Thursday, January 15, 2026
4:00 p.m. - Joint Meeting of the MN State Ag Society, Midwest Showmen’s Association, and the MN Federation of County Fairs
Bloomington Room
Presided by MFCF President Don Merkens
5:00 p.m. - MN Federation of County Fairs Board Meeting
Bloomington Room
Presided by MFCF President Don Merkens
5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. - MFCF Registration
Grand Ballroom Foyer
6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. - Midwest Showmen’s Association Open House
Grand Ballroom
Come enjoy complimentary food and beverage. Support the great work of the Midwest Showmen’s Association by supporting the silent and live auctions!
6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. - SHARING TABLE: What’s on Your Mind?
Moderator: Troy Beise, MFCF District 6 Director
Edina Room
Friday, January 16, 2026
8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. - MFCF Registration
Grand Ballroom Foyer
8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. - Convention Socialization
Bloomington Room - Coffee sponsored by Hilton
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. - State Agricultural Society Office Open
Grand Ballroom Foyer
9:00 a.m. - General Session - Keynote
Grand Ballroom East
Ian Hill
CEO, The Changing Point
See Keynote Speaker Bio Here
10:30 a.m. - Refreshment Break
10:45 a.m. - General Session
Grand Ballroom East
IAFE Update
Grand Ballroom East
IAFE Update
Come and learn what’s new in Zone 4, get up to date on the IAFE and the upcoming meeting in St. Cloud!
jill Albanese, IFMG - IAFE Zone 4 Director and Competitive
Exhibits Director with the Wisconsin State Fair
MN County Fair Grant Program Update*
Get an update on the grant programs (including AGRI andLegacy Funding) and learn what qualifies. Get tips for the application and close-out process.
Dacia Hinkhouse, Grants Supervisor
MN Dept. of Agriculture
*If you have grants that are in need of attention Dacia will be contacting you individually to set up a quick in-person meeting!
12:00PM – 1:00 pm - LUNCH
Grand Ballroom East
1:00 p.m. - Sessions
Fair Boards for First-Timers!
Come and learn about some common calendar items and points to ponder for all fairs, hear about the MFCF and its role in Minnesota's fairs. Learn what to take away from convention as well as how to best serve your board throughout the year. If you have any questions, this is a great place to ask them!
Atrium 6
Presenters: Zach Rinehart, MFCF District 2 Director, Brian Grunhovd, MFCF District 9 Director
Electrical Licensing and Inspection Information for Fair Board Members
This presentation will be on electrical safety on fairgrounds' permanent and temporary structures, electrical licensing, and inspection requirements.
Plaza 1
Presenters: Steven Dudley, Senior Electrical Representative
2026 Guide to Fair Management with the Board of Animal Health
Members from the MN Board of Animal Health will review State requirements for MN county fairs. We will provide resources and information on manager activities, animal ID, and common challenges and questions.
Plaza 6
Presenters: Dr. Katie Cornille, Senior Veterinarian; Nancy Reeck, State Program Administrator MN Board of Animal Health
Sharing Table: All things OPEN CLASS!
From entering systems to displays and everything in between! Come with your questions and hear from your fellow fair boards and industry representatives on what works and how you can see success in creating and maintaining a thriving open class program at your fair! *Moderated by the Competitive Exhibits Director from the Wisconsin State Fair!*
Plaza 3
County Fair Grant Q and A
Use this time to bring your grant questions to Dacia, the Grant Specialist for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture! Share what has worked for your fair and gather new ideas to improve your own fairgrounds and events.
