State Fair-Inspired Activities

Hey campers!

Are you dreaming of cheese curds, all the things on a stick, Midway rides or the Princess Kay of the Milky Way butter sculpture? You’re not alone! Each year, over 2 million visitors attend the Minnesota State Fair, making it one of the most-attended fairs in the country.

State fair food booth

For many families, it’s tradition. It represents a sense of place and belonging, and a chance to explore and taste some of the many things that make our state so great!

To celebrate, we’re sharing a playlist of activities that are inspired by the Great Minnesota Get-Together! Are you ready? Let’s dive in!

MAKE

In 2019, Almanac reporter and TPT illustrator, David Gillette, invited everyone to color a gigantic chalkboard mural that he created on the side of TPT’s State Fair booth! The mural is chock full of all things TPT and PBS! Hundreds each day joined in the fun, and the colorful results were show-stopping!

Kids coloring a mural — Kids coloring TPT’s giant chalkboard mural at the 2019 Minnesota State Fair

David has made this mural into printable coloring sheets so you can get in on the fun right from your own home! Download the TPT Mural Coloring Sheets below, then print, color and piece them together to create your own mural to hang on your wall!

Download Coloring Sheets

WATCH

Join DragonflyTV’s Mary Jane and Eliza on an adventure to the Minnesota State Fair as they check out the animals, eat lots of snacks and try to go on every ride possible. They say, “We play all the games, but we never seem to win. How can we win at those carnival games?”

REACT

Try setting up your own backyard carnival games and test your family and friends’ skills!

PLAY

Arcade Escapade gamen graphic

Arcade Escapade from Cat in the Hat is like a virtual Midway! Test your arcade skills in this digital game!

Start Playing

MAKE

Calling all Fair Foodies! Enjoy creating your own food on a stick with this easy DIY, kid-friendly recipe from Adrianna Adarme of Fresh Tastes!

Cashew fudge bars

Cashew Chocolate Fudgesicles are perfect for summer and are crowd pleasers! They are also on the healthier side!

What you’ll need:

1 (13.5) can of full-fat coconut milk
1/3 cup cashew butter
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1/3 cup honey
Pinch of salt

Get the Full Recipe

WATCH

It’s storytime!Woohoo Storytime reads aloud “Night at the Fair” by Donald Crews.

REACT

What part of the story did you like best? Get a sheet of paper and markers or crayons and draw your favorite thing that you enjoy at the State Fair!