The Minnesota State Fair returns Aug. 27 through Sept. 7, promising more than two million visitors a chance to celebrate agriculture, music, family fun and a host of fresh attractions.
Eat Together: A Family‑Focused Food Pavilion
Located next to the Giant Sing‑Along stage, the new Eat Together pavilion offers a shaded gathering spot for families and friends. Nine vendors serve a variety of handheld treats, from Jive Turkey BBQ and Solem’s French Fries to BABA’S, Chan’s Eatery, Gyros by G&G Concessions, Ollie’s Crab Fritters, Quesadilla Junction, and Solem’s Cheese Curds & Mini Donuts. The emphasis on convenient, on‑a‑stick options continues the fair’s tradition of easy, portable dining.
New Rides for All Ages
America Wheel – The centerpiece of this year’s midway, the America Wheel is the world’s largest traveling observation wheel, standing 75 feet taller than the former Great Big Wheel. With 45 gondolas, riders enjoy panoramic views up to 14 miles, celebrating America’s 250th birthday while honoring U.S. presidents, the Constitution and national parks. Admission is $7 per rider.
Midway Thrills – The Viking‑themed Thor ride delivers up‑and‑down, left‑right and upside‑down motion for adrenaline‑seeking guests. The Juke Box Funhouse offers a family‑friendly, music‑themed maze filled with iconic memorabilia from decades of popular culture.
Kidway Additions – Little adventurers can pilot their own pirate vessels on the Pirate Jet or enjoy a mild, whimsical scare on the Ghost Pirate Dark Ride, both designed for younger fairgoers.
Dinosaur Exhibit and State Fossil
Presented by the Science Museum of Minnesota, a free exhibit brings visitors face‑to‑face with life‑size dinosaur skeleton casts and authentic fossils. Highlights include Minnesota’s newly designated state fossil, the giant beaver, and a Fossil Corner where paleontologists answer questions on Aug. 27‑29 and Sept. 2‑4.
Film Screenings and Local Creators
The Pet Pavilions host five nights of Minnesota‑made short films and animation, curated by Square Lake Film & Music. Screenings run at 8:30 p.m. on Aug. 28‑29 and Sept. 4‑6, followed by live Q&A sessions with the filmmakers.
What to Expect
Beyond the new rides and food pavilion, the fair continues its long‑standing tradition of agricultural displays, live music, and classic attractions. With over 500 food options, many served on a stick, visitors can sample everything from classic corn dogs to inventive treats like pickle‑pie. Whether you’re a longtime fair enthusiast or a first‑time visitor, the 2026 Minnesota State Fair offers fresh experiences that honor tradition while looking forward.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
