The Minnesota State Fair
Thanks to books and television shows, the Minnesota State Fair has taken on epic proportions as people from around the world now know about this beloved annual institution. The cookies, the cooking competitions, the prize animals, the rides, and the entertainment: all of this is just a small part of what makes the Minnesota State Fair such a beloved event. If you’ve moved into one of the homes in Chaska MN and have never experienced the fair, you’re in for an amazing experience.
The Minnesota State Fair has been held every year, with few exceptions, since 1859. Today, this part of Minnesotan history is taking place August 24 through Labor Day, September 4, at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul. There are charter buses, express buses, park and ride, taxis and plenty of other ways to get to the big event. Check out the fair’s website for more details on all aspects of the fair.
The food at the Minnesota State Fair is legendary — and calorific — but the fair only comes around once a year, so surely that counts as moderation! As well as the classics, there are always new foods introduced to the fair. Fried food is always an option, such as the duck bacon wontons, deep fried Twizzlers, AKA, cherry bombs, the swine and spuds made of bacon-wrapped pork belly and mashed potato croquettes on sticks, and for a slightly healthier twist, there’s deep-fried avocado. Because of course there is! There are a few lighter dishes in this year’s new selection, such as Cheesy Nacho Corn on the Cob, Cranberry Wild Rice Meatballs, and even the Mobster’s Caviar, which is a cream cheese crab dip, but it has vegetables and lettuce, too!
There are plenty of other new attractions this year that won’t put you into a food coma. The tallest travelling Ferris Wheel in North America will be at the fair this year. The Veranda is a new spot to take in the views, grab something to eat or drink, take a moment to relax, or shop your heart out exploring nearly 20 vendors offering vintage, trendy, upcycled, handmade and made-in-Minnesota items. There’s also Minnesota’s Yarn Bomb project with people from across the state creating hand knitted, crocheted and other crafted yarn pieces to create a beautiful work to blanket topiaries on the Grandstand Ramp.
Hockey fans, horse lovers, and those who appreciate well-dressed sheep are among the broad cross-section of people who will find something to enjoy at this year’s Minnesota State Fair. From the latest in green technology and tips to live a greener life, to actual tips on horticulture and agriculture, not to mention plenty of fun rides, there’s a reason Minnesotans take pride in their state fair. And don’t forget the many competitions for livestock, art, talent, and more. Now is the time to sign up if you want to compete.
This is only a brief look at the many old favorites and new offerings at this year’s Minnesota State Fair. Mark your calendars and plan your routes from your new homes in Chaska MN to ensure you don’t miss this world-famous fair.
