MN State Fair: These Are The Current COVID-19 Guidelines

RAMSEY COUNTY, MN — The Minnesota State Fair is just over two weeks away, but there are still lingering questions about how organizers will reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

The Minnesota State Fair was canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic. In June, organizers announced that a normal Minnesota State Fair will return in August. "Restrictions regarding large gatherings have recently eased, so at this time, the State Fair does not anticipate daily attendance limits," fair officials said then.

"Further, at this time, masks will not be required for fair guests but are strongly encouraged for those not fully vaccinated. Proof of vaccination will not be required for guests, staff or vendors. Cleaning and sanitization measures will adhere to federal and state guidelines."

However, since June, the delta variant and vaccine hesitancy have led to significant spikes in cases in the state and across the country.

Ramsey County, which is home to the fairgrounds, currently has a "substantial" community transmission rate, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Counties with high or substantial transmission rates should mandate indoor masks, the CDC said.

Fair organizers are now considering a mask mandate for indoor spaces, but there is nothing yet finalized.

As of Aug. 10, here are the current COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions for the 2021 Minnesota State Fair:

• The Minnesota State Fair will not enforce daily attendance limits.
• The Minnesota State Fair will not require masks
  • However, masks are "strongly encouraged" for people who are not yet fully vaccinated
  • Face coverings are required on all Park & Ride and Express buses
• The Minnesota State Fair will not require proof of vaccination for anyone.
  • However, the fair will "strongly encourage all those who are eligible to be fully vaccinated"
• Cleaning and sanitization measures will adhere to federal and state guidelines. Hand sanitizer will be provided at locations throughout the fairgrounds.

The 2021 Minnesota State Fair will run from Aug 26 through Sep. 6.

Also read: In Reversal, U Of MN Will Require COVID-19 Vaccine