20-05-2025
Two Minnesota State Fair free concert stages lose corporate sponsorship
Two familiar free stages at the Minnesota State Fair have lost their corporate sponsorship.
The Leinie Lodge Bandshell, the Fair's largest free stage, is now known as the Bandshell, while Schell's Stage at Schilling Amphitheater is now the West End Market Stage at Schilling Amphitheater.
A State Fair spokesperson declined an interview request, but did release a statement saying that their sponsorship agreements typically range from one to three years.
'We have been privileged to collaborate with several valued sponsors over many, many years, including Leinenkugel's and August Schell Brewing Co., whose long-standing support of the State Fair is deeply appreciated,' the statement said. 'We recognize that companies reassess their budget priorities for a variety of reasons, and we respect that every situation is unique. We extend our sincere gratitude and best wishes to all of our partners as they move forward.'
The spokesperson also said the State Fair is open to discuss new sponsorship inquiries.
Leinenkugel's first sponsored the Leinie Lodge in the International Bazaar in 1990. Beginning in 2001, the larger Bandshell was named the Leinie Lodge Bandshell.
A spokesperson for Molson Coors, parent company of Leinenkugel's, declined an interview request, but released a statement to the Pioneer Press: 'Leinenkugel's will continue to be available at the State Fair this year, and though it is common for brands to shift sponsorships, we'll continue to show up with various partners at events across Minnesota.'
August Schell Brewing Co. started at the State Fair in 2004 as a sponsor of the Heritage Square stage. In 2014, the company became sponsor of the Schell's Stage at Schilling Amphitheater when Heritage Square was replaced with West End Market.
A representative from August Schell Brewing Co. did not respond to email requests for a comment.
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