Minnesota State Fair Concert End Times: What To Expect

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 55 views

What Time Do Concerts End at the Minnesota State Fair?

The Minnesota State Fair, a beloved end-of-summer tradition, is known for its incredible live music lineup. Guys, whether you're planning your visit around a specific headliner or just looking to soak up the fair's atmosphere, knowing when the concerts typically wrap up is super helpful. So, let's dive into the typical concert schedule and what you can expect regarding end times at the Great Minnesota Get-Together.

Understanding the Concert Schedule

To figure out the concert end times, you first need to understand how the State Fair schedules its performances. The Grandstand, which is the fair's premier concert venue, usually hosts one main headlining act per night of the fair. These are ticketed events, and the start times are clearly advertised when you purchase your tickets. Besides the Grandstand, there are numerous free stages scattered throughout the fairgrounds, featuring a wide range of local and regional talent. These free shows often have multiple performances throughout the day, starting in the late morning or early afternoon and continuing into the evening.

When we're talking about the Grandstand concerts, you'll usually find that they kick off around 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM. This allows fairgoers plenty of time to enjoy the fair during the day, grab some delicious food (cheese curds, anyone?), and make their way to the venue. For the free stages, show times vary depending on the act and the day of the week. You can usually find a detailed schedule on the State Fair's official website or app closer to the fair's start date. Be sure to check those resources so you can plan your day accordingly and catch all the music you want to see.

Factors Influencing End Times

Several factors can influence when a concert at the Minnesota State Fair ends. The biggest factor is, of course, the length of the headlining act's performance. Most headliners play for about 90 minutes to two hours, not including encores. Support acts, if any, usually perform for about 30-45 minutes before the main act takes the stage. Add in a short intermission between sets, and you're looking at a show that could easily last two and a half to three hours.

Another factor is the curfew. The Minnesota State Fair operates under certain noise ordinances and curfews, which means that concerts usually have to wrap up by a certain time, typically around 11:00 PM. This curfew is more strictly enforced for the Grandstand concerts due to their large scale and proximity to residential areas. Weather can also play a role; an unexpected thunderstorm could delay or even cut short a performance. The band's mood or how enthusiastic the crowd is can also affect the end time. If the band is feeling the energy, they might play a longer set or add more encores.

Typical Concert End Times at the Grandstand

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: What time can you realistically expect a concert at the Grandstand to end? As a general rule, most Grandstand concerts wrap up between 10:30 PM and 11:00 PM. Given that they usually start around 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM, this timeline fits with the typical set lengths, intermissions, and the fair's curfew. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and there can be exceptions. Some artists are known for their extended performances, while others might stick to a tighter schedule.

To get a more precise idea of when a specific concert will end, your best bet is to check the official State Fair website or app for the event schedule. They often provide detailed information about the concert, including the start time and any anticipated end times. You can also look at past concert schedules from previous years to get a sense of how long similar acts have played at the fair. This can give you a pretty good ballpark estimate. And of course, if you're attending the concert, pay attention to the time and the band's performance. If they're already playing their biggest hits and saying their goodbyes, the end is probably near!

End Times for Free Stage Performances

Don't forget about all the amazing free music available at the Minnesota State Fair! These free stages offer a diverse range of genres and styles, and they're a fantastic way to discover new artists. Since the free stages host multiple performances throughout the day, the end times vary quite a bit. Typically, the last performances on the free stages wrap up around 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. This gives fairgoers time to catch a headlining act at the Grandstand or simply wind down and head home after a long day of fair fun.

The specific end times for each free stage performance will be listed on the daily schedule, which you can find on the State Fair's website or app. Be sure to check the schedule for the day you're attending so you don't miss any of your favorite acts. Also, keep in mind that the free stages can sometimes be subject to delays or cancellations due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. It's always a good idea to have a backup plan in case your favorite band's set gets cut short. With so much great music to choose from at the Minnesota State Fair, you're sure to find something you'll enjoy.

Tips for Planning Your Concert Evening

So, you're armed with the knowledge of typical concert end times. How do you use this information to plan your evening at the Minnesota State Fair? Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your concert experience:

Check the Schedule: This is the most obvious tip, but it's also the most important. Always check the official State Fair website or app for the most up-to-date concert schedule. This will give you the start time, any anticipated end times, and any other important details about the performance.
Allow Extra Time for Travel: The Minnesota State Fair can get incredibly crowded, especially in the evenings. Allow plenty of extra time to travel from one part of the fairgrounds to another, especially if you're heading to the Grandstand. Factor in time for parking, walking, and navigating the crowds.
Consider Transportation Options: Speaking of parking, it can be a real hassle at the State Fair. Consider using public transportation, ride-sharing services, or the park-and-ride options offered by the fair. This can save you a lot of time and stress.
Plan for Food and Drinks: No trip to the Minnesota State Fair is complete without indulging in some delicious food and drinks. Plan your meals and snacks around the concert schedule. Grab a bite to eat before the show starts, or grab a quick snack during intermission.
Dress Comfortably: You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing at the State Fair, so dress comfortably. Wear comfortable shoes, and dress in layers so you can adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day and evening.
Be Prepared for Weather: Minnesota weather can be unpredictable, especially in late summer. Check the forecast before you go, and be prepared for anything. Bring a raincoat, umbrella, or sunscreen, depending on the forecast.

In Conclusion

Gents, understanding when concerts typically end at the Minnesota State Fair is key to planning a successful and enjoyable visit. Whether you're heading to a headlining act at the Grandstand or checking out the free stages, knowing the schedule and potential end times will help you make the most of your time. Remember to check the official State Fair website or app for the most up-to-date information, and be prepared for crowds, weather, and anything else that might come your way. With a little planning, you can have an unforgettable concert experience at the Great Minnesota Get-Together!