Plaza 5
Presenter: Dacia Hinkhouse, MN Dept of Ag Grants Specialist
Beating Burnout: Sustaining Passion in Challenging Times
Breakout Session with Award-Winning Fair & Ag Society Advocate Ian Hill. Passion fuels our fairs. It’s what drives board members, staff, and volunteers to give their time, energy, and heart to their communities. But with rising demands, shrinking volunteer bases, and financial pressures, burnout is no longer just a possibility—it’s a reality. Left unchecked, it drains energy, diminishes effectiveness, and threatens the long-term future of fairs and agricultural Societies. Burnout isn’t just fatigue, it’s when the energy is gone but the demands keep coming. It shows up as exhaustion, disengagement, and doubt. If unaddressed, it doesn’t just sap energy, it dismantles identity. That’s why leaders must learn to recognize it early and act before it takes hold. In this breakout session, award-winning advocate Ian Hill will share practical strategies to prevent burnout and reignite energy. Drawing on decades of leadership, he’ll show how individuals and boards can build “burnout immunity plans” to thrive under pressure.
What You’ll Learn:
- Spot the early warning signs of burnout.
- Create a Personal Burnout Immunity Plan by reconnecting with your WHY, setting non- negotiable boundaries, practicing strategic self-care, and scheduling regular recharge rituals.
- Develop an Organizational Burnout Immunity Plan by clarifying expectations, defining roles, setting achievable goals, and aligning boards and volunteers with purpose. This session is designed for fair leaders, staff, and volunteers who want to sustain passion and protect their well-being while leading with clarity and purpose.
Edina Room
Presenter: Ian Hill, Founder & Chief Steward of the Vision
You Make THE Difference
2:15 p.m. - Sessions
Next Level AI for Fairs and Festivals
Explore proven ways fairs and festivals are already using ChatGPT to boost marketing, sponsorships, operations, and post event reporting. This session also introduces powerful AI tools beyond ChatGPT and shows how to integrate them into a smarter, more efficient workflow.
Plaza 6
Presenters: Larissa Guetter / ATV Big Air Tour
Michaela Liebl / Anoka County Fair
Partnering with County Fair Boards to Elevate Minnesota 4‑H Youth
Join us for a dynamic session featuring the Minnesota 4‑H State Address and the latest updates on county and state showcase events. This interactive workshop will foster collaboration, provide valuable insights, and create space for meaningful discussion on how fair boards can best support 4‑H youth across the state.
Plaza 4
Presenters: Dr. Jennifer A. Skuza, Associate Dean and MN 4-H State Director
Amber Greeley, Director of State and County Fairs Programs
Sharon Davis, Director of Animal Science
Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors
Chapter 38 and Best Legal Practices for Your Ag Society and Fair Board
Come learn the in’s and out’s of Chapter 38! Bring your questions and discover how your fairboard and Ag Society can best use chapter 38 to benefit your fair. Attorney Matt Berger will provide guidance on how your fairboard can benefit from legal guidance in hard times, or not so hard times!
Plaza 3
Presenters: Attorney Matthew Berger
Gislason & Hunter LLP Attorneys at Law
Protecting the Tradition: Practical Biosecurity from the Board to the Barn
Every fairground is unique, and your biosecurity plan should be, too. This session will explore how fair leaders can guide the development of custom safety blueprints that protect your animals, your families, and your traditions. We’re moving beyond basic hand-washing to give you a seat at the table in designing real-world biosecurity strategies.
Plaza 2
Presenter: Abby Schuft Ph.D., Program Leader
Department of Agriculture and Natural Resource Systems
Beating Burnout: Sustaining Passion in Challenging Times
Breakout Session with Award-Winning Fair & Ag Society Advocate Ian Hill. Passion fuels our fairs. It’s what drives board members, staff, and volunteers to give their time, energy, and heart to their communities. But with rising demands, shrinking volunteer bases, and financial pressures, burnout is no longer just a possibility—it’s a reality. Left unchecked, it drains energy, diminishes effectiveness, and threatens the long-term future of fairs and agricultural Societies. Burnout isn’t just fatigue, it’s when the energy is gone but the demands keep coming. It shows up as exhaustion, disengagement, and doubt. If unaddressed, it doesn’t just sap energy, it dismantles identity. That’s why leaders must learn to recognize it early and act before it takes hold. In this breakout session, award-winning advocate Ian Hill will share practical strategies to prevent burnout and reignite energy. Drawing on decades of leadership, he’ll show how individuals and boards can build “burnout immunity plans” to thrive under pressure.
