Where I come from, “the fair” refers to the local county fair. In northern Indiana, we’re less interested in the state fair and more invested in each county fair. Going to the fair means attending your own county’s event, then planning weekends around the neighboring counties’ fairs too.
Obviously, it’s different in North Dakota.
Here, it’s all about the state fair—and in Minot, we’re right in the center of it all.
I distinctly remember my first trip to the North Dakota State Fair. It felt so different from the fairs I grew up with. I couldn’t find my way around, didn’t know what to see or eat, and had no idea how to spend my time. I wandered, ate something overpriced and overly greasy, and went home wondering what the hype was about.
I felt like I was taking crazy pills. Everyone loved the fair, but I seemed to be missing something. Instead of throwing in the towel, I’ve spent years figuring out how to have the most fun at the North Dakota State Fair. If you’re new to the fair—or just haven’t cracked the code yet—here’s my unsolicited but hard-won advice for making the most of it.
- Be discerning about attending the parade.
The North Dakota State Fair Parade is not for the faint of heart. This year’s event will feature more than 200 floats. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. For some, it’s the highlight of fair week; for others, it’s a sticky, sweaty test of endurance. If you go, pack plenty of water, something to sit on, and big bags for all the candy and swag. If parades aren’t your thing, steer clear of the route most of the day and plan ahead for road closures.
- Take advantage of military appreciation and Pepsi deal day.
Tuesday, July 22 is Military Appreciation Day. Active-duty military members and dependents receive half-off gate admission, free lunch from the North Dakota Beef Producers, free carnival rides from 1 to 3 p.m., and discounted unlimited ride wristbands. They also get free admission to the Sawyer Brown concert on Wednesday, July 23. And if you’re not military-affiliated, Tuesday is also Pepsi Deal Day—bring a Pepsi product and receive half-off gate admission.
- Plan your visit with the daily schedule.
The fair’s daily schedule and full visitor guide is available online. Look it over before you arrive to plan your visit around free stage shows, events, and special attractions. Each day carries a theme—like Family Day, Water Day, or Senior Day—but not all perks are listed online. Asking volunteers or vendors once you arrive can help you uncover lesser-known deals or events.
- Prioritize the best free attractions.
There’s a lot of free fun to be found, especially for families. My favorite spots include:
• The Giant Sandbox—a shaded, sensory-friendly zone that’s perfect for slowing the pace.
• The all-abilities playground, which opened last year and provides a great break for kids of all ages.
• The North Dakota Game and Fish Skills Park—a beautiful, park-like area with pond fishing, archery, pellet shooting, and hands-on outdoor activities.
- Embrace the NoDak experience.
I call this my “North Dakota State Fair Trifecta.” If we only do three things before everyone melts down, this is what we’re doing.
• Daryl’s Racing Pigs—a fairgrounds tradition for nearly 40 years.
• Pride Dairy ice cream—delicious, nostalgic, and probably the best value food on the grounds (bring cash!).
• One more lap through the Game and Fish Skills Park—yes, again. It’s that good.
The North Dakota State Fair is different from what I knew growing up—but that’s the beauty of it. Once I adjusted my expectations and embraced the rhythm of how things are done here, I started to see the charm. There’s something really special about gathering in one place, celebrating summer, and seeing a whole state show up in one small city.
Whether you’re a parade junkie, a pig race loyalist, or just in it for the ice cream, there’s something for you here.
For more of my perspective on life in Minot and making the most of where you are, visit amyallender.com or find me on social media @HeyMinot.
