State Fair and Older but Wiser Living.
SPONSOR EXHIBIT BOOTHS & ACTIVITIES
August Schell Brewing Co.
Schell’s Stage Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located south of the Schell’s Stage at Schilling
Amphitheater
Promotion and sales of August Schell beer. Grain Belt Blu Beer will return after
its 2014 launch; it is brewed exclusively for the Minnesota State Fair. Natural
blueberry juice infused into Grain Belt Premium offers a refreshing Minnesota
brewed beer. Also returning are frozen beer toppings. Frozen Grain Belt Blu
and Schell Shocked Grapefruit Radler can top the beer to create a Frozen Blu
or Frozen Radler.
Cabela’s
The North Woods Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located at The North Woods on Cooper Street
Promotion and sales of Cabela’s merchandise. Displays of Cabela’s Wildlife &
Land Management Tractors, ATVs, boats and pontoons. Promotion of getting
outdoors with the family. Sept. 5-6 from 9-11 a.m.: Meet Your Wildlife & Land
Management Biologist (Jeremy Flinn, Cabela’s biologist). Discounts given to
military personnel for the duration of the fair.
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Cal Spas
Ramberg Senior Center Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located south of Ramberg Senior Center on
Underwood Street at Judson Avenue
Promotion and sales of Cal Spas products.
Cargill
Little Farm Hands Start Barn Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located at the Little Farm Hands Start Barn
Cargill celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2015.
CenturyLink
Information Booths Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located at Baldwin Park on the east side of Cooper Street
between Randall and Wright avenues
Promotion and sales of CenturyLink services – high-speed Internet, Prism TV,
phone, home security and DirecTV.
Coca-Cola
Official Soft Drink Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Two locations in Adventure Park and at Baldwin Park on
Cosgrove Street between Randall and Wright avenues
Promotion and sales of Coca-Cola products.
Cub Foods
Little Farm Hands Grocery Store Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located at the Little Farm Hands Grocery Store
Promotion of Cub Foods and product giveaways for children participating in
the Little Farm Hands exhibit.
DirecTV
Family Fair at Baldwin Park Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located south of Baldwin Park on Wright Avenue at
Cosgrove Street
Education and sales of the latest DirecTV technologies including the new
DIRECTV Kids App, Genie HDDVR – DirecTV’s most advanced HD DVR system.
Fair guests can vote for their school to receive a DIRECTV system installation,
as well as vote for a local teacher to receive $1,000 for a classroom project to
enhance children’s education. Promotional giveaways. The DIRECTV Goes to
School Promotion will fund three classroom projects of $1,000 for teachers
voted for online.
DISH
Kidway Co-Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, North of Kidway on Wright Avenue at Underwood Street
Promotion and sales of DISH Network technologies.
DragNFly Wireless
Wi-Fi Hotspot Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located at the west Grandstand Plaza
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Gold Medal Flour
Creative Activities Premium Book Sponsor
Providing gift baskets for top baking winners in Creative Activities.
Good Health Saunas
The North Woods Co-Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located on Randall Avenue, south of The North Woods
Promotion and sales of Good Health Saunas.
Great River Energy
Milk Run Sponsor
Aug. 30, 7:45 a.m.
Green Mill Restaurant
Family Fair Stage at Baldwin Park Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located on the east side of Cooper Street at Baldwin Park,
west of the Family Fair Stage
Promotion and sales of Green Mill Restaurant food, including the new food
Stuffed Italian Meatloaf On-a-Stick (see the “What’s New!” section of this
media kit for a description).
Hyundai – Twin Cities Hyundai Dealers
Daily Mall Parade Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located on Judson Avenue west of the J.V. Bailey House
Promotion of Hyundai through education on various vehicle performance and
convenience features, new technologies and safety enhancements.
Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Co.
Leinie Lodge Bandshell Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located south of the Leinie Lodge Bandshell
Leinenkugel beer sampling from 4-6 p.m. each day. Sales all day. Celebrating
20 years of Honey Weiss. Meet one of the Leinenkugel brothers at noon near
the Bandshell on Thursday, Aug. 27.
John Deere Company
Little Farm Hands Tractor Shed Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located at the Little Farm Hands Tractor Shed
Celebrating John Deere’s 175+ year history.
Kemps
Little Farm Hands Title Sponsor and Dairy Barn Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located on the west side of Cooper Street, south of the Little
Farm Hands entrance
Educational exhibit celebrating 100 years of Kemps’ rich history as a Minnesota
company. Guests can visit Kemps mobile “Mooseum,” a family-friendly blend
of hands-on activities and colorful displays, plus promotion of Kemps products
with sampling, coupons and interactive activities.
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Kia – Minneapolis Area Kia Dealers
Amphitheater Go Cart Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located on the south side of Judson Avenue at the
Go Cart entrance
Aug. 28-30 and Sept. 4-7, B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible and Keep Everyone
Safe) will provide fair visitors with an opportunity to wear “drunk goggles” and
attempt to walk in a straight line. B.R.A.K.E.S. ambassadors will engage and
educate guests while providing literature and giveaways.
LeafFilter
Home Improvement Building Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located on the west side of Cosgrove Street between
Wright and Dan Patch avenues
Promotion and display of LeafFilter Gutter Protection.
Mazda
Nightly Fireworks Spectacular Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located at the west Grandstand Plaza
Promotion and display of Mazda vehicles, photo opportunity and giveaways.
Midwest Dairy Association
Milk Run Sponsor
Aug. 30, 7:45 a.m.
Minnesota Corn Growers Association
Little Farm Hands Grain Bin Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located at the Little Farm Hands Grain Bin
Promotion of corn production. Kids gather corn to feed the “chickens.”
Minnesota Farmers Union
Milk Run Sponsor
Aug. 30, 7:45 a.m., Find Minnesota Farmers Union at the 31st Annual
Milk Run
Minnesota State Lottery
Daily Schedules Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located at the northwest corner of Judson Avenue and
Nelson Street
This water-and-woods-themed booth will have educational information
highlighting water project beneficiaries, as well as the sale of Minnesota
State Lottery tickets, including “High Stakes Lakes,” plus special offers and
prize drawings. Photo opportunity with Big Foot to promote the Big Foot
scratch game launching Sept. 8. Second-chance prize drawings to win
stand-up paddleboards.
RiverSouth
Blue Ribbon Bargain Books Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located on Liggett Street north of Judson Avenue
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Sam’s Club
Pet Center Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located east of the Pet Center
Promotion and sales of Sam’s Club memberships with a promotional
incentive package.
Sensodyne
Kidway Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located north of Kidway on Wright Avenue
Sensodyne sampling and giveaways, including toothpaste, toothbrushes,
drawstring bags, coupons and toothpaste timers, as well as teeth brushing
station, photo opportunities and a sweepstakes entry for a trip to Florida or
Wyoming. Registered dental hygienist consultations.
Sleep Number
Grandstand Concert Series Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located in the Grandstand, lower level, east side
Promotion and sales of Sleep Number beds, Sleep IQ, bedding and
adjustable bases.
Summit Brewing Co.
International Bazaar Stage Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located inside the International Bazaar entrance
Promotion and sales of Summit beer, including Summit on-a-stick and limited
release of State Fair exclusive beer, The Villain.
Texas On Tour
Presenting Trolleys
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located on Randall Avenue at Cosgrove Street
Promotion of the state of Texas through an experiential exhibit that gives
potential travelers a taste of the adventure the Lone Star State has to offer.
Interactive gaming, live music, a phone charging station, giveaways and the
opportunity to win a trip to Texas. Live music in the afternoon: Reagan James
from The Voice (Aug. 27-30) and The Austin (Sept. 4-7).
Treasure Island Resort & Casino
The Garden & Garden Stage Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located in The Garden at the southeast corner of
Dan Patch Avenue and Underwood Street
Promotion of upcoming events at Treasure Island Resort & Casino. Karaoke,
prizes and giveaways from noon to 5 p.m. and River Rats Dueling Pianos in
the evenings.
Xfinity
FAN Central Sponsor
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located on Underwood Street, just east of FAN Central
Promotion and sales of Xfinity services, including video, high-speed Internet,
home security and phone services. Free Wi-Fi for fair visitors.
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TOURING PROMOTIONAL EXHIBITS
Promotional exhibits and sampling located throughout the fairgrounds.
(Dates and locations are subject to change.)
Almay Simply American Tour
Aug. 29–Aug. 30, Located at Expo Place on the northeast corner of
Murphy Avenue and Cooper Street
Makeovers, photos, giveaways, prize drawings and, in honor of our military, a
pre-selected veteran will be given a makeover each day.
American Red Cross Blood Mobile
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located east of the Agriculture Horticulture Building
on Cooper Street
Collecting blood donations and raising awareness of the importance of
giving blood and the Red Cross.
AT&T GoPhone #GoodToGo Tour
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located on Wright Avenue between Underwood and
Cooper streets
Providing hands-on demonstrations and trials of AT&T GoPhone products
and services.
Careers in Welding
Aug. 27–30, Located on Wright Avenue between Underwood and
Cooper streets
An educational exhibit designed to show the many careers available in the field
of welding. Visitors can try their hand at virtual reality welding, learn about
available scholarships, test their knowledge of welding trivia and more.
CW23
Aug. 27 & 28, Located south of the Agriculture Horticulture Building on
Cooper Street
Jumbotron screen for advanced screenings of newly released television
programming, meet and greets, mobile charging station, photo opportunities
and giveaways.
Delta Dental: Better Health Through Oral Health!
Aug. 31, Located on Wright Avenue between Cooper and Cosgrove streets
Promotion of Delta Dental through brochures and dental floss giveaways.
DirecTV
Aug. 27–Sept. 7, Located on the west side of Underwood Street east of the
Dairy Building
Television displays and interactive, family-friendly games. Television
subscriptions sold and displayed on-site.
Gedney & Dilly The Pickle
Aug. 27–30, Located on Cooper Street between Randall and Wright avenues
“Dilly” the pickle mascot will greet fair guests and hand out paper pickle hats,
giveaways and coupons. Pickle sampling.
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HMVET (Hormel Military Veterans Engagement)
Sept. 1, Located on Judson Avenue, south of the Agriculture
Horticulture Building
Hormel product and coupon giveaways.
Hotel Transylvania 2
Aug. 29, Located in Baldwin Park
Promotion of the new animated children’s movie.
Les Paul’s Big Sound Tour
Sept. 4–7, Located on Wright Avenue between Cooper and Cosgrove streets
A celebration of Les Paul’s 100th birthday, this exhibit shares Les Paul’s
creativity and innovation using sound exploration and interactivity.
L.L. Bean Summer Tour
Aug. 27–30, Located on Wright Avenue between Cooper and
Cosgrove streets
Promotion and display of L.L. Bean clothing and products.
McDonald’s
Aug. 31, Located on Wright Avenue between Cooper and Cosgrove streets
Promotion of McDonald’s nutrition, community programs and
economic impact.
PAW Patrol Tour
Aug. 29–30, Located on Wright Avenue between Cooper and
Cosgrove streets
Promotion of Disney cartoons PAW Patrol, Little Charmers, Chubby Puppies
and Sick Bricks. Includes product demonstrations, a green screen activity
and giveaways.