What You’ll Learn:
- Spot the early warning signs of burnout.
- Create a Personal Burnout Immunity Plan by reconnecting with your WHY, setting non- negotiable boundaries, practicing strategic self-care, and scheduling regular recharge rituals.
- Develop an Organizational Burnout Immunity Plan by clarifying expectations, defining roles, setting achievable goals, and aligning boards and volunteers with purpose. This session is designed for fair leaders, staff, and volunteers who want to sustain passion and protect their well-being while leading with clarity and purpose.
Edina Room
Presenter: Ian Hill, Founder & Chief Steward of the Vision
You Make THE Difference
Sharing Table: Grandstand Events: Demo Derby’s, Motor Sports and Tractor Pulls
Come bring your knowledge and your questions! Connect with fellow fair boards on creating and maintaining a successful and safe program for grandstand motor sport events… a longstanding tradition for Minnesota county fairs!
Plaza 1
3:15 p.m. - Refreshment Break
3:30 p.m. - Sessions
Freestyle Q &A with Carnival Owners and Food Vendors!
Have a chance to pick the brains of the carnival owners and food vendors that make our fairs possible. Find out what’s new in their world as well as what you need to know in order to continue to maintain a great relationship with them. It takes a great community to make our fairs a success, take this opportunity to meet and hear from them first hand!
Plaza 5
Presenters: Nick Taulelle, Taulelle Concessions & Guests
Midwest Showmen's Association
Building More with Less: Building Strong Fairs on Small Budgets
When resources are limited and attendance numbers fluctuate, success depends on creativity, teamwork, and community engagement. Join Kyle Palmer of Artists & Attractions as he shares practical strategies for making the most of a small budget while keeping your fair dynamic and thriving.
Plaza 6
Presenter: Kyle Palmer, Senior Agent
Artists and Attractions
Beating Burnout: Sustaining Passion in Challenging Times
Breakout Session with Award-Winning Fair & Ag Society Advocate Ian Hill. Passion fuels our fairs. It’s what drives board members, staff, and volunteers to give their time, energy, and heart to their communities. But with rising demands, shrinking volunteer bases, and financial pressures, burnout is no longer just a possibility—it’s a reality. Left unchecked, it drains energy, diminishes effectiveness, and threatens the long-term future of fairs and agricultural Societies. Burnout isn’t just fatigue, it’s when the energy is gone but the demands keep coming. It shows up as exhaustion, disengagement, and doubt. If unaddressed, it doesn’t just sap energy, it dismantles identity. That’s why leaders must learn to recognize it early and act before it takes hold. In this breakout session, award-winning advocate Ian Hill will share practical strategies to prevent burnout and reignite energy. Drawing on decades of leadership, he’ll show how individuals and boards can build “burnout immunity plans” to thrive under pressure.
What You’ll Learn:
- Spot the early warning signs of burnout.
- Create a Personal Burnout Immunity Plan by reconnecting with your WHY, setting non- negotiable boundaries, practicing strategic self-care, and scheduling regular recharge rituals.
- Develop an Organizational Burnout Immunity Plan by clarifying expectations, defining roles, setting achievable goals, and aligning boards and volunteers with purpose. This session is designed for fair leaders, staff, and volunteers who want to sustain passion and protect their well-being while leading with clarity and purpose.
Edina Room
Presenter: Ian Hill, Founder & Chief Steward of the Vision
You Make THE Difference
Panel Discussion: Working with Influencers to boost your Fair
Come hear from not only social media Influencers themselves but also those who work closely for and with them! Learn how to include them at your fair and about how beneficial their presence can be at your event. *This exciting event will be moderated by Minnesota State Fair Marketing/Social Media team member Maria Hayden!*
Atrium 6
A One Health Approach to Managing Zoonotic Disease Risks at County Fairs
Come learn about the national best practices for public animal contact settings and how they can be implemented at your county fair. We will discuss what zoonotic diseases are, how they spread, and ways to engineer out risk at your fair. We will also cover staff and visitor training, hand washing, and effective educational messaging.
