Fairly Unbalanced

Minnesota State Fair food reviews, news and more

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I am a lifelong Minnesota State Fair enthusiast from Minneapolis, Minnesota. I’ve attended over 30 years of the Great Minnesota Get-Together, trying nearly every food on offer and wearing down numerous pairs of shoes. I draw on my years of Fair experience to guide you through the hits and misses of my favorite event of the year.
  • Daily Schedule Highlights – Monday, August 28th, 2023

    Daily Schedule Highlights – Monday, August 28th, 2023

    The first weekend of the Fair has concluded, and the Great Minnesota Get-Together is in full swing! Weekdays at the Fair typically see smaller crowds but not lower excitement, as the Fair does a great job of making sure all 12 days are packed full of things to do. Day Five is Seniors Day and Mental Health Awareness Day at the Fair, with a variety of special events and special deals available to Fairgoers, including discounted admission for those age 65+.

    Below is a selection of what we think is most worthy of checking out on Day Five; for a full daily schedule, visit the Minnesota State Fair official site at mnstatefair.org:

    • 9:00am: Stock Dog Sheepherding Trials (Coliseum) — The exciting and varied action in the Coliseum continues with a unique event that tasks dogs with guiding sheep through an obstacle course, with competition in three different divisions.
    • 10:30am and 11:45am: The 34th Infantry Division “Red Bull” Band (Leinie Lodge Bandshell) — Enjoy a special performance from the members of the Minnesota National Guard that make up the Red Bull Band, which has been in service for over 120 years.
    • 10:45am, 12:00pm, and 1:15pm: Other Country Ensemble (International Bazaar) — “Using improvisation as a common thread, Other Country Ensemble performs folk music from around the world with a focus on music from the Northern Mediterranean region” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “Bakchelerde”
    • 11:00am, 2:00pm, and 4:30pm: All-Star Stunt Dogs Splash (The North Woods Stage) — Watch all the fun tricks and athletic feats these various breeds of trained dogs can achieve in this showcase of canines!
    • 11:00am, 2:00pm, and 4:00pm: Last Chance Forever Bird Show (DNR Building Garden Stage) — Make your way to the DNR Garden Stage for Last Chance Forever Conservancy’s raptor show, which they have presented at the Fair for decades previously but is returning after a pandemic hiatus. Owls, falcons and hawks swoop over the crowd and the intelligent conservationists dazzle with facts about these majestic creatures.
    • 12:00pm, 3:00pm, 5:30pm, and 7:00pm: Timberworks Lumberjack Show (The North Woods Stage) — Take in all the excitement of this highly-competitive lumberjack competition, including events like the obstacle pole, speed climb, and the wet and wild logroll. Pick your side and cheer your team on to victory!
    • 1:00pm and 2:30pm: Bryan White (Leinie Lodge Bandshell) — “Oklahoma-born singer-songwriter Bryan White is known for writing great songs full of heart and honesty. The American country superstar with the voice of an angel experienced life-changing success in the ‘90s and has now become an international phenomenon” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “God Gave Me You”
    • 2:00pm: Minnesota State Fair Parade — The daily parade, with a route that runs from the Dairy Building north past the Leinie Lodge Bandshell and Baldwin Stage to the Eco Experience and then back south, features marching bands from across the state and vibrant floats.
    • 3:15pm, 4:30pm, and 5:45pm: Native Pride Dancers (International Bazaar) — “Native Pride Dancers is an internationally known high-energy dance troupe featuring an innovative blend of modern and traditional Native American dance styles. The ensemble’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its movement and authentic regalia” (Minnesota State Fair). Watch: The Kennedy Center performance
    • 3:45pm and 4:45pm: Dallas Wayne with Redd Volkaert (Leinie Lodge Bandshell) — “Talented singer-songwriter Wayne and guitarist extraordinaire Volkaert share their love of making music with a mix of classic country, bluegrass, honky-tonk and original songs” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “She”
    • 4:00pm, 5:00pm, and 6:00pm: Honky-Tonk Jump (Schilling Amphitheater) — “With roots in Western swing, blues and jazz, Honky-Tonk Jump plays Texas dance hall music with a beat that’s great for dancing” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “Okie Boogie”
    • 5:00pm: Faith Boblett (MPR Booth) — “Faith’s music falls somewhere in the realm of pop, Americana, rock, and alt country. She pulls inspiration from songwriters like Sheryl Crow, Brandi Carlile, and Tom Petty” (artist Spotify bio). Listen: “Didn’t Want You”
    • 6:00pm: MSF Amateur Talent Contest (Leinie Lodge Bandshell) — Watch as contestants in various age divisions compete for the opportunity to advance to the Talent Contest Finals, held Sunday, September 3rd in the Grandstand.
    • 7:00pm: Happy Together Tour 2023 featuring The Turtles (Grandstand, $33) — “A show full of chart-topping hits from the ‘60s and ‘70s – an undeniable 61 Billboard Top 40 smashes. The tour once again features The Turtles, who also act as musical hosts for the evening. The Turtles are joined by Little Anthony, Gary Puckett & The Union Gap, The Vogues, The Classics IV and The Cowsills” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: The Turtles, “Happy Together”
    • 8:00pm: ABBASolutely Fab (International Bazaar) — “An all-star lineup of stellar Twin Cities and British musicians performing the songs of pop/disco supergroup ABBA” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “Mamma Mia”
    • 8:00pm: Heatbox (Schilling Amphitheater) — “Minneapolis-based Heatbox effortlessly blends vocal percussion and vocal turntablism with the simulation of horns, strings, musical instruments and various sonic anomalies. Known for his innovative live performances and uniquely diverse set of creative gifts, this funky beatboxing loop artist is a creative force to behold” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “Beige”
    • 8:30pm: Drake Milligan (Leinie Lodge Bandshell) — “A student of classic country music with the swagger of early rock ‘n’ roll, Drake Milligan is an electrifying entertainer who packs venues night after night on tour… His debut album features double-barreled baritone vocals, electrifying honky-tonk hooks, Western swing two-steppers and country pop balladry” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “Hating Everything She Tries On”
    • 9:00pm: Future Projections’ Canopy/Calliope (Grandstand Ramp) — “A fantasia of imagery and sound, Canopy/Calliope is designed to delight and enchant the senses through ‘light painting’ and photo collages” (Minnesota State Fair).

