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Houston County Fair: Experience Minnesota's largest rural county fair celebrating 167 years of agricultural tradition in the heart of Caledonia. This beloved community gathering showcases the best of farm life, family entertainment, and small-town hospitality where 'town and country meet' for five action-packed days of authentic rural American culture.What to Expect:
* Professional livestock shows featuring cattle, swine, sheep, goats, and poultry competitions with educational demonstrations of modern agricultural practices
* Thrilling grandstand entertainment including extreme bull riding, demolition derby, modified truck and tractor pulls, skid steer rodeo, and field class tractor competitions
* Traditional county fair midway with carnival rides, games of skill and chance, and family-friendly attractions operated by professional carnival companies
* Extensive agricultural exhibits showcasing local farming innovations, 4-H youth projects, and hands-on educational displays about sustainable agriculture
* Horse shows featuring multiple disciplines including western pleasure, English riding, draft horse competitions, and youth equestrian events
* Open class competitions in categories including arts and crafts, baking, canning, photography, needlework, and home economics with cash prizes
* Free entertainment stages featuring local musicians, polka bands, children's performers, and community talent shows throughout each day
* Authentic county fair food prepared by local cooks including fresh-made pies, grilled corn on the cob, pork chops, hamburgers, and homemade specialties
* Educational activities and contests for children including pedal tractor pulls, pie eating contests, and agricultural literacy programs
* Houston County Fair Queen and Princess competitions with scholarship awards and community service opportunities
* Commercial vendor marketplace featuring local artisans, agricultural suppliers, and community organizations
* Outstanding Senior Citizen Award ceremony honoring community volunteers and local leaders
* History Lane museum complex featuring restored pioneer cabin, one-room schoolhouse, historic church, and town hall buildings
* Free general admission to fairgrounds with optional paid convenience parking for easier access
* Daily parades, contests, and special events celebrating rural heritage and community spirit
* Professional agricultural extension displays and educational programming from University of Minnesota Extension
Highlights: Established in 1858, the Houston County Fair holds the distinction of being Minnesota's largest rural county fair, attracting over 30,000 visitors annually to celebrate agricultural heritage and community pride. Located in scenic southeastern Minnesota's bluff country, this authentic county fair maintains traditional values while showcasing modern agricultural innovation. The fairgrounds feature permanent buildings and facilities ensuring quality programming regardless of weather, with adjacent History Lane providing a unique walk through local pioneer history. This community-driven event is organized entirely by volunteers and supported by local sponsors, creating an intimate small-town atmosphere that larger commercial fairs cannot replicate.
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, August 13 through Sunday, August 17, 2025
Timings:
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Houston County Fairgrounds, 203 History Lane, Caledonia, MN 55921
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Houston County Fairgrounds, 203 History Lane, Caledonia, United States
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