Plaza 2
Presenters: Stacy Holzbauer & Leah Bauck
Epidemiologists from the Zoonotic Diseases Unit at the Minnesota Department of Health
Sharing Table: Know your “WHY” Bylaws and Mission Statements
Come and share with fellow fairboard members! Discuss the importance you have seen in having not only a clear set of bylaws but also in developing a simple mission statement that your fair board has set. Learn from others, hear new ideas and strategies to develop these tools to better serve your board!
Plaza 3
Networking Circle: Secretary
Come together with fellow board officers, it will be a time to meet new people and build your network! This time will NOT include a formal presentation or workshop, so be sure to bring your business cards and be ready to ask questions, share successes and build relationships with fellow board members who share a similar role!
Plaza 4
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm - Trade Show Opens
(Trade Show closed between the hours of 6pm and 7pm)
4:30 p.m. - MFCF Committee Meetings
Audit - Atrium 8
Credentials - Plaza 7
MN County Fair Alumni Meeting - Edina Room
5:00PM - Young Professionals Social Gathering!
Come meet with other young professionals who are working their way through the fair world with you! Relaxed, social get together... but bring your business cards
Bloomington Room
6:00PM - MFCF Banquet Dinner
- Doors Open at 5:45PM
Grand Ballroom – Convention Badge Required
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm - Trade Show Open
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm - Silent Auction Open
Bloomington Room
7:00PM – 10:00PM - Showcase
Grand Ballroom
Showcase Lineup Here
11:00 pm - Trade Show Closes
Saturday, January 17, 2026
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. - MFCF Registration
Grand Ballroom Foyer
8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. - Convention Socialization
Bloomington Room
8:00 A.M. – 9:15 A.M. - Light Breakfast - Continental+
Grand Ballroom
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. - State Agricultural Society Office Open
Grand Ballroom Foyer
9:30 a.m. - Sessions
Partnering with County Fair Boards to Elevate Minnesota 4‑H Youth
Join us for a dynamic session featuring the Minnesota 4‑H State Address and the latest updates on county and state showcase events. This interactive workshop will foster collaboration, provide valuable insights, and create space for meaningful discussion on how fair boards can best support 4‑H youth across the state.
Atrium 4
Presenters: Dr. Jennifer A. Skuza, Associate Dean and MN 4-H State Director
Amber Greeley, Director of State and County Fairs Programs
Sharon Davis, Director of Animal Science
Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors
Social Media and the role it plays at your Fair!
Social media is one of the most powerful tools fairs have to reach younger audiences and drive attendance. This class covers the key strategies, content ideas, and platforms that help fairs stand out online, grow their following, and turn views into visitors using real-world examples that actually work.
Edina Room
Presenters: Larissa & Derek Guetter - ATV Big Air Tour
Panel Discussion: Junior Fair Boards
Come hear from fellow fairs how they have successfully developed and maintained a junior fair board program and other ways to structure your board for successful longevity.
Plaza 1
Significant Changes to the NEC & Electronic Permitting Requirements for the 2026 Season (Huge Changes) - *Extended Session*
Learn about these changes that will affect ALL transitory fair owners, circuses, independent concessions and food trailers, tents, and trucks this year for permitting, everyone will be affected by the NEC changes either this year or next season. A transitory permitting expert who works with all Fair owners and independents behind the scenes will be present and will assist owners on getting set up in the permitting system and show them how to properly file permits electronically which is new to everyone! Come learn about new code changes for 2026!
Atrium 6
Presenter: Steven Dudley, Senior Electrical Representative
International Association of Fairs and Expositions “IAFE” Information and exciting updates! How can being a member greatly benefit your organization?
Come hear from IAFE representatives on exciting updates and important information from the organization! Learn how being a member can greatly impact your fair and the benefits you receive from taking part. Information on the Economic Impact Survey will be shared!
