The University of Minnesota is enhancing its presence at the Minnesota State Fair this year in celebration of its 175th anniversary.
Fairgoers will have the opportunity to explore a range of new exhibits and activities that highlight the university's contributions to various fields, according to a community announcement.
One of the main attractions will be a display of historical artifacts at the University of Minnesota Central Building, located at 1673 Dan Patch Ave.
The exhibit will showcase items from the university's archives that celebrate its anniversary and its impact on medicine, agriculture, robotics and more. These artifacts aim to highlight the university's influence across Minnesota and beyond.
In addition to historical displays, the university is engaging fairgoers in innovative research. More than 60 studies will be conducted at the fair, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to participate in scientific research. These studies will include measuring brain activity during video games, testing sensor-equipped shoes for Parkinson's disease research and creating 3D scans of participants' faces and heads.
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The university's 4-H program will also be a prominent feature at the fair. Nearly 5,000 youth from all 87 counties in Minnesota will showcase livestock and projects that have required months of preparation. Exhibits will include showmanship competitions, photography displays and robot programming. The 4-H Building, located at 1412 Cosgrove St., is undergoing fundraising efforts for renovation.
Veterinary students and professionals from the University of Minnesota will be present at the CHS Miracle of Birth Center on Judson Avenue at Clough Street. They will assist in caring for approximately 200 baby animals expected to be born during the fair. The College of Veterinary Medicine is addressing the state's veterinarian shortage by providing real-world training opportunities, including those at the state fair.
What to see: New attractions announced for Minnesota State Fair
The Agriculture Horticulture Building will feature a new ice cream exhibit that explores Minnesotans' favorite flavors and celebrates the dairy industry. Additionally, the Offal Wildlife Watching Project will take place on Sept. 1, offering insights into what animals consume. University students will also host an Insect Zoo on Aug. 29, allowing fairgoers to interact with various insects.
This story was created by reporter Charles Rankin, [email protected], with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: University of Minnesota brings research, history to State Fair