Today: Activity Buzzes at DNR State Fair Exhibits

Visit the Department of Natural Resources "Fair Page" for a full rundown of activities and events scheduled for the 2011 Minnesota State Fair.

Cycling on Minnesota Trails

Bicycle quick tricks and safety tips that includes how to fix a flat tire and a quiz show with the bicycle wheel of wonder.

When: 11 a.m.
Where: DNR Volunteer Outdoor Stage

I Can Hike!

A presentation on places to hike in Minnesota, safety tips and what essentials people should have in their backpack from short to long trips.

When: Noon
Where: DNR Volunteer Outdoor Stage

Take a friend snowmobiling

Snowmobiling: how to and the gear involved. Safety tips, places to go riding and regulations to follow.

When: 3 p.m.
Where: DNR Volunteer Outdoor Stage

Paddling Minnesota water trails

Kayak/canoe 101: differences between canoes and kayaks and the types out there, how to select a kayak and the gear needed. 

Presentation will include how to properly get in and out of kayak and other tips along with paddling destinations.

When: 5 p.m.

Where: DNR Volunteer Outdoor Stage

Camper cabin tours

An actual state park camper cabin is on display. The cabins are built to provide a “camping out” experience within the comfort of four walls. They can be reserved, year-round at many Minnesota state parks.

Fairgoers will be able to step inside the 24’ by 12’ cabin to check it out. The cabin has two sets of bunks allowing accessibility for a wheelchair. A camper cabin includes a picnic table and a fire ring with grill. 

When: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily

Where: West side of DNR Building

Outdoor fun at your fingertips

An interactive, touch-screen kiosk display in the shape of Minnesota helps people find great opportunities for recreation. With the touch of a few buttons, people can now check trail and weather conditions statewide, browse photos and upcoming events, and order free maps and other publications.

When: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily
Where: Inside the DNR Building

Laser shooting range

Visitors can test their skill at the DNR building with an interactive shooting range for youth and adults. 

It’s a fun, safe, educational event that’s become a family favorite. It’s a great event for those who participate as well as spectators.

Participants will use replica firearms that emit a laser on a screen. They will be guided through three scenarios: first, a field target where they will test their accuracy on stationary targets at varying distances; next, moving targets on a simulated Trap Range; and finally, the chance to simulate a hunt of choice, such as quail, pheasants or ducks.

When: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily

Where: DNR indoor theater

Music

Bill and Kate Isles 

When: 10 a.m.; noon; 2 p.m.; 4 p.m.

Where: DNR Volunteer Outdoor Stage

The Sarah Krueger Band

When: 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. 

Where: DNR Volunteer Outdoor Stage

Bigtree Bonsai

When: 8 – 9:30 p.m.

Where: DNR Volunteer Outdoor Stage

News and notes:

The historic DNR log building, which opened in 1934, is celebrating its 77th anniversary this year. The DNR building and exhibit offers a wide range of family favorites in addition to new events and activities visitors.

A must-see stop at the fair for folks of all ages is the DNR fishpond — one of the most popular attractions at the Fair.

Visitors can also explore the indoor exhibits, enjoy entertainment at the outdoor and garden stages, or take a relaxing stroll around the DNR park.

• The DNR State Fair building opened Sept. 1, 1934.
• It cost $73,000 to build (almost 10 times the net profit of 1934 State Fair).
• Gate tickets in 1934 cost .25 cents
• Funding came from federal and state emergency relief administration and State Fair funds.
• Civilian Conservation Corps erected building in less than six months using machined logs.
• The main building is 186 feet by 66 feet.
• DNR’s State Fair building is 40 feet high at its highest point.
• The fire tower opened in 1966, was closed in 1978, then repaired and reopened in 2007.
• The fish pond and animal displays were added in 1970.