ST PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota State Fair officials are saying goodbye to a well-liked program this year, touting its 15-year run at the fairgrounds as a benchmark success.
The Minnesota State Fair Foundation announced its recognition bench and table initiative will cease after the 2024 gathering. Until then, donors can still purchase and personalize new seating areas as their limited supplies last.
"Each bench and table adds a unique story to the State Fairgrounds and provides meaningful tributes for the donors who place them," a statement from the foundation said.
WATCH: The meaning behind the State Fair memorial benches (2019)
The foundation added that about 2,500 of these fixtures have been put in place at the fairgrounds since the program started, helping to provide "much-needed seating for fair guests" throughout the past 15 years. While the program has no doubt become a familiar favorite for fairgoers, the foundation said storage and logistical planning for moving the pieces in and out of storage each year was part of its decision to end it.
Foundation officials said they're "almost certain" to reach their bench and table limit before the typical spring deadline, so anyone who still wants to be a part of Minnesota State Fair history should place their orders as soon as possible.
Recognition benches and tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis for $2,500 and $5,000, respectively. The foundation said that once the supply is gone, it won't take any additional orders.
For more information about placing your order for 2024, or questions about existing orders, contact the Minnesota State Fair Foundation by email at benches@msffoundation.org; phone at 651-288-4327; or visit its website here.
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