Minnesota State Fair Tickets: Your Ultimate Buying Guide
Hey there, fellow fair enthusiasts! Are you buzzing with excitement for the Great Minnesota Get-Together? I know I am! One of the first things on our minds when planning our epic fair adventure is, "Where can I purchase Minnesota State Fair tickets?" Getting your hands on those coveted tickets is the first step to indulging in all the delicious food, thrilling rides, and spectacular entertainment the fair has to offer. Luckily, the Minnesota State Fair makes it super easy to snag your admission, and this guide is going to break down all the best and most convenient ways for you to get them. Whether you're an early bird looking for discounts or prefer the convenience of online purchasing, we've got you covered, guys. Let's dive into the details so you can spend less time worrying about tickets and more time planning your fair day!
The Official Minnesota State Fair Ticket Hub
Alright, let's talk about the most straightforward and reliable way to get your Minnesota State Fair tickets: the official sources. The Minnesota State Fair organization is your go-to for all things tickets, and they offer several fantastic options. First up, the official Minnesota State Fair website is your primary digital gateway. You can purchase advance discount tickets online through their authorized vendor, Etix. This is usually the best deal you'll find, especially if you're planning ahead. Buying directly from the source ensures you're getting legitimate tickets at the best possible price, without any sketchy third-party markups or worries about counterfeits. Keep an eye out for special promotions or bundles they might offer, especially during the pre-fair period. They often have early bird specials that can save you a nice chunk of change, which, let's be honest, is money you can then spend on an extra Pronto Pup or some cheese curds – priorities, right?
Beyond the online portal, the fair also operates physical ticket sales locations. The most prominent is the State Fair Ticket Office located at 1265 N. Snelling Ave. in Roseville. This is where you can go in person to buy tickets, often with the same advance discount prices. It's a great option if you prefer a tangible ticket or if you're already in the vicinity. They usually open up these sales a few months before the fair kicks off, so mark your calendars! Sometimes, they even have special events or extended hours leading up to the fair, so it's worth checking their website or social media for updates. Remember, purchasing directly from the official State Fair Ticket Office or their authorized online vendor is always the safest bet to avoid scams and ensure you get authentic tickets for the Minnesota State Fair.
Advance Discount Tickets: Save Big!
Now, let's talk about how to be a smart cookie and save some serious dough – advance discount tickets are your best friend when it comes to the Minnesota State Fair. The fair typically offers a significant discount on admission prices if you purchase your tickets before the fair officially opens. This is a major win, guys! These advance tickets are usually available for a limited time, so you'll want to get them as soon as they go on sale. The exact dates for advance ticket sales vary year to year, but they typically start in late spring or early summer and run through the week before the fair begins. So, how do you get these magical discounted tickets? As mentioned, the official Minnesota State Fair website is your primary source. They partner with Etix for online sales, and this is often the most convenient way to buy them from the comfort of your home. Just navigate to the ticketing section of the fair's website, and you'll find all the information you need to purchase.
But wait, there's more! The fair also partners with various local organizations and businesses to sell advance discount tickets. This can include grocery store chains (like Cub Foods, historically!), local banks, or even community centers. Checking with your local grocery store or preferred bank might yield a surprise – you could be picking up your fair tickets along with your weekly groceries! These partnerships are a fantastic way for the fair to reach different communities and make ticket purchasing accessible. It's always a good idea to check the Minnesota State Fair's official website once the advance sale period is announced to see a full list of authorized retailers. Remember, these advance tickets are non-refundable and usually valid for any one day of the fair. So, plan your visit, grab those discounted tickets early, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Great Minnesota Get-Together without breaking the bank!
Buying Tickets at the Gate (When the Fair is Open)
So, you missed the advance ticket window, or maybe you're a spontaneous type of person who decides to go to the fair on a whim. No worries, guys! You can absolutely still purchase Minnesota State Fair tickets at the gate when the fair is in operation. This is the most straightforward option if you haven't planned ahead, but be aware that these tickets will be at the full, regular admission price. You won't get those sweet advance discounts, but hey, the fun is still worth it, right? There are multiple gates around the fairgrounds, and each is equipped to handle ticket sales. You can find ticket booths conveniently located at most main entrances.
When you arrive at the fairgrounds, just look for the signs pointing to the