The Great MN Get-Together

A beautiful late Summer sunset at the MN State Fair's Midway.

Although I'm not a huge fan of big crowds or outdoor events, the one that I suck it up for is the MN State Fair. It's a total must-see for those who have never been and want to get a really good chunk of Americana in one full swoop. The food stands, entertainment and general people watching at this great MN get-together is PRICELESS. What stood out this year though are the big acts that played the Grand Stand -- apparently the highest ticket prices in the fair's history. Rush and KISS both played this year and although I'm a huge KISS fan, I instead went to see Rush as my friend Simon had 2 press passes and I was lucky enough to be his plus one. We had great seats (5th row center) and it was a beautiful night to be surrounded by some die hard fans. I did end up going a second time with Dylan, who hadn't been to the fair since he was a teenager. We gorged ourselves on fried cheese curds, rode on dizzying rides at the Midway and visited the pigs, cows and poultry barns. It just isn't Summer here in the Twin Cities without the MN State Fair.

The Agriculture building housing the largest vegetables/fruits and Blue Ribbon winners.

Fanny packs...and well, big fannies at the State Fair.

Dylan in line waiting for an Iced Coffee...on a stick. Kidding.

A beautiful lady Bull - look at her lovely blond locks!

Well, hello fancy pants Rooster!

Rush's Time Machine stage.

The only thing I didn't eat at the fair...which is strange because I LOVE bacon.

Me and Simon getting ready for the sold-out Rush show.

Cool props onstage at Rush.

The one and only Geddy Lee.

Neil Peart's awesome drum set. 

Vintage seed sacks.

Vita.mn's Blue Ribbon Seed Art winner.