Frequently Asked Questions

When and Where is the Fair?

The 2023 Fair will be August 11 - 13 and located at Harriet Island in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

  • Friday, August 11, 3pm-11pm 
  • Saturday, August 12, 10am-11pm
  • Sunday, August 13, 10am-7:30pm (7pm scattering)

Are you charging admission this year?

Yes, we are. Tickets will go on sale on March 17, 2023.

What about COVID-19? Will you be requiring masks?

We care about your health and safety.  We will follow then-current guidelines and will keep this page updated as we near the event. 

Can I come and go throughout the day?

Yes. Make sure you get a stamp as you leave for same day re-entry! 

What’s new this year?

Stay tuned for the new fun things we have planned!

What if it rains?

Irish weather happens and will make Harriet Island even more green and beautiful like Ireland.  We are a rain or shine event and cannot refund tickets. Bring your raincoat and umbrella and have some fun. 

Will you have Food and Beverage?

Yes! We are pleased to bring you a variety of food and beverage options. We are adding new food vendors this year and will be bringing back many crowd favorites. Full food vendor list will be available in July. And each vendor/area will accept credit and debit cards (preferred) and cash.

I can’t/won’t go in person - are you holding any virtual events?

We will not offer any formal virtual programming but, tune in via Facebook for some live broadcasting. 

Can I bring my pets to the fair?

Leashed pets are welcome this year. Please note that this is an outdoor event with crowds, music, sports, so we appreciate your consideration in whether this is the best environment for your pet. There may be restrictions during the sheep herding events in the vicinity of the sheep.

Can I bring in my own food and drinks?

No, except for one bottle of water.  We will have a water station and you can bring your refillable water bottle. You will want to check out the many options for food and beverages available. If you have special dietary needs, please contact us at food@irishfair.com.   As a note, we rely on the revenue from sales to help pay the rapidly increasing costs associated with hosting a major 3-day event and to hold our ticket pricing down. 

What are my transportation options for getting to the Fair?

Drive, bus, rideshare, walk, bike, scoot, taxi, boat - MANY options to get to Harriet Island. (We don’t recommend swimming.)

Visit our Getting to the Fair and Parking page for suggestions.

What can I / can't I bring with me to the fair?

Permitted Items on Festival Grounds

  • Blankets
  • Lawn chairs (we will have some chairs available but not guaranteed) 
  • Sealed water bottles (up to 1 liter each)
  • Refillable water bottles 
  • Backpacks smaller than 17"x12"x10"
  • Binoculars
  • Non-aerosol sunscreen
  • Small handheld umbrella
  • Service animals specifically trained to aid a person with a disability

Park Rules apply! Prohibited items are included in the following, non-exhaustive list:

  • Unleashed pets except as permitted for service animals
  • Coolers
  • Outside food and beverages, except sealed water bottles - UNLESS otherwise arranged. 
  • Skateboards, scooters, bicycles may not be used on the grounds
  • Glass bottles or cans, including aerosol cans
  • Backpacks and bags larger than 17"x12"x10"
  • Laser devices
  • Fireworks
  • Chain wallets 
  • Weapons. Parks Rules and Regulations prohibit weapons of any kind except as allowed by Minnesota State Statutes. 
  • Drones (see the City of St. Paul website for permitting information about drones)

Is Irish Fair accessible and do you make special accommodations?

The Irish Fair of Minnesota is committed to making the Fair as accessible to as many guests as possible. Visit our Accessibility page for details. 

Is there a dedicated Quiet Space?

Guests with autism, sensory processing disorders, and other needs are welcome to spend time in our Quiet Space located near the Pavilion. This space will be kept dark and quiet for people who need a break.

Irish Fair Social Narrative

Is there a private space for nursing mothers?

Irish Fair will offer a private tented area near the Quiet Space for nursing mothers.

Will you have ATMs/Cashpoints?

There will be an ATM machine located near the main entrance/Water Street. There are several businesses near Harriet Island that also have ATMs.

Where can I find First Aid?

The first aid station is located next to the playground area, west of the main entrance.

What is the restroom situation?

The restrooms located in the Pavilion will be available to all Fair guests.  In addition, we will have portable toilets araound the island including a women-only section. Restrooms can be found on the Fair map.

What if I lose something or find something? (Lost & Found)

Lost and Found is located at the Info Booth/Welcome Booth directly in front of the main entrance. After the festival, all remaining items are brought to the Irish Fair of Minnesota office. Email info@irishfair.com to see if your lost item was turned in.