The 2019 Minnesota State Fair, also known as the "Great Minnesota Get-Together," offered a vast array of free entertainment and attractions for attendees once inside the fairgrounds. While general admission required a ticket, the fair provided over 900 free shows and activities across its 12-day run, from August 22 to September 2, 2019. This article details the free offerings based on official announcements and attendee reports, focusing on the entertainment lineup, family-friendly activities, and specific free samples available at various locations.
The fair's free entertainment lineup was a major highlight, featuring a diverse schedule of performances across multiple stages. The Leinie Lodge Bandshell Tonight series, sponsored by Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Co., hosted a lineup of notable artists performing at 8:30 p.m. each evening. The roster included 80s pop icon Belinda Carlisle on August 22 and 23, Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone on August 24 and 25, country band Lonestar on August 26 and 27, a tribute to Queen performed by Gary Mullen & The Works on August 28 and 29, Tony! Toni! Toné! on August 30 and 31, and Minneapolis artist Dessa on September 1 and 2. Additional daytime and evening performances were scheduled at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell Stage, including acts like Dawson Hollow, Mac McAnally, Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band, and the MSF Amateur Talent Contest.
Beyond the bandshell, the fair offered a wide variety of free stages and demonstrations. The Festival of Nations Demonstration Stage, presented by The International Institute of Minnesota, showcased dance and music from around the world. Arts A’Fair celebrated Minnesota's performing arts with dance, theater, and musical showcases. The Giant Sing Along provided a karaoke-style experience for guests to sing together in a field of microphones. The Thank A Farmer Magic Show, sponsored by the Minnesota Livestock Breeders Association and Minnesota Farm Bureau Foundation, was presented on the Christensen Farms Stage to educate children about agriculture. For sports enthusiasts, 3rd Lair SkatePark’s pros demonstrated skateboard and BMX bike skills at its new location in Adventure Park. A full lineup of free entertainment, including additional acts, showtimes, and artist information, was available on the official MN State Fair website.
The fairgrounds also featured numerous free attractions and exhibits. The Eco Experience building, a large exhibit focused on environmental education and sustainability, was a source of free samples. According to an attendee report, visitors to the Eco Experience could receive free tattoos and sample free coffee and waffles. The report also mentioned seeing animals as a primary stop for families. Other free attractions included the parade with floats, special guests, and the State Fair High School Marching Band Competition, sponsored by McDonald’s.
For families and parents, the fair provided numerous free activities. The Thank A Farmer Magic Show was specifically designed for children to learn about agriculture. The Giant Sing Along offered an interactive experience suitable for all ages. The Festival of Nations and Arts A’Fair stages provided cultural and artistic enrichment without an additional cost. The 3rd Lair SkatePark demonstrations offered active entertainment for older children and teens. The parade, featuring marching bands and floats, is a traditional free attraction for all attendees.
While general admission to the fair required a paid ticket, with prices ranging from $13 to $15 per person and discounts available on special days, once inside, the vast majority of entertainment and attractions were free. Attendees could access over 900 shows, including headline musical acts, cultural performances, magic shows, and skateboarding demonstrations, as well as free samples at specific locations like the Eco Experience building. The fair's structure allows visitors to enjoy a full day of activities without incurring additional costs beyond the gate admission.
In summary, the 2019 Minnesota State Fair provided an extensive program of free entertainment and attractions. The free offerings were a central part of the "Great Minnesota Get-Together" experience, featuring a major concert series at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell, diverse stages for dance, music, and magic, and family-friendly activities including a parade and skateboarding demonstrations. Specific free samples, such as coffee, waffles, and tattoos, were available at the Eco Experience building. All free entertainment details were officially announced and available through the fair's website, ensuring attendees could plan their visit around the no-cost activities.
Sources
- 2019 Minnesota State Fair: Free Shows, Entertainment Announced
- The 2019 Minnesota State Fair kicks off Aug, 22 for a 12-day run that concludes on Labor Day, Sept. 2.
- Minnesota State Fair 2019
- Want to see 12 days and nights of great entertainment without dropping a dime (OK, besides general gate admission)? The Minnesota State Fair is just 15 weeks away.
- We’ve got you covered for (soon to be in) Minnesota State Fair food and drinks.
- We go to the MN State Fair every year.