As a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, I've been to my fair share of festivals over the years. Sometimes considered the capital of summer festivals, Milwaukee proudly hosts such glorious events as Festa Italiana, Bastille Days, Polish Fest, Mexican Fiesta, German Fest, Summerfest, and of course, the Wisconsin State Fair. I've spent a few sweaty summer days at this particular colosseum of food and exhibitions. Though it was never my favorite summer activity, the lure of cheese curds and famous cream puffs sometimes triumphed.
When I moved to Minnesota a couple years ago, I could tell that the fair here was an even bigger deal. So, finally, I decided to take a trip to "The Great Minnesota Get-Together" to see what all the hype was about and these are some of the thoughts I had during the experience.
1. Woah.
2. Where do I go? What's happening?! Which direction are you supposed to go??
3. HOLY PANDEMONIUM. This is stressful.
5. Praise the State Fair for these cheese curds.
7. Darn you, Sweet Martha! So prejudiced against people who don't like chocolate! (Yes, I know I'm crazy!)
8. There are so many smells here, and only half of them are good.
9. I don't care that I'm allergic; I need to see the horses.
10. Mini horse agility contest?! Yes! This is more intense than the Olympics.
11. Cows in the street! Sheep in the street!
12. What's an Australian battered potato...?
13. Damn delicious, that's what it is.
14. There's a food stand called "Big Fat Bacon"...?
15. The SkyRide is an amazing invention. My feet have never been happier.
16. I am looking at someone's discarded purple bra on the roof of that building...
17. How much money are these people making every hour?
18. Maybe I should start my own food stand and work at the fair...#milliondollaridea
20. Best people watching ever.
21. AHHH flavor swirl ice cream! Ultimate childhood throwback.
22. "Oof-da Tacos"...? Oh, Minnesota.
23. Grilled chocolate sandwiches, deep fried alligator, cheese on a stick, Idaho tacos...where am I?
24. I'm exhausted, sweaty, and full of delicious food. I'd say the fair was a success.