Pig 3D: All Sides of the Story
Sept. 4–6, Located on Clough Street, south of Judson Avenue
Activities, photo opportunities, recipes and tips on how to prepare pork
encourage understanding of values important to both consumers and pig
farmers. Visitors can stop by for free samples of grilled pork and enter for a
chance to win free bacon for a year.
Saint Paul Road Trip
Aug. 27–Sept. 1, Located on Cooper Street east of the Agriculture
Horticulture Building
A mobile visitor’s lounge highlighting Saint Paul attractions, restaurants, events
and the city of Saint Paul as a visitor destination through brochures
and giveaways.
Xcel
Sept. 3–6, Located on Wright Avenue between Underwood and
Cooper streets
Information on Xcel Energy programs.
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Ticketed Attractions
ADVENTURE PARK
Sponsored by Coca-Cola
10 a.m. to midnight (11 p.m. Labor Day), Located east of Mighty Midway
Adventure Park features extreme thrill attractions, including:
• KRAZY MAZE
The Krazy Maze is designed for adventurous visitors who wish to lose
themselves in a maze filled with lights and music. Maze explorers become a
spectacle as family and friends watch the excitement from a viewing deck.
$5 per person.
• ROCK CLIMBING WALL
Simulated 25-foot-tall mountain-side climbing for beginners to experts.
$5 per person.
• SKYSCRAPER
Skyscraper rotates 360° vertically on its axis taking the cars at each end to
a height of 160 feet and speeds of up to 60 mph. $30 per rider; $55 for two
riders; $25 per rider from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays.
• SLING SHOT
Hurls two riders at a time, 140 feet straight into the air. $30 per rider; $55
for two riders; $25 per rider from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays.
• TURBO BUNGY
Riders are harnessed in and perform trampoline acrobatic stunts.
$5 per person.
KIDWAY
Sponsored by Sensodyne and DISH
9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (10 p.m. Labor Day), Located between Wright and
Dan Patch Avenues and Underwood and Cooper streets
Media MUST check in with the marketing and communications department
at (651) 288-4321 and the Kidway Office at (651) 288-4491 before entering
Kidway for interviews, video or photography. For safety reasons, NO
VEHICLES ARE ALLOWED.
Kidway features rides, attractions and food concessions for children and
families. Pre-fair discount ride & game tickets are available through Aug. 26
($15 for 25 tickets). During the fair, ride & game tickets are available at Mighty
Midway and Kidway ($1 single, $25 per sheet of 30 or $40 per sheet of 54).
Discounts and promotions are offered all day on Thrifty Thursday, Aug. 27; Kids
Days, Monday, Aug. 31 and Monday, Sept. 7; and Read & Ride Day, Wednesday,
Sept. 2. Early Bird Specials are offered Friday, Aug. 28; Tuesday, Sept. 1;
Thursday, Sept. 3 and Friday, Sept. 4 until 1 p.m. Ticket booths close 1/2-hour
before rides, games and concessions close.
The following is a list of this year’s rides and attractions at Kidway:
• Beetle Bobs
• Dalton Tractor Ride
• Cars, Motorcycles & Dune
Buggies
• Daytona
• Dino-Go-Round
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• Dive Bomber
• Monkey/Bear-Go-Round
• Expo Gondola Wheel
• Monkey Maze Glass House
• Ghost Pirate Dark Ride
• Monster Truck
• Hog Rally
• Puppy Express
• Jumping Jumbos
• Raiders
• Jungle Twist
• Safari Train
• Kiddie Bumper Boats
• Samba Balloon
• Kiddie Ferris Wheel
• Slide
• Kite Flyer
• Tilt-A-Whirl
• Lady Bug
• Wacky Shack Kiddie Fun House
• Merry-Go-Round
• Wave Swinger
• Mini Indy Bumper Cars
• Winky the Whale
• Mini Swing
MIGHTY MIDWAY
10 a.m. to midnight (11 p.m. Labor Day), Located at the west end of
the fairgrounds. Entrance at the intersection of Carnes Avenue and
Liggett Street
Media MUST check in with the marketing and communications department
at (651) 288-4321 and the Midway Operations Office at (651) 288-4491
before entering Mighty Midway for interviews, video or photography. For
safety reasons, NO VEHICLES ARE ALLOWED.
Mighty Midway features rides, games of skill and food concessions. Pre-fair
discount ride & game tickets are available through Aug. 26 ($15 for 25 tickets).
During the fair, ride and game tickets are available at the Mighty Midway and
Kidway ($1 single, $25 per sheet of 30 or $40 per sheet of 54). Discounts and
promotions are offered all day on Thrifty Thursday, Aug. 27; Kids Days, Monday,
Aug. 31 and Monday, Sept. 7; and Read & Ride Day, Wednesday, Sept. 2. Early
Bird Specials are offered Friday, Aug. 28; Tuesday, Sept. 1; Thursday, Sept. 3 and
Friday, Sept. 4 until 1 p.m. Ticket booths close 1/2-hour before rides, games and
concessions close. The following is a list of this year’s rides and attractions at
the Mighty Midway:
• Equinox
• 1001 Nachts
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• Adult Bumper Boats
• Gondola Ferris Wheel
• Air Race
• Haunted House Dark Ride
• Alpine Bobs
• Hurricane
• Arabian Daze Fun House
• Jukebox Music Video Funhouse
• Area 51
• Kamikaze
• Big Bamboo Fun House
• Magic Maze Glass House
• Cliff Hanger
• Magnum
• Crazy Dance
• New York New York Fun House*
• Crazy Mouse Spinning Roller
Coaster
• Orbiter
• Rock It
• Scooter
• Techno Power
• Sizzler
• Tornado
• SkyFlyer
• Viper
• Stinger
• Zipper
• Storm
(*new rides for 2015)
• Super Nova Roller Coaster*
NEW ATTRACTIONS
For new attractions and their locations, please see the listing in the “What’s
New!” section of this media kit.
OTHER TICKETED ATTRACTIONS
• Bob’s Snake Zoo
Located on the north side of Judson Avenue between Nelson and
Underwood streets. Ages 6-64 $1; children 5 and under and adults
65+ are free.
• Butterfly House
Located at the northwest corner of Dan Patch Avenue and
Underwood Street. $3 per visitor.
• Carousel
Located in Carousel Park, on the west side of Nelson Street between
Dan Patch and Carnes avenues. $2.50 per rider.
• Giant Slide
Located on the east side of Nelson Street between Dan Patch and
Carnes avenues. $2.50 per rider.
• Go Carts
Sponsored by Minneapolis Area Kia Dealers
Located on the south side of Judson Avenue between Clough and
Underwood streets. $7 for drivers and $4 for passengers.
• Haunted House
Located on the southeast corner of Judson Avenue and Underwood Street.
$4 per visitor.
• Monty’s Traveling Reptile Show
Located on the east side of Nelson Street between Carnes and Judson
avenues. $3 per person.
• River Raft Ride
Located on the south side of Judson Avenue between Clough and
Underwood streets. $4.50 per rider.
• SkyGlider
A 10-minute chairlift-type ride takes passengers approximately 40 feet in the
air from the east end of the Grandstand to Murphy Avenue near the
Pet Center and back. One-way ticket: $4. Round-trip ticket: $6.
• Skyride
Gondolas take passengers from Cooper Street near the Agriculture
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Horticulture Building to Liggett Street near West End Market and back.
One-way ticket: $4. Round-trip ticket: $6.
• Space Tower
Located on the east side of Cooper street south of the Leinie
Lodge Bandshell
This rotating ride provides passengers a 360° panoramic view of the
Twin Cities from nearly 300 feet in the air. $3 per rider.
• Ye Old Mill
Located at the southwest corner of Carnes Avenue and Underwood Street
Touted as the “original tunnel of love,” Ye Old Mill is the oldest attraction
on the fairgrounds and is owned by the same family who first operated it in
1915. This year, the attraction celebrates its 100th anniversary. Ye Old Mill is
operated by a 40-horse power engine that turns the mill wheel and keeps
water running through the 1,300-foot channel. Boats float along at a leisurely
speed, carrying riders through almost complete darkness. $3.25 per rider.
Riders save 50 cents from opening until noon on Thrifty Thursday, Aug. 27;
Seniors & Kids Day, Monday, Aug. 31; Seniors Day, Thursday, Sept. 3; and Kids
& Last Chance Day, Labor Day, Sept. 7.
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Ticketing & Savings
TICKETING
Pre-Fair Discount Ticket Pricing
Through Aug. 26
• Pre-fair discount admission tickets—$10 (valid for any age, any day of the fair)
• Pre-fair Mighty Midway and Kidway ride & game tickets—$15 for a sheet
of 25
• Blue Ribbon Bargain Books—$5
Pre-fair discount admission tickets, Mighty Midway and Kidway ride & game
tickets and Blue Ribbon Bargain Books are available at the State Fair Ticket
Office, participating Cub Foods stores and numerous locations in greater
Minnesota and western Wisconsin through Aug. 26 (while supplies last). For
a complete list of pre-fair discount ticket sales outlets, call (651) 288-4427
or visit mnstatefair.org. Pre-fair discount tickets and coupon books may be
purchased online through 5 p.m. on Aug. 17.
Grandstand tickets are available at mnstatefair.org or by calling
(800) 514-3849. Mail order service is available, and requests should be
addressed to Tickets, Minnesota State Fair, 1265 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul,
MN 55108. The State Fair Ticket Office on the fairgrounds also sells all show
tickets prior to and during the fair.
Aug. 11 through Aug. 26, the State Fair Ticket Office is located at the Como
Loop Gate (#9). Ticket office hours are Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to
6 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Exceptions: Aug. 22 & 23, 10:30 a.m. to
3:30 p.m.; Aug. 24 & 25, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Aug. 26, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Fair-Time Admission Ticket Pricing
Aug. 27 through Labor Day, Sept. 7
• Adults (13–64): $13
• Seniors (65+): $11
• Kids (5–12): $11
• Children (under 5): Free
• Auto Parking: $13
Fair-Time Mighty Midway & Kidway Ticket Pricing
Aug. 27 through Labor Day, Sept. 7
• Sheet of 54 tickets: $40
• Sheet of 30 tickets: $25
• Single ticket: $1
Grandstand Tickets
Day-of-show concert tickets are available at the ticket booths on the east end
of the Grandstand, which open at 10 a.m. daily. Will-call tickets may be picked
up on the day of the show beginning 90 minutes prior to show time. Tickets
for upcoming shows are also available at these ticket booths. Gate admission
is required in addition to a Grandstand ticket. Admission to Grandstand events
is free for children under 2 years of age if they share a paid seat. Children under
2 who require their own seat must have a ticket.
Access to preferred seating for Grandstand shows is offered through the
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Minnesota State Fair Foundation Friends of the Fair membership program.
Friends at the Red Ribbon level ($100 and up) receive preferred seating access
and other fair benefits. Visit msffoundation.org for more details.
Re-Admission
Everyone entering the fairgrounds must present a valid ticket of admission.
Guests may depart the fairgrounds through any gate and be re-admitted the
same day without an additional charge by requesting a hand stamp when
leaving. Re-admittance must occur before 10 p.m. (9 p.m. on Labor Day) on
the day the stamp is issued. Re-admission does not apply to vehicles parked in
State Fair parking lots.
