Some things have changed since my last visit. The “jumping water” fountains are gone, replaced by boring clay planters. The DNR’s live wildlife exhibit was replaced by plastic dioramas, in response to visitor’s concerns that the animals might be “in distress.” The animal barns have installed sanitizing atomizers in the exits, and there seem to be many more food items available “on-a-stick” in the new and improved Food Building (sponsored and paid for by Cub Foods). But there are still food stands every five feet, chock full of cholesterol-y goodness. The “Mighty Midway” still numbs the casual observer with lights and screams and cheap prizes (Giant SpongeBob Squarepants!) and last year’s Top 40 hits pumping from every speaker. The Skyway and Space Tower still offer a bird’s eye view of the Fairgrounds and a chance to escape the heat and cool your heels. And people-watching is still the necessary and unofficial sport of the “Great Minnesota Get-Together.”
The State Fair is over. The midway rides and games have moved on to their next victims, and the animals are happy to be in their own pastures again. And humans have to wait another year to clog their arteries.
I brought my mother’s digital camera; my first lengthy experience with the medium. I wish I could have taken more shots, but I had to sacrifice a few (the Skyway) in order to save room for others (cheese curds).
Enjoy.