The Benton County Fair Brings Together the Community Every Summer

Mark your calendars for August 4-9 for the Benton County Fair, an annual tradition in the region that attracts more than 100,000 visitors, hundreds of exhibitors, and opportunities to learn, explore, and play. This is the 113th year of the Benton County Fair, which is free for anyone to attend.

“The County Fair is a community event, it’s a lot of fun and brings joy to so many people,” says Ashley Willenbring, General Manager of the Benton County Fair. “Fairs are one of the few places where you can pet an animal and then ride a Ferris wheel.”

Not only do the various exhibits and classes attract a diverse group of attendees, but they also create opportunities for residents in Benton County (and visitors across Minnesota) to get involved. Here’s what you need to know about the fair to plan your visit. 

The Fair Balances Rotating Demonstrations With Exhibits 

The first place to turn when exploring the Benton County Fair is the Premium Book, which highlights many of the items and the show times. The Premium Book has a fairgrounds map to get your bearings if there are specific demonstrations you want to see or exhibits you want to explore.

Some people attend the fair with specific interests in mind, while others enjoy wandering around from one day to the next. There’s so much to see that it’s impossible to fit everything into one visit.

“We welcome anybody and everybody, we have animals, a petting zoo, music, food, demonstrations, and classes,” says Willenbring. “Attending the Fair is a tradition. It’s fun, and it can also be a place to learn.”

First-timers might be shocked by just how many exhibits can be found at the Benton County Fair. For example, local FFA Chapters are planning to bring baby chicks and eggs in incubators so attendees can see the chicks developing – some are even set to hatch during the event.

There’s plenty to eat at the fair as well, with new and returning vendors. This year, there will be a gluten-free food vendor to support specific dietary needs.

The Benton County Fair is Free With Some Paid Events

The fair is proud to offer free admission for anyone who wants to attend. While parking at the fairgrounds costs money, attendees can park for free at the VFW and take a shuttle bus that leaves every half hour. Additionally, some events at the fair cost money because seating is limited. Attendees interested in the rodeo, truck pull, tractor pull, and demolition derby can buy tickets online in advance.  

While these special events come with a cost, it’s easy to enjoy the Benton County Fair on a budget. There are vendors both inside and outside the sports arena, selling goods and showcasing skills for all interests.

A few additional highlights of the fair include:

• 4H Exhibit Building: This part of the fair features non-livestock displays (there are also livestock buildings to explore). 
• Ag Craft Open Class Building: This space is open to the public and receives more than 3,000 entries of various items for display. Anyone in Minnesota can submit their items, and the fair is always
• looking for more entries. 
• Heritage Building: This features themed displays for America’s 250th birthday, including historic snapshots from Sauk Rapids High School students. 
• Discovery Building: A unique space for classes and learning. Currently, this is where local gardeners and beekeepers will be set up.
• Butterfly House: This offers a quiet place for visitors who want to learn how a caterpillar becomes a butterfly. 
• Cottonwood Stage: This stage features events throughout the day for all ages. 
• Beer Garden Stage: This is where you head for music. Mason Dixon Line will be performing on Friday night. 
• Grandstand: This is the only spot for ticketed events in the fairground, including the rodeo, tractor pull, and demolition derby. The Barnes PRCA Rodeo has VIP seating as well as regular admission.
• Known as the “toughest sport on dirt,” this national-level rodeo features bull, bronco, and barrel racing. 
• Jurassic Kingdom: A popular exhibit with mini-golf and dinosaurs.

The Benton County Fair will also have K-9 demonstrations by the local police and an extraction demonstration by the fire department on Tuesday evening in the Activity area.

Most events and activities are designed to be accessible. There are ramps and wheelchair spaces so everyone can enjoy the fair. 

Benton County Residents and Businesses Can Get Involved

The Benton County Fair is always looking for residents who want to help out. It needs volunteers who are willing to give a few hours or even a whole day. The fair welcomes sponsors and donors who want to contribute to the event, as well as businesses interested in setting up booths.

Anyone interested in volunteering or supporting as a business can email Ashley Willenbring at info@bentonfairmn.com or call her at 320-253-5649. This is also the best way to reach out with questions about the Fair.

Additionally, you might see Benton County Fair schedules around town. Willenbring and her team have handed out more than 2,000 schedules over the past three weeks and are planning to print more. These schedules can be found around Sauk Rapids, St. Cloud, Gilman, and Foley. They are also available in the firagrounds office and online.

The Benton County Fair is a great place to introduce new ideas to kids, explore hobbies as an adult, and enjoy the careers and creative expressions of Minnesota residents. It’s a fun place to play and find your people. Rain or shine, it’s a can’t-miss tradition in the community. 

Learn More About Life in Benton County

The Benton County Fair is just one way people in the community connect. Learn about the high quality of life in the region and how Benton County residents support each other. Another fun event to plan for is the Taste of Benton County on Wednesday, July 22. This is a great way to sample various restaurants and see what delicious cuisines this area has to offer.

Contact the Benton Economic Partnership with any questions about life in the region and why people choose to live here.