Refunds
Tickets for Grandstand and gate admission are non-refundable. Questions
should be directed to Guest Services in Visitors Plaza. Hours are 7 a.m. to
11 p.m. Guest Services may also be reached at guestservices@mnstatefair.org.
SAVINGS
Special Discount Days
THRIFTY THURSDAY • THURSDAY, AUG. 27
Admission prices are reduced all day, and many merchandise and food vendors
offer special Thrifty Thursday bargains for all fair guests. All-day specials are
offered on Mighty Midway and Kidway rides & games.
Discounted Gate Admission on Thrifty Thursday:
• Adults (13–64): $11
• Kids (5–12): $8
• Children (under 5): free
SENIORS & KIDS DAY • MONDAY, AUG. 31
Admission prices are reduced all day for seniors (65+) and kids (5–12).
All-day specials are offered on Mighty Midway and Kidway rides & games.
Many merchandise and food vendors offer Seniors & Kids Day bargains for all
fair guests.
Discounted Gate Admission on Seniors & Kids Day:
• Seniors (65+): $8
• Kids (5–12): $8
• Children (under 5): free
MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY • TUESDAY, SEPT. 1
Active military, retired military and veterans receive an admission discount
when they purchase a ticket at the gate and present valid documentation of
military service.
• Active military, their spouses and kids: $8
• Retired military and their spouses: $8
• Military veterans and their spouses: $8
Early Bird Specials are offered on Mighty Midway and Kidway rides & games
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until 1 p.m. Many merchandise and food vendors offer Military Appreciation Day
bargains for all fair guests.
READ & RIDE DAY • WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 2
Public library cardholders receive a discount off regular admission when they
purchase a ticket at the gate and present a valid library card (one discount per
card). All-day specials are offered on Mighty Midway and Kidway rides & games.
Discounted Gate Admission on Read & Ride Day:
• Adults (13–64): $11
• Seniors (65+): $8
• Kids (5–12): $8
• Children (under 5): free
SENIORS DAY • THURSDAY, SEPT. 3
Seniors (65+) are admitted for $8 all day. Early Bird Specials are offered on
Mighty Midway and Kidway rides & games until 1 p.m. Many merchandise and
food vendors offer Seniors Day bargains for all fair guests.
KIDS & LAST CHANCE DAY • MONDAY, SEPT. 7
Kids (5–12) are admitted for $8 all day. Many merchandise and food vendors
offer Kids & Last Chance Day bargains for all fair guests. All-day specials are
offered on Mighty Midway and Kidway rides & games.
Blue Ribbon Bargain Book
Sponsored by RiverSouth
The State Fair Blue Ribbon Bargain Book offers 150 coupons with huge savings
on food, merchandise and attractions. Each coupon offers at least 30 percent
off on listed items. Coupons are valid every day of the fair. Books are available
for $5 through Aug. 26 wherever pre-fair discount admission tickets are sold
(while supplies last) and during the fair at State FairWear Gift Shops and
Bargain Book & State Fair Poster Carts on the fairgrounds. Books purchased
during the fair support the mission of the Minnesota State Fair Foundation to
preserve and improve State Fair buildings, grounds and educational programs.
Deals, Drawings & Giveaways Guide
This free guide lists discount days, best values, free stuff, items for less than
$1 and hidden bargains at the fair, including deals on food and beverages. The
Deals, Drawings & Giveaways Guide is available during the fair at all information
booths and at mnstatefair.org/general_info/brochure_rack.html.
Mighty Midway and Kidway Specials
ALL-DAY SPECIALS
All-day specials on Mighty Midway and Kidway rides & games are offered
Thursday, Aug. 27; Monday, Aug. 31; Wednesday, Sept. 2; and Monday, Sept. 7.
EARLY BIRD SPECIALS
Early Bird hours are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mighty Midway and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at
Kidway. Early Bird Specials are offered on Friday, Aug. 28; Tuesday, Sept. 1;
Thursday, Sept. 3; and Friday, Sept. 4.
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Trivia
TRIVIA
• At the 1859 Minnesota State Fair, what was the prize money awarded for
“best horse”? ($4)
• Which biggest boar was the biggest of them all? (In 2010, crossbred swine
Reggie weighed in at 1,450 lbs.)
• Which fair day in history holds the record for total rainfall? (On Aug. 30, 1977,
it rained 7.28 inches.)
• How many Little Farm Hands walk through the exhibit each year? (40,000)
• How many cups does the State Fair go through each year? (5 million cups or
10 semi-truck loads)
• If measured by laying them end to end, how many miles of footlong hot dogs
are sold at the State Fair? (35 miles of hot dogs)
• How many tons of potatoes do the three largest French fry vendors [Fresh
French Fries’ two locations and World’s Greatest French Fries] use each
year? (about 145 tons of potatoes or the weight of 290 cows)
• What unusual attraction debuted at the 1898 State Fair? (“Daylight
Fireworks”)
• In 1902, the St. Paul and Minneapolis school boards pushed the opening day
of school back to the Monday after the State Fair. What was their reason for
doing this? (Education authorities stated that there was “more to be learned
in a single day at the fair than in double the time at school or college.”)
• What year did legendary pacer horse Dan Patch make his Minnesota State
Fair debut? (1903)
• What machine revolutionized the animal agriculture process and was first
exhibited at the 1908 fair? (A dairy cattle milking machine)
• The first 12-day State Fair was held in what year? (1975. Prior to this, the fair
lasted anywhere between three and 11 days.)
• How many acres of corn are sold at the Corn Roast booth each year?
(25 acres)
• Why did the State Fair’s Hippodrome (now the Warner Coliseum) need to be
rebuilt? (During the 1940s, the A.O. Smith Corporation of Milwaukee took
over the building, making it a World War II military aircraft factory for two
years. After the propeller factory was removed, the Hippodrome was deemed
“economically unfit for restoration” and was torn down.)
• What attraction, created in Pine Island, Minn., was the Dairy Building’s feature
at the 1911 State Fair? (A 6,000-pound block of cheese)
• In 1912, who became the first female delegate at the Minnesota State
Agricultural Society annual meeting? (Miss Jessie Walkup, secretary of the
Pipestone County Fair)
• Why was Theodore Roosevelt only able to attend one of his two planned
speaking engagements at the 1912 State Fair? (After giving his first speech
at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 4, Mr. Roosevelt suffered a severe case of
laryngitis.)
• What animals shown at the State Fair are unlike other livestock because they
have no proper breed names? (llamas)
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• Breed names of Cinnamon, Hotot, Crème D’Argent and Mini Rex belong to
what State Fair livestock? (rabbits)
• In 1920, this was introduced to fair guests as the future of dining. What was
it? (Reverend J.M. Batinger’s Automatic Eater, an all-you-can-eat buffet
served on a rotating conveyor belt. Price: 50¢)
• How many baby animals are born at the CHS Miracle of Birth Center during
the State Fair? (Nearly 200 animals including calves, lambs and piglets)
• What is the length of the wind turbine blade outside Eco Experience?
(Standing 123 feet tall, the wind blade is one of three that make up a
wind turbine.)
• How are State Fair mascots Fairchild and Fairborne related? (Fairchild is
Fairborne’s uncle.)
• Why has the State Fair Grandstand been called “the house that Dan Patch
built?” (The current Grandstand was constructed in 1909 to accommodate
the enormous crowds attracted to harness racing by world-famous pacer
horse Dan Patch.)
• How did most of the streets on the fairgrounds get their names? (Most
streets on the fairgrounds are named in recognition of past State
Agricultural Society leaders and individuals who shaped the State Fair
between 1854 and 1940.)
• How long would it take the average cow to produce all the milk served during
the fair’s 12-day run at the All-You-Can-Drink milk booth? (3-4 years)
• How fast does the Space Tower carry passengers into the skies above the
State Fairgrounds? (The Space Tower rises at a rate of 295 feet per minute.)
• Has the St. Paul Winter Carnival Medallion ever been hidden on the
fairgrounds? (The Winter Carnival Medallion has been hidden on the
fairgrounds twice: First in 1953, near the Poultry Building by a base of a tree;
and in 1967, between the Judging Arena and the KTCA-Channel 2 booth,
lodged in a horseshoe under 8 inches of ice.)
• At peak times, where on the fairgrounds are as many as 400 cows milked
daily? (The State Fair Milking Parlor in the Cattle Barn)
• How many food concessions are located throughout the fairgrounds? (About
300 food concessions dish up nearly 500 different delectable delights.)
• Before the Ramsey County Poor Farm in St. Paul became the State Fair’s
permanent home, what other Minnesota cities hosted the time-honored
event? (Minneapolis, Rochester, Red Wing, Winona and Owatonna)
• How many acres is the State Fairgrounds? (320 acres)
• What year was the first Minnesota State Fair held? (1859)
• What year was the Minnesota State Fair first held on the current fairgrounds?
(1885)
• Which United States president gave one of his most famous speeches at the
State Fair? (Teddy Roosevelt gave his “Speak Softly and Carry a Big Stick”
speech in 1901 when he was serving as vice president.)
• When was the Pronto Pup introduced at the State Fair? (1947)
• During a typical year, how many gallons of milk are served at the
All-You-Can-Drink Milk booth? (about 26,000 gallons)
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• On average, what’s the total number of corndogs typically consumed by fair
guests each year? (365,000)
• What is the most popular flavor of pies entered in the Creative Activities
baked goods category? (apple pie)
• On average, how many individual cheese curds are battered, deep-fried and
gobbled up by fair guests each year? (more than 2.6 million)
• How many dozens of mini donuts are eaten each year? (nearly 338,000
dozens)
• What special event took place at the fairgrounds on June 22, 1910? (The first
airplane flight in Minnesota history)
• When did the State Fair attendance first top the 1 million mark? (On
Sept. 5, 1955. Robert Karklin received a wristwatch and silver trophy for
being the fair’s millionth guest.)
• What is the Minnesota State Fair’s all-time attendance record and when was
it set? (1,824,830 guests attended the fair in 2014.)
• Who broke the all-time record for the most tickets sold to a single
Grandstand show? (In 2000, Christina Aguilera sold 22,117 tickets.)
• Which famous composer appeared at the fair in 1927? (John Philip Sousa)
• How much did famous racehorse Dan Patch sell for in 1902? ($60,000)
• When was the Minnesota State Fair Foundation founded? (2002)
• Approximately how many rolls of toilet paper are used during the fair?
(22,000 rolls)
• Why wasn’t there a fair in 1946? (Polio epidemic)
• How much butter is used to sculpt the likeness of Princess Kay of the Milky
Way? (85–90 lbs.)
• What color are sweepstakes or grand champion best-of-show ribbons?
(purple)
• How much government funding or what sum of taxpayer dollars does the
State Fair receive? (The State Fair does not receive government funding or
taxpayer dollars of any kind. It is completely financially self-supporting.)
• How many employees make up the Great Minnesota Get-Together’s fair-time
staff? (About 2,700)
• In the late 1980s, world-famous aerialist Jay Cochran walked a high-wire
stretched between the tops of which two State Fair structures? (The 4-H
Building and the Space Tower)
• What architectural styles can be seen among the State Fair’s historic
buildings? (Art Deco, Beaux Arts, Classical, Early Colonial and modern)
• What insect was blamed for reducing attendance at the 1875 fair?
