I was invited by WCCO - the local CBS news affiliate - to spend the day at the Minnesota State Fair.
They asked if I would like to bring my sons and share our adventures on social media.
If you're not familiar, the Minnesota State Fair is one of the largest state fairs in the country. It is a showcase some of our state's most unique foods, hearty farm animals, tractors, trucks, arts, dance, live fresh water fish, crazy carnival rides, live music and so much more!
My boys, ages 6 & 9, especially loved the two Midways. There is a "Kidway" featuring smaller scaled rides and the Midway which has rides and all sorts of carnival games.
The fun house in the Midway was a hit.
We got there early and there were already plenty of people!
There is some great shopping at the State Fair. I always stop at the "I Love You" booth, the Sota Clothing pop-up camper store and the "Piccadilly Prairie" booth. All of them feature great Minnesota-pride products.
Even amongst the crowds, you can find solitude in unique places.
Stomach space is a valuable commodity at the State Fair. There just isn't enough room in one's stomach to try it ALL! So it is always a debate what to eat. The boys were drawn to the smells of fresh warm cinnamon rolls and they didn't disappoint.
Also, please note that my soon-to-be-Kindergartner is in a stroller. At first he scoffed and said he was way too big to ride in his old stroller... but within minutes he was in it & I was SOOO glad I brought it! Unless your little one can walk about three miles (seriously) - bring the stroller!
You can also bring in your own waters and snacks. We didn't bring in any food but we sure were glad to have our own water bottles. Finding a water fountain or waiting in line just to buy bottled water can be a bit of a time suck.
This year, there is a brand new giant Ferris wheel! It is named the "Great Big Wheel" and can be found over near the Kidway on the northeast side of the Fairgrounds.
Visiting and petting the animals is also a highlight for my boys.
I love the chance to meet some of our state's great farmers! (When they're awake.)
I grew up caring for pet rabbits... so every year I fall in love with the bunnies . When we leave the fair, I always seem to google the closest place to adopt a mini-lop... Haven't gone through with it YET though 🐰
One of my favorite parts of the fair - is the people watching. I love to find a nice quiet bench to sit, rest & watch the hustle of the crowd!
A little fun fact: the midway and kidway rides and games are all discounted before 1pm. If a game typically costs 5 tickets, it will probably be 4 tickets before 1pm. It is a nice way to stretch your dollar. I also suggest going to Cub Foods and buying a State Fair coupon book. If you plan to do the rides and games at the midway or kidway - the coupon book is a must.
Our last stop of the day: The boys wanted to surprise their dad by bringing him home his favorite fair food. The turkey leg! We picked up one to-go on our way out.
Ahhhh all fair-ed out! This is in the parking lot while loading up to go home. Lots of prizes. Lot of walking. Lots of great memories!!
Thank you so much WCCO for asking me to share our day at the fair! We had a great day!