Fair FAQ

Health & Safety

What is the fair’s health guidance for 2022?

At the present time, face coverings, Covid vaccinations or negative tests are not required for fair guests, employees or volunteers. This is subject to change as the Covid-19 pandemic evolves. If anyone is experiencing Covid-related symptoms, they should not attend or remain at the fair. Thank you for helping to keep your fellow fair fans healthy!

For the most recent information about the 2022 Minnesota State Fair, please visit our Updates page.

What is the fair’s safety and security plan?

Safety and security are the Minnesota State Fair’s top priority, and our goal is to create a safe and secure environment for everyone.

The State Fair has its own Police Department and has developed and implemented a comprehensive security plan with the assistance of security and law enforcement professionals from federal, state and local agencies.

The plan includes metal detectors and bag checks at entry gates, law enforcement officers from throughout the state on patrol around the clock, security cameras and much more.

In addition to security, the State Fair partners with Regions Hospital, St. Paul Fire and others to provide on-site quality medical services to all participating in the fair.

Who should I call in the case of an emergency?

Call 911 in an emergency. During the fair, call 651-291-1111 for non-emergencies related to police, medical or fire.

Where are hand wash stations located on the fairgrounds?

During the fair, hand wash stations are available at many entrances to buildings in the livestock areas, including Compeer Arena, Cattle Barn, Cattle Annex, Sheep & Poultry Barn, Robert A. Christensen Pavilion (formerly Swine Barn) and the CHS Miracle of Birth Center. Hand wash stations are also located in the Food Building.

We invite guests to enjoy time with the animals, but highly recommend washing or sanitizing hands before and after visits and especially prior to eating.

Where are the designated smoking areas on the fairgrounds?

For the comfort and safety of all, designated smoking areas have been established at convenient locations throughout the fairgrounds. Smoking (including the use of e-cigarettes and vape pens) is permitted only in these areas. Each designated smoking area consists of a bench and receptacle to safely deposit spent cigarettes. Designated smoking areas are identified on State Fair maps, which are available at all information booths.

Where is First Aid located?

There are two First Aid locations during the fair, sponsored by Regions Hospital. Note: Face coverings are required in First Aid locations.

• First Aid West: 8 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. (10:30 p.m. Labor Day), across from West End Market.
• First Aid East: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. (8 p.m. on Labor Day), on the outside of the north end of the 4-H Building on Cosgrove Street.

Call 911 in case of an emergency. In a non-emergency, call 651-291-1111.

What are the gate entry guidelines?

Minnesota State Fair guests are required to pass through metal detectors at the entry gates. Bags, purses, coolers and packages will be subject to search at each of the State Fair’s entrances. Prohibited items include:

• Weapons or objects that appear to be weapons
• Fireworks or other explosive and flammable objects
• Alcoholic beverages or any illegal substance
• Drones or any remote-controlled toys
• Bikes, skateboards, skates, hoverboards

Other items may be refused at the discretion of State Fair management or police.

What should I do in the case of inclement weather?

The Minnesota State Fair is held rain or shine. Severe weather shelters are noted on a State Fair map. Follow @mnstatefair on Twitter for severe weather updates during the fair. Note: You do not need a Twitter account to read the recent updates.

Grandstand concerts also go on rain or shine. Concert bookings do not allow for refunds or exchanges in the event of rain. If weather appears inclement, please bring jackets or ponchos. Use of umbrellas is prohibited at the Grandstand.

Can I still enjoy the fair with food allergies?

The Minnesota State Fair’s group of independent concessionaires and restaurant operators work hard each year to help fair guests with food allergies. Most of the food vendors, although not a requirement, will post allergy warnings, particularly those pertaining to nut issues, but we encourage fair guests to inquire about specific concerns with each vendor.

Consider visiting the Health Fair 11 exhibit, which offers free or low-cost health screenings and information, as well as information to help visitors navigate and safely enjoy the fair. Pick up a list of gluten-free fair food options produced by Twin Cities ROCK, also found here!

Use the State Fair Finder to view the complete menus of the nearly 300 food vendors at the fair. Use keywords such as “gluten” or “dairy” to learn about the different options.

Fair guests are welcome to bring outside food and drinks. Coolers are permitted, but are subject to search at the entrances. No alcoholic beverages may be brought into the fair. Please note: Coolers are not permitted in the Grandstand concert venue.

Where can I find an AED on the fairgrounds?

All information booths have a list of AED locations. In case of emergency, call 911. During the fair, call 651-291-1111 in a non-emergency.