The Minnesota State Fair, also known as the “Great Minnesota Get Together”, is just around the corner and this year they have a few surprises.In honor of the 150th birthday of the state of Minnesota, the fair folks have assembled a ‘big top’ tent just off Heritage Square where events ranging from panel discussions to sing alongs and interviews with notable Minnesotans will take place.
The birthday celebration will culminate with a special event on Labor Day, the last day of the 2008 fair. The Minnesota Sesquicentennial Commission will present Minnesota’s five Honorary State Capitals for the 150th Anniversary of Statehood.
Bemidji, Thief River Falls, Detroit Lakes, New Ulm and Winona will provide live music and showcase their unique regional character and culture.Exhibits and entertainment include a 150th birthday cake! This special event will be held in Carousel Park.
New to the 2008 fair will be a rebuilt and revamped International Bazaar. The previous reincarnation of the bizarre was the “Mexican Village”. The new Bazaar is still in its old location, just east of the Haunted Mansion.
Foodies might appreciate some of the new meals on a stick that are making their debut in 2008. They include a chocolate and bacon concoction, studded with sea salt. Of course the old favorites like Pronto Pups and Mini Donuts will be in attendance.
The grandstand shows (as always) take a decidedly country sound with artists like Dierks Bentley, Brad Paisley and Toby Keith making appearances. The perennial favorite The Prairie Home Companion also makes their yearly appearance at the grandstand as well.
Admission is $11.00 but discount tickets are available at various Cub Foods stores prior to the start of the fair. Plus, the fair board has requested that food vendors try to keep prices reasonable, despite the recent wholesale price increases in food and other supplies.
This years State Fair runs August 21st to September 1st 2008. Photo Courtesy MN State Fair
No comments:
Post a Comment