The 2025 Dakota County Fair is Back – August 4–10 in Farmington, MN

Looking for classic summer fun just outside the metro? The Dakota County Fair returns to Farmington, Minnesota from Monday, August 4 through Sunday, August 10, 2025—and it’s packed with something for everyone.

With free admission, daily entertainment, carnival rides, 4-H showcases, and can’t-miss grandstand events, the Dakota County Fair is one of the largest and most family-friendly county fairs in Minnesota.

Where & When

🗓 Dates: August 4–10, 2025
📍 Location: Dakota County Fairgrounds
Address: 4008 220th St W, Farmington, MN
🌐 www.dakotacountyfair.org

What You’ll Find at the Dakota County Fair

The fairgrounds come alive for seven straight days with sights, sounds, and smells of summer.

Here’s a preview of what’s waiting:

🐄 4-H Exhibits & Livestock Shows

A highlight for many families, 4-H youth from across Dakota County show off their animals, projects, crafts, and baked goods. Wander through the barns to see sheep, goats, pigs, cows, chickens, rabbits, and more.

🎢 Midway Carnival Rides & Games

Get your thrills on the GoldStar Amusements midway, with rides and games for all ages. Wristbands and ticket specials are available daily—perfect for an afternoon of excitement.

🍔 Fair Food & Treats

Fried pickles? Cheese curds? Giant turkey legs? Yes, please. Enjoy everything from sweet treats to savory bites with food trucks and vendors spread throughout the fairgrounds.

🎶 Live Music & Free Stage Entertainment

Catch performances from local bands, tribute acts, and community performers on the free stage each day. Past performers have included everything from rock bands to comedy shows to talent contests.

🏁 Grandstand Events (Ticketed)

Head to the grandstand for high-octane fun like:

  • Demolition Derbies

  • Monster Trucks

  • Truck and Tractor Pulls

  • Motocross
    Tickets for grandstand events are available online and at the gate.

🎨 Exhibits, Shopping, and More

Wander through vendor booths offering handmade crafts, art, home goods, and specialty products. Don’t forget the educational and historical exhibits showcasing Dakota County’s agricultural roots.

Admission & Parking

✅ Admission: FREE for all ages!
🚗 Parking: $10 per vehicle (cash or card)
🎟️ Midway rides and grandstand events require separate tickets

Family-Friendly Activities

The fair is a hit with kids of all ages! In addition to rides and animals, there are:

  • Daily kids’ contests and shows

  • A pedal tractor pull

  • Educational agriculture displays

  • Interactive games and giveaways

  • A shaded playground and picnic area

Why Go?

The Dakota County Fair is one of the largest in Minnesota and brings together everything you love about summer in one place: food, fun, family, and tradition. Whether you come for the funnel cakes, to cheer on the derby, or to stroll through the barns, this fair is a can’t-miss August event in the Twin Cities metro.

Plan Your Visit

🗓 August 4–10, 2025
📍 Dakota County Fairgrounds – Farmington, MN
🌐 Full schedule, vendor info, and tickets: https://www.dakotacountyfair.org