(grasshoppers)
• In what year was the first statewide Princess Kay of the Milky Way Contest
held? (1954)
• Fresh French Fries made its debut at the fair in what year? (1973)
• In what year was the Bandshell constructed? (1971)
• How many cattle does the historic Cattle Barn house? (about 1,000)
• In what year was the Space Tower built? (1965)
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• In what year did the Agriculture Horticulture Building open? (1947)
• Were there fairs in the area before Minnesota became a state? (Yes. The
governing body of the State Fair is older than the state. Founded in 1854, the
Minnesota Agricultural Society held its first Territorial Fair in 1855. Minnesota
was granted statehood in 1858.)
• Before West End Market, what attraction and exhibit complexes were in its
place? (The Teen-Age Fair or Young America Center from 1964-1974 and
Heritage Square from 1975-2013)
• What are the record high and low temperatures during the fair? (High: 104
degrees in 1931; Record low: 33 degrees in 1890)
• What is the oldest food concession at the fairgrounds? (Hamline Church
Dining Hall, since 1897)
• What is the oldest amusement at the fairgrounds? (Ye Old Mill, which began
operating in 1915)
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What’s New!
ATTRACTIONS
• MIGHTY MIDWAY RIDES:
10 a.m. to midnight daily (11 p.m. Labor Day), Located at
Mighty Midway
Mighty Midway features two new rides:
• New York New York Fun House: With wacky walkways, mirrors,
obstacles and slides, this is a four-story bonanza of Big Apple fun.
• Super Nova Roller Coaster: This brand new ride makes its Minnesota
debut. Agile cars fly up, down and all around the track.
COMPETITIONS
• NEW COMPETITIONS
Located throughout the fairgrounds
• Non-Traditional Materials Contest in the Creative Activities
department: Using recycled or upcycled materials, competitors make
an outfit for an adult to wear for a “Day at the Minnesota State Fair.”
• Decorated Cookie On-A-Stick in the Creative Activities department:
Competitors depict their favorite State Fair animal in cookie form and
put it on-a-stick.
• Honey Beverages in the Ag-Hort-Bee department: Competitors
concoct a lemonade sweetened with 100 percent honey.
• Supreme Champion Ram & Ewe in the Livestock department: The
grand champions from each of the sheep breed shows compete for
Supreme Champion titles.
COMMERCIAL EXHIBITS
& NON-FOOD CONCESSIONS
• ABLE ENERGY CO.
Located in the Dairy Building, north center section
Solar electric systems for residential and commercial use
• ALL THINGS DIAPERS
Located in the Merchandise Mart, west wall
A statewide cloth diaper delivery service, also offering baby carriers, teething
necklaces, nursing supplies and supplements, and diaper kits and covers
• ALPHA OMEGA WESTERN FURNISHINGS
Located in the Warner Coliseum, southeast corner
Western-and cabin-themed furnishings, including wagon wheels, chandeliers,
lighting, tables and chairs, benches and walking sticks
• ANTIQUE ROOFTOP SLATE COMPANY
Located in the Warner Coliseum, south wall
Hand-painted 100-year-old slate made into “welcome” and garden signs, herb
markers, photo frames, coasters and more
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• ARIA HANDMADE
Located at the International Bazaar, south wall
Handcrafted jewelry, handbags, clothing and scarves made from natural,
recycled and repurposed materials such as nuts and seeds from the Amazon
Rainforest, inner tubes, orange peels and more
• ART OF SOAP
Located at the International Bazaar, north wall
Handmade soap shaped like colorful fruit, including apples, peaches
and bananas
• ASSOCIATION OF MINNESOTA PUBLIC EDUCATIONAL RADIO
STATIONS (AMPERS)
Located in the Education Building
A different Minnesota community radio station will broadcast live daily as part
of Ampers’ outreach.
• CABELA’S
Located on the southeast corner of Randall Avenue and Cooper Street
Promotion of Cabela’s and sales of its products including boats, motors, ATVs
and camping gear
• CANDLE BOTTLE SCENT’SATIONS
Located at West End Market, east side, south of the History &
Heritage Center
Repurposed, hanging glass bottles etched with designs and filled with
LED lights
• CAVE CREEK DESIGNS
Located in the Warner Coliseum, northwest section
Western-themed, hand-forged, large-scale barbed wire home décor and
truck accessories
• COFFEE QUEEN COFFEE
Located on the northwest corner of Dan Patch Avenue and Cooper Street
Packaged, gourmet-flavored instant coffee
• COWBOY SANTA
Located in the Warner Coliseum, southwest section
Western-themed Christmas décor, including ornaments, stockings, figurines,
plush animals and toys, jewelry, handbags, books and kitchen towels
• ELEGANCIA DESIGNS
Located at the International Bazaar, northeast section
Home and garden décor, including hand-painted whimsical pottery, glass
vases, wine racks, wind chimes and lighting
• FIRE ROCKS
Located in the Merchandise Mart, east wall
Hand-picked unique and distinctive stones sculpted into oil lamps or
water fountains
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• THE HOUSE OUTDOOR GEAR
Located on the southeast corner of Wright Avenue and Underwood Street
Outdoor sporting goods including snowboards, downhill ski equipment
and apparel, BMX and fat bikes, wakeboards, and windsurfing and
skateboarding equipment
• KIEFER MFG.
Located on the corner of Lee Avenue and Underwood Street
All-aluminum trailers sold in several varieties
• KMOJ RADIO
Located on the northwest corner of Judson Avenue and Clough Street
KMOJ 89.9 FM Radio The People’s Station brings its messages of education,
empowerment, support and engagement for communities of color to the fair
with live broadcasts daily.
• LA RAZA 1400-1470 AM AND TELEMUNDO MINNESOTA
Located on the south side of Randall Avenue between Cooper and
Cosgrove streets
Spanish language radio station La Raza has a core mission of serving,
supporting and entertaining Minnesota’s Latino community. Telemundo
Minnesota, the local affiliate of the national Spanish-language network,
will tape segments from the fair.
• LEASHES BY LIZ
Located in the Pet Center, north wall
Paracord leashes and collars, as well as toys and bandanas for pets
• LOG 6IX PET PRODUCTS – ZAVADA SCIENTIFIC
Located in the Pet Center, north wall
Pet care supplies, including odor eliminators, shampoo, hard surface cleaners,
bedding and more
• MINNESOTA MONTESSORI NETWORK
Located in the Education Building
Information regarding Montessori options throughout the state
• MINNESOTA OPERATION LIVESAVER
Located in the Education Building
Information on the statewide nonprofit education organization offering free
presentations to raise awareness about safety around tracks and trains
• NORDIC WARE
Located in the Grandstand, lower level, west wall
Nordic Ware pans, bake ware, microwave items, grill ware and other
kitchenware
• NORTHEASTERN MINNESOTANS FOR WILDERNESS
Located in the Dairy Building, east wall
Information regarding the campaign to save and protect the Boundary Waters
from pollution caused by sulfide-ore copper mining. Also selling “Save the
Boundary Waters” T-shirts, hats, pint glasses and bumper stickers.
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• OLIVE WOOD KITCHENWARE
Located at the International Bazaar, east wall
Cutting boards, dishes, kitchen utensils, bowls, containers and baskets made
of olive wood
• PICCADILLY PRAIRIE
Located at West End Market, southwest side
Rustic and shabby-chic antiques and vintage products such as hardware, spice
tins, books, baskets, utensils, stools, lights, coin purses, mason jars, candles,
art prints and more
• PROJECT CANOE
Located in the Dairy Building, south center section
Canoe-themed furniture and Boundary Waters Canoe Area photography
• RAIN BARRELS IOWA
Located in the Grandstand, upper level, southwest center section
High-quality rain barrels and accessories such as soaker kits, stands,
harvesting tanks and more
• SECOND NATURE
Located in the Creative Activities Annex, north section
Wall art with quotes, block letters and crosses made from reclaimed and
salvaged barn wood
• SHELFGENIE
Located in the Home Improvement Building, southeast section
Glide out, pullout shelves for existing cabinets and pantries transform and
maximize space
• SOUTHWEST CERAMIC LIGHTING
Located in the Warner Coliseum, south wall
Custom ceramic wall and ceiling lighting fixtures featuring southwestern
scenes and wildlife, garden and seashore designs
• SPOON FLOWERS BY DEWALL BROS
Located in the Merchandise Mart, southeast section
Bent, sandblasted and painted metal spoons form various flowers for garden
or home décor
• SPORT SALES INC.
Located in the Dairy Building, north center section
Incrediwear brand products that increase circulation and reduce swelling for
knees, ankles, backs, waists, elbows and shins
• A TASTE FOR CRAFTS
Located on the southwest corner of Wright Avenue and Cooper Street
Handcrafted wood children’s décor including bulletin boards, name plaques,
wall signs and more. All items can be personalized on the spot.
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• THUNDERSTRUCK SALES & MARKETING
Located on the southwest corner of Murphy Avenue and Cooper Street
Various agriculture products such as the MudSmith Gauge Wheel designed to
reduce buildup of mud and debris and the RRV Canola Disk for canola seeding
• TPT | TWIN CITIES PBS
Located on the east side of Cosgrove Street, on the street level of the
4-H Building, outside
TPT programming, broadcasts, entertainment and membership sales with
selected premium giveaways
• TWISTED TEA TOWELS
Located in the Grandstand, upper level, south wall
A line of artisan tea towels with funny, witty sayings and festive designs
• WISCONSIN CHEESE & SAUSAGE
Located in the Dairy Building, east wall
Wisconsin country summer sausage beef logs and jerky
ENTERTAINMENT
• HISTORY ON-A-SCHTICK
9:30 a.m. daily, Located at the Schell’s Stage at Schilling Amphitheater
Minnesota history comes alive in this brand-new show. The mosquito, a
blueberry muffin, wild rice, a walleye and other state symbols hold a fashion
parade, and Betty Crocker hosts the Cereal Bowl trivia contest with special
guests Paul Bunyan, Dough Boy and Snoopy. Fair guests can test their
Minnesota know-how and win prizes. The original script (with a catchy
new song about the State Fair) is penned and directed by local actor and
playwright Beth Gilleland. Music direction by Kevin Dutcher. Brought to the
State Fair by the Minnesota Historical Society and the Minnesota State Fair
Foundation. All performances are ASL interpreted.
• THE WILLIS CLAN
10:30 & 11:45 a.m. daily (no 10:30 a.m. performance on Sept. 3), Located at
the Leinie Lodge Bandshell
For the first time in nearly two decades, the State Fair is showcasing a
musical act on the Leinie Lodge Bandshell stage for the fair’s full 12-day run.
The Willis Clan, a 14-member band featuring siblings ranging in age from four
years to 23, are accomplished singers, songwriters, multi-instrumentalists,
and in the case of the older kids, internationally ranked competitive dancers.
Now stars of their own TLC show (aptly titled “The Willis Family”) and known
for their run on “America’s Got Talent,” this Nashville-based family merges its
Irish roots with American music and dance genres to create a unique blend of
old and new. Free with fair admission.
