Minnesota State Fair vendors raising prices to combat inflation

Some Minnesota State Fair vendors are increasing prices to combat inflation and rising food costs.

It is a State Fair staple— deep-fried candy bar topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

“It’s amazing. There’s just no words to explain. It’s so good,” Beth Tapp, Deep Fried Candy Bars manager, said.

For 16 years, customers have lined up for deep-fried candy bars at the Minnesota State fair. Tapp manages the booth and she said this year came with challenges.

“Order in advance and hope and pray you can get all your items,” Tapp said.

Last year, deep-fried candy bars were $5. This year they’re $6. Tapp said raising food costs forced the company to increase the price to keep up with inflation.

On Wednesday, it was reported the Milky Way Candy Bar was no longer on the menu because of production shortages. However, on Thursday, 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS received an update that the bars were shipped last-minute and are now back in stock.

“We’re trying to make it where everyone can enjoy a candy bar,” Tapp said.

It’s the same deal for another fan favorite— deep-fried pickles.

Last year, a regular order was $8, but this year it is $9.

The beloved bucket of Sweet Martha’s cookies also costs an extra buck. Last year it was $18, this year it is $19.

“We did have some price increases with our cost of goods so there’s some of that reflected,” Martha Rossini, Sweet Martha’s cookies founder, said.

Rossini has set up shop at the state fair for the last four decades. She is one of the hundreds of vendors who are met with increased costs.

Organizers said they’re doing their best to make the great Minnesota get-together affordable for everyone.

“We have a great lineup of free entertainment. We actually have more than 900 acts and 100 shows throughout the duration of the 12 days of the fair that are completely free,” Maria Hayden, Minnesota State Fair spokesperson said.

The State Fair also has discounted admission days throughout the 12 days.

Rossini said prices change, but the love for the state fair remains the same.

“That’s the most important fun and seeing those customers come up to the window and filling that pail and we do get the biggest smiles ever,” Rossini said.

Some vendors are keeping their prices the same at the state fair.

State Fair admission tickets increased by $1 this year. Organizers said it’s because of increased costs to hold and produce the fair. Pre-fair discounted tickets end on Aug. 24 at midnight.