Plaza 2
Presenters: jill Albanese, Wisconsin State Fair & Zone 4 Director
Kate Turner, IAFE Vice President of Member Engagement
Networking Circle: Treasurers
Come together with fellow board officers, it will be a time to meet new people and build your network! This time will NOT include a formal presentation or workshop, so be sure to bring your business cards and be ready to ask questions, share successes and build relationships with fellow board members who share a similar role!
Plaza 5
Legislative Update and Q & A with AJ Duerr
Come hear what's new on the legislative front. Bring your questions to this session and get the answer. Have an idea for legislation that would improve the Minnesota Fair community? Bring it to this session to share with fellow fairboard members and our MFCF Lobbyists.
Plaza 3
Presenter: AJ Duerr MFCF Lobbyist
10:30 a.m. - Refreshment Break
Plaza Foyer
10:45 a.m. - Federation Caucuses
District 1 - Plaza 6
District 2 - Atrium 4
District 3 - Plaza 3
District 5 - Plaza 7
District 6 - Plaza 5
District 7 - Plaza 1
District 8 - Plaza 2
District 9 - Atrium 7
You are encouraged to attend your district’s caucuses, even if you are not a delegate or alternate. However, if you do not attend a caucus, the following sessions are available to you:
10:45 a.m. - Sessions
Legislative Update and Q & A with AJ Duerr
Come hear what's new on the legislative front. Bring your questions to this session and get the answer. Have an idea for legislation that would improve the Minnesota Fair community? Bring it to this session to share with fellow fair board members and our MFCF Lobbyists.
Edina Room
Presenter: AJ Duerr, MFCF Lobbyist
Sharing Table: Security at your Fair!
Does your fair struggle to find the perfect fit for security during your events? Come together to hear what works and what doesn’t from your fellow fair boards.
Atrium 3
NICA - Organization Information and Membership Benefits!
The National Independent Concessionaires Association is a membership-driven organization dedicated to strengthening relationships with the Fair, Festival, and Special Events Industries through effective Communication, Education, Benefits, Leadership, and Solutions. Come learn more about the organization with a special speaking guest on concessionaire fire safety!
Atrium 1
Presenter: Dennis Larson, Midwest Council Coordinator
National Independent Concessionaires Association
11:15 a.m. (or following Federation Caucuses) - State Ag Society Caucuses
District 1 - Atrium 6
District 3 - Plaza 3
District 5 - Plaza 7
District 6 - Plaza 5
12:00 p.m. - LUNCHEON
Grand Ballroom
- Doors open at 11:45 a.m.
1:30 p.m. - Sessions
Networking Circle: President
Come together with fellow board officers, it will be a time to meet new people and build your network! This time will NOT include a formal presentation or workshop, so be sure to bring your business cards and be ready to ask questions, share successes and build relationships with fellow board members who share a similar role!
Plaza 1
Service Dogs
What is and is not a service dog? Learn about the Americans With Disabilities Act and which type of service dogs are allowed in public places. Can Do Canines Assistance Dogs will share how these dogs help people with disabilities, and will advise on what questions you can ask a person with a service dog.
Edina Room
Presenter: Laurie Carlson, Community Outreach Coordinator
Can Do Canines
Better Together; Partnering with 4-H
Come to this panel discussion and learn some of our keys to success in building relationships between extension staff, local county 4-H programs, and fair boards.
Plaza 6
Presenters: Amber Greeley, Director of State and County Fair Programs
Ann Church, Extension Educator - Washington County
Tracy Ignaszewski, Extension Educator - Steele County
Alysa Tulibaski, Extension Educator - Marshall County
Board Roles and Responsibilities, Financial Best Practices - *90 Minute Session*
This session is not just for board treasurers but all those who serve a role in keeping their organization financially healthy…. EVERYONE! Led by a team of professional trainers you will be given tools and practices that will help your board members develop finance skills, ask strategic financial questions and learn how to keep your numbers connected to your mission. This session will be both engaging and insightful and help to lead your team to be the best in their roles within your board.
