The Minnesota State Fair presented awards to 12 of the very best of the State Fair’s nearly 1,000 commercial exhibitors, concessions, attractions, and food and beverage vendors at the 2026 Great Minnesota Get-Together. In a ceremony held at 10 a.m. today on the Summit Stage at the Bazaar, State Fair CEO Renee Alexander presented Best Awards to the following:
The America Wheel honoring America250 – The largest transportable Ferris wheel in the world, the America Wheel is 230 feet tall, has 45 gondolas, and delivers panoramic views stretching up to 14 miles in every direction. (Located at the southwest corner of Randall Avenue & Cooper Street)
Big Dog Corndogs – Serves all-beef corndogs in a batter that is made locally. This is their 20th Minnesota State Fair. (Two locations – located on the northeast corner of Randall Avenue & Underwood Street and on the west side of Underwood Street between Carnes & Judson avenues)
Break a Plate – This popular game is owned and operated by Thornberry Concessions. It goes through more than 10,000 plates over the 12-day fair. (Located at Mighty Midway)
Cowboy Santa – Sells a wide selection of ornaments with free personalization and other décor and has been at the fair since 2016. (Located in the Lee & Rose Warner Coliseum, south side)
Faithful Contracting – A full restoration and building company, they provide services for garages, insulation, additions, new homes, pole barns and roofing. This is their first year at the Great Minnesota Get-Together. (Located in the Home Improvement Building)
iPierogi – Sells pierogi, kielbasa, cabbage rolls, blintzes and more. This is their seventh year at the fair. (Located in the Food Building, south wall)
Lady Bugs – This popular Kidway ride is owned and operated by Prime Pacific Entertainment. (Located at Kidway)
Origami by Kannika – Sells jewelry inspired by Japanese art, design and craftsmanship, as well as handmade ornaments, cards, magnets and more. This is Origami by Kannika’s fourth year at the fair. (Located in the International Bazaar, northeast section)
Peachey’s Baking Company – Sells vanilla glazed donuts and became a favorite among fair guests four years ago when they debuted at the fair. (Located on the east side of Cosgrove Street at Randall Avenue, north of the Fine Arts Center)
The Starship – This ride is particularly popular because of all the bright lights on it that light up the Mighty Midway at night. (Located at Mighty Midway)
The Straub Store – Sells backpacks, mugs, apparel and more. This year his best-selling items are his newest book “Babe the Blue Ox: The Great Scavenger Hunt” and the Babe plush toy. (Located in the Grandstand, upper level, east section)
Strawberries ‘N Creme and Loon Lake Iced Tea – Both of these booths are owned by Kelly Miller and John Gotz. The main staple of Strawberries ‘N Creme is the original fresh strawberry with non-dairy whipped cream parfait. Loon Lake Iced Tea serves the popular color-changing cotton candy iced tea, dill pickle iced tea, caramel apple iced tea (an Official New Food this year), among other beverages. (Strawberries ‘N Creme is located on the west side of Underwood Street at Wright Avenue. Loon Lake Iced Tea is located on the west side of Underwood Street between Wright and Dan Patch avenues)
These recipients were selected because they exemplify these characteristics:
- Provide exceptional, efficient customer service and an outstanding experience for fair guests;
- Knowledgeable staff with positive attitudes who are courteous, thoughtful and professional;
- An amazing visual presentation and positive image;
- Present a premium quality product/service;
- Offer great value.
The Minnesota State Fair is one of the largest and best-attended expositions in the world. Showcasing Minnesota’s finest agriculture, art and industry, the Great Minnesota Get-Together is 12 Days of Fun Ending Labor Day. The Minnesota State Fair is financially self-supporting and does not receive government funding. Revenue from ticket sales, percentages and fees paid by vendors, facility rental, sponsorships and other sources brings the fair to life – powering memorable experiences, world-class year-round operations, and exceptional care of the historic fairgrounds. Follow along on Facebook, Instagram and Threads @mnstatefair for updates. The 2026 Minnesota State Fair is August 27 through Labor Day, September 7. Visit mnstatefair.org for more information.
