Volunteer at the Fair

Earn funds for your Non-Profit!

Each year, the Dakota County Agricultural Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, partners with local nonprofit groups to help staff the Dakota County Fair. In return for volunteering, your organization receives a $300 donation for every completed shift.

This is a great fundraising opportunity for athletic and activity booster clubs, church and school groups, civic organizations, and other community groups.

How It Works

Donation: $300 per completed shift
Shifts Per Group: You may sign up for as many shifts as your group is able to commit to/cover
Volunteers Needed: 5 volunteers per shift
Shift Length: 4 hours
Age Requirement: Volunteers must be 13 years or older
Adult Supervision: Each shift group must include at least one adult (18+)

Fair Week Shift Schedule

Dakota County Fair | August 10-16, 2026

Morning: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (7:45 AM check-in)
Afternoon: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (11:45 AM check-in)
Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (3:45 PM check-in)

Available Role: Parking Attendants

Volunteers will assist in directing traffic in the fair’s parking lots. It’s a simple, essential role that keeps the fair running smoothly!

Receive a free high-visibility Dakota County Fair T-shirt
Work alongside fellow community members
Help support both the fair and your organization’s fundraising efforts

Youth ages 13+ are welcome to participate, provided there is at least one adult (18+) supervising per shift.

Sign-up/Inquire

Volunteer at the fair, while earning funds for your non-profit!

For more information or to register your organization for volunteer shifts, please submit this form, or contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Kristine Smith, at fair@dakotacountyfair.org.

Rules & FAQ – Volunteer Program

Who Can Volunteer?

Your group must be a non-profit, tax-exempt organization as defined under Section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code.
Volunteers must be at least 13 years old.
Each shift must include at least one adult (18+) to supervise youth volunteers.

How Many Shifts Can We Sign Up For?

You may sign up for as many shifts as your group can commit to.
Please only sign up for shifts you are confident you can cover—there are no backup staff or extra volunteers available.

Do we get free parking and admission?

Fair admission is always free!
Each group will get a free parking pass per shift. If additional passes are needed, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator.

What If We Can't Make Our Shift?

Once your group commits to a shift, we count on you to be there.
If something comes up and you cannot attend, contact the volunteer coordinator immediately at 651-463-6900.

What Are the Expectations for Volunteers?

Volunteers should:

Be self-motivated, dependable, mature, and team-oriented
Be willing to work hard, get dirty, and step in wherever needed
Enjoy working with a diverse range of people
Show respect and genuine concern for the fair and its guests

Is Safety a Priority?

Absolutely. Safety is critical for all volunteers, guests, and staff. Volunteers should:

Always act in a way that promotes safety
Avoid situations that feel unsafe or uncomfortable
Immediately report any concerns to a staff member on-site