History
September 1892
The first Mille Lacs County Fair was held in September 1892, when premiums were given to show the biggest and best that the county residents had to offer for livestock, produce and household goods. It was a time to showcase advancements in Agriculture. The biggest draw was the horse racing that took place on the grounds.
As time has progressed so has the Fair. Instead of horse racing, in 1956 car racing started at the fairgrounds. Racing still takes place throughout the summer and Princeton Speedway is known as the “The Fastest Quarter Mile on Dirt”.
The Mille Lacs County Fair is now a 5-day fair held each August. Animal and general exhibits are still an important part of the fair as are food booths and a variety of entertainment.
Buildings have come and gone on the grounds. Currently, the oldest building on the grounds is the Historic Ticket booth that was built in 1892. It is located by the main gate and it is still in use for Grandstand and Speedway ticket sales. Other buildings have been added as needed with the newest building being the Entertainment Pavilion which was dedicated in 2023.
There have been major projects that have enhanced the fair experience for everyone. In 2003, a Livestock Pavilion was built with grants and community donations on the north end of the grounds. Mille Lacs County 4-H has always kept the barns full of livestock and the Livestock Pavilion was a much welcomed addition to the grounds.
New for the 2024 fair will be a BINGO Pavilion. It is being built in partnership with American Legion Post #216 who runs the BINGO games during the Fair. Also, being built is an open sided building over the Community Stage as part of an Eagle Scout project. Both will be welcome additions to the grounds as the Fair Board looks to the future.
The Fair is managed and run by volunteers, supported by a Board and Associate Members. Volunteers and community support are the heart of the Fair. Without the countless hours from volunteers, community support and partnerships, donations of services, money and time as well as the many exhibitors in events, the Fair would not be the community showcase that it is today.
“Showcasing local talents and the heritage of Mille Lacs County in an educational, fun and entertaining atmosphere,” is the mission statement of the Mille Lacs County Fair. It is owned and operated by the Mille Lacs Agricultural Society and is registered as a 501c3 non-profit.