    Quoted descriptions attributed in parenthesis.

  • Review: Lemonade Sorbet from Quench’d

    Review: Lemonade Sorbet from Quench’d

    Want a great palette cleanser after a full day of eating various Fair foods? You could do far worse than this diminutive sorbet that packs an outsized punch of lemony flavor from Quench’d, a bottled water and lemonade vendor on Dan Patch Avenue near the Grandstand.

    Cutely presented in a hollowed-out half of a lemon, a cool and refreshing sorbet is served up that is very tart but not too lip-puckering. Lemon zest is mixed into the sorbet, adding flakes of extra lemon flavor and some added yellow color, along with a mint garnish that serves as pure decoration. We absolutely loved every bite of this sorbet, and at only $5, a small-scale price to match its small stature, it’s something we could see returning to regularly on future Fair visits for a quick cool off.

    Ratings (0-5):

    • Taste: 5
    • Appearance: 5
    • Novelty: 3
    • Value: 4

    Overall Score: 17 out of 20 (Blue Ribbon Best)

  • Review: Maui-Sota Sticky Ribs from RC’s BBQ

    Review: Maui-Sota Sticky Ribs from RC’s BBQ

    Meat lovers rejoice, RC’s BBQ has been one of the Minnesota State Fair’s premier purveyors of protein since their debut in 2016, taking over their stand location following the less well-regarded Famous Dave’s exited the Fair. Year after year, RC’s has had some of the Fair’s best new foods and quickest service, making them a top-tier vendor with an ever-growing stable of great menu items.

    New for 2023, RC’s is slinging up St. Louis-style pork ribs slathered in a sweet Huli Huli sauce, topped with green onion and cilantro primarily for a pop of color. While we don’t think this is the strongest barbeque on offer from RC’s, it is a distinct flavor profile that has a tang that is unique and intriguing and adds depth to their roster. The ribs were perfectly cooked as always, stunningly tender and falling right off the bone, with a gorgeous pink smoke ring just behind the caramelized exterior. Furikake, a fishy Japanese seasoning, was advertised in the item description online and on signage around their stand, but seemed to be missing from what we were served.

