Protest at Minnesota State Fair Temporarily Closes Main Gate

St. Paul, MN (August 31, 2025) - A demonstration outside the Minnesota State Fair on Saturday prompted the temporary closure of Gate 5 at the main entrance, officials said.

The fair’s Gate 5 at Snelling Avenue and Midway Parkway was shut at 1:08 p.m. after a group of protesters marched from nearby Hamline Park to the fairgrounds, halting buses and redirecting pedestrians. An emergency alert was issued to local residents and fairgoers, warning that the entrance was closed due to the demonstration. Traffic control measures were implemented by the St. Paul Police Department to ensure safety.

Organized by Black Lives Matter Twin Cities as part of the “Not Fair Stop Taking Shots Rally,” the protest called for an end to corruption and systemic racism and urged divestment from policies harming communities and the environment. At least ten groups had joined forces for what they described as their 10th annual State Fair protest, issuing a wide array of demands including state divestiture from Israel, increased community oversight of police, and stronger LGBTQ protections.

After marching peacefully back to Hamline Park, the protesters dispersed without incident. Gate 5 reopened at 2:32 p.m., and normal traffic resumed shortly thereafter, according to fair officials.

Timeline of Events

• 1:08 p.m. - Gate 5 closed as protesters arrive at fair entrance.
• 1:10 p.m. - Emergency alert issued to surrounding area.
• 2:30 p.m. - Protest group returns to Hamline Park.
• 2:32 p.m. - Gate 5 reopens and fair operations resume.

Official Statements

A fair spokesperson confirmed the closure “due to a demonstration” and thanked attendees for using alternate entrances. The St. Paul Police Department noted the protest remained peaceful and that they provided traffic control throughout the event.