Steele Saloon build at SCFF is planned for spring
The Steele Saloon will be housed in a permanent structure for the first time during the 2024 Steele County Free Fair. The building has been ordered, and construction is set for April 15-May 15, funded in part by large, anonymous donations. It will be on the north side of the fairgrounds, where the formerly tented saloon stood. Illustration courtesy of SCFF
It took just five years – four, if you count a COVID year – for a mildly unpopular idea to become a permanent fixture at the Steele County Free Fair.
The Steele Saloon, the tented watering hole on the north side of the fairgrounds, began as a second option to grab a drink and meet friends while enjoying the annual August celebration.
When the idea – and the 80-by-40-foot tent – were first pitched in 2019, there was significant pushback, both from SCFF Board of Directors and the public.
The main objection was the introduction of hard liquor at what is often billed as a family-friendly event, but Director Doug Meier struck a deal: give him two years to see if it would be successful.
It was a rousing success in 2019; after a year off in 2020, 2021 was even bigger, both in profits and patron numbers.
The Steele Saloon was here to stay.
Meier then asked the board to budget about $40,000 in 2023 to pour a concrete slab upon which the tent would sit, keeping the bar and its customers out of the dirt.
But four years was enough for some anonymous – and very generous – contributions to fund a permanent building. Meier said the donors came forward unsolicited, describing them as “longtime friends of the fair.”
He and the board spent the past year studying plans and designs.
“The building has been ordered,” he said at this month’s SCFF Board meeting. “It’s supposed to be here April 1.”
The builder has set aside April 15-May 15 to complete the 120-by-40-foot pole barn-style structure. It features several garage doors, allowing for an open-air feel. There will be a patio on each end of the saloon, as well as functional restrooms inside.
Scott Kozelka, manager of the SCFF, said the saloon will hold about 300 people. The plan is to include it among the rest of the fairgrounds’ facilities available for rent in the off-season.
Additional funds are being raised; including bids on several bottles of liquor.
“I think everything is rolling along good,” Meier said.
The Steele Saloon will remain at its former location, between the grandstand and the Village of Yesteryear.