Minnesota State Wire

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) will host an exhibit at the 2025 Minnesota State Fair, offering a range of educational and interactive activities aimed at connecting fairgoers with agriculture in their everyday lives.

One of the main features is the “read and grow” story time, which is sponsored by Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom. The event takes place daily at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. throughout all 12 days of the fair. Children attending these sessions can listen to stories related to agriculture read by special guests and explore books focused on farming themes. The story time area also provides a space for relaxation, where children can pick up a free bookmark that includes a QR code linking to an online list of agriculture-themed books for kids.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with farmer-members from the Minnesota Grown local foods promotion program. These farmers will be available to answer questions about their food production methods and farm operations. Visitors can explore the Minnesota Grown in Your Home exhibit, learn about features offered by the online Minnesota Grown directory, and receive a free Swedish dishcloth by voting for their favorite way to support local farmers. Signing up for the Pick of the Month newsletter gives visitors a chance to win a basket filled with local Minnesota Grown items. Temporary tattoos featuring Minnesota Grown designs are also available for those wishing to show support.

Another section of the exhibit focuses on invasive pests and noxious weeds found in Minnesota, such as spongy moths and emerald ash borers. The booth includes a prize wheel with questions about invasive species, with new kid-oriented questions introduced this year. Prizes include Junior Entomologist kits and personal insect repellent. Information is provided on how to manage noxious weeds and protect local environments from pests.

The Emerging Farmers Office (EFO) of the MDA will also participate in this year’s fair exhibit, offering resources designed for beginning and emerging farmers across Minnesota. The EFO provides information on land access, available grants, other resources, and language accessibility options. A prize wheel will be part of their display as well.

The MDA’s State Fair exhibit is located in the North Hall of the Agriculture/Horticulture Building at the northeast corner of Underwood Street and Judson Avenue within the fairgrounds. The 2025 Minnesota State Fair runs from Thursday, August 21 through Labor Day on September 1. Exhibit hours are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., except on Labor Day when they close at 8 p.m.