GROUP HOSPITALITY AT THE MINNESOTA STATE FAIR

TIME TO GO! Groups arriving at the fair by bus can use the University of Minnesota Transitway and avoid traffic. Plus, your bus parks for free!

TIME TO PLAN! Upon arrival, we’ll provide you with free detailed maps of the State Fairgrounds and free Daily Schedules listing all event locations and times.

TIME MANAGEMENT TIPS! Most exhibit buildings are open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. For early arrivals, there is plenty of activity in the Livestock area as animals are groomed and readied for judging. For livestock judging schedules, pick up a Where and When to See the Animals brochure at any information booth.

TIME TO PARTY! Treat your group to a catered event at the State Fair’s Blue Ribbon Picnic Area. Overlooking the Mighty Midway, the picnic area is perfect for private group functions and is within easy walking distance of all major exhibits and attractions. Rental rate is $50 per hour/per tent with a minimum of two hours. Our experienced caterers can create or customize any menu for your group. (Sorry, no outside food or beverages permitted.) Call (651) 288-4310 or email groups@mnstatefair.org for availability.

TIME TO SAVE! Gate admission tickets purchased prior to opening day are always a bargain! In addition, special discount days will be posted here as soon as details are available. Click here for ticket prices and outlets. For a listing of special day discounts, click here. Grandstand tickets are discounted by $2 each if 25 tickets or more are purchased to any concert event. To purchase admission or Grandstand tickets call the State Fair Box office at (651) 288-4467.

TIME TO SHOP! Big Group? Big Savings! The State Fair Blue Ribbon Bargain Book has 100 coupons (plus a special BONUS coupon!) worth over $500 in savings on food, merchandise and attractions at the fair. No one can use all the coupons in one day, so pass the book around the bus and let everyone pick their favorites! Or buy several books and give them out as prizes or gifts to your group. Books will be available in early summer.

TIME TO PARTICIPATE/VOLUNTEER/GET INVOLVED There are lots of ways to make your group experience special! Try a scavenger hunt or a trivia contest. We also have volunteer opportunities if your group would like to help out the little kids at Little Farm Hands! No experience necessary. There are also self-guided walking tours of the fair’s beautiful gardens and tree sculptures. Printed guides are available at all information booths.

TIME FOR QUESTIONS! If you’re planning a trip to the fair, give us a call at (651) 288-4310 or e-mail us at groups@mnstatefair.org.

DOWNLOADABLES:

Links will activate as files become available. Please check back after July 1.

Download the 2007 Group Hospitality brochure

Download the 2007 Sample Itinerary

Download Scavenger Hunt Instructions

Download the Triva Contest