The Current

Great Music Lives Here
Listener-Supported Music
Donate Now
Minnesota State Fair

Minnesota State Fair releases 2016 free music lineup

by Jay Gabler

May 10, 2016

The Minnesota State Fair has released the schedule of free music for this year's Great Minnesota Get-Together.

Among the biggest national names playing free shows (free with admission to the fair, that is) are G. Love and Special Sauce, War, and Billy Bob Thornton — who's playing the Leinie Lodge with his band the Boxmasters. Americana always goes down easy at the State Fair, and roots-music fans will enjoy Marty Stuart, Chris Hillman (of the Byrds), and Pokey LaFarge.

Fans of local music can enjoy free performances by Mark Olson, Davina and the Vagabonds, Sonny Knight, Pert' Near Sandstone, Reina del Cid, and many more. See all the performers' names in the flyer below; details on venue and dates are at the State Fair website.

The Grandstand lineup is still coming together, but the marquee shows announced to date include two instantly sold-out Dixie Chicks performances, as well as gigs featuring Bonnie Raitt, Don Henley, and a Demi Lovato/Nick Jonas double bill.

Minnesota State Fair free stages 2016
Clean Water Land & Legacy Amendment
This activity is made possible in part by the Minnesota Legacy Amendment’s Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.