Maroon, gold and bolder than ever

MINNEAPOLIS – As the University of Minnesota celebrates its 175th anniversary, it will boast an even bigger presence at the upcoming Minnesota State Fair. Fairgoers can expect a special display of historical artifacts, a new exhibit in the Education Building and plenty of maroon and gold pride across the fairgrounds. Here are just some of the potential storytelling opportunities at this year’s fair.

Historic artifacts on display
Location: University of Minnesota Central Building, 1673 Dan Patch Avenue

New this year, the University of Minnesota is digging through its archives to share some prized historical items. The selected artifacts celebrate the University’s 175th anniversary and its groundbreaking contributions to medicine, agriculture, robotics and more — highlighting their lasting impact across Minnesota, the nation and world.

Innovative science with a Fair twist
Location: University of Minnesota State Fair Research Building, 1367 Cosgrove St.

Think research studies only happen in sterile labs? Think again. University researchers are turning to fairgoers of all ages to help them with serious science. More than 60 studies will be underway at the fair, including studies measuring brain activity during a video game, testing sensor-equipped shoes for Parkinson’s disease research, or even creating 3D scans of their face and head. What would typically take researchers 6 to 12 months of participant recruitment can often be completed during the Great Minnesota Get-Together’s 12-day run.

Kids, animals and plenty of creativity
Location: 4-H Building, 1412 Cosgrove St., and livestock barns

It’s hard to imagine the state fair without University of Minnesota Extension’s 4-H. Nearly 5,000 youth from all 87 counties will showcase livestock and projects that have taken months of work — from showmanship competitions to exhibiting photography to programming robots. And did we mention the llama-alpaca costume competition? This year also marks an exciting moment as fundraising efforts continue to help renovate the fair’s 80-year-old 4-H Building for future 4-H’ers.

Training tomorrow’s veterinarians
Locations: CHS Miracle of Birth Center, on Judson Ave. at Clough St.

University of Minnesota veterinarians and students will be at the center helping care for new moms and their babies, including the estimated 200 baby animals born during the fair. The University’s College of Veterinary Medicine is tackling the state’s critical veterinarian shortage by advancing new pathways for students and ensuring real-world training opportunities, including the state fair, for students. Aspiring veterinarians are available for interviews about the experience.

Bugs, guts and the future of farming
Location: Agriculture Horticulture Building, Underwood St. and Judson Ave.

From the fair’s earliest days, the University has showcased the latest and greatest in agriculture and that continues today. Check out the new ice cream exhibit that breaks down Minnesotans’ favorite ice cream flavors and celebrates the state’s dairy industry. Want to learn more about what animals eat guts? The Offal Wildlife Watching Project will dive into it, complete with hunter-provided gut piles on Sept. 1. Bug-loving University students will put on their own Insect Zoo on Aug. 29, giving fairgoers the chance to get up close with a wide range of creepy crawlies.

But wait, there’s more!
The University has lots more entertainment, educational opportunities and free giveaways. For more information, visit statefair.umn.edu. Our online media kit includes photos, b-roll and more information.