Summer's on the way, and the Minnesota State Fair is kicking it off early with special a five-day Memorial Day Weekend event.

With the recent news that the 2021 Minnesota State Fair is set to take place this year with some degree of normalcy, organizers are building the anticipation with a special summer kickoff event.

"We are beyond excited to present Kickoff to Summer at the Fair sponsored by Paddle North," the official Minnesota State Fair account posted on social media. The Kickoff to Summer is described as "a brand-new walk-around event with food, brews, music, shopping and fun" taking place over five days between May 27-31.

Proceeds from ticket sales will go to support the Minnesota State Fair, which suffered huge financial losses after a year primarily without events and normal operating revenue. Only 10,000 tickets are available in accordance with current COVID restrictions and available on a lottery basis. Tickets are $12.50 each which includes fees and tax; children 4 and under are free with a child ticket. Tickets are specific to a date and timeslot and non-refundable. Dates and timeslots are:

Thursday, May 27, 4-9 p.m.
Friday, May 28, 4-9 p.m.
Saturday, May 29, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Saturday, May 29, 4-9 p.m.
Sunday, May 30, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sunday, May 30, 4-9 p.m.
Monday, May 31 (Memorial Day), 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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Stages and dining venues around the Fairgrounds will feature live music throughout the five days from various acts including Dirty Shorts Brass Band, 34th Red Bull Infantry Division Band, Bourbon Creek, International Reggae All-Stars, Kat Perkins and more. The Giant Slide will be in operation for rides; there will also be a Family Fun Zone, State Fair Trivia, photo opportunities, door prizes and more.