    At $13, it’s an entrée price point but one that feels fair for four large bones of high-quality barbeque ribs, in line with pricing you would find anywhere on or off the Fairgrounds. We felt filled up after polishing each rib off and licking our fingers clean, leaving us only wanting for nothing beyond a toothpick.

    Ratings (0-5):

    • Taste: 4
    • Appearance: 3
    • Novelty: 2
    • Value: 5

    Overall Score: 14 out of 20 (Fairly Fresh)

  • Review: Fruity Cereal Milk Biscuit from LuLu’s Public House

    Review: Fruity Cereal Milk Biscuit from LuLu’s Public House

    LuLu’s Public House is appropriately named, because the public has caught on that LuLu’s have been one of the Minnesota State Fair’s most consistent vendors for a decade now, and lines are always long. It took approximately 30 minutes in line to order one of their three new menu items on a busy Saturday morning as dozens of people stood in queue. Our patience was rewarded with yet another bona fide hit from their exemplary West End Market stand.

    Breakfast cereal fans rejoice, as LuLu’s latest concoction has what feels like an entire box of Fruity Pebbles in each and every element. It all starts with the Betty & Earl’s biscuit, a pillowy and fresh conduit for a milk-like thin icing that has been infused with fruit flavor. The biscuit is freckled with Fruity Pebbles throughout, and even more are sprinkled over the top like confetti, making this a visually stunning dish that is fun for eaters of all ages. Despite so much icing and sugary cereal, this avoids being overly sweet by being based around the savory biscuit, acting in perfect concert as the icing prevents the biscuit from becoming too dry. It’s a feat of culinary engineering, and is exciting enough to be a top-tier Fair food at the same time.

    We were impressed with the portion served for just $8, a perfectly reasonable price for a breakfast sugar fix at the Fair. We think this works perfectly well as a dessert item too, which is why LuLu’s has it on both their breakfast and all-day menus, whereas some items are breakfast only. This item is sure to be a hit for people of all ages, and we’re certain those LuLu’s lines will continue to grow as their commitment to excellence proceeds forward.

    Ratings (0-5):

    • Taste: 4
    • Appearance: 4
    • Novelty: 4
    • Value: 4

    Overall Score: 16 out of 20 (Blue Ribbon Best)

  • Daily Schedule Highlights – Sunday, August 27th, 2023

    Daily Schedule Highlights – Sunday, August 27th, 2023

    The Minnesota State Fair is now solidly underway, and the first weekend is coming to a close. There’s still plenty of time to check out everything on offer and today promises to be huge!

    Below is a selection of what we think is most worthy of checking out on Day Four; for a full daily schedule, visit the Minnesota State Fair official site at mnstatefair.org:

