Last July, Grand Champion donors joined us in person for a sneak peek at the new updates in the Creative Activities Building. Now, we hop online for a stitch-back-in-time to learn how inspiring crafts and creations were first woven into the fabric of the fair—and how the recipe has changed over the decades to create today’s lively, jam-packed competitions; where everyone is welcome to roll up their sleeves and try their creative hand.
Please enjoy this presentation, prepared for our Foundation Grand Champion donors from February 25, 2026, presented by Minnesota State Fair Archivist, Keri Huber. Not only will you learn about the history behind the creative activities and the building, but you’ll also see some photos and hear information from Keri’s recent trip to see the State Fairs: Growing American Craft exhibit at the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum.