This has been a gorgeous weather season for the Minnesota State Fair, and the crowds have taken advantage of the temperate climate to visit the Fair in droves. Last night I visited the Fair on a picture-perfect evening, and the place was full of amiable fairgoers, all enjoying the last gasps of summer -- all but those who live in school districts that started up this week.

Even with two trips to the Fair, it's hard to get it all in. I gave it my very best, though:

I love to visit the Creative Activities building, because as an amateur knitter, I like to see what I can only aspire to someday in the future.

 

There's always live entertainment going on somewhere. Last night I listened to pop, salsa and Native American music, and watched a bit of square dancing.

 

As a dog lover, I had to stop by the Pet Center and check out the dog agility demonstrations.

 

And as a confirmed klutz, I had to watch in awe as young men on skateboards do things I will never, ever do.

 

My kids rode the Sky Glider, and I didn't -- but I loved watching it.

 

I remember the days when my kids were young enough to be entranced by this.

 

The Minnesota DNR has an impressive exhibit made entirely of abandoned items dug out of rivers.

 

There's the Haunted House.

 

It amuses me that a big selling point for the Haunted House is this:

 

The Mighty Midway takes on an entirely different personality as the sun sets and the bright lights start to shine.

 

But the Giant Slide keeps going, day and night. Because when is it not fun to ride down the Giant Slide?

 

I just got back, and already I wish I could go again. Yup -- I'm a confirmed State Fair addict.

What else is happening in our state? Be sure to check out the 10 p.m. Sunday night WCCO newscasts, where you can learn more in the weekly segment, Finding Minnesota.