Minnesota State Fair's 4-H Building Is Getting a $35 Million Renovation Before 2027
The Minnesota State Fair is one of the most beloved institutions in the state — and one of its most iconic buildings is about to look completely different.
The 4-H Building on the Fairgrounds in Falcon Heights, constructed by the Works Progress Administration and opened in 1939, is set for its first major renovation in nearly 90 years.
The Minnesota State Fair and Minnesota 4-H announced a $35 million campaign to fund the overhaul. Renovations will begin after the 2026 State Fair and are scheduled to be complete in time for the 2027 Fair.
What Is Actually Changing
The renovation covers all three floors of the 100,000-square-foot building.
Ground Floor:
- Fully redesigned entrance and main exhibition hall
- New learning zones focused on:
- STEM
- Agriculture
- Art
- Media production
- Culinary skills
- 4-H Arts-In musical theater stage moved to a more prominent location
Second Floor:
- Upgraded cafeteria kitchen
- Purpose-built performance and costume spaces
- New classrooms
- Improved office space for youth ambassadors
- Expanded programming support beyond Fair season, including:
- Summer day camps
- Overnight experiences for 4-H students statewide
Third Floor:
- Dormitories currently housing nearly 380 students will be subdivided
- Improvements to:
- Airflow
- Privacy
- Accessibility
- New accommodations for:
- Students with physical disabilities
- Private or non-gendered sleeping arrangements
How the Campaign Is Being Funded
The $35 million goal is a joint effort between the Minnesota State Fair Foundation and Minnesota 4-H.
- Approximately 60% of funding has already been contributed
- Public donations are being accepted at 4hbuilding.org
- Donors contributing $1,000 or more will be recognized on a donor wall inside the renovated building
Why This Matters for the Twin Cities
This renovation is part of a broader, ongoing investment in the Minnesota State Fairgrounds.
Recent projects include:
- Upgrades to the Lee and Rose Warner Coliseum
- Redevelopment of Heritage Square into the West End Market with a new transit hub
- Construction of the North End Events Center
Community investment at this scale extends beyond the Fairgrounds.
The Twin Cities metro continues to attract buyers and families who value:
- Quality of life
- Shared public amenities
- Strong community institutions
When an institution like the Minnesota State Fair invests in its infrastructure and youth programs, it reinforces long-term confidence in the region as a place to live and invest.
Thinking about buying or selling in the Twin Cities? Let’s talk.
Text Darin Bjerknes at 612-702-5126 or DM on Instagram @darintheminnesotan.