• “STATE FAIR STORIES” SCREENINGS
8:15 p.m. daily, Located at Carousel Park
“State Fair Stories” is a slice-of-life documentary covering all 320 acres of the
fairgrounds – from cheese curds and cows to crop art and more. Filled with
hidden gems and diverse fair history, this TPT original production is shown
nightly on the big screen in Carousel Park.
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EVENTS
• FIGURE SKATING DAY AT CAROUSEL PARK
Monday, Aug. 31, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Located at Carousel Park
The artistry and athleticism of wintertime’s most glamorous sport come to
the fair on Aug. 31 to celebrate Saint Paul’s hosting of the 2016 Prudential
U.S. Figure Skating Championships. Olympic Gold Medalist and World Figure
Skating Champion Kristi Yamaguchi and national figure skater, choreographer
and Minnesota native Rohene Ward will sign autographs and answer fan
questions. Local figure skating clubs will perform on a plastic ice sheet, and
an ice carver will create a figure skating masterpiece. Fair visitors can meet
U.S. Figure Skating mascot Snowplow Sam, take “Kiss & Cry” selfies, play
games and register to win prizes. The 2016 Prudential U.S. Figure Skating
Championships are Jan. 15-24 at Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul.
• HMONG MINNESOTA DAY AT CAROUSEL PARK
Monday, Sept. 7, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Located at Carousel Park
Festivities celebrate the culture, history and arts of Hmong Americans and
highlight their many contributions since first arriving in Minnesota 40 years
ago. Hosted by American Legion 3H Post 1975 and the Minnesota Asian
Peace Officers Association, the opening ceremony honors Hmong veterans
of the Secret War and represents a passing of the torch from these veterans
to younger Hmong now serving in the armed forces and police and fire
departments. Traditional Hmong music and dance transition to hip-hop,
break dancing and spoken word as the daylong program on the Carousel Park
stage portrays the evolution of Hmong art forms. Entertainment highlights
also include the winners of Hmong New Year talent competitions and a
fashion show fusing traditional and contemporary dress. Highlighting Hmong
culture and community, these activities for the whole family are presented
at Carousel Park by Hmong Resource Fair, Hmong American Partnership,
Center for Hmong Arts and Talent, Community School of Excellence, Midwest
Hmong Outdoors, Little Mekong businesses and others.
EXHIBITS
• MATH ON-A-STICK
9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Located at Family Far at Baldwin Park on the southwest
corner of Randall Avenue and Cosgrove Street
The fair has everything on-a-stick – even math! The brand new Math
On-A-Stick experience is a welcoming space where kids and grown-ups can
explore fun math concepts at the fair. Families can count their way through
the fairgrounds on a Number Game scavenger hunt, noticing that a corn dog
has one stick, a cow has four legs, the Ferris wheel has 16 passenger cars,
and so on. Visitors can also play with geometric and reptile-shaped tiles to
create designs and patterns. Children can sort, count and look for what’s
the same and what’s different in groups of colored eggs and on captivating
cards; discover how math can be creative in special activities led by visiting
mathematicians and artists who use math in their careers. Fair guests can
also take a break from the hustle and bustle of the fair to enjoy a shapes or
numbers book. Supported by the Minnesota State Fair Foundation.
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• POULTRY BARN ACTIVITIES
Located on the north side of Judson Avenue between Liggett and Clough
streets (Refer to the Fun Finder and daily schedules for Poultry Barn
hours and presentation times)
Despite the absence of birds, the Poultry Barn will be filled with activities and
exhibits related to the poultry industry. This opportunity emerged after the
cancellation of the poultry competitions due to H5N2 avian influenza (HPAI),
which spread through the state earlier this year. Browse interactive displays
and see presentations on topics ranging from biosecurity and nutrition
to animal health and poultry careers; listen to talks by poultry producers,
veterinarians and educators about the influence of avian flu and food
production challenges; sign and send well wishes and thank-you messages
to those whose livelihood depends on the poultry industry; and meet poultry
farmers and members of the Minnesota Turkey Growers and Chicken and
Egg associations.
• ECO EXPERIENCE: NEW HIGHLIGHTS
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, Located in the Progress Center
An array of new exhibits highlight the latest in easy, everyday reduce-reuserecycle how-tos, healthy cooking, innovations in green technology and
transportation, and other compelling topics on environmentally focused
living. A sampling:
• The 25-foot tall plastic tornado “Bagnado” calls attention to the fact that
Minnesotans throw away 500 tons of plastic bags and packaging every day
– more than 12 pounds every second.
• The first 800 kids each day who complete the kids activity receive a YOXO
toy made in Minnesota from recycled materials.
• Demonstrations of DIY reuse projects and repair techniques: Turn T-shirts
into grocery bags and milk jugs into light fixtures, wipe data from your
computer before donating it, repair your bike and more.
• Discover how much water we consume, “hidden” in the products we
use – it takes 2,000 gallons to produce a pair of jeans, 660 gallons for a
cheeseburger, and 37 gallons for a cup of coffee.
• What would Minnesota be without wild rice, lefse and pho? Fair guests
can visit “agriCULTURE: From First Peoples to New Immigrants” for daily
cooking demonstrations, displays and food samples.
• A Minnesota-made eco-friendly alternative to the RV camper that uses a
solar charged battery, LP tanks for lights and cooking, and can be pulled by
a small car.
• Fair guests can climb into a larger-than-life sink, “flush” down a drain slide,
and learn what happens when chemicals are put down the drain.
• THE COMMON TABLE: MINNESOTA EATS – NEW DISPLAYS
AND PRESENTATIONS
9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (8 p.m. on Labor Day), Located in the Agriculture
Horticulture Building
The action stations of the uniquely designed The Common Table: Minnesota
Eats exhibit promote buying and eating local, growing food, nurturing soil and
reducing waste. Visitors can stroll through a kitschy kitchen, see aquaponic
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and vertical gardens, and dirt and compost displays. Daily demonstrations
spotlight community initiatives, organic and indigenous food, worksite
gardens, immigrant farming, the future of food, food deserts and more. Refer
to the Fun Finder or daily schedules for a complete schedule of presentations
and demonstrations.
FOOD
New Food Items
• Buffalo’d Bones (Slow-smoked center cut St. Louis-style spare ribs, fried,
tossed in buffalo sauce and served with blue cheese dressing and celery)
Famous Dave’s, Located on the north side of West Dan Patch Avenue
between Liggett and Chambers streets west of the Grandstand
• Burger Dog (A ground blend of hamburger, hot dog, bacon, cheese and a
splash of jalapeño on a hot dog bun)
Gass Station Grill, Located on the southeast outside corner of the Food
Building off Cooper Street
• Butter Chicken Samosas (Pastries filled with chicken in a tomato curry sauce
and served with a side of green chutney. Sweet Summer Vegetable Samosas
with corn, peas and onions are also available. Available Aug. 27 – Sept. 1 only)
Hot Indian, Located at Taste of Midtown Global Market at the International
Bazaar, east wall
• Cannoli (This pastry filled with a sweetened ricotta cheese cream returns to
the fair in full or mini sizes.)
Mancini’s Al Fresco, Located on the north side of Carnes Avenue between
Nelson and Underwood streets
• Chilled Bread Pudding (Custardy bread pudding baked and served chilled
– sundae style – with a warm glaze/dunking sauce and a choice of crunchy
“Moon Gravel” condiments.)
Blue Moon Dine-In Theater, Located on the northeast corner of Carnes
Avenue and Chambers Street
• Cowboy Bites (Sweet corn kernels, bacon, jalapeños and cream cheese
blended into bite-size balls, breaded and fried, and served with ranch
dipping sauce)
Frontier Bar, Located on the south side of Carnes Avenue at the intersection
of Chambers Street
• Cowboy Dave’s Cluck & Moo (Smashed potatoes, roasted beef and grilled
chicken covered with beef gravy, crispy onions and mustard BBQ sauce)
The Blue Barn, Located at West End Market, east side, south of the
History & Heritage Center
• Deep Fried Ribs (Smoked baby back ribs, breaded, fried and served with
BBQ sauce)
Ball Park Cafe, Located on the east side of Underwood Street between
Dan Patch and Carnes avenues outside The Garden
• Grandma Deb’s Snicker Bar Salad (Chopped Snickers® bars and Granny
Smith apples tossed in vanilla pudding with whipped cream and drizzled with
caramel sauce)
The Blue Barn, Located at West End Market, east side, south of the
History & Heritage Center
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• Grilled Venetian-Style Pizza (Grilled over an open flame for a crispy crust
and offered in three varieties: Margherita [oven-roasted tomatoes, cheese
and basil]; Farm Fresh [olives, sweet red peppers, arugula greens and fresh
goat cheese]; and Spicy Salami [thin-sliced salami, cheese, oregano and red
pepper flakes])
Mancini’s Al Fresco, Located on the north side of Carnes Avenue between
Nelson and Underwood streets
• Hot Tail (Roasted pig tail coated in a scallion ginger sauce. Available
Sept. 2-7 only)
The Rabbit Hole, Located at the Taste of Midtown Global Market at the
International Bazaar, east wall
• Indi Frites (Indian-seasoned russet and sweet potato fries in a crispy batter.
Available Aug. 27 – Sept. 1 only.)
Hot Indian, Located at the Taste of Midtown Global Market at the
International Bazaar, east wall
• Island Slaw (Gluten-free island-style coleslaw with pineapple, mandarin
oranges, sugar snap peas and spinach, all topped with teriyaki chicken, a light
Sriracha glaze and macadamia nuts)
Island Noodles, Located at the International Bazaar, south wall
• Italian Dessert Nachos (Cinnamon sugar cannoli chips smothered with
sweet ricotta cheese filling, fruit, chocolate, nuts and candy toppings)
Pizza Shoppe, Located in the Food Building, south side
• Kimchi ‘n’ Curry Poutine (Braised pork and potatoes smothered with curry
gravy and cheddar cheese, then topped with kimchi and a poached egg.
Available Sept. 2-7 only.)
The Rabbit Hole, Located at Taste of Midtown Global Market at the
International Bazaar, east wall
• Limerick Stix (A blend of pimento cheese and cayenne pepper coated in a
corn meal mix, deep-fried and served with custom dipping sauce)
O’Gara’s at the Fair, Located on the southwest corner of Dan Patch Avenue
and Cosgrove Street
• Mac & Cheese Cupcake (Mac & cheese nestled in a breadcrumb crust, then
sprinkled with breadcrumbs and frosted with a dollop of Cheez Whiz)
LuLu’s Public House, Located at West End Market, west side, south of
Schilling Amphitheater
• Maple Bacon Funnel Cake (A funnel cake infused with bacon pieces, then
topped with sweet maple glaze and sprinkled with more bacon)
Funnel Cakes, Located in the Food Building, east wall
• Meatloaf Hash (Blue Barn meatloaf, sautéed potatoes, peppers and onions
topped with scrambled eggs and béarnaise sauce)
The Blue Barn, Located at West End Market, east side, south of the
History & Heritage Center
• Minnesota BEE-NICE Gluten-Free Muffin (Minnesota-grown, pollinatorfriendly blueberries, sweet corn and honey with a hint of chipotle in a
gluten-free cornbread muffin)
Minnesota Farmers Union, Located on the north side of Dan Patch Avenue
between Cooper and Cosgrove streets
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• Minnesota Wild Rice Benedict Muffin (A wild rice English muffin cup
with sliced ham and a soft-cooked egg, covered with hollandaise sauce)
LuLu’s Public House, Located at West End Market, west side, south of
Schilling Amphitheater
• Pretzel Croissant Sandwich (Gluten-free and nitrate-free grilled chicken
breast and ham, Swiss cheese and fresh spinach smothered in honey
mustard and chive aioli, grilled and served hot on a pretzel dough croissant
or gluten-free toast)
French Meadow Bakery, Located on the north side of Carnes Avenue
between Nelson and Underwood streets
• Prime Rib to Go (Thinly sliced choice prime rib, sautéed peppers, onions and
mushrooms [optional] in a soft bread cone with a side of au jus, horseradish
or Parmesan garlic sauce)
Coasters, Located on the southeast corner of Carnes Avenue and
Liggett Street
• Salad Named Soo (Cubed watermelon, basil, mint, arugula and almonds
mixed with a chili honey lime sauce. Available Sept. 2-7 only.)
