2026 Olmsted County Fair Guide: Dates, Food, Rides + More

There are a lot of great things to do during a Minnesota summer, but the Olmsted County Fair is always near the top of my list. Between the live music, the adorable baby animals, carnival fun, bingo, and those irresistible fair food favorites, it is a must to add to your calendar. Here's what you can expect at the Olmsted County Fair in 2026.

When Is The Olmsted County Fair in Rochester, Minnesota

You can enjoy the Olmsted County Fair from Monday, July 27th, 2026 to Sunday, August 2nd, 2026.

Where Is The Olmsted County Fair in Rochester, Minnesota

If you know where Chick-fil-A and Outback Steakhouse are, you are close to the Olmsted County Fair! In case you need it, here's the address for the Olmsted County Fair - 1403 3rd Ave SE, Rochester, Minnesota 55904.

Top 10 Favorite Things at the Olmsted County Fair in Minnesota

It's one of the best weeks in Rochester, Minnesota - the Olmsted County Fair! This year, it is kicking off on Monday, July 27th, 2026 and it is jam-packed full of fun. Before you load the kids up in the car, check out the top 10 things that people in Rochester voted as their favorite at the fair. The full list of fun for the week can be found at the Olmsted County Fair website here.

Gallery Credit: Jessica On The Radio

Things To Do and The Hours For The Olmsted County Fair

There is something for everyone to enjoy at the Olmsted County Fair. Here's a rundown of a few of the things to do and the hours.

Carnival

Tuesday: 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Wednesday – Friday: 12:00 pm – 10 pm
Saturday: 11:00 am – until close
Sunday: 12:00 pm – until close

Food Vendors

Monday: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Tuesday: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Wednesday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Sunday: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
(Food vendors may be open extra hours everyday during the fair after 10 pm)

Miracle Birth Center

Monday: 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Tuesday – Saturday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm

4-H & HORTICULTURE EXHIBIT BUILDING

10:00 am - 9:00 pm

Not open on Monday and Tuesday during judging times

See the entire list of activities at the daily calendar on the Olmsted County Fair website.

Hours are subject to change and you can view updates and more hours at the Olmsted County Fair website here.

How Much Does It Cost To Attend The Olmsted County Fair

The entrance to the Olmsted County Fair is free. You can even enjoy some live music at the grandstand this year for free! Enjoy the food, carnival rides, and games, and a few of the grandstand events for an additional cost.

According to the Olmsted County Fair website, parking on the grounds is $5.

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Y-105FM is Southeast Minnesota's go-to source for local news, events, and community stories. Whether you're a lifelong Rochester resident or just discovering everything this region has to offer, we're here to help you connect, explore, and stay in the know. Know something we should cover? Reach out to jessica.williams@townsquaremedia.com or on her Facebook page - Jessica On The Radio — we're always looking for something to talk about on the radio and write about.

13 Of The Worst Jobs To Have In Rochester When Temps Are Near 100 Degrees

Every summer, we always have a few days when "Extreme Heat" warnings are issued for Southeast Minnesota. While many jobs in Rochester are inside comfortable offices set at a nice 72 degrees, others are working in the elements...or in situations where the heat is enhanced due to working conditions.

Below are the top jobs that are some of the hardest to work through when the temperatures are nearing 100 degrees.

Gallery Credit: Jessica On The Radio