State Fair-Goers Line Up Early For First Day

FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. (WCCO) -- Before the sun came up, dozens lined up in front of the Minnesota State Fairgrounds.

Brian of northeast Minneapolis was the earliest of the birds. He got to the State Fair at 11:20 Wednesday night.

"It's like a reunion of sorts, and I was ready for it this year," he said.

These wise people weren't far behind.

"I'm streaming WCCO, watching the morning show as we're standing in line," they said.

But getting in early and being among the first, it's about more than bragging rights. April Roth of St. Paul says it's a tradition to get there early.

"We hit up the barns and it's nice and clean and it doesn't smell as bad," Roth said.

Looks pretty sharp too according to Jim Ramacier.

"Everything's clean, from the bathrooms to the streets, everything's cleaner on the first day," Ramacier said.

Jim Ramacier's enjoying the great and tidy get together by having one of his own. It's his birthday.

"This is my party," he said.

And it's kind of a party, with a present for all. Steve Tunnell of Cambridge says, "Probably go to the dairy building and get malts.  I like those. All of the animals, the farm animals."

And all of the people, together for the state's greatest of gatherings.