# Minnesota State Fair attendance records

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/minnesota-state-fair-attendance-records
> Updated: 2026-08-30T23:47:09.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

The Minnesota State Fair has experienced record-breaking attendance during its current run. On opening day, August 27, the fairgrounds saw 155,185 visitors, surpassing the previous record of 138,875 set in 2024.

Attendance continued to climb over the following weekend, with more than 208,000 visitors over the weekend period. Saturday recorded 114,644 attendees, the largest single-day crowd since 2019. Total attendance for the first five days reached 408,238, exceeding figures from previous years.

To manage the large crowds, over 300 officers from 62 agencies have been deployed. State Fair Police Chief Ron Knafla stated that the strategy includes enhanced fencing and extra cameras, noting that most officer duties involve medical assistance and locating lost children.

In response to security concerns, Attorney General Keith Ellison and Ramsey County Attorney John Choi secured injunctions against specific gang members to prevent association at the fair. The event also features new food vendors and a military appreciation day.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-30: US State Fairs report record attendance and logistical challenges

State fairs in New York, Minnesota, Colorado, and Michigan are reporting record-breaking attendance and significant crowds for the 2026 season, alongside various security and logistical updates.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minnesota-state-fair-sees-record-weekend-attendance

### 2026-08-28: Minnesota State Fair sets new opening day attendance record

The Minnesota State Fair recorded a new all-time opening day attendance record with 155,185 people visiting on August 27.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minnesota-state-fair-sets-new-opening-day-attendance-record

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Cite as: Minnesota State Fair attendance records. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/minnesota-state-fair-attendance-records
