Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
State Fair
Estelle Timar-Wilcox

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

people walk on fairgrounds
Fairgoers walk down Judson Avenue on the opening day of the Minnesota State Fair on Aug. 24. Fair officials will again hold a summer kickoff event this year, set for May 23-26 at the fairgrounds.
Ben Hovland | MPR News 2023

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

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

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

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

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

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

This year’s Minnesota State Fair will run from Aug. 22 through Sept. 2. Fair officials have already announced several of the scheduled Grandstand performances.