Welcome to Day 1 of the Minnesota State Fair. Gates opened for the Great Minnesota Get-Together on Thursday morning, kicking off the annual 12-day run of the fair. Many fairgoers line up hours before to be some of the first allowed in.

Day-of ticket prices are $20 for people 13 through 64 years old, $18 for people 65 and older and kids 5 to 12 years old, and free for children under 4. There are discounts on some days during the fair, including opening day. • Minnesota State Fair 101Your guide to the Great Minnesota Get-Together of 2025 • Minnesota State Fairannounces new foods, vendors for 2025 • Nelly, Atmosphere and Def LeppardThe 2025 Minnesota State Fair Grandstand lineup

Here’s what MPR News journalists saw at the State Fair on opening day.

That’s all, folks

8:21 p.m. | Sam

See Full Page