Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The Minnesota State Fair has arrived. Now is the time to work on your game plan to fit in as many corn dogs, corn cobs, and corn-themed art pieces as you can. This summer staple runs from August 22nd through Labor Day and showcases the finest of our state’s agriculture, art and business along with countless entertainment and many of our favorite food options. I also encourage you to stop by the Senate booth in the Education building to fill out our legislative survey.
This enduring tradition can be traced back to when Minnesota was still a United States territory. In 1854, the Minnesota Agricultural Society was founded with a mission to promote the Minnesota Territory’s agriculture through an annual fair. The first Territorial Fair was held in 1855 and located near what is now downtown Minneapolis. After three years of these fairs, Minnesota was granted statehood in 1858 and the Society then held its first State Fair in 1859.
During its early years, the Fair’s location varied annually at sites including Owatonna, Rochester, Red Wing and Winona. The State Fair eventually found a permanent home at its current location after Ramsey County donated 210 acres to the state for sole use by the Minnesota State Agricultural Society – the governing body of the Fair.
Since then, the Minnesota State Fair has continued to grow in both scale and attractions offered and now welcomes more than a million fair-goers each year. While agriculture is still a focus of the Fair, the exhibitions have evolved to reflect our state’s advancing technological and industrial industries. From the History & Heritage Center to the Fine Arts Center, there are now more than 25 buildings, barns and areas to explore.
The Great Minnesota Get-Together is truly a beloved celebration that brings Minnesotans together to recognize all that makes our state so great. Everyone who attends has their own stories and unique memories, and I invite you and your family to spend a fun day creating your own. Visit the fair’s website to learn more at https://www.mnstatefair.org/.
Warmly,
Senator Jim Abeler
Minnesota Senate, District 35