    • 9:00am-9:00pm: Minnesota Gladiolus Society Show (Agriculture-Horticulture Building) — See tremendous floral arrangements of Gladiolus in a variety of judged categories.
    • 10:00am: Dress A Sheep Contest (Sheep & Poultry Barn) — Watch the fun as teams of four race to outfit a sheep in a costume that matches their own.
    • 10:30am and 11:45am: Sam Butler (Leinie Lodge Bandshell) — “This dynamic artist puts his own spin on an Americana compilation of bluesy spirituals” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “I Know Where I’m Going”
    • 10:45am, 12:00pm, and 1:15pm: Duniya Drum & Dance (International Bazaar) — “Groove to traditional and Afrobeat rhythms from Guinea, West Africa… with vibrant costumes, dynamic dance movements and booming drums” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “La Ronde des Sons”
    • 11:00am, 2:00pm, and 4:30pm: All-Star Stunt Dogs Splash (The North Woods Stage) — Watch all the fun tricks and athletic feats these various breeds of trained dogs can achieve in this showcase of canines!
    • 11:00am, 2:00pm, and 4:00pm: Last Chance Forever Bird Show (DNR Building Garden Stage) — Make your way to the DNR Garden Stage for Last Chance Forever Conservancy’s raptor show, which they have presented at the Fair for decades previously but is returning after a pandemic hiatus. Owls, falcons and hawks swoop over the crowd and the intelligent conservationists dazzle with facts about these majestic creatures.
    • 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:00pm: The Minnesota State Fiddle Showcase (Schilling Amphitheater) — “Enjoy a guided tour of traditional fiddling showcasing Minnesota’s great musical heritage played by the best in local fiddle talent” (Minnesota State Fair).
    • 1:00pm and 2:30pm: Mychael Gabriel (Leinie Lodge Bandshell) — “Minneapolis singer and songwriter Mychael Gabriel explores the never-ending sonic space of music, adhering to no genre while respecting all styles” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “Let There Be Light”
    • 1:00pm and 2:30pm: Prairie Fire Lady Choir (Education Building) — A Twin Cities-based a cappella group consisting of over 60 members performing well-known songs from both national and local Minnesota musicians. Listen: “Can’t Hardly Wait”
    • 2:00pm: Heatbox (KARE 11 Barn) — “Minneapolis-based Heatbox effortlessly blends vocal percussion and vocal turntablism with the simulation of horns, strings, musical instruments and various sonic anomalies. Known for his innovative live performances and uniquely diverse set of creative gifts, this funky beatboxing loop artist is a creative force to behold” (Minnesota State Fair). Also performing on August 28th and 29th in the Schilling Amphitheater. Listen: “Beige”
    • 2:00pm: Minnesota State Fair Parade — The daily parade, with a route that runs from the Dairy Building north past the Leinie Lodge Bandshell and Baldwin Stage to the Eco Experience and then back south, features marching bands from across the state and vibrant floats.
    • 3:00pm Draft Horse Barrel Racing (Warner Coliseum) — Cheer on all the action as equine competitors and their riders weave in between barrels at high-speeds trying to set the best time in this exciting exhibition.
    • 3:15pm, 4:30pm, and 5:45pm: Genet Abate (International Bazaar) — “Genet Abate’s passionate and alluring voice is a celebration of popular Ethiopian music. Her show is a compelling, culturally rich display of Ethiopian heritage and traditional songs” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “Yinegera”
    • 3:45pm and 4:45pm: Connie P (Leine Lodge Bandshell) — “Mexican-Peruvian entrepreneur and Jennifer Lopez tribute artist Connie P. pays homage to the woman who inspired her as an artist… [featuring] fan-favorite songs, beloved melodies, high energy and her exceptional talent” (Minnesota State Fair).
    • 4:00pm, 5:00pm, and 6:00pm: The Foxgloves (Schilling Amphitheater) — “The Foxgloves are a little bit of country, a little bit of folk, a little bit of classical and a whole lot of heart. Their engaging presence, rich instrumentation, compelling songwriting, four-part harmonies and creatively reimagined covers render them a force to be reckoned with” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “Maybelle”
    • 6:00pm: MSF Amateur Talent Contest (Leinie Lodge Bandshell) — Watch as contestants in various age divisions compete for the opportunity to advance to the Talent Contest Finals, held Sunday, September 3rd in the Grandstand.
    • 7:00pm: Boyz II Men and Chaka Khan with special guest NUNNABOVE (Grandstand, $34+) — Two of R&B’s most iconic acts team up for a concert to remember. Be sure to arrive early to also catch the Twin Cities’ own NUNNABOVE open with their own youthful take on the genre. Listen: Boyz II Men, “Motownphilly”; Chaka Khan, “Ain’t Nobody”
    • 8:00pm: Free & Easy (International Bazaar) — “Twin Cities’ funkiest stage band Free & Easy delivers high-energy dance music with a wide repertoire of songs. Launching into a new generation by adding two dynamic frontline vocalists, their passion and personality will keep you dancing all night” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: Performance at Mendota Days 2022
    • 8:00pm: Kiss The Tiger (Schilling Amphitheater) — “Minneapolis band Kiss the Tiger commands the stage with contagious high energy and transcendent, heart-forward rock ‘n’ roll. Strong songwriting with catchy hooks, thought-provoking lyrics and an enigmatic vocalist make for an intense live experience” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “Grown Ass Woman”
    • 8:30pm: Naturally 7 (Leinie Lodge Bandshell) — “Naturally 7 transforms their voices into actual human instruments, effortlessly producing music of any genre. The perfectly interwoven vocal choreography and jaw-dropping audio pyrotechnics they put on display each night make [them] an absolute force to be reckoned with” (Minnesota State Fair). Listen: “Fix You”

    Quoted descriptions attributed in parenthesis.