Issue: 58 | April 3, 2023 |
|
Discount Tickets On Sale April 6!
Spring has sprung (finally), and summer is just around the corner! Our popular slice-of-the-fair Kickoff to Summer event returns for the third year! Get together with your family and friends to hang out with food, brews, music, shopping and fun stuff to do at the beautiful and iconic State Fairgrounds – in May!
- More food & beverage and shopping & exhibit vendors than ever before – 50+ booths in all!
- Three stages with free music and entertainment
- So much fun stuff to do – pickleball, mini golf, skateboard lessons, free guided historical walking tours, Giant Slide rides, free Trivia Mafia and yard games
- Food donation collection in partnership with Cub to support Second Harvest Heartland
- Free parking
- And more!
To make this event experience extra special, attendance is limited each day. When you purchase your tickets, select a day to attend:
- Thursday, May 25: 4-9 p.m.
- Friday, May 26: 4-9 p.m.
- Saturday, May 27: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Sunday, May 28: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Save $3 on Tickets When You Buy in Advance!
Tickets are $12.50 each (fees and tax included) and go on sale at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 6. New this year – purchase tickets immediately when they go on sale without going through a lottery process! Children 4 and under are free. Tickets at the gate will be $15.50 each (via QR code, credit/debit only; fees and tax included). To buy your tickets in advance and save $3, visit Etix.
|
|
Sign Up to Win!
Winners, randomly selected from ticket buyers who opt in to enter at the time of purchase, will receive amazing door prizes, sponsored by Minnesota Rusco.
|
|
Kickoff to Summer Is Proudly Sponsored By |
|
Renee Alexander Announced as New CEO
The State Fair board of managers announced in February that Renee Alexander will be the new CEO of the Minnesota State Fair, taking over for retiring CEO Jerry Hammer.
Alexander has more than 20 years of experience with the Great Minnesota Get-Together, including 13 years as deputy general manager, playing a key role on the State Fair’s senior management team. She originally worked in entertainment and marketing at the Minnesota State Fair from 1989 through 1994 and returned to the Great Minnesota Get-Together in 2005. She currently oversees all of the fair’s entertainment programs, including booking and producing Grandstand events, and has won multiple entertainment industry awards. She also leads the State Fair’s educational programming, marketing and communications, media relations, web and publications, archives and ticketing departments. As an integral member of State Fair leadership, she’s involved in every facet of the State Fair’s vast operation. Her successes on many levels have earned her a high profile locally and nationally in the world of fairs, festivals, entertainment and event management.
“This is a large role to fill, and we’re confident that Renee is a qualified and proven leader,” said State Fair Board President Joe Scapanski. “The Great Minnesota Get-Together is world-famous for its tradition of excellence. We’re looking forward to Renee’s vision of maintaining that tradition and building on the State Fair’s amazing legacy.”
“My commitment to the Minnesota State Fair extends well beyond this merely being a job,” Alexander said. “I love this institution and all that it stands for – a showcase of the very best of our state, a place where amazing memories are created and where ‘The Great Minnesota Get-Together’ is more than a slogan; it drives at our mission. I believe my work in this industry and my unique experience will serve us well as I take on the tremendous responsibility of leading this incredible organization.”
“Renee is perfect for the job,” said Hammer. “She has a deep understanding and appreciation for the State Fair’s powerful impact here in Minnesota and beyond. She knows what it takes to keep the shine on our state treasure.”
Alexander is a former board chair of the International Entertainment Buyers Association, an active participant with the International Association of Fairs and Expositions and is a graduate of the Leadership Music and Leadership St. Paul programs. She earned a degree in business communications from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and has called Minnesota home since childhood.
Alexander will assume her new duties later this spring when Hammer steps down after 53 years with the State Fair; he’s currently in his 27th year as CEO.
|
|
We’re Seeking Arts Organizations to Perform Pop-Up Showcases at the Fair |
Lively songs from musical productions, dynamic dance, captivating storytelling, engaging puppetry, spirited drumming, clever clowning and more have all been featured as part of the State Fair’s popular Arts A’Fair program over the past 10+ years. For the 2023 State Fair, we’re on the hunt for Minnesota arts groups and individuals to present short pop-up showcases in select locations at the fairgrounds to highlight our state’s varied and vibrant performing arts community. Do you know performers who might be interested?
