The Minnesota State Fair

Today we did something that we have not done in many years...spent the morning at the Minnesota State Fair. The State Fair was first held in 1859 near what became downtown Minneapolis, a year before Minnesota became a state. Since its inception, the fair has been held every year with only five exceptions: in 1861 and 1862 due to the Civil War and Dakota Indian Conflict, in 1893 because of scheduling conflicts with the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, in 1945 due to war-time fuel shortages, and in 1946 due to a polio epidemic. It has become one of the largest events of its kind in the US.

The 12-day Fair still has a strong agricultural focus and we walked through the the horse, goat, chicken and rabbit barns. But I believe that most come for the food and people watching. Wonderful chocolate chip cookies, pronto pups , french fries and roasted corn on the cob are just a few of the many gastronomic treats available.

After walking and eating for 4 hours we were we ready to head back to our friend's home, pack and get ready for the flight back to Portland.