The Minnesota State Fair Rules You Probably Didn’t Know
The Great Minnesota Get-Together is almost here!
The 2026 Minnesota State Fair runs August 27th to September 7th, and thousands of people are already planning their PTO days so they can go spend a day in the Twin Cities, enjoy the rides, eat tons of food, and have a bunch of fun.
Before you head to the fair, there are some rules you might not even realize you're supposed to follow.
The Minnesota State Fair Rules You Probably Didn't Know You Were Breaking
Some Minnesota State Fair rules are pretty obvious...like...
...don't bring a weapon.
...don't bring fireworks
But then there are the rules that make you stop and say, "Wait...you're not allowed to do that?"
READ MORE: 15 Items Banned At The Minnesota State Fair In 2026
You Can Bring Your Own Food and Beverages To The Minnesota State Fair...But Don't Put This Inside
According to the Minnesota State Fair website, outside food and beverages are allowed, and you can even bring a cooler. The items that you do want to bring inside will be subject to search when you enter.
The only beverages not allowed are alcoholic beverages.
Yes, You Can Leave The Fair and Come Back...But Do This First
One rule that quite a few people don't realize involves your entry into the park.
Once you've scanned your ticket, you don't necessarily have to spend your entire day inside the fairgrounds. If you need to leave, get your hand stamped when you exit and you can come back later the same day without buying another ticket.
Parking is another thing though - if you leave a State Fair parking lot and return later, you will need to pay to park again.
Your Dog Can't Come To The Fair - Even If They're Really, Really Cute
Plain and simple, pets are not allowed on the fairgrounds during the State Fair. This does include emotional support animals.
If you have a service animal that meets the applicable requirements are allowed along with certain animals that are participating in exhibitions.
Even if your furry friend is dressed up in a Minnesota State Fair T-shirt and bling, it will not be able to stroll through the gates.
Your Camera Is Fine. Your Giant Production Setup Might Not Be.
Taking selfies with the bucket of cookies is always a must at the Minnesota State Fair. And taking that photo or others with your phone is fine.
The State Fair allows photography and video, but there are restrictions.
One of the rules that needs to be followed is that photography and video crews must remain mobile. Free-standing equipment, like lights, backdrops or electrical cords, are not allowed. While you are getting "the shot", you also can't interfere with traffic, the exhibits, performances, vendors, or other fairgoers.
If you attend one of the Grandstand shows or free entertainment, you are also not allowed to record without prior permission.
You Won't Get A Refund If It Rains While You Are At The Minnesota State Fair
No matter the forecast, the Minnesota State Fair is a go since it is held rain or shine.
An inclement weather plan and shelters are available if severe weather is in the area. If that happens, you are encouraged to check the State Fair's updates for weather-related information and updates.
If you have tickets to one of the Grandstand concerts, those are also scheduled to happen rain or shine. Tickets to those events aren't refundable or exchangeable because of rain.
In other words, if you see rain in the forecast, pack a poncho.
A Ticket To One Of The Grandstand Concerts Does Not Get You In To The Minnesota State Fair
If you grabbed tickets to one of the shows on the Grandstand and are expecting to walk through the admission gates with those tickets, think again. You will need to purchase an admission ticket to the fair as well.
38+ Foods On a Stick You Can Get at the Minnesota State Fair
Gallery Credit: Carly Ross
