A Guide To Free Live Music & Shows At The Minnesota State Fair

We all know about the awesome grandstand shows throughout the 12 days of the Minnesota State Fair. Some of those shows are sold out, but you still want to listen to some live music. One of the cool things is that even if you don't have tickets to those shows, if you happen to be at the fair when the show is happening, you can hang out outside the Grandstand and still listen to it.

Or, go ahead and take in one or more of the over 900 live shows that are FREE and run through the length of the fair.

There are 6 different stages througout the fairgrounds where you will find these free shows. Some of them are an absolute must see. And luckily, many of them will be performing for more than one day during the fair, or at least a couple of times in one day. Not all of them, obviously, but there are a handful of them that do.

BANDSHELL STAGE (formerly the Leinie Lodge Bandshell)

There are also some daytime shows that you can enjoy.

August 21 and 22 (Today and Friday)

If you are going to the fair on some other days, youi can check out the full schedule here.

SUMMIT STAGE AT THE BAZAAR

I love the Bazaar. They have such fun and unique items and International foods. Plus, there is a stage with some great live music to enjoy while you are hanging out.

Here are the night shows:

They do have music all day too. You can check the full schedule here.

COSGROVE STAGE

This stage will have various dance groups throughout the fair. You will find anything from Zumba Fitness to Irish Clogging. Great entertainment. Full schedule here.

FAMILY FAIR STAGE

If you are at the fair with your family and just need a break, this is a great place to sit down and watch some family friendly entertainment. There will be jugglers, comedy, magic shows and also contestants who won their talent shows at county fairs will be performing as well.

NORTH WOODS STAGE

These shows happen daily from today through September 1.

WEST END MARKET STATE AT SHILLING AMPHITHEATRE (formerly the Schell's Stage)

Here are the night shows on this stage:

There is also some entertainment on this stage every day of the fair. You can check out the full schedule here.

Whatever you decide to do, have a great time at the fair if you plan to go. Just make sure you are prepared - mostly with sunscreen, water and comfy shoes.

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