For more information about Arts A’Fair and how to submit a proposal to perform, visit our Arts A’Fair web page. Proposals are due April 14, 2023.
|
|
Fairgrounds Improvement Work Is Underway! |
Significant maintenance and capital work has resumed on the fairgrounds after a nearly three-year suspension following the cancellation of the 2020 State Fair, limited attendance at the 2021 fair, virtually no operating revenue, and a nearly $18 million budget shortfall. Among the many projects currently underway are:
- Improvements to the Gate 9 entrance off Como Avenue after the removal of the river raft ride, which has not been in operation since 2019. A new walkway and plaza will provide a welcoming entrance for guests entering the fairgrounds from the south. (Pictured on the left)
- Renovation of the building at 1640 Como Avenue. Currently home to the summer Employment Center, this building will also be the future home of the ticket office. (Center photo)
- Remodeling of the restrooms located just south of the main entrance off Snelling Avenue. Extensive repairs and improvements are being made to both the men’s and women’s restrooms. (Pictured on the right)
As soon as the piles and piles of snow are gone, we’ll start on more projects to complete before welcoming you to the 2023 Great Minnesota Get-Together - stay tuned for updates!
|
|
Celebrating Generations of Minnesota Family Farms |
This year, 89 farms will receive the distinguished honor of being named a Century Farm by the Minnesota State Fair and the Minnesota Farm Bureau. Six of these are being recognized with sesquicentennial status – 150 years of family ownership! Qualifying farms must be 50 acres or more and currently involved in agricultural production. Since the Century Farm program began in 1976, nearly 11,000 Minnesota farms have been recognized for continuous family ownership of at least 100 years.
Among this year’s honorees is the McNamara Farm in Goodhue County, which is being honored as a sesquicentennial farm. On their sesquicentennial farm application, the McNamara family writes that John McNamara, born in Ireland, purchased 160 acres from Joseph Mattison in 1861, when Abraham Lincoln was president. Five generations of McNamaras have farmed oats, wheat, barley, hay and sheep, and now the family grows corn and soybeans.
Information on all Century Farms will be available at the Minnesota Farm Bureau exhibit during the 2023 Minnesota State Fair. A database of all Minnesota Century Farms is also available at fbmn.org.
|
|
Hiring for Summer Office and Outdoor Jobs Has Begun! |
To help us get ready for the big get-together and other events, we’re hiring dozens of seasonal/summer staff who work approximately June to early September. Current office job openings include: agriculture competition administrative assistant, agriculture competition business administration intern, background check assistant in employment services, employment administrative assistant, employment services assistant, Minnesota State Fair Foundation summer assistant and ticket office intern. Outdoor openings and other job opportunities include: Coliseum & livestock custodian, greenhouse assistant, greenhouse assistant – watering crew, grounds & facilities assistant, livestock facilities assistant, Minnesota State Fair Police officer and Minnesota State Fair reserve officer.
When you join our summer team, you’ll get unforgettable perks unlike any other company you'll work for: A unique behind-the-scenes opportunity to be a part of the team that puts on one of the biggest and most popular events in North America; get-togethers for full-time and summer staff to learn fair news and participate in (if you dare!) contests you'll have only at the fair; pre-fair kick-off breakfast; employee MVP and All-Star recognition programs; free fair admission; endless fun fair facts to impress your friends and family; and more.
The top reason our summer staff say they love working for the Great Minnesota Get-Together is the friendships and memories they make - we hope you can join us!
Fair-Time Employment News
If you're interested in working the 12 days of the fair, look for registration information on our employment web page beginning June 1. Get hiring news in your inbox by signing up for our employment email list.
|
|
Help Spread the Word – We’re Looking for Minnesota’s Most Talented! |
|
Know anyone who’s been perfecting their talent and is ready to bust out on the big stage while supportive State Fair fans cheer them on? The Minnesota State Fair Amateur Talent Contest turns 50 this year, and we’re searching for all sorts of talent to be a part of this year’s auditions July 24-30 (so you have a little time to get your act together!). Semifinalists selected from the auditions will go on to compete during the State Fair at the Bandshell. Then, finalists will compete at the Grandstand Sept. 3 for more than $20,000 in cash awards. (Photo: Andy Berndt)
|
|
|
|
Friday, Aug. 25, 7 p.m.
$77, $97, $107, $197 (all seats reserved)
|
|
|
|
Sunday, Aug. 27, 7 p.m.
$34, $41, $51 (all seats reserved)
|
|
|
|
Monday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m.
$33 (all seats reserved)
|
|
|
|
Tuesday, Aug. 29, 7 p.m.
$79, $99, $109, $199 (all seats reserved)
|
|
|
|
Wednesday, Aug. 30, 7 p.m.
$29, $39, $49, $64 (GA pit and reserved seating)
|
|
|
|
Thursday, Aug. 31, 7 p.m.
$77, $97, $107, $197 (all seats reserved)
|
|
Tickets on sale now online at Etix or by calling 800-514-3849.
|
|
Deadline Is May 1 to Order Recognition Benches and Tables
|
Looking for the perfect way to honor a special person or a treasured occasion or to proclaim your love of the fair just like the Landin family, pictured above? They meet at their family recognition bench on the fairgrounds to celebrate when Julien "Papa" Lillevold took Karen to her first State Fair and started five generations of family State Fair adventures. You can add your story to the State Fairgrounds with a personalized recognition bench or table, and a 7” x 8” plaque attached to the bench or table will share more about the people or events you’re celebrating.
