Long lines, but high spirits at Minnesota State Fair

Around a thousand people had boarded the bus from the Brooklyn Park Park and Ride before noon on the first morning of the Minnesota State Fair. On the fairgrounds, people came by to see Bachman’s popular exhibit in the Agriculture and Horticulture Building.

Busy Park and Ride for first day of Fair

The line for the State Fair Express Bus snaked around the parking lot at the Park and Ride Stop at 63rd Avenue in Brooklyn Park. Several hundred people were waiting to board by mid-morning on Thursday. A metro transit official said they had around a thousand people board the bus from this stop alone, during the first two hours of bus service. Despite the wait, Fair goers were more than happy to share why they love the Great Minnesota Get-Together.

“You just meet all sorts of people from all different backgrounds,” says Teresa Euphosin from Rogers. “You’re just all on the same page. You are enjoying good food and good company.”

Express bus service to the Fair runs from nine a-m to midnight at most locations. It’s five dollars for a round trip.

Flowers at the Fair

The Minnesota State Florist Association is celebrating Minnesota’s changing seasons with its Florapalooza exhibit, which is located at the center of the Agriculture Horticulture Building.

Eight florists are showcasing their work, including two vendors from the northwest metro: Len Busch Roses and Bachman’s. That’s just the beginning of the Minnesota State Fair’s floral exhibit.

Each florist was given a theme, and then had only 48 hours to install their display. Bachman’s theme was Spring.  Tulips, Hyacinth and big purple alliums, along with an abundance of fresh cut flowers like lilies, Alstroemeria and daffodils, make up Bachman’s colorful works of art.

Each vendor is vying for top recognition. Fair goers can choose their favorite “People’s Choice” award while at the fair.