Rides, art and agriculture: New Minnesota State Fair attractions, exhibits announced
A new roller coaster reaching heights of 55 feet, called the Riptide, is planned for the Mighty Midway.[Minnesota State Fair]
As the 2021 Minnesota State Fair takes shape, organizers announced new attractions Wednesday.
In terms of new rides, a new roller coaster reaching heights of 55 feet, called the Riptide, is planned for the Mighty Midway, organizers said. Meanwhile, the fair’s Adventure Park will now be located along the south side of Judson Avenue, between the CHS Miracle of Birth Center and the Dairy Building.
For those looking for some art, local artists are painting 10 large-scale pieces of art that reflect the world in which they want to live. During the fair’s 12 days, those artists will be on-site, creating their art.
The so-called Joyful World Mural Park will be located on the west side of Chambers Street, between West Dan Patch and Carnes avenues.
Also, there’s a new competition featuring those who made art using their "Crop Art to Go" kits from 2020.
The deadline to register for the new competition is Aug. 13 and the art will be displayed in the Agriculture Horticulture Building.
For those interested in agriculture, fair visitors will be able to see restored tractors and new agricultural project exhibits via the Agriculture Horticulture Building. Additionally, the iconic Cattle Barn is celebrating 100 years with an educational exhibit and photo opportunity this year.
This year, the fair will also host the prestigious Central Regional Finals exhibition, which brings together draft horse hitches from 12 states and central Canada. It will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 26.
For the state fair foodies, Baba’s and Solem Concessions Cheese Curds and Mini Donuts will make their debuts this year. The two newly-announced food vendors join four previously-announced new additions.
Baba’s will be located on the east side of Underwood Street, between Lee and Randall avenues. Solem Concessions Cheese Curds and Mini Donuts will also be located on the east side of Underwood Street, between Murphy and Lee avenues.
This year, there will be an expanded pop-up blood donation site as well as a community COVID-19 vaccination clinic, both at the North End Event Center. Advance appointments are encouraged at the blood donation site.
There will also be a skin cancer education and screening program offered along Underwood Street, north of Murphy Avenue and east of the Pet Pavilions.
For those seeking a break from the sights, smells and sounds of the fair will now have that option via the Fraser Sensory Building, which will offer a calming atmosphere and support staff for those who might find aspects of the fair overwhelming. The Fraser Sensory Building is located along the west side of Cosgrove Street.
For those planning in advance, there’s a new section on the state fair website that details what’s new at the 2021 fair and will provide updates.
Additional information on new attractions this year can be found here.