Recognition benches and tables are available through the Minnesota State Fair Foundation. To have a bench in place for the 2023 State Fair, donations must be received by May 1, 2023.
|
|
Spring Gift-Giving Made Easy! |
On the hunt for an easy Easter basket surprise, Mother's Day gift or springtime birthday present? Give a day of endless fun at the Great Minnesota Get-Together! Pre-fair discount admission tickets are on sale now for just $15. Buy online and choose the print-at-home option for an instant gift while saving on service fees. Tickets are also available by calling Etix, 800-514-3849. Visit our website for a print-at-home greeting card to accompany your gift!
|
|
Looking for New Ways to Raise Money for Your Group?
Be a part of the Minnesota State Fair’s innovative fundraising program – we offer a great way for sports teams, community organizations, clubs, schools, churches and other groups to team-build while raising funds. We coordinate all the details – you just need to round up your volunteers and then show up for your shift! Available opportunities include working on fairgrounds clean-up teams, in the Coliseum, barns, Grandstand or with our Parking and Park & Ride services. No prior experience is needed - we provide training, equipment and supplies to do the work. Group members can work alongside friends or teammates and enjoy the fair before or after their shift. In return, groups earn money to put toward whatever they're fundraising for – equipment, uniforms, travel expenses, facility maintenance, and more.
If you’re part of a group of at least 10 who are age 16+, visit the Fundraising Opportunities page of our website for more information.
|
|
Stay Tuned for State Fair Competition Details! |
Have a hobby you’ve been perfecting? Or a masterful creation you want to share? There are dozens and dozens of State Fair competitions in Ag-Hort-Bee, Creative Activities, Fine Arts and K-12 categories – and entry registration begins May 1. We’ll be posting competition information on our website in the coming weeks. Make this the year you put your best to the test and check “Enter State Fair Competition” off your bucket list! (Photo: Andy Berndt)
|
|
Get Together With Your Group at the Fair!
The Great Minnesota Get-Together is the perfect backdrop for birthday and anniversary celebrations, reunions, company picnics, weddings and receptions and team-building events – any summer get-together.
While you’re at the fair, gather your group at the Horton Pavilions at Heffron Park. This private, covered event space is secluded from the hustle and bustle, but still close enough to the action. The affordable hourly rental price of the Horton Pavilions at Heffron Park includes tables and chairs, group activities and a staff person to help with day-of hospitality. Additional services such as catering and audio/visual production are available for an added fee.
Contact us now to check fair-time availability – call 651-288-4400 or email [email protected].
|
|
Coming to the Fairgrounds
Munchkins Markets: Whether you’re buying or selling, this event features great deals on thousands of gently used baby and kids items from local families. Join in the fun April 20-23 in the Education Building!
Artists Market: Sponsored by NorthStar Watermedia Society, this event June 2-3 in the Fine Arts Center is open to all society members from beginner to professional. Show and sell your artwork, get to know other artists, attend free demonstrations, and get inspired!
|
|
April
- 10, 11, 18, 25: Machinery Hill Criterium Series Cycle Races at the State Fairgrounds
- 20-23: Munchkin Markets Children’s Consignment Sale at the Education Building
- 22: Minnesota Half-Arabian Horse Association WSCA/Schooling Show at Compeer Arena
- 28-30: Minnesota Horse Expo at the Livestock Area and Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum
May
- 5-7: Sahara Sands Spring Classic Arabian Horse Show at Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum
- 6: Animal Humane Society Walk for Animals at the International Bazaar
- 7: Northland Vintage Toy, Train, Advertising & Pop Culture Show at the Progress Center
- 7: Gopher State Buick Spring Extravaganza Car Show & Swap Meet at Machinery Hill and the North Lots
- 9, 16: Machinery Hill Criterium Series Cycle Races at the State Fairgrounds
- 11-14: Friends of the American Saddlebred Horse (FASH) Horse Show at Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum
- 12-14: Friends School Plant Sale at the Grandstand
- 13: Twin City Model Railroad Museum Hobby Show and Sale at the Education Building
- 21: Minnesota Saddlebred Horse Association Riders and Ribbons at Compeer Arena
- 25-28: Kickoff to Summer at the Fair at the State Fairgrounds
June
- 2: Girls on the Run 5K at the State Fairgrounds
- 2-3: NorthStar Water Media Society Artists Market at the Fine Arts Center
- 4: General Motors Car Clubs Association Car/Truck Show & Swap Meet at the State Fairgrounds
- 6, 13, 27: Machinery Hill Criterium Series Cycle Races at the State Fairgrounds
- 9-10: Vikings Chapter of the Antique Motorcycle Club of America National Show and Swap Meet at the Progress Center
- 10: St. Paul Summer Beer Fest at the International Bazaar
|
|
If you’ve been dreaming of relaxing at a picnic table enjoying a bucket of Sweet Martha’s cookies with family and friends, your chance is just around the corner! Kickoff to Summer at the Fair is May 25-28, and $12.50 discount tickets go on sale April 6. To make this slice-of-the-fair event extra special, attendance is limited each day. (Photo: Kaylen Larson)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
