Everyday miracles at the Minnesota State Fair

You never know what you’re going to witness when you walk into the CHS Miracle of Birth Center at the Minnesota State Fair.

And that’s why people keep coming back, day after day and year after year.

A piglet’s first steps over there. A chicken hatching out of an egg behind you. Or a calf taking its first breath surrounded by dozens of wide-eyed children and adults.

Miracles from the farm happen every day at one of the largest state fairs in the U.S.

The cheers from the crowd when animals are born bring to life the experience of seeing new life.

Staffed by volunteers with FFA and the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA), the CHS Miracle of Birth Center gives visitors the opportunity to learn about animal agriculture and veterinary science. They also can stop by the adjoining FFA Chapter House and Leadership Center. 

The MVMA started the CHS Miracle of Birth Center in 2001 as a way to share an experience that farmers and veterinarians see frequently – and to educate visitors about the care of livestock and the importance of animals to our economy, health and quality of life.

More than 200 calves, piglets and lambs will be born during the fair’s 12-day run.

The CHS Miracle of Birth Center sees more than 1 million people walk through its doors each fair. It’s located on the south end of the fairgrounds in Falcon Heights, Minn., on Judson Ave. at Clough Street. The exhibit is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (until 3 p.m. on Labor Day). 

Other partners in the free exhibit include the Minnesota State Fair, University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, Minnesota Veterinary Medical Foundation, Christensen Farms, the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council, Minnesota Pork Board, Minnesota Corn Growers Association and Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council.