MUSIC AT THE FAIR | DAY 1 – OLD DOMINION – ST. PAUL, MN – AUGUST 21, 2025

Minnesotans! You all know we haven’t been able to count on the weather from day to day this summer. I’m so glad to say we had a break in the pattern and were blessed with a warm, sunny day to kick off the Minnesota State Fair!

I’m also happy to report that people were definitely ready to get back together (as I’m sure the daily stats will show) and the evening Grandstand show was sold out for Country rockers Old Dominion. Known for being great songwriters (even for other Country artists) they have a bunch of great material and sounded awesome.  They really brought great energy right from the start and the crowd was absolutely loving it.  The band also decided to have a little extra fun by hosting a contest to see who could get made up to look the most like their new album cover model “Barbara”.  I love it when bands go the extra mile to interact with their fans. Another nice touch was having local Pop/Rock band Yam Haus open up the show. They boys were jacked to be playing the big stage and it showed!

There was plenty of additional great music to take in at the free stages located around the fairgrounds. I especially enjoyed Deke Dickerson & The Whippersnappers who headlined the West End Market Stage at Schilling Amphitheater. Earlier in the day, Mother Banjo offered up a nice selection of Folk/Americana tunes, followed by another exceptional Minnesota talent Nicholas David. Now recognized as a finalist on Season 3 of The Voice, David reminded us that he really does have the voice, and the songs!  Loved it.

I also really enjoyed my time at The Bandshell starting with a couple sets from Church of Cash. Now 15 years into their Johnny Cash tribute, they have become a very popular act around the metro and I can see why. Another seemingly tireless metro area touring band, Davina and the Vagabonds were a an absolute joy to take in.  I loved looking around and see all the smiles plus people dancing and simply having a blast.

Perhaps the best part of the whole first day experience is knowing there are still 11 more days left to get out and enjoy the fun. Come out to the Fair, see you there!!