Minnesota State Fair 2024: A Beverage Bonanza Awaits

The Minnesota State Fair is set to make a splash in 2024 with an unprecedented focus on specialty beverages. This year's fair, running from August 22 to September 2, will feature a staggering 63 brand-new specialty sips, alongside 46 returning favorites.

Photo byMinnesota State Fair

From innovative cocktail-inspired concoctions to craft beers and ciders, there's something to quench every thirst at the Great Minnesota Get-Together.

A Record-Breaking Year for Beverages

With over 100 unique drink options available exclusively at the fair, 2024 is shaping up to be a banner year for beverage enthusiasts. The diverse array of new offerings showcases the creativity and skill of Minnesota's local breweries, cideries, and beverage makers.

Standout Sips to Look Out For (And Where to Find Them)

1. Cocktail-Inspired Creations:
2. • Frozen Spicy Pineapple Margarita: A slushie with a kick, featuring pineapple, tequila flavors, and habanero bitters. Find it at Cafe Caribe, located on the south side of Carnes Avenue between Chambers and Nelson streets.
   • Grumpy Old Manhattan: A malt-based take on the classic cocktail, served with a smoky surprise. Available at The Hideaway Speakeasy, located in the Veranda, Grandstand upper level, northwest section.
3. Innovative Fruit Fusions:
4. • Apple Pie Hazy Cider: A balanced blend of fresh-pressed apples and warm pie spices. Try it at The Blue Barn, located at West End Market, south of the History & Heritage Center.
   • Blackberry Limeade Lager: A subtly sweet brew with a twist of tart citrus. Served at Dino's Gyros, located on the north side of Carnes Avenue between Nelson and Underwood streets.
5. Nostalgic Flavors:
6. • Blueberry Pancake Lager: A breakfast-inspired brew combining tart blueberries with maple sweetness. Available at Cafe Caribe, located on the south side of Carnes Avenue between Chambers and Nelson streets.
   • S'more Than A Feeling Slushie: A frozen treat capturing the essence of toasted marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers. Find it at Swine & Spuds, located in the Warner Coliseum.
7. Adventurous Options:
8. • Mustard Stain IPA: A hop-forward Session IPA spiced with mustard seeds. Served at Aldo's Burgers, Sabino's Pizza Pies, Snack House and Swine & Spuds, located in the Warner Coliseum.
   • Purple Maize: A Mexican-style lager brewed with purple corn. Available at Shanghai Henri's, located at the International Bazaar.
9. Refreshing Slushies:
10. • Baja Breeze Slushie: A tropical whirlwind of mango, pineapple, and lime. Try it at Shanghai Henri's, located at the International Bazaar.
    • Mai Tai Slushie: A paradise-evoking blend of tropical orange, pineapple, and rum flavors. Find it at LuLu's Public House, located at West End Market, south of the Schell's Stage at Schilling Amphitheater.

Non-Alcoholic Options

For those seeking alcohol-free alternatives, the fair introduces a new rotating tap line at the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, featuring a variety of non-alcoholic craft beers, ciders, and seltzers from local breweries.

Find this unique offering at the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, located in the Agriculture Horticulture Building, west side.

A Celebration of Local Craft

The extensive beverage lineup not only promises to keep fairgoers refreshed but also highlights Minnesota's thriving craft beverage industry. With most offerings brewed locally, the fair continues its tradition of showcasing the state's finest products.

Navigating the Fair's Beverage Scene

To help visitors navigate the vast array of drink options, the fair has provided a comprehensive list on their website. Fairgoers can plan their beverage adventure in advance by visiting mnstatefair.org/general-info/specialty-brews-and-beverages/.

As the 2024 Minnesota State Fair approaches, attendees can look forward to an unparalleled beverage experience alongside the usual attractions of agriculture, art, and industry.

This year's fair promises to deliver 12 days of flavorful fun ending Labor Day. Don't forget to check vendor locations and operating hours to ensure you don't miss out on these exclusive fair sips!