FOX Sports North Connects with Thousands at the Minnesota State Fair

If it’s “Minnesotan,” chances are you’ll find it at the Minnesota State Fair- which is exactly why FOX Sports North had a major presence at this year’s “Great Minnesota Get-Together,” Aug. 26-Sept. 1.

FOX Sports North has had a presence at the Fair for the past seven years, but stepped it up a notch this year by acquiring a new building in a prime location. With a few renovations, thousands of giveaways and the time and energy of many employees, FOX Sports North was able to connect with thousands of Minnesotans in a new way:

·         Recorded over 700 “Be a Sports Anchor” updates

·         Handed out over 6,000 giveaways & 25,000 team pocket schedules

·         Over 6,000 people registered to win “Hometown Team” team tickets

·         Hosted first ever State Fair viewing party  

·         Promoted events across multiple platforms

The New Building
Marketing Director, Nikki White took on the challenge of refurbishing an old church into a “cool” new sports-themed building.

• The outside of the building was branded with FOX Sports North/team logos
• The inside included additional network/team branding as well as signage promoting FOX Sports Prep Zone, FOXsportsnorth.com and more.

Activities

It was a busy twelve days at the Fair. FOX Sports North had something special for sports fan fairgoers planned every day, including:

• Be a Sports Anchor: Fans had the opportunity to record their own sports update, then access/share with friends via FOXsportsnorth.com Watch
• Meet and Greet FOX Sports North Talent: Many of FOX Sports North’s on-air talent greeted fans and signed autographs
• Special Appearances by Athletes, Team Mascots and Cheerleaders: Fans flocked to the building for a chance to take photos with representatives from their favorite teams    
• Something for All: Games with prizes for the kids and pockets schedules/giveaways for all
• Thank our Troops: As part of FOX Sports North’s “Operation Home Base” campaign, fans had the opportunity to submit their messages of thanks by signing a banner. (to be delivered to the troops)
• Viewing Area & Viewing Party: Fans could relax in leather recliners, watch network coverage on HDTVs and play PS3 games. Select fans had the chance to attend a catered Twins viewing party in the same location. (A value-added opportunity for SONY/PS3, HOM Furniture) 

Live Coverage & Promotion

FOX Sports North promoted the new building location and schedule of events across all platforms

• Live Hits at the Fair during Twins Coverage: FOX Sports North hosted numerous pre and post-game segments from the Fair as well as live “look ins” during Twins programming. Watch
• On-Site Radio Appearances:  On-air talent joined KFAN Sports Talk radio live at the Fair Monday-Friday. (also streamed on FOXsportsnorth.com)  Watch
• Special State Fair Webpage: The FOX Sports North web team created a special State Fair page on the FOXsportsnorth.com. Fans could check the schedule of events and view “Be a Sports Anchor” updates.
• Fair Updates via Social Media: Fans were able to get the daily Fair download via updates on Facebook and Twitter
• Promotion: The marketing/OAP team created numerous on-air promos and in game drops driving traffic to the new FOX Sports North building.