ST PAUL, Minn. — Any Minnesotan will tell you, it's never too early to start talking about the Minnesota State Fair.
At the annual meeting of the Minnesota State Agricultural Society, the organization that oversees the State Fair, the board of managers approved a $10.2 million budget for maintenance projects and capital work and announced that admission prices will not increase in 2024.
In 2023, adults aged 13-64 paid $18 at the gate, kids 5-12 and seniors 65+ parted with $16 and kids under four entered for free.
Numerous projects are approved for funding this year, including:
- New windows and doors in the Fine Arts Center
- Upgrades to the Kidway lot
- A new ticket office outside the Grandstand
- New doors and more fans in the Horse Barn
- Fiber optic system upgrades
- Safety and security investments
- Tree care, landscaping
- More bike racks
- Additional water fill stations
- Outdoor lighting improvements
- Shade umbrellas added to Dan Patch Park
- Elevator work at the east Grandstand
- Miscellaneous paint, electrical, roofing, ventilation, sewer and street and sidewalk projects throughout the fairgrounds
"The Great Minnesota Get-Together is proud to be an annual tradition for so many Minnesotans, partly because a day at the fair is such an incredible value," said State Fair CEO Renee Alexander. "In 2024, we are making it a priority to hold ticket prices the same while continuing to invest extensively in exceptional programming, guest experience enhancements, the historic fairgrounds and improvements to our operation.
Projects are funded through Minnesota State Fair operating income and grants from the State Fair Foundation. The fair is financially self-supporting and receives no government aid.
At the annual meeting, other business included naming the president and other members to the Minnesota State Agricultural Society, as well as naming Jerry Hammer and Joe Fox to the Minnesota State Fair Hall of Fame.
The great Minnesota Get-Together is scheduled for Aug. 22 through Sept. 2.
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