Aug. 22 – Labor Day, Sept. 2, 2024
25 Days 23 Hours 11 Mins
The Warner Coliseum at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds is nothing short of iconic and quintessential. For the first time in its 75-year history, the State Fair will make a multimillion-dollar investment to ensure that this beloved building continues to be the home of enduring memories for generations to come.
Specifically, we are replacing the roof of the Warner Coliseum. Looking at the magnitude of this structure on the inside and out, we’re sure you’ll agree that this is no small task. Equally important are mechanical and electrical upgrades that can only be done when the roof is under construction. After extensive discussions with experts and contractors, we have determined that the most efficient, safest way to tackle this monumental project is to temporarily close the Warner Coliseum and surrounding livestock facilities.
Please note that, as reflected in the schedule below, construction will pause so that shows and exhibitions that take place in the Warner Coliseum and surrounding buildings during the State Fair can proceed as usual.
While we are excited and optimistic about the future of a revitalized Warner Coliseum once the roof construction and upgrades are complete, we know the time it takes to do this work will cause disruptions and inconveniences to those who use the building and livestock area. We appreciate your understanding as we make the most of this moment to dedicate necessary funding and operational resources to maintaining and preserving this historic and significant facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t portions of the Warner Coliseum and surrounding livestock area remain open during construction?
A project of this magnitude requires extensive equipment in the area. For everyone’s safety, we do not want to risk any issues caused by machinery, noise, debris, disrupted ventilation, mechanical or electrical work or truck traffic. In addition, the construction calendar is weather-dependent, and it is too difficult to predict how temperatures or precipitation will impact the schedule. After consulting with experts and contractors, we have determined that the most efficient, safest way to tackle this project is to temporarily close the Warner Coliseum and surrounding livestock area completely.
What will happen to non-fair-time events typically held in the Warner Coliseum and livestock area April 2025-March 2026?
Each of the dozens of events held at the State Fairgrounds throughout the year is presented by an outside, independent organization. Our events department has contacted each presenter; in most cases, the State Fair does not have an alternate location that would accommodate the unique nature of these events. Please contact these presenters directly for up-to-date details about their events. Some information about upcoming events may be posted on the fair’s Fairgrounds Events Calendar.
Will events held elsewhere on the fairgrounds be affected?
Events that are held at fairgrounds locations other than the Warner Coliseum and livestock facilities – including Kickoff to Summer at the Fair, the Milk Run 5K, Back to the 50s and others – should be minimally impacted, with the possible exceptions of gate closings or traffic rerouting.
How will the 2024 and 2025 State Fairs be impacted?
Construction work will not begin until after the 2024 State Fair and will be paused so the 2025 fair can proceed as planned.
How much will this Warner Coliseum project cost?
This will be a multimillion-dollar project. It includes replacing the roof and making mechanical and electrical upgrades and repairs that need to be done simultaneously. We hope to use the roof construction and temporary closure as opportunities to complete additional work and are planning for interior improvements to enhance the guest and event experience.
When will the State Fair begin accepting inquiries about having an event in the Warner Coliseum or surrounding livestock facilities when they reopen?
We will begin accepting inquiries after Jan. 1, 2025, for events in 2026 and beyond. We do not anticipate the Warner Coliseum and livestock facilities being available to host events from April 1, 2025, through March 2026, with the exception of Minnesota State Fair events.
How the State Fair publicize when the Warner Coliseum and livestock facilities will reopen?
Check our online Fairgrounds Events Calendar for a schedule, subscribe to our enewsletter for fair updates, follow us on social media for news, or simply check in by phone (651-288-4400) or email at fairinfo@mnstatefair.org.
