Unlike other long time state fair goers, I've only been in the fair 3 times (that I remember hmmm..) ever since I move to MN. So far this year is the hottest of them all with the average of 90 F and humidity that is around 60% when we went last Saturday. I enjoy the summer heat more compare to the cold winter. So, the heat was least of my concern since I can withstand it longer compare to my friends that came with me to the fair. The thing that I'm worried about is exhaustion from walking around and making it through the crowd to get into our destination. Talk about being NOT athletic at all!
With the help of friends, I've compiled some (kind of) guide to survive and enjoy the Minnesota State Fair. ^_^ Less Hassle, More Fun!!
Plan ahead. The most important thing of all. Though based on personal experience, most of the time plans are not always followed. There will always be some adjustments but still it is better to have one ready so just you'll have a guide. It's better to be prepared than sorry. Simple small plans can make a BIG difference like finalizing what time to meet up with friends, where you want to go, what to bring, check the weather, etc.
Pack well. Bring your necessities and put it in any good size bag that you are comfortable to bring. Keep in mind to not over pack. There'll be a lot of walking and eating so make sure that the bag will not be an inconvenience to you.
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Here are some things you MUST bring with you in the fair:
Water bottle - Fill it up with water then put in the freezer the night before you go to the fair. Bringing your own water bottle will save you money for drinks and spend more money for food, games and etc. If you run out of water, you can always refill your water bottle at Culligan's (though they do have complimentary drinks, you are not allowed to refill your water bottle here but I've seen others doing it and it seems that the staff doesn't mind it all) or any water fountain scattered around the fair.
Small towel - Use this to cover up your frozen water bottle. This will prevent the insides of your bag from getting wet and you can also use it to wipe your sweat or cool off your head/face/arms/etc. when you are feeling hot.
Wipes - this will be very helpful to clean up your hands to get ready for the next chow.
Sun glasses / Hat / Sunscreen - Isn't it obvious? its hot out there :p
The less items you've got in your bag the better. So that you can fill it up with goodies that you might be getting. You'll never know what you might get until you see it. And of course din't forget to bring your MOOLA!!! :p
Dress appropriately. There'll be a lot of WALKING and EATING to the fair so you might want to reconsider what you are going to wear and what shoes to use.
Check your Blue Book. The coupons are only acceptable on participating food stalls. Some of them has at least 2 branches in different locations but only one of them will accept the coupon. Check the map at the back of the coupons to confirm if that is the right food stall.
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Know your way around the fair. Did you know that there is a MN State Fair App?? Both available to download from the App Store or Play Store. We used the app to locate the places that we wanted to go then mark it on the state fair map. Perfect combo!
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Be an early bird. If you want to avoid the crowd then sleep early and be in the fair early.
Grab a bag. If your bag pack is full, go grab a complimentary bag (you've got no excuse not to find one.. they are literally everywhere just waiting to be grabbed :p) and most of the time you'll get yourself a cool state fair memento inside or the usual flyers/advertisements that can be used as a good cover to sit down in the ground, once you find a good spot to take a break. you don't need to worry abut your pants getting soiled. ^_^
One of the places to visit to get complimentary good quality (and sometimes fashionable) bags and fans is the Education building. *wink *wink :p
Food!!
I recommend getting the Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Shrimp On-A-Stick at The Shrimp Shack.. Yum!
Partnered with a lemonade (Check blue book for the lemonade discount at The Shrimp Shack) what a perfect combo!!
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**Disclaimer: Some photos found in these post are not mine and got it from various sites... ^_^
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