MN State Fair 2025 has officially opened its gates in Falcon Heights, drawing huge crowds eager to experience one of the most iconic summer traditions in the Midwest. Known as the Great Minnesota Get-Together, the fair runs for 12 days from August 21 through Labor Day, offering visitors a mix of thrilling rides, inventive foods, and beloved traditions. Opening day attendance reached more than 137,000, making it one of the busiest starts in recent history.
Crowds gathered early, with families, food lovers, and thrill-seekers rushing to be among the first to enjoy the new attractions. The fair continues to be a showcase of Minnesota’s culture, agriculture, and entertainment, and 2025 is shaping up to be one of its most memorable years.
New Rides Take Center Stage
One of the biggest talking points of MN State Fair 2025 is the addition of several new rides that promise both thrills and family fun. The standout is The Thunderbird, now the tallest portable swing ride in North America at 180 feet. Riders are lifted high into the sky, enjoying a breathtaking view of the fairgrounds before swooping through the air.
The Midway also features two new adrenaline-packed attractions: Overdrive, a spinning ride that whirls passengers in multiple directions, and The Scorpion, a fast-paced ride that flips riders upside down in dramatic fashion. For younger fairgoers, Kidway has added two new family-friendly rides, including a mini spaceship simulator and a whimsical flying elephant ride.
A Journey to Space
This year’s fair also introduces a free exhibit called Journey to Space, developed in partnership with NASA. The hands-on display allows visitors to explore what life is like aboard the International Space Station, try on replica space gear, and see a real moon rock up close. The exhibit has quickly become a hit with families, inspiring curiosity in children and adults alike.
New Foods to Discover
Food remains the crown jewel of the fair, and MN State Fair 2025 debuts more than 30 new items across the grounds. Standouts include:
- Sweet Squeakers: Fried cheddar curds drizzled with berry sauce.
- Shrimp and Pork Toast-on-a-Stick: A savory twist on a fair staple.
- Soft Serve Royal Raspberry Beer: A unique frozen treat blending beer and dessert.
- Chicken-Fried Bacon Fries: A crunchy, indulgent snack.
- Birthday Cake Cookie Dough On-a-Stick: A sugary favorite for kids.
As always, some new foods are instant hits while others spark debate, but that is part of the fun. Traditional favorites like Sweet Martha’s cookies, roasted corn, and giant turkey legs continue to draw long lines.
Butter Sculptures Continue the Tradition
The butter carving tradition continues in 2025, with the newly crowned Princess Kay of the Milky Way having her likeness carved into a 90-pound block of butter. This long-standing Minnesota ritual takes place inside a rotating, chilled glass booth, where visitors can watch the sculpture come to life. It remains a symbol of the state’s strong dairy heritage and a fan-favorite photo opportunity.
Tips for Visitors
To make the most of MN State Fair 2025, here are a few practical tips:
- Buy tickets early: Peak weekends can sell out, and arriving early helps avoid long lines.
- Plan for weather: August in Minnesota can bring heat, rain, or cool evenings. A poncho and sunscreen are both wise.
- Parking and transit: On-site parking averages $25 a day, but shuttle buses and park-and-ride lots are popular alternatives.
- Food strategy: Share dishes with friends so you can try more without overstuffing.
- Must-see shows: From the Grandstand concerts to livestock competitions, the entertainment lineup has something for everyone.
Fair Highlights at a Glance
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Dates | August 21 – Labor Day (12 days total) |
| Rides | Thunderbird, Overdrive, The Scorpion, new Kidway rides |
| Exhibits | NASA “Journey to Space”, moon rock display |
| Foods | 30+ new items including Sweet Squeakers and Raspberry Beer soft-serve |
| Traditions | Butter carving of Princess Kay of the Milky Way |
A Season of Fun and Tradition
The MN State Fair 2025 blends innovation with long-standing tradition. With towering new rides, a space exploration exhibit, inventive foods, and classic attractions, it continues to live up to its title as the Great Minnesota Get-Together. Whether you come for the butter sculptures, the thrill rides, or the chance to taste the newest deep-fried creation, the fair promises memories that last a lifetime.
As the twelve-day celebration unfolds, visitors are invited to enjoy the best of Minnesota under summer skies. Share your experiences, favorite foods, and unforgettable moments—the fair is as much about the people as it is about the attractions.