Plaza 3
Presenter: Propel Non-Profits
Entertainment as an Investment
Entertainment is one of the most visible investments a fair makes, yet the return is shaped by more than the contract itself. This session explores how timing, placement, scheduling, and communication decisions impact audience engagement and overall value. Through real-world examples and open discussion, fair boards and entertainers will examine what works, what creates challenges, and how both sides can better align. The session will be facilitated by Freddie Justice and feature a panel including Magic Joe, Strongman John, and Pete, President of the Dakota County Fair. The goal is simple: improve outcomes while making the experience easier for everyone involved.
Plaza 5
Presenter: FREDDIE JUSTICE, HYPNOTIST
Alcohol Awareness *90 minute Session*
Come learn the current guidelines and general ins and outs on alcohol service from the Minnesota Municipal Beverage Association!
Plaza 2
Presenter: Gary Buysse Minnesota Municipal Beverage Association
2:30 p.m. - Refreshment Break
Plaza Foyer
2:45 p.m. - Sessions
Minnesota Agriculture & Rural Leadership Program
The MN Agriculture & Rural Leadership Program has been in existence in Minnesota for 25-Years! The mission: To develop the skills of Minnesota’s agricultural and rural leaders so they may maximize their impact and effectiveness in local, state, national and international arenas. Come learn about the program and how you can best serve your community as the leader you already are!
Plaza 1
Presenter: Brad Schloesser, Executive Director
Minnesota Agriculture & Rural Leadership Program
Service Dogs
What is and is not a service dog? Learn about the Americans With Disabilities Act and which type of service dogs are allowed in public places. Can Do Canines Assistance Dogs will share how these dogs help people with disabilities, and will advise on what questions you can ask a person with a service dog.
Edina Room
Presenter: Laurie Carlson, Community Outreach Coordinator
Can Do Canines
First Aid at Your Fair- Prepare Yourself for Anything!
You can’t plan for every incident—but you can prepare for anything. This session covers first aid readiness at your fair, including emergency planning, first aid kits, hands-only CPR, and choking response. Gain the confidence and tools needed to protect visitors, participants, and staff when the unexpected happens.
Plaza 6
Presenter: Kelly Riepe
Building a Culture for Highly Effective Volunteers
Discover how to build a thriving volunteer culture that attracts, equips, and keeps highly effective people! Learn practical strategies for recruiting, motivating, and retaining volunteers through clear vision, meaningful connection, and genuine appreciation. Learn how to overcome common barriers, create lasting engagement, and turn your team into a powerhouse of purpose-driven impact.
Atrium 6
Presenters: Kyle Palmer, Senior Agent
Artists and Attractions
Sharing Table: Grandstand Entertainment
How do you see success? Aside from motor sport grandstand events, what larger events have worked for your fair? Connect with fellow fair boards, learn what others are doing and get ideas on what will work for you and your size fair! Focusing on Music entertainment, this session will be moderated by Fair Boards who have developed successful programs and talent managers to provide tips from their perspective!
Plaza 5
Hear from the Minnesota State Fair!
Come hear from Renee Alexander, current leader and CEO of the Minnesota State Fair!
Plaza 4
Presenter: Renee Alexander, CEO of the Minnesota State Fair
4:00 p.m. - Minnesota Federation of County Fairs Annual Business Meeting **NEW TIME**
Edina Room - EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
**NEW** - Silent Auction Closes approx. 15 minutes after the ending of the annual business meeting
Bloomington Room
- Successful bidders should pay in the Bloomington Room.
4:30 p.m. - Trade Show Opens
7:00PM – 10:00pm - Evening Showcase
Grand Ballroom
Showcase Lineup Here
11:00 pm - Trade Show Closes
Sunday, January 18, 2026
7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. - State Agricultural Society Office Open
Grand Ballroom Foyer
8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. - State Fair Breakfast and Annual Meeting
Grand Ballroom - Ticket Required
10:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. - State Fair Life Member Meeting
Atrium 2
10:15 a.m. - State Fair Board Meeting
Atrium 7