Name: Kickoff to Summer at the Fair
Start: 2026-05-21T16:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-05-24T19:00:00-05:00
Location: Minnesota State Fair

The popular Kickoff to Summer at the Fair returns over Memorial Day Weekend! This slice-of-the-fair event features fair food and brews at nearly 50 vendors, music and entertainment free with admission, shopping at 30+ specialty Minnesota merchants, plenty of space to enjoy the day with family and friends, free parking, and so much more!
This year marks the Kickoff to Summer debut of the Hunter & Jumper Horse Show in the newly renovated Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum. Showcasing their powerful partnership, horse and rider navigate a course one team at time, clearing fences and other obstacles with precision, control and unmistakable style. From timed rounds that reward speed and accuracy to judged competitions that highlight overall performance, form and manners, each ride offers something exciting to watch – all free with Kickoff admission.
To make this event experience extra special, attendance for each day is limited.
Thursday, May 21: 4-9 p.m.
Friday, May 22: 4-9 p.m.
Saturday, May 23: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, May 24: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Ticket information and complete event details – including some surprises – will be announced in late March. Stay tuned for more!