Updates from Graham Park – June 2026
Here’s a look at the latest progress and upcoming developments at Graham Park, from major construction milestones at the future exhibition center to preparations underway for the 2026 Olmsted County Fair and new opportunities for community events and advertising.
Graham Park exhibition center construction update
Construction on the future Graham Park exhibition center continues to move steadily forward, with crews reaching several important milestones as work progresses on the 80,000-square-foot, year-round facility.
A major milestone was recently reached as the final structural beam was signed and raised into place at the future exhibition center. The beam signing ceremony brought together members of the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners and staff, local legislators, and representatives from Kraus-Anderson construction company to recognize the progress made on this long-anticipated community investment. With the structural steel now complete, work continues on exterior walls, roofing, utilities, sidewalks, curbs, and installation of mechanical and electrical systems.
Roofing work continues on the main and practice arenas, with installation complete on the facility’s flat roof areas. Wall framing is underway, and installation of exterior wall panels is expected to begin in June, marking another visible step forward in the building’s construction. Inside the facility, crews have continued pouring concrete floors throughout several areas of the building, including the electrical room where switchgear and electrical cabinets are already being installed. Teams are also finalizing wall details between the future pre-function lobby area and the main arena, allowing additional floor pours to move forward.
Additional infrastructure and building systems are also progressing. SolarPod is preparing to begin installation of the building’s solar array, while large air handling units that will support heating and cooling throughout the facility are scheduled to be installed in June.
Behind the scenes, operational planning continues as teams coordinate furniture and equipment needs, point-of-sale systems, ticketing, staffing, and pre-opening operations. A request for proposals for the facility’s ticketing system has already been released, with additional work underway on the future exhibition center website.
Construction remains on track, with the exhibition center anticipated to open in early 2027.
As part of the partnership with Oak View Group, Michael Swanson has begun onboarding and operational planning efforts as the general manager of the Graham Park exhibition center. Oak View Group will operate the exhibition center once the facility opens. Community members interested in hosting future events at the exhibition center can contact Swanson at michael.swanson@oakviewgroup.com.
Stay up to date on the latest from the exhibition center on our updates page.
Planning underway for the Olmsted County Fair
Planning for the Olmsted County Fair continues as construction on the exhibition center moves forward. Because portions of the construction site required space for new development, several smaller barns and outbuildings were removed, resulting in temporary changes to some exhibit and livestock locations during construction.
Fair organizers, county staff, and project teams have spent significant time coordinating layouts and logistics to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for exhibitors, participants, and visitors throughout construction.
This year’s fair runs from July 27 through August 2, 2026. Planned exhibit locations currently include:
- Graham Arena 1 – Beef and dairy
- Graham Arena 2 – Poultry, goats, rabbits, swine, and sheep
- Graham Arena 3 – Horses and alpacas
- Aune Hall – 4-H and FFA non-livestock exhibits
- Crawford Hall – Photography, hobbies, fine arts, wine, quilting, and culinary exhibits
- Building 40 – Miracle of Birth exhibit facing Aune Avenue and horticulture exhibits facing Fairgrounds Avenue
During construction, a combination of existing and temporary stalls will continue to support beef, dairy, and horse exhibitors while long-term improvements move forward.
Despite the ongoing construction, careful planning and coordination are helping ensure the Olmsted County Fair continues to provide the traditions, exhibits, and experiences the community looks forward to each year.
Advertise with us!
Advertising opportunities are available on Graham Park’s digital billboards located along 14th Street SW. These high-visibility displays provide businesses, event organizers, and community groups with an opportunity to share messages, promote events, and connect with thousands of daily travelers in a busy Rochester corridor.
For advertising details or to reserve space, contact 507-328-7180 or email grahampark@olmstedcounty.gov
Host your next event at Graham Park
From weddings and reunions to banquets, meetings, and community celebrations, Graham Park offers versatile event spaces to fit gatherings of all sizes. Facilities including Floral Hall, Aune Hall, and Crawford Hall provide flexible and affordable options supported by a team focused on creating a smooth and successful event experience.
To learn more or schedule a tour, contact grahampark@olmstedcounty.gov.
