Plans are proceeding for 2021 Minnesota State Fair Despite the cancellation of the 2020 Minnesota State Fair due to the coronavirus pandemic, officials announced last week that planning is proceeding for this year’s fair. 2:50 pm, Jan. 20, 2021 × While continuing to draw a large crowd, the Minnesota State Fair features traditional rides like the Ferris wheel. Photo courtesy of Robert Ferdinandt and Explore Minnesota ST. PAUL -- Despite the cancellation of the 2020 Minnesota State Fair due to the coronavirus pandemic, officials announced last week that planning is proceeding for this year’s fair -- albeit with different scenarios under consideration. “From the day we canceled, our priority has been to ensure the future of the fair by holding our operation together,” State Fair general manager Jerry Hammer said in a release. “I cannot stress enough how critical our expert staff is to the success of the fair. They’re experienced pros, and there is no fair without them. Our staff is ready to go, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back together at the State Fair.”