Threat Level For Minnesota State Fair Deemed 'Low'

MINNESOTA STATE FAIRGROUNDS — The threat level for this year's Minnesota State Fair is "low," according to an assessment conducted by the state's Department of Public Safety.

On Tuesday, Gov. Tim Walz, Public Safety Commissioner John Harrington, Minnesota State Fair General Manager Jerry Hammer, and Minnesota State Fair Police Chief Ron Knafla spoke to the media about safety preparation for the fair, which begins Thursday.

"The State Fair is one of my favorite events of the year, and we’re working collaboratively to make sure all 12 days are safe, fun, and memorable for families across the state," Walz said.

"I am grateful for the hard work between the State Fair leadership and law enforcement at the local, county, and state level to make this a successful event."

More than 200 police officers from 55 jurisdictions around the state will patrol the fairgrounds. Additionally, there will be metal detectors and bag checks at the gates.

Metal detectors were first installed at the fair in 2021, following the shooting outside the fair gates in 2019. No fair was held in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We want the State Fair to go and come without there ever being a story, other than about the debate between Pronto Pups and corndogs," said Harrington. "We’ve completed a threat assessment – which is a standard procedure - and I can tell you the threat level is low."

The Minnesota State Fair runs from Thursday, Aug. 25 through Labor Day, Sept. 5.

“Our thanks to the Governor, Commissioner Harrington and all of the local, regional and federal law enforcement agencies for their partnership in our comprehensive security and public safety program,” said State Fair General Manager Jerry Hammer. “We’re looking forward to a truly Great Minnesota Get-Together this year.”