The Rabbit Hole, Located at Taste of Midtown Global Market at the
International Bazaar, east wall
• Sara’s Tipsy Pies (This new State Fair vendor features five varieties of hand
pies: State Fair Rhubarb Blue Hunny Do – only at the State Fair: A blend of
fresh local strawberry rhubarb and baby blueberries baked with Hunny Do
Wheat Beer, a honey dew melon-flavored beer, and topped with a Hunny Do
Tipsy Topping. Also serving 2GINGERS® Irish Apple, Bapple, Maple Bacon
Apple Breakfast and Salted Caramel Apple)
Sara’s Tipsy Pies, Located in the Food Building, south wall
• Sausage Sister’s Sriracha Sliders (“Great Balls of Fire” meatballs with
Monterey Jack cheese at the center, served on a crusty slider bun with
Sister’s Sweet ‘n’ Hot Sriracha Sauce)
Sausage Sister & Me, Located in the Food Building, east wall
• Seafood Slider (A lobster and seafood mix blended with mayo, red onion,
garlic, celery, lemon juice and breadcrumbs, served hot on a Hawaiian roll
with wine aioli)
Minnesota Wine Country, Located on the west side of Underwood Street
between Carnes and Judson avenues
• Shanghaied Henri’s International Tacos – 4 Varieties (Korean Bar-B-Q
Beef Taco: Marinated beef glazed with spicy soy honey, layered with kimchi,
topped with crispy rice noodles and served on two flour tortillas; Oslo
Taco: Seared braised, peppercorn-rubbed pork, layered with Norwegian
Jarlsburg cheese, pickled cabbage slaw, red onion, apple-smoked bacon
and lingonberry relish sour cream, topped with pork cracklins and served on
two flour tortillas; St. Paul Taco: Braised beef brisket simmered in Summit
Villain Beer served on two flour tortillas with caramelized onions, cabbage
slaw, horseradish sour cream and apple-smoked bacon bits; Yucatan Taco:
Seasoned chicken chorizo braised in tequila and red wine vinegar served with
green cabbage carrot slaw, queso fresco, pickled red onion and cilantro sour
cream on two flour tortillas)
Shanghaied Henri’s, Located at the International Bazaar, north side, near
the entrance
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• Smokey’s Breakfast Burger (Seasoned sausage and hamburger on a
corn-dusted bun with applewood-smoked bacon, caramelized onions,
melted provolone cheese, fried egg and a tomato slice)
Smokey’s Char-Broiler, Located on the south side of Murphy Avenue between
Underwood and Cooper streets
• SPAM® Burgers in 5 New Flavors (A grilled SPAM® burger with cheese and
onions, in your choice of five flavors: Jalapeño, Hot & Spicy, Bacon, Hickory
Smoke and Black Pepper)
SPAM® Burgers, Located at Carousel Park, south of the Grandstand
• Sriracha Balls (Two choices of filling breaded in panko, deep-fried and
drizzled with Sriracha sauce: blend of shredded chicken, corn, tomatoes,
egg and Sriracha; or Sriracha cream cheese with corn, tomatoes and egg)
Alton’s BBQ, Located in the Warner Coliseum, northeast corner
• Sriracha Dog (All-beef hot dog on a Sriracha cream cheese-smeared bun,
topped with bacon bits and drizzled with Sriracha sauce)
Snack House, Located in the Warner Coliseum, south side
• Steak Apizzaiola (Cuts of Italian steak sautéed in au jus and served on
a seasoned Kaiser bun with caramelized onions, melted cheese and
marinara sauce)
Spaghetti Eddie’s, Located on the east side of Cooper Street south of
Dan Patch Avenue, west of the Merchandise Mart
• Stuffed Italian Meatloaf On-a-Stick (Italian meatloaf stuffed with Mozzarella
and pepperoni, topped with marinara sauce and a Parmesan herb blend and
served on-a-stick)
Green Mill, Located on the east side of Cooper Street between Randall and
Wright avenues at Family Fair at Baldwin Park
• Sweet Potato Taco (Mashed sweet potatoes, black beans, sautéed onions
and vinegar coleslaw wrapped in a flour tortilla)
Potato Man & Sweetie, Located on the west side of Liggett Street between
Carnes and Judson avenues
• Tikka On-a-Stikka (Chicken marinated in spices and yogurt, chargrilled and
smothered in tikka sauce. Available Aug. 27 – Sept. 1 only)
Hot Indian, Located at the Taste of Midtown Global Market at the
International Bazaar, east wall
• Totchos (Tater tots smothered in cheddar cheese sauce with seasoned
sour cream, bacon bits and green onions [chicken or taco-style beef
optional]. Gluten-free)
Boulevard Grill, Located in the Warner Coliseum, west end
• Up Nort Shoreman’s Lunch (Battered northern pike in a fresh tomato
sauce with potatoes and corn, finished with smoked pepper tartar sauce)
The Blue Barn, Located at West End Market, east side, south of the
History & Heritage Center
• Walleye Stuffed Mushrooms (Jumbo mushroom caps stuffed with
flavored cream cheese spread, walleye, three cheeses, red pepper, panko
breadcrumbs and a special sauce)
Giggles’ Campfire Grill, Located on the east side of Cooper Street between
Lee and Randall avenues at The North Woods
• Wine Fried Kalettes (Battered kale, fried crispy in wine and served with
sweet Thai chili sauce)
107
Minnesota Wine Country, Located on the west side of Underwood Street
between Carnes and Judson avenues
New Frozen Treats
• BBQ Pickle Ice Cream (Vanilla ice cream infused with a light BBQ sauce and
diced pickles)
R&R Ice Cream, Located on the southeast corner of Randall Avenue and
Underwood Street
• Butter Queen Coffee Ice Cream (Chocolate espresso flakes blended into
browned butter and coffee ice cream)
Hamline Church Dining Hall, Located on the north side of Dan Patch Avenue
between Underwood and Cooper streets
• Caramel Chocolate-Dipped Bacon Ice Cream Bar (Vanilla ice cream bar with
a bacon and caramel-filled center, dipped in chocolate, rolled in bacon and
drizzled with more caramel.)
Pat’s Place, Located at the Mighty Midway, north side
• Chocolate-Dipped Cherry On-a-Spoon JonnyPop (Fresh tart cherries and
cream, dipped in dark chocolate and served not on-a-stick but a spoon,
inspired by Minneapolis’ Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture)
JonnyPops, Located at West End Market, east side, just south of the
History & Heritage Center
• Chocolate Jalapeño Ice Cream (Chocolate ice cream blended with jalapeño
pepper bits)
Rainbow Ice Cream, Located: On the southeast corner of Carnes Avenue and
Liggett Street; at Carousel Park south of the Grandstand; on the southwest
corner of Dan Patch Avenue and Underwood Street; in the Grandstand, lower
level, center section; on the west side of Underwood Street between Wright
and Dan Patch avenues
• Chunks O’ Fruti Frozen Strawberry Bar (All-natural frozen treat with chunks
of real strawberries on-a-stick – dairy and gluten-free)
Key Lime Pie Bar, Located on the northeast outside corner of the Agriculture
Horticulture Building off Cooper Street, next to the Skyride
• Doo Wop Dip (Strawberry ice cream with real strawberries in a croissant,
dipped in chocolate and drizzled with white chocolate)
West End Creamery, Located at West End Market, north side, east of
Schilling Amphitheater
• Dot Shakes (A chocolate or vanilla milkshake layered with your choice of
Dippin’ Dot flavor)
Dippin’ Dots, Located on the south side of Carnes Avenue between Nelson
and Underwood streets
• Espresso Float (Iced espresso over vanilla ice cream and topped with
whipped cream. Flavor choices include: chocolate, chocolate salted caramel,
vanilla, hazelnut or almond)
Java Jive, Located on the south side of West Dan Patch Avenue between
Liggett and Chambers streets at Adventure Park
• Fire and Ice Kreme (Soft serve vanilla ice cream with Sriracha sauce and corn
chip crunch, topped with whipped cream)
Goertze’s Dairy Kone, Located on Cooper Street south of Dan Patch Avenue,
west of the Merchandise Mart
108
• Salted Caramel Puff malts and sundaes (Vanilla ice cream topped with
caramel sauce and finished with salty, crunchy puffcorn)
Dairy Goodness Bar – Midwest Dairy Association, Located in the Dairy
Building, southeast corner
New Food Vendors
• Beef and Turkey Jerky by Josef Abel Meats: Serving locally made beef and
turkey jerky and meat sticks
Located on West Dan Patch Avenue south of West End Market
• Daryl’s Dog House: Serving Red Hot Chicago® hot dogs in three varieties
Located on West Dan Patch Avenue south of West End Market
• MinneSnowii Shave Ice: Serving authentic Hawaiian-style gourmet shave ice
in many custom flavors
Located on West Dan Patch Avenue south of West End Market
• Sara’s Tipsy Pies: Serving made-from-scratch hand pies with local
ingredients, beers and liquors (see new food list for menu items)
Located in the Food Building, south wall
OTHER NEW ELEMENTS
• FREE SUNSCREEN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Located at all State Fair information booths
The State Fair is encouraging everyone to play it safe in the sun all day at
the fair with free sunscreen available in dispensers at each information
booth. Fair guests can protect their family's skin with SPF 30 Vanicream
sunscreen, safe for everyone from birth on up. This is a partnership of
Vanicream Sunscreen, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota,
and the Minnesota State Fair.
• NEW HISTORY HIGHLIGHTS
•T
he State Fair History & Heritage Center features two new display
cases – one highlighting the long and colorful tradition of fireworks shows
at the fair, and the other celebrating 100 years of the fair’s oldest attraction,
Ye Old Mill.
•Y
e Old Mill, owned and operated by four generations of the Keenan family,
is also a new stop on the free self-guided History Walking Tour. Other new
stops are the half-century-old Skyride, a 70-foot-high gondola ride with
a bird’s eye view of the fairgrounds, and the Dairy Building, built in 1967
and now home to the famous butter sculptures, milkshakes, merchants
and more. Fair visitors can pick up a brochure from the History & Heritage
Center or at any tour stop on the fairgrounds.
The History & Heritage Center and the History Walking Tour are supported
by the Minnesota State Fair Foundation in partnership with the Minnesota
Historical Society.
