From cookies to concerts to carnival rides, the Great Minnesota Get-Together has a little something for everyone — which is why almost two million visitors descend on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds each August. For over a century, Xcel Energy has proudly powered the Minnesota State Fair, keeping the lights on and helping create lasting memories.
Today, it’s hard to imagine a Minnesota State Fair without the bright lights of the Midway or the echo of amplified music from the Grandstand, but in its early days, the fairgrounds would close at sundown, limiting the experience to daylight hours. The fair was first electrified in 1899, marking a transformative milestone. A Minneapolis Tribune article published on Sept. 4, 1899, highlighted the novelty of “seeing the grounds and buildings illuminated,” noting that it would be “well worth the trip.” This innovation made it possible for working-class individuals whose daytime jobs prevented them from attending the fair to enjoy its attractions in the evening. That year marked the first evening Grandstand show, and the first carnival midway followed just a few years later in 1904.
Xcel Energy goes beyond simply providing energy for the fair. As a proud sponsor of the Eco Experience, we invite fairgoers to explore engaging and educational attractions that empower them to take meaningful action in their own lives and demonstrate how, together, we can build a better future. Visitors can discover practical ways to live more sustainably and learn about energy efficiency programs like AC Rewards, Home Energy Squad, lighting deals and renewable energy options. Guests can also tour a tiny house filled with energy-saving tips and try out electric vehicle (EV) charging.
Outside the Eco Experience, families can enjoy yard games, trying on lineworker gear, explore operations vehicles, play mini putt-putt, join a digital scavenger hunt and test their skills with our Megawatt City board game.
Fairgoers will also find several other Xcel Energy exhibits across the fairgrounds. In the Grandstand, find the Public Safety Power town, an interactive miniature town that teaches visitors about electrical safety. At the Blue Flame Lodge, across from the giant slide, guests can learn how we’re leading the clean energy transition and explore the future of natural gas.
As the fair continues to grow and evolve, Xcel Energy is proud to power its past, present and future. From the bright Midway lights to new innovations at the Eco Experience, we’re committed to continuously powering the memories and traditions Minnesotans love most.