Successful Minnesota State Fair Attendance
September 6, 2018 - The EAA Spirit of Aviation mobile experience presented by NATCA had a spectacular stop at the Minnesota State Fair (the second largest fair in the U.S.) from August 23-September 3. EAA’s free mobile experience allowed attendees to learn the fundamentals of homebuilding and get hands-on with aviation-based activities including:
- Cookie cutter making with aircraft aluminum and rivet pulling.
- Flite Test glider building.
- Virtual reality experience which showcases a 360-degree video of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and the EAA Aviation Museum.
- Redbird Flight Simulators.
The EAA Spirit of Aviation mobile experience was successful for a few reasons. With mostly clear skies and moderate weather throughout the 12 days, the fair experienced record-breaking attendance, which greatly increased EAA’s visibility. Local news stations highlighted EAA’s first visit to the state fair by letting attendees know about the activities and presenting the Spirit of Aviation as one of the “hottest new exhibits.” Lastly, our exhibit was one of the few experiences that was free of charge and interesting to people of all ages. Lots of people expressed sincere excitement about the activities on the trailer and often proclaimed that “AirVenture is on my bucket list!” Visitors also enjoyed receiving a free The Adventures of Aviore comic book.
Here is a quick look at our stats for the week:
- 15,652 attendee check-ins.
- 1,700 Aviore comic books distributed.
- 3,000 Flite Test gliders built.
This success would not have been possible without great support from local EAA chapters and members. EAA staff and 50 volunteers provided a fun, engaging experience for potential aviators while keeping lines moving. Now, local chapters are gearing up to host new members and youths at meetings and Young Eagles rallies.
The Spirit of Aviation mobile experience continues its 2018 tour on the West Coast, heading to the California Capital Airshow, September 21-23 at Mather Airport (KMHR) in Sacramento. If you are interested in volunteering or participating with the Spirit of Aviation mobile experience, please contact tour manager, Chris Cassinelli, ccassinelli@eaa.org.
