Kick off your Minnesota Summer at the Fair

As the winter frost fades and the excitement for the Great Minnesota Get-Together begins to build, there is no better way to embrace the changing seasons than attending the Kickoff to Summer at the Fair. Returning to the historic fairgrounds over Memorial Day Weekend, May 21–24, 2026, this event offers a curated “slice of the fair.” Experience the Kickoff to Summer Fair with smaller crowds, free parking, and over 40 of your favorite food vendors. Whether you are a lifelong Minnesotan or visiting from out of town, this event serves as the perfect appetizer for the full State Fair experience coming later in August.

Attendance for this special event is limited each day to ensure a comfortable and spacious environment for all guests. Because of this, some days are expected to sell out quickly. Tickets officially go on sale on Friday, April 3, at 10 a.m. If you plan, you can save money by purchasing your tickets in advance online. Through May 20, tickets are available for $14, while those purchased at the gate or after May 20 will be $17. For those looking for the best value, the Weekday Ticket Bundle offers four tickets for either Thursday or Friday and includes a free 2026 State Fair admission ticket if purchased by May 20.

No trip to the fairgrounds is complete without indulging in legendary treats. This year, you can enjoy staples like Sweet Martha’s Cookie Jar, Mouth Trap Cheese Curds, and Pronto Pups. In addition to these classics, the 2026 kickoff introduces several new vendors to the lineup. Be sure to stop by Aldo’s Burgers for a fresh take on a fair favorite, or visit Amish Annie Donuts for a warm, sweet treat. For those seeking unique beverages or caffeine fixes, Little Prairie Coffee and Mami Churros & Creamery will also be making their debut.

The 2026 event features several brand-new highlights that shouldn’t be missed. New for this summer enjoy the Hunter & Jumper Horse Show. This exciting debut takes place at the newly renovated Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum. You and your guests can watch world-class equestrian competitions free with admission. Art lovers should head to the lower Grandstand for the Second Glance Crop Art Exhibit, featuring over 50 intricate pieces originally shown during the 2025 fair. Families will particularly enjoy the new “Read to a Breed” program on Saturday and Sunday, where children can read stories to therapy animals including alpacas, llamas, and mini horses.

Music will be filling the air throughout the four-day celebration. From the ABBASolutely Fab tribute band on Thursday night to the high-energy performances of Big Toe and The Jam on Sunday. The DNR Stage and other venues will host a diverse array of talent. Beyond the music, guests can participate in “Silly Stops” activity stations. Take a 30-minute guided historical walking tour, or test their wits with the Kickoff Conundrum Puzzle Hunt. For the thrill-seekers, the iconic Giant Slide and various arcade games will be open. There is something for everyone to enjoy as we welcome the summer season.

Kick of your summer magic of the Great Minnesota Get-Together without the stress of a long commute. Make it a MINNeSTAY by booking a premier vacation rental just minutes from the fairgrounds. Staying in a local neighborhood allows you to beat the morning traffic. You can be the first in line for those world-famous cheese curds. MINNeSTAY allows you to enjoy a private, comfortable sanctuary to retreat to when the day is done. By choosing a local rental, you aren’t just a tourist, you are living like a local. With all the freedom to store your fair find leftovers in a full kitchen and relax in a space that feels like home. It is the ultimate way to stay close to the action while enjoying the high-end amenities. Enjoy an authentic Twin Cities atmosphere that only a dedicated vacation rental can provide. View all of our vacation rental properties HERE.