A fantastic group of volunteers have heard what you want and created a relaxing festival feel to the day complete with an ongoing Main Stage celebrating Ethiopian culture, a huge Merkato, intimate Round Table discussions, crazy-fun Kids’ activities, tasty food choices and a flexible schedule and layout that allows your family to experience the day however you choose.

Find us at the Fair
The Bazaar is located in the southeast corner of the State Fairgrounds. This beautiful recently renovated facility has a large grassy area on one side with a permanent covered merkato area and band shell type outdoor Main Stage. Slight drizzle won’t bother us and with other large fair buildings close by, the rain plan won’t need to change your plans. There is plenty of free parking within the fair grounds.

Festival Stage
Our venue boasts a spectacular outdoor stage to celebrate Ethiopia through music, dance and culture throughout the day. You and your family can sit down and enjoy any part of the Festival Stage or just take in the great sounds as you shop the open-air, covered Merkato for some great finds.

Round Table Discussions
Our community is blessed with passionate and knowledgeable parents. Several informal discussion groups will take place at the Mehaber throughout the day with relevant topics. Join any group to listen or share your experience.

Food
Savor traditional Ethiopian dishes prepared by local caterer, Mengistu or munch on tasty Minnesota fair favorites. All food and drinks are sold directly by our vendors throughout the day. Come hungry and bring cash.

Kids’ Park
Kids of all ages won’t want to miss the CHSFS Kids’ Park. Our outdoor Kids’ Park will invite kids to jump, climb, run and play in easy view of parents chatting with new friends or reconnecting with old travel companions. Don’t miss CHSFS’s A Day In the Life of an Ethiopian Child presentation at their booth.