Minnesota State Fair unveils new attractions for 2018

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Photo courtesy of the Minnesota State Fair

The Minnesota State Fair unveiled the new attractions, events and services debuting at the Great Minnesota Get-Together this year. 

Cambria Kitchen 

A state-of-the art demonstration kitchen in the Creative Activities building. It will feature premier local chefs and demonstrators showing off their craft. Announced guests include Andrew Zimmern and The Sioux Chef Sean Sherman. 

The Hangar

The former Pet Center building has been repurposed into The Hangar, a brand-new destination for food, craft beer and live entertainment. Food offerings include Slider Flights, breakfast items, smoked turkey legs, smoked brisket sandwiches, burgers, bacon-wrapped pork belly, kids meals, chicken-and-waffle ice cream splits topped with candied bacon and a selection of local beers curated by members of the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild. Located on the northeast corner of Murphy Avenue & Underwood Street. 

Seven new thrill rides 

Seven new rides, including three that are the only rides of their kind in North America, will debut at the fair this year. 

Mighty Midway

Downdraft: Get in, buckle up, and get ready to ride the airwaves in a supersonic spin.
Haunted Castle Dark Ride: Brave souls who embark on this darkest of dark rides will encounter two levels of animated spooks, sounds and lights. Constructed in Italy, this will be the largest traveling haunted attraction in North America when it makes its debut at the Minnesota State Fair.
Rock Star: Hop on board for a rock and rollicking good time on this exhilarating 360-degree thrill ride that spins to 60 feet high.
Super Frisbee: Nothing short of spectacular, this is the only traveling ride of its kind in North and South America. At 52 feet high, the gondola rotates at 20 revolutions per minute and free falls at 3.5 times the force of gravity.
Twin Flip: Monumental, high-flying spins within spins – and in all directions – make this a unique ride in North America and a thrill-seeker’s dream.

Kidway

Combination Carousel: This colorful ride takes tots on a spin merry-go-round style.
Teacups: A calm rotating teacup ride amidst bright scenery and sparkling lights.

New Pet Pavilions and Outdoor Demonstration Area

A 6,600-square-foot open-air pavilion located just west of the former Pet Center will house purebred dog breed booths and the Pet Surgery Suite, where Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association members perform spay and neuter surgeries. A neighboring structure will feature merchants selling pet-centric treats and accessories. Agility, obedience and police K-9 demonstrations will be held in a new grassy outdoor demonstration area.  

There are also expanded livestock and draft horse shows, traveling exhibits, a Mental Health Awareness day, new park and ride locations and a slew of new vendors.