Politixia
The sounds of livestock, laughter and high-pitched screams from high-flying carnival rides permeated the Nicollet County Fairgrounds last week as the Nicollet County Fair returned for five days of non-stop fun.
A trio of boys outstretch their arms as they take flight on one of the Nicollet County Fair’s amusement park rides.
From Wednesday Aug. 12 through Sunday Aug. 16, the grounds were alive with carnival rides, all the fair food one could hope for, livestock demonstrations and so much more.
Over at the livestock barns, 4-H members showcased their expertise in animal-keeping, putting their well-groomed animals on display for audiences in the sheep, beef, rabbits, horses, dairy, goats, swine and poultry shows.
(Left to right) Gwen Jones, Maya Knutson and Frankie Jones got their fill of corn dogs, nachos, french fries and cheese curds at the Nicollet County Fair.
Beyond livestock, community members’ talents were on full display at Johnson Hall, where greenery, hand stitched fabrics, home-baked goods and original artwork populated the room.
On the Johnson Hall stage, audiences could also catch the kids and adults performing in the annual talent show. Featuring 17 acts including violinists, storytellers, dancers, singers, a yo-yo showcase and a yodeler — the show was an encapsulation of the region’s talent. Five winners were advanced to the State Fair, including Zoe Quant in the preteen division, the Aetherium Trio and Gabe Stiles in the teen division, and Dane Knudsen and the MN Yodeler in the open class.
Kaylee Berg lasted 25 seconds on the Nicollet County Fair’s mechanical bull before being thrown off.
Out on the Crescent City Amusements midway, children tried their luck at carnival games and ran from one ride to the next. Those looking for some adrenaline pumping action spun upside down on the Fire Ball and soared in the air aboard the Star Tropper, while those looking for more relaxing fun rode the merry-go-round and explored the on-site obstacle course.
The Hasse Petting Zoo provided more opportunities to get close to animals, while horse-drawn wagon rides offered another way to move through the grounds. Visitors at the beer garden enjoy a free beer tasting Wednesday night, take a ride on the mechanical bull at the Thompson building and watch chainsaw artist Curt Ingvoldstad turn wood into sculptures.
Isla and Katelyn Bozada pet a cow at the Nicollet County Fair petting zoo.
In the evening, community members were invited to dance the night way to performances by area musicians including the Wendinger Band, Grady Kruse, Red Dirt Road, the Original Shaw Band and the Shaw Brothers Band.
At the grandstand, the mood was even more exciting as audiences crowded in the fairgrounds to witness a lineup of motorsports contests. The truck and tractor pull kicked off the grandstand events Thursday evening before demolition derbies took over Friday and Saturday. Auto racing closed out the grandstand schedule on Sunday.
Reach Reporter Carson Hughes at 507-931-8575. © Copyright 2025 Adams MultiMedia of Southern Minnesota. All Rights Reserved.
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