An annual event lasting several days is arriving for its 2024 run in Rochester in late July.
The Olmsted County Fair originated in 1860, the same year as the county’s Agricultural Society. It has continued at the same location since 1919, when the land for the Olmsted County Fairgrounds was given to the county by Dr. Christopher Graham. His hope was that this would enable “agriculture and its kindred industries” to thrive and be celebrated in Olmsted County.
The event has many features, such as carnival rides, animal exhibitions, contests, performances, fair food, a market, educational displays, and experiences highlighting the many aspects of farming, including crops, livestock, flowers, fruit, vegetables, baking, and sewing.
The main entry is free, although some portions of the event have a fee associated. Parking is $5, with a “season pass” also available. Unlimited access to rides is $55 with the “Passport to Fun,” which is sold at any ticket booth onsite at the fair. For a single-day pass, there is a $30 fee.
The event runs from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm on each date, with the different portions having their own schedules. A full breakdown is on the fair’s webpage. Flyer printing is often used to promote county fairs. The event is open to all ages. The dates for this year’s fair are July 22 to July 28.
