Best Sweepstakes in Saint Paul, MN: 2026 Local Guide
Compare four verified Saint Paul drawings by prize, entry method, deadline, and Fair-visit requirements.
The strongest verified Saint Paul sweepstakes for August 29, 2026, are four promotions connected to the Minnesota State Fair. They include two Minnesota Lottery drawings, the University of Minnesota State Fair Passport, and a Minnesota United FC sweepstakes. These offers run during the Fair, held August 27–September 7 at 1265 Snelling Ave.
N. in Saint Paul, according to the Minnesota State Fair. Each provides a chance to win, not a guaranteed reward.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on August 29, 2026.
Which opportunities fit your visit?
The four current promotions differ mainly in entry method and prize type: The Lottery Cash Giveaway and Minnesota United offer the simplest entry paths because neither requires completing multiple Fair stops. The soccer sweepstakes also has an online option for eligible Minnesota residents who do not use the Fair QR code. The Passport suits visitors already exploring University exhibits.
The Lottery 2nd Chance drawing has the narrowest entry route because it requires eligible nonwinning tickets from the Fair booth.
- Minnesota Lottery Cash Giveaway: Enter by Fair QR code or the Lottery mobile app.
- Minnesota Lottery 2nd Chance: Submit qualifying nonwinning scratch tickets purchased at the Fair booth.
- U of M State Fair Passport: Scan codes at five of eight University locations.
- Minnesota United FC: Enter with the Fair QR code or an online form.
Minnesota Lottery's two drawings
The free State Fair Cash Giveaway accepts entries through September 7 using a QR code or the Minnesota Lottery mobile app. One winner receives $500 plus a branded prize pack. The separate 2nd Chance drawing awards 12 winners $1,000 each and prize packs.
Entry requires nonwinning scratch tickets purchased at the Lottery's Fair booth, so it is not equivalent to the free Cash Giveaway. Both deadlines and entry methods appear on the Minnesota Lottery State Fair page. Check which drawing you are entering before submitting anything.
A general QR or app entry applies to the Cash Giveaway, while the 2nd Chance promotion depends on qualifying ticket submissions.
U of M Passport for Fair explorers
The University of Minnesota State Fair Passport turns exhibit visits into one drawing entry. Participants need an internet-enabled phone and must scan QR codes at five of the University's eight Fair locations. Ten prize packages are available, each valued at $200–$250.
The University of Minnesota Passport program limits participation to one entry per person and excludes University faculty and staff. The University says it does not retain entrant contact information beyond winner contact and reporting required by the Fair. This option has more steps than a single-form drawing, but it offers ten prizes rather than one.
Minnesota United's online-friendly option
Minnesota United FC's sweepstakes remains open until 9 p.m. Central Time on September 7. Minnesota residents age 18 or older may enter through the Fair QR code or the online form.
The sponsor permits one entry per person or household. One randomly selected winner receives a package valued at about $550: four regular-season home-game tickets, four scarves, and a ball signed by Michael Boxall. The Minnesota United official rules state that the odds depend on the number of eligible entries received.
This is the clearest choice for an eligible adult who wants a sports prize or an entry route that does not depend on completing several Fair stops.
A practical entry plan
Start with the promotions that match your circumstances and preferred prizes. Keep these limits in view: Do not treat Saint Paul's 2026 Winter Carnival button-holder drawing or FUN Pass as current August opportunities. Their savings period ended February 28, 2026.
- Use the Lottery Cash Giveaway for a free entry and a $500 cash-focused prize.
- Choose the Passport only if you can scan five University locations with an internet-enabled phone.
- Consider the Lottery 2nd Chance only if you buy scratch tickets at the Fair booth and have qualifying nonwinning tickets.
- Use Minnesota United's online form or Fair QR code only once per person or household.
- Finish every desired entry before its September 7 cutoff; Minnesota United closes specifically at 9 p.m. Central Time.