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The Minnesota State Fair, which kicks off a 12-day run Thursday, did not raise ticket prices for admission, shows or rides this year. The fair also sent a letter to vendors suggesting creative pricing such as family packs, buy-one-get-one-free offers and sample-size portions.
State Fair employees have great advice for saving money. “They love to save money out here because they’re here so much,” Fair spokeswoman Brienna Schuette said.
Fairgoers should plan ahead and take advantage of several special discount days that can save them money on admission, rides, concessions or transportation. The fair’s Web site — www.mnstatefair.org — has information to help fairgoers plan their visit around discounts, make note of freebies and budget for their favorite items.
Fair employees recommend getting a “Blue Ribbon Bargain Book,” which has deals on everything from milkshakes to State Fair posters. The coupon book is available for $4 pre-fair at Cub Foods or $5 at the fair.
“I go through this thing whenever I get a spare moment before the fair starts and I tab every coupon I’m going to use,” Schuette said.
Buying in advance also will save bucks. Purchase fair tickets in advance and pay $8, not $11 (kids younger than 5 are always free). Pre-fair Mighty Midway and Kidway ride and game tickets will save fairgoers money as well, said Pam Mix, who helps hire 2,800 fair employees each year. Buy the tickets at Cub Foods or check www.mnstatefair.org for dealers outside the metro area.
If fairgoers take the bus or bike to the fair, instead of driving, they’ll also save money. “It’s a super way to go to save cash. You can cut down on gas,” said Nate Dungan, who books the entertainment for the fair’s free stages. Visitors can park and ride for free instead of paying $9 to park. Or they can hop on a State Fair Express bus for $5 round-trip (four-year-olds and younger ride for free).
The fair’s “Deals, Drawings and Giveaways Guide” lists freebies, while the touring promotional exhibits have everything from free toothpaste to beef jerky samples.
And while Pronto Pups and other foods on a stick are big features at the State Fair, packing a lunch is another cost-saver. Office manager Carol Doyle suggests fairgoers bring in snacks, drinks or a brown bag lunch to keep them satisfied, then splurge on a treat or two throughout the day.
The fair’s “Deals” guide also has a “A Buck and Under” list of everything from shrimp cocktail to cheese sticks to sweet potato pie for only $1.
The State Fair wraps up on Labor Day, Sept. 1.
