All Projects

To enhance fairgoers access to the arts by adding a sound system to an existing stage area, adding display cases in the Heritage Building, and expanding art demonstrations.

To publish a hard cover book that is the compilation of the history of the Benton County Agricultural Society and Fair from its creation to 2012.

Provide fair goers with a variety of entertainment from local artists that feature Minnesotan history and appeal to multi-generational audiences.

To improve the lighting and accessibility in the two fine arts buildings and create an interactive arts area.

To enhance fairgoers experience of arts performances by adding a backstage curtain to the stage. Funds will also be used to feature arts demonstrations by the Milan Village Arts School, and the Iron Will dogsled exhibit.

To bring together a diverse assortment of educational opportunities to one location and provide an easily accessed way for all ages and backgrounds to enhance their knowledge of the arts, culture and heritage. The McLeod County Fair connected with community people from multiple communities and backgrounds by hosting presentations and demonstrations by local artists and experts within the areas of the arts, cultural heritage and Minnesota history.

To procured architectural drawings for a McLeod County Agricultural Association history and education center.

To bring provide new and diverse programming to the McLeod County Fair. Programming will include presentations and demonstrations by local artists and experts on pioneer trunks, Native American legends and beliefs, and the US Dakota conflict of 1862. By holding these demonstrations, the McLeod County Fair hopes to develop precedence and continue to offer demonstrations like these in future years.

To improve access to the historic 1918 barn on the fairgrounds by adding ventilation and cooling. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the barn once served as the county poor farm. Today, it's home to various 4-H and youth programming.

To celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Ramsey County Fair by providing new history programming. The fair will feature demonstrations of "lost arts" such as canning, quilting, and woodwork, in addition to creating a video featuring fair history and a written narrative.

To restore Rock County Fair's Floral Hall. Built in 1911 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Rock County Fair will restore its interior. Funding will not only preserve this historic building, but also create an enhanced space to showcase regional artwork.

To provide an outdoor performance and demonstration space in the highest traffic area of the fairgrounds, which is located between the 4-H Exhibit, Open Class Exhibit, and the Rock County Historical Society Exhibits buildings. The fair plans to hold Dutch Oven cooking demonstrations, Buffalo Days celebrations, and dance performances in this area.