Arts & Entertainment
MN State Fair Was 5th-Best Attended, And Other Facts About The 2025 Get-Together
The Great Minnesota Get-Together drew nearly 2 million people this year, introduced 33 new foods, and showcased top-tier concerts.
ST. PAUL, MN — The 2025 Minnesota State Fair wrapped up with near-record crowds, dozens of new foods, and big-name concerts. Fair organizers say it was also a reminder of Minnesota’s resilience.
"As the 2025 Minnesota State Fair has come to a close, we pause to remember the tragedy at Annunciation School and the devastating loss of others in our community who were victims of violence," said Fair CEO Renee Alexander.
"Even in the shadow of heartbreak, the fair showed its true purpose: bringing Minnesotans together."
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Here are five things to know about this year’s Great Minnesota Get-Together.
Attendance Near Record Levels
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A total of 1,940,869 people attended in 2025, making it the fifth best-attended fair in history.
Competitions Drew Thousands
More than 35,000 entries were submitted across agricultural and creative contests, with nearly $2 million in prize money awarded. The Purple Ribbon Auction raised over $1.3 million for 4-H participants, and 142 animals were born at the Miracle of Birth Center. Malorie Thorson of Waverly was crowned the 72nd Princess Kay of the Milky Way.
Transit Ridership Soared
The Minnesota Valley Transit Authority set a new record with 148,000 rides, up 17 percent from last year. SouthWest Transit and Metro Transit also reported strong ridership gains.
Big Names Filled the Grandstand
Concert attendance reached 95,342. Sold-out shows included Old Dominion and Nelly with special guests Ja Rule, Mýa, and the Ying Yang Twins. Other acts included Meghan Trainor, Atmosphere, Melissa Etheridge, Def Leppard, Hank Williams Jr., and The Avett Brothers.
New Attractions And Foods
Fairgoers experienced the Thunderbird swing ride, the tallest portable swing in North America, plus a NASA exhibit at the North End Event Center. Thirty-three official new foods were added to the fair, including Chicken-Fried Bacon Fries, Pizza Cheese Curd Tacos, and Dill Pickle Iced Tea.
The 2026 Minnesota State Fair runs Aug. 27 through Sept. 7.
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