The 2024 Minnesota State Fair, running from August 22 to September 2, promises a vibrant mix of new attractions, food vendors, and entertainment options, making it a must-visit event for locals and tourists alike.
Dates and Admission
The fair opens daily from 7 a.m., with admissions allowed until 9 p.m. (7 p.m. on Labor Day), and the grounds remain active until 11 p.m. (9 p.m. on Labor Day). Advance tickets are priced at $15 for those aged five and older, while children under four enjoy free entry. On-site ticket prices rise to $18 for adults, with discounts available for seniors and children.
Discount Days
Discounted admissions are available on specific days, providing opportunities to save. For instance, on Opening Day (August 22), adults can enter for $16, while seniors and children get in for $13. Special discount days are also set for seniors (August 26 and 29), military personnel (August 27), and kids (August 28 and September 2).
New Food Vendors and Beverages
Food enthusiasts can explore new offerings, including El Burrito Mercado’s Quesabirria Taquitos and Kosharina Egyptian Cuisine’s Koshari. The Indigenous Food Lab will feature prominently, especially on August 25 for Indigenous Peoples’ Day. For those interested in beverages, 63 new drinks, including craft beers, seltzers, and non-alcoholic options, will be available, alongside the return of popular choices like Lift Bridge Brewing’s Mini Donut Beer.
Entertainment and Attractions
The Grandstand lineup includes headliners like Chance the Rapper, Becky G, and Blake Shelton, alongside a variety of other performances. Over 900 free entertainment options are scattered across the fairgrounds, including live music from artists like Semisonic and Marky Ramone, as well as daily parades and nightly fireworks. The Mighty Midway introduces two new rides: The Kraken, a towering pendulum ride, and The Defender, a thrilling propeller ride.
Transportation and Accessibility
Metro Transit has expanded its State Fair Express Bus service to six locations, offering convenient and affordable transportation options. SouthWest Transit has also increased its service to cover every day of the fair, except Labor Day. For those driving, official parking is available for $20, with designated drop-off points for ride services like Uber and Lyft.
New Features and Changes
The 2024 fair introduces a new app to help visitors navigate the fairgrounds, find vendors, and plan their day. Other additions include the Cats & Dogs exhibition at the North End Event Center and a new photo-ready Welcome Wall. Notably, the fair has ended its long-running commemorative art program, and the Miracle of Birth Center will not feature live cattle births due to bird flu concerns.
