Apples at the Minnesota State Fair
At the Minnesota State Fair held in Rochester in 1866, John S. Harris displayed more than 20 varieties of apples that he had grown on his farm. It was at this state fair that early growers formed the Minnesota Fruit Growers' Association (later the Minnesota State Horticultural Society). Every year since, Minnesota apple growers have displayed their apples for judging in the State Fair’s Horticulture building.
Those in attendance often hear exclamations of surprise from visitors that all of the exhibits were grown in Minnesota. The horticultural department at the state fair is a means of showing what our State is doing in horticulture and at the same time is educational and inspiring.
Judging and Contests
Judging of animals and plants for excellence has historically been — and still is — a key part of the Minnesota State Fair. In the Horticulture Building, apple growers may submit a plate of six apples for judging or a collection. As of 2022, there are 18 different apple varieties listed in the apple class. State Fair judges evaluate apples based on the following criteria: size, color, trueness to the variety, condition, and uniformity. Ribbons and cash prizes are awarded to the top specimens.
Explore more of this exhibit using the page links below.