• ANNIVERSARIES OF YE OLD MILL & CROP ART AT THE FAIR
Ye Old Mill is located on the southwest corner of Carnes Avenue and
Underwood Street. The Crop Art exhibit is located in the Agriculture
Horticulture Building.
What’s old is new! Celebrations of significant anniversaries for two storied
109
State Fair icons:
• Ye Old Mill turns 100: The fair’s oldest attraction – Ye Old Mill – is touted
as the “original tunnel of love.” Generations of anniversaries, marriage
proposals and special occasions are marked here. Fair guests can take a
selfie in front of the 100-year-celebration photo backdrop and buy a
once-in-a-century commemoration T-shirt.
• Crop Art at the State Fair turns 50: The competition and display of
magnificent mosaics made from Minnesota seeds is a truly unique State
Fair tradition. “The Seed Queen: The Handmade Legacy of Lillian Colton,” a
puppet performance celebrating the life and legacy of the State Fair Hall of
Fame crop artist, will be performed three times daily in the Crop Art area of
the Agriculture Horticulture Building. Plus, we’ll celebrate the kitsch of crop
art on Sept. 2, at 10 a.m., with a program in the exhibit area.
• 2015 MINNESOTA STATE FAIR COMMEMORATIVE ART
BY ADAM TURMAN
The 2015 State Fair commemorative art is featured on the cover of this
media kit.
Adam Turman’s Minnesota State Fair illustration combines bold colors
and graphics with nostalgic, vintage charm for fresh, yet classic artistic
interpretation of the Great Minnesota Get-Together. After spending time at
the State Fair’s West End Market, Turman was inspired to capture the iconic
Streetcar Arch, as well as the Grandstand and Ferris wheel to represent
what Minnesotans love about the fair. Turman is an illustrator, muralist, fine
artist and screen printer well-known for creating distinctive visuals that have
become iconic representations of local landmarks, craft breweries, eating
establishments, charity events, music venues and biking groups.
Commemorative merchandise featuring Turman’s art is available at State
FairWear Gift Shops and Bargain Book and State Fair Poster Carts on the
fairgrounds during the fair and year-round at statefairwear.com. Proceeds
support the Minnesota State Fair Foundation 501(c)(3) and its mission to
preserve and improve State Fair buildings, grounds and educational programs.
The original screen print will be displayed in the Fine Arts Center during
the fair.
• 4-H APP AND EXPANDED LIVESTREAM
4-H is integral to the life of the State Fair with nearly 6,000 4-H’ers exhibiting
and competing each year. Come fair time, 4-H’ers and the public will have two
high-tech tools at their fingertips:
• 4-H at the Minnesota State Fair app: Download the 4-H at the Minnesota
State Fair app for complete judging results and schedules, an interactive
map and more. The public can watch the 4-H livestream 12 hours a day. The
app can be downloaded from iTunes or Google Play.
• 4-H cam with livestreams 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.: The public can watch 4-H
events online from home every day of the fair. More than 100 hours of
4-H events will be livestreamed, including the llama and alpaca costume
competition, musical acts, fashion shows and the dairy goat show. Use the
app or go to z.umn.edu/4hlivestream.
110
• TOURING PROMOTIONAL EXHIBITS
Located throughout the fairgrounds
Nearly 20 traveling exhibits make a stop at the fair this year.
See a list of all touring promotional exhibits in the “Special Exhibits” section
of this media kit. Highlights include:
• Journey 2050: How will we sustainably feed 9 billion people by 2050, when
food production needs are expected to rise by 60 percent? Through virtual
simulation, this exhibit has fair visitors interact with farm families in Kenya,
India and Canada, and discover how our decisions impact the environment,
economy and the community. Part of the Seed Survivor exhibit at Little Farm
Hands (Aug. 27-Sept. 7)
• B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe): Founded after
a father lost two sons in a car crash, this nonprofit teaches teens and
parents proactive skills and defensive reactions to avoid collisions and drive
responsibly. Fair guests can wear “drunk goggles” and take part in other
simulations. (Aug. 28-30, Sept. 4-7 presented by Kia)
• Les Paul’s Big Sound Tour: This exhibit celebrates the 100th birthday of this
creative genius and father of the electric guitar. Visitors explore music, sound
and technological innovations in a hands-on, entertaining and interactive
experience. (Sept. 4-7)
• Almay Simply American Tour: Makeovers, photos, giveaways and prize
drawings. Each day, a military veteran will be treated to a makeover.
(Aug. 28-29)
• PAW Patrol Tour: Green screen fun, product showcases and giveaways
promote the pups of PAW Patrol, plus Little Charmers, Sick Bricks and other
Nickelodeon properties. (Aug. 29-30)
111
112
Index
INDEX
2015 Best Awards Ceremony...........................................................................................................70
2015 Summer Series Championships (SkatePark)................................................................36
3rd Lair SkatePark ...............................................................................................................................36
4-H Competitions....................................................................................................................................11
4-H Day.......................................................................................................................................................66
4-H Purple Ribbon Auction.................................................................................................................11
50 Year Awards......................................................................................................................................70
accessible parking.................................................................................................................................47
accessibility...................................................................................................................................... 47, 49
admission tickets...................................................................................................................................89
advance tickets.......................................................................................................................................89
Adventure Park.......................................................................................................................................85
agricultural education ..........................................................................................................................11
Agricultural Society history...................................................................................................... 23, 55
Agriculture Horticulture Building.....................................................................................................11
Agrilympics................................................................................................................................................13
AgStar Arena............................................................................................................................................14
Aisle of Breeds.........................................................................................................................................14
All-Star Stunt Dogs Splash................................................................................................................ 35
Alphabet Forest......................................................................................................................................32
Amateur Talent Contest..................................................................................................................... 35
animal vocabulary...................................................................................................................................14
anniversaries............................................................................................................................................ 55
app - smartphone..................................................................................................................................49
archives......................................................................................................................................................64
art & sculptures......................................................................................................................................76
Arts A’Fair..................................................................................................................................................32
attendance.................................................................................................................................................. 9
attractions................................................................................................................................................85
attractions (new)...................................................................................................................................97
Baa Booth..................................................................................................................................................15
Baldwin Park Stage (schedule)....................................................................................................... 27
Bandshell (schedule)............................................................................................................................25
banking.......................................................................................................................................................49
bargain book.....................................................................................................................................49, 91
batteries....................................................................................................................................................49
Bazaar.........................................................................................................................................................76
Bazaar Stage (schedule)....................................................................................................................29
Be a Fine Arts Detective! ...................................................................................................................19
Bee & Honey Competition.................................................................................................................12
bicycle parking........................................................................................................................................47
biographies (Grandstand artists)...................................................................................................36
Blue Ribbon Bargain Book.........................................................................................................49, 91
Bull Riding presented by Barnes Rodeo (MN State Fair Horse Show).........................20
bus service................................................................................................................................................47
113
butter sculptures................................................................................................................................... 73
butterfly house.......................................................................................................................................87
campgrounds...........................................................................................................................................49
Care & Assistance.................................................................................................................................49
Carousel Park events...........................................................................................................................65
cash machines.........................................................................................................................................50
cell phone tour.............................................................................................................................. 76, 109
changeover (Livestock Arrival & Departure).............................................................................19
Christensen Farms Stage....................................................................................................................17
christmas trees........................................................................................................................................12
CHS Miracle of Birth Center..............................................................................................................17
church services.......................................................................................................................................52
commemorative art (new)...........................................................................................................1, 110
Common Table, The.............................................................................................................12, 73, 103
commercial exhibits (new)................................................................................................................97
Community Stage (schedule)..........................................................................................................26
competitions (new)..............................................................................................................................97
complaints................................................................................................................................................50
composting .............................................................................................................................................24
contact information................................................................................................................................5
copy & scanning.....................................................................................................................................50
corporate information.........................................................................................................................23
County Fair Talent Contest............................................................................................................... 35
coupon book.....................................................................................................................................49, 91
Craft Brewers Guild Exhibit...............................................................................................................13
Creative Activities..................................................................................................................................17
crop art..............................................................................................................................................12, 109
daily mall parade....................................................................................................................................33
Daily Media Update..................................................................................................................................5
Daily Schedules.................................................................................................................................6, 50
day designations....................................................................................................................................65
Deals, Drawings & Giveaways Guide..............................................................................................91
digital archives........................................................................................................................................64
The DIRT Demonstration Area.........................................................................................................13
discount days.......................................................................................................................................... 90
discount ride and game tickets.......................................................................................................89
discount tickets......................................................................................................................................89
DNR Building and Park........................................................................................................................ 73
dog show................................................................................................................................................... 35
Driven to Discover......................................................................................................................... 73, 76
Early Bird Specials..................................................................................................................................91
Eco Experience...................................................................................................................... 73, 75, 103
Education Building.................................................................................................................................17
emergency.................................................................................................................................................. 6
EquiMania!™.............................................................................................................................................18
114
exhibits (new)........................................................................................................................................102
Express Bus..............................................................................................................................................47
Facebook......................................................................................................................................................7
Fairchild and Fairborne mascots............................................................................................ 34, 56
Fair Foundation 501(c)(3)..................................................................................................................23
FairWear Gift Shops.............................................................................................................................52
Family Fair at Baldwin Park............................................................................................................... 74
Family Fair Stage (schedule)............................................................................................................ 27
FAN Central.............................................................................................................................................. 74
Farm Crops & Crop Art..............................................................................................................12, 109
Festival of Nations Stage (schedule)............................................................................................28
FFA Day......................................................................................................................................................69
Figure Skating Day...................................................................................................................... 67, 102
Fine Arts Center and Exhibition......................................................................................................18
fireworks....................................................................................................................................................25
first aid........................................................................................................................................................50
Flippenout Extreme Trampoline Show.......................................................................................34
flag raising.................................................................................................................................................70
food (all)....................................................................................................................................................43
food (new)..............................................................................................................................................104
Food Finder..............................................................................................................................................43
foods on-a-stick.....................................................................................................................................43
Foundation 501(c)(3)...........................................................................................................................23
free entertainment...............................................................................................................................25
free horse shows...................................................................................................................................20
free stuff.....................................................................................................................................................91
Friends of the Fair.................................................................................................................................24
Fun Finder.................................................................................................................................................70
gardens.......................................................................................................................................................76
Garden, The..............................................................................................................................................29
Giant Sing Along....................................................................................................................................34
giant slide..................................................................................................................................................87
gift shops...................................................................................................................................................52
go carts......................................................................................................................................................87
Governor’s Fire Prevention Day......................................................................................................65
Grandstand artist biographies.........................................................................................................36
Grandstand cancellations...................................................................................................................41
Grandstand Concert Series..............................................................................................................36
Grandstand entertainers and number of appearances.........................................................41
Grandstand entertainers by year....................................................................................................41
Grandstand guidelines........................................................................................................................42
Grandstand photography access.............................................................................................. 7, 42
