There are lots of county fairs in Minnesota. While most of them charge admission, there’s at least one we know of that is completely FREE to get in – the Steele County Free Fair!
The Steele County Free Fair takes place in Owatonna. It runs from August 12th to 17th, 2025. You don’t have to pay to get in, but you can buy tickets for Grandstand events. One Grandstand event – the Antique Tractor Pull – is free.
There are many entertainment choices on multiple stages as well as plenty of delicious food, rides, livestock exhibitions, the Great Outdoors Center, Steele Saloon, Muckle Fair Museum, All Star Stunt Dog Shows, Jurassic Kingdom shows and more.
Ride Specials at the Steele County Fair:
Choose from up to 40 rides on the Goldstar Midway.
- Tuesday, August 12 – each ride is $2 from 5 – 11 pm
- Wednesday, August 13 – unlimited rides for kids for $25 from 12 – 5 pm
- Thursday, August 14 – unlimited rides for $30 from 5 – 11 pm ($27 if you have a coupon from Culver’s)
- Friday, August 15 – unlimited rides for $25 from 12 – 5 pm
- Saturday, August 16 – bike giveaway day, unlimited rides for $30 from 12 – 5 pm
- Sunday, August 17 – unlimited rides for $30 from 12 – 9 pm
The Steele County Free Fair is Minnesota’s largest county fair. It was founded in 1918 and is FREE to attend! Find more than 500 booths with over 100 food stands, and great entertainment! It is rated one of the top 200 events in North America by Events Business News–you’ll want to come every year!
Visit the Steele County Free Fair website for a full schedule of events.
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Laura is a kindergarten teacher and a busy mom of six who loves finding smart ways to save. She balances teaching and family life while always hunting for deals that make life more affordable and fun.
Originally from southern Minnesota, Laura has called the Twin Cities home for over fifteen years. In her rare free moments, she enjoys reading, spending time with loved ones, and savoring a hot cup of coffee.
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