Grandstand tickets................................................................................................................................41
Great Big Sandbox................................................................................................................................ 74
Green Line............................................................................................................................................... 48
115
handwash stations................................................................................................................................50
haunted house........................................................................................................................................87
Health Fair 11............................................................................................................................................ 74
health-related exhibits........................................................................................................................ 74
historic buildings & landmarks....................................................................................................... 60
historical dates....................................................................................................................................... 57
history......................................................................................................................................................... 55
History & Heritage Center.................................................................................................................64
History On-A-Schtick................................................................................................................... 31, 101
History Walking & Cell Phone Tour..................................................................................... 76, 109
Hmong Minnesota Day..............................................................................................................69, 102
Hop, Flop and Sniff................................................................................................................................19
horse show...............................................................................................................................................20
hotline............................................................................................................................................................5
hours of operation................................................................................................................................50
information booths................................................................................................................................51
Instagram.....................................................................................................................................................7
International Bazaar.............................................................................................................................76
International Bazaar Stage (schedule)........................................................................................29
interview arrangements....................................................................................................................... 6
judging locations.....................................................................................................................................19
Kids Day..............................................................................................................................66, 69, 90, 91
Kidway........................................................................................................................................................85
lama costume competition.................................................................................................................11
Lasertainment’s Laser Hitz Show..................................................................................................34
Last Chance Day.............................................................................................................................69, 91
Leinie Lodge Bandshell (schedule)...............................................................................................25
light rail...................................................................................................................................................... 48
Little Farm Hands...................................................................................................................................19
Livestock Arrival & Departure..........................................................................................................19
Livestock Information Booth............................................................................................................51
livestock judging.....................................................................................................................................19
lost & found items.................................................................................................................................52
lost people................................................................................................................................................52
lumberjacks.............................................................................................................................................. 35
mall parade...............................................................................................................................................33
marching band competition.............................................................................................................33
mascots.............................................................................................................................................. 34, 56
Math On-A-Stick.......................................................................................................................... 35, 102
media relations contacts.......................................................................................................................5
media resources........................................................................................................................................5
Metro Transit...........................................................................................................................................47
Mighty Midway and Kidway specials..............................................................................................91
116
Mighty Midway ...................................................................................................................................... 86
Military Appreciation Day.......................................................................................................... 67, 90
milking parlor...........................................................................................................................................15
Milk Run ....................................................................................................................................................70
Minnesota Cooks™ Day .....................................................................................................................66
Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild Exhibit .......................................................................................13
Minnesota State Fair Art & Sculptures.......................................................................................76
Minnesota State Fair Gardens ........................................................................................................76
Minnesota State Fair Foundation 501(c)(3) .............................................................................23
Minnesota State Fair History & Heritage Center ...................................................................64
Minnesota State Fair Horse Show ................................................................................................20
Minnesota State Patrol Day .............................................................................................................66
Minnesota Territorial Pioneers Cabin ......................................................................................... 77
Minnesota Wine Country .................................................................................................................. 77
Miracle of Birth Center .......................................................................................................................17
Moo Booth ................................................................................................................................................15
motorcycle parking ............................................................................................................................. 48
MPR Day ...................................................................................................................................................69
museum ....................................................................................................................................................64
new at the fair ........................................................................................................................................97
Newspaper Museum ........................................................................................................................... 77
news releases ............................................................................................................................................7
North Woods, The (schedule) ........................................................................................................ 35
Nursery of Knowledge ........................................................................................................................17
Oink Booth ...............................................................................................................................................16
Old Iron Show......................................................................................................................................... 77
Opening Ceremony...................................................................................................................... 65, 70
online media room ..................................................................................................................................7
Outstanding Senior Citizens Award ............................................................................................70
parade ........................................................................................................................................................33
Park & Ride............................................................................................................................................. 48
parking ...................................................................................................................................................... 48
People’s Choice Awards (now 2015 Best Awards) ...............................................................70
Pet Center................................................................................................................................................ 77
photo gallery ............................................................................................................................................. 6
photography access ...............................................................................................................................7
Pianos on Parade .................................................................................................................................. 35
Pinterest ......................................................................................................................................................7
poultry ............................................................................................................................................. 20, 103
pre-fair tickets .......................................................................................................................................89
press room ..................................................................................................................................................7
Princess Kay of the Milky Way................................................................................................. 71, 73
Ramberg Senior Center Stage (schedule) ................................................................................30
Read & Ride Day ............................................................................................................................68, 91
117
re-admission .......................................................................................................................................... 90
recycling ....................................................................................................................................................24
refunds ..................................................................................................................................................... 90
religious services ..................................................................................................................................52
reptile show ............................................................................................................................................87
rides .................................................................................................................................................... 85, 97
ride specials .............................................................................................................................................91
River Raft Ride .......................................................................................................................................87
robot demonstrations .........................................................................................................................18
sandbox ..................................................................................................................................................... 74
Schell’s Stage at Schilling Amphitheater ....................................................................................31
Seed Survivor ..........................................................................................................................................19
Senior Stretch & Stroll ............................................................................................................... 68, 74
Seniors Day............................................................................................................................... 68, 70, 91
SkatePark Lessons...............................................................................................................................36
Skyride.......................................................................................................................................................87
smartphone app ....................................................................................................................................49
smoking (designated areas) ............................................................................................................52
snakes ........................................................................................................................................................87
social media................................................................................................................................................7
space tower............................................................................................................................................ 88
sponsor exhibit booths ......................................................................................................................78
State Fair Foundation 501(c)(3) ....................................................................................................23
State Fair History .................................................................................................................................. 55
State FairWear Gift Shops ...............................................................................................................52
Streetcar Arch........................................................................................................................................64
Studio: HERE ...........................................................................................................................................18
sunscreen ....................................................................................................................................... 53, 109
table of contents .....................................................................................................................................2
talent contests ....................................................................................................................................... 35
Thrifty Thursday ..........................................................................................................................65, 90
ticket office hours ................................................................................................................................89
tickets ........................................................................................................................................................89
ticketed attractions .............................................................................................................................85
Timberworks Lumberjack Show ................................................................................................... 35
touring promotional exhibits................................................................................................... 83, 111
transportation ........................................................................................................................................47
trivia ............................................................................................................................................................93
trolleys ....................................................................................................................................................... 53
Twitter .....................................................................................................................................................5, 7
UPS Store................................................................................................................................................. 53
University of Minnesota Driven to Discover..................................................................... 73, 76
vendors (new food) ...........................................................................................................................109
Veterans Garden Ceremony .............................................................................................................71
118
West End Market ..................................................................................................................................78
West End Market (stage) ...................................................................................................................31
What’s New! ............................................................................................................................................97
Wi-Fi hotspot ......................................................................................................................................... 53
will-call tickets .......................................................................................................................................42
Wiser Living ............................................................................................................................................78
wine country ........................................................................................................................................... 77
X-Zone, The (schedule) .....................................................................................................................36
Ye Old Mill ..................................................................................................................................... 88, 109
119
2015
$ ATM
LARPENTEUR AVE
Parade Route (2 p.m. daily)
Police
Accessible Restrooms
Pet
The
X-Zone Center Demos
MURPHY AVE
Restrooms with
Baby Changing Stations
$
Lost & Found
Smoking – Designated Area
Merchandise/Shopping
Trolley Route (8 a.m. to 2 p.m., 3-9 p.m.)
Music Stage
Wi-Fi Hotspot
OWL
LOT
$
LEE AVE
Old Iron Show
Eco
Experience
Progress
Center
Little
Farm
Hands
Park & Ride and Metro Transit State Fair Express Bus Drop Off/Pick Up
The
North
Woods
D
FOR
BU
$
18 RANDALL AVE
E
ALL AV
RAND
Bicycle
Lot
Pedestrian &
Service Vehicle Entrance
Lasertainment’s
Laser Hitz
Show
Math
On-A-Stick
Great Big
Sandbox
ROBIN LOT
WRIGHT AVE
ub
Horton
Pavilions Entrance
at Heffron
Park
Hub
West End Market
$
Skyride
Forage
EquiMania! ™
W
W
W
Aisle of Breeds
Commissary
W
Baa
Booth
STEVENS ST
CANFIELD ST
W
$
Lee & Rose Warner
Coliseum
Exercise Ring
CATHLIN ST
Employment
Center
STELLA-COMO PARKING LOT
W
FFA
$
CHS
Miracle
of Birth
Center
LOOP GATE
Space Tower
Ramberg
Senior Center
MSF
Foundation
J.V. Bailey
House
Pirate
Tag
Metro Mobility Drop
Dairy
Building
$
pe
Haunted
House
International
Bazaar Demo
Stage
Pedestrian &
Service Vehicle Gate
COMO AVE
Pedestrian Bridge
Motorcycle Lot
de
service drive only
TAXI DROP-OFF
AND PICK UP
COMO AVE
Admin
Agriculture Horticulture
Go
Carts
River
Raft
Ride
$
Bandshell
Skyride
Ye Old
Mill
JUDSON AVE
$
W
W
path
W
WEST COMO LOT
1880 Como
Operations
Building
Food
Building
Admin
Too
Libby Conf.
Center
ian
280
Employment Center
Cattle Annex
Giant Slide
MIDWAY
PARKWAY
Merchandise
Mart
st r
W
Cattle Barn
$
JUDSON AVE
$
Health
Fair 11
nly
eo
riv
W
$
DNR
Park
Creative
Activities
&Annex
d
ice
Oink
Booth W
Moo
Booth
W
Libby Conf.
Center
DNR
Building
Community
Stage
U of M
The
Garden
$
$
Home
Improvement
$
DAN PATCH AVE
W
Carousel
Park
W
Swine
Barn
Pedestrian &
Service Vehicle Gate
Carousel
Education
Building
Visitors
Plaza
Butterfly
SkyGlider House
FAN
Central
Sheep & Poultry
West Barn
JUDSON AVE
$
CARNES AVE
LIGGETT ST
AgStar
Arena
Grandstand
Plaza &
Ticket Office
4-H
Wiser
Living
rv
se
TRANSITWAY
Exercise
Ring
Adventure
Park
$
Horse Barn
CHAMBERS ST
Mighty Midway
Elevator
Grandstand
$
Historic
Streetcar
Arch
WEST DAN PATCH AVE
$
$
Grandstand
Concert
Accessible
Ramp
Kidway
UNDERWOOD ST
$
16
NELSON ST
$
History &
Heritage
Center
CLOUGH ST
Schilling
Amphitheater
Alphabet
Forest
COOPER ST
it H
UNDERWOOD ST
$
Trans
it
Fine
Arts
Center
Family Fair
Baldwin
Park
FOX LOT
Tra
ns
Campgrounds
Expo
Place
SkyGlider
Giant
Sing Along
UNDERWOOD ST
Information Kiosk
Severe Weather Shelter
DAN ELMER WAY
Information Booth
Metro
Mobility
Drop
ROOSTER LOT
EAST COMO LOT
Bicycle
Lot
SNELLING AVE
Hand Wash Station
Bicycle
Lot
HOYT AVE
TIGER LOT
SNELLING AVE
Restrooms
CAMEL LOT
HOYT AVE
COSGROVE ST
First Aid
BUFFALO LOT
COSGROVE ST
Electric Scooter, Wheelchair,
Stroller & Wagon Rental
Accessible Restrooms
with Baby Changing Stations
Accessible Restrooms with Family
& Baby Changing Facilities
COOPER ST
Blue Ribbon Bargain Book
& State Fair Poster Carts
Care & Assistance
$
SNELLING AVE
Public Parking
# Admission Gate
SNELLING AVE
Accessible Parking
94