The history of Fresh French Fries at the Minnesota State Fair
Some of the food vendors at the Minnesota State Fair have been here for decades — and so have their workers.
Watch CBS News
Some of the food vendors at the Minnesota State Fair have been here for decades — and so have their workers.
For some Minnesota State Fairgoers, it's the deals that drive where they eat, shop, and have fun. At least 100 of those discounts can be found in a little-but-mighty booklet, usually procured at one of the first stops visitors make just beyond the gates.
Cannoli Gelato Nachos is one of the new foods at the Great Minnesota Get-Together this year. Anchor Amelia Santaniello and meteorologist Chris Shaffer try their hand at making the sweet treat.
For some at the State Fair, it's the deals that drive where they eat, shop, and have fun. At least 100 of those discounts can be found in a little-but-mighty booklet. Jeff Wagner shows how vendors are picked for the book.
The Minnesota State Fairgrounds cover 322 acres. It's a lot of ground to maneuver, which can be especially tricky for people who have disabilities.
The exhibit has been there for more than 50 years, and it's become very popular even without snow.
The Minnesota State Fair is a chance for artists and athletes to connect with the community and show off all their hard work.
Even in the summer, Minnesotans are thinking about the holidays. At the State Fair, there's no better place to get into the holiday spirit than at the Christmas tree exhibit in the Agriculture Horticulture Building. John Laurtisen shows just a few of the festive trees.
St. Paul ballet school performs for fairgoers for the first time
The Minnesota State Fairgrounds cover 322 acres. That's a lot of ground to maneuver, which can be especially tricky for people who have disabilities. Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield shows the creative ways organizers made this the most accessible fair yet.
Magdalena’s Chimney Cakes sell a rotisserie-baked Hungarian pastry shaped like a cone.
The Oink Booth's piglets are a fair favorite for families.
Gov. Tim Walz was out at the Minnesota State Fair talking to voters about issues and their concerns. It's as if he were running for office, but he insists he has not decided to run for a third term and his decision will come soon.
A new pay to park program is underway in Falcon Heights, Minnesota, just blocks away from the Minnesota State Fair.
A new beer at the Minnesota State Fair is making waves for more than just its taste.
Now that a cold front has moved through the area, breezy winds and cooler temperatures are here, bringing a taste of fall to Minnesota and western Wisconsin.
The purple pride was on full display on Friday at the Minnesota State Fair. Ubah Ali asks Minnesota Vikings fans about their expectations for the season.
Meteorologist Chris Shaffer says Sunday could be one of the coldest days of the State Fair in years, with temperatures forecasted in the high 60s.
Grandma Doreen's Dessert Dog is a coffee cake made by Wrecktangle Pizza with sweet toppings. It's available at the West End Creamery.
Coming together is what the Minnesota State Fair is all about, but meeting someone new is hard. WCCO’s Adam Duxter tried to make is easier for a few fairgoers.
Friday is Governor's Fire Prevention Day at the Great Minnesota Get-Together. WCCO's Shayla Reaves talks with Maple Grove Fire Chief Maddison Zikmund and State Fire Marshal Daniel Krier about fire safety.
Shayla Reaves visits a Minnesota State Fair newcomer that is blowing the minds of morning fairgoers.
While the first day of the Great Minnesota Get-Together brought in big bucks for vendors, some families say the price of participation is expensive.
Day one of the Great Minnesota Get-Together was one for the books. Everyone we spoke with had a list of foods to eat or attractions to see. Another thing we heard a lot of was sticker shock. Ubah Ali joins us at the fairgrounds with a look at the rising cost of the Great Minnesota Get-Together.
The sights and sounds of country band Old Dominion lit up the Grandstand at the Minnesota State Fair on Thursday ahead of the release of their latest album, "Barbara."
Vladimir Tarasenko scored 3:06 into overtime and the Minnesota Wild beat the Dallas Stars 2-1 on Saturday in what could be a first-round playoff preview.
Six days after the Twin Cities metro dug out from more than a foot of heavy wet snow, people are basking in the warmth of near 70-degree temperatures.
Annunciation Catholic School shooting survivor, Victor Greenawalt, will receive a Citizen Honor Award from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society on Wednesday.
Minneapolis police are investigating after four teenagers were shot late Friday night.
Robert Mueller served as FBI director from 2001 to 2013 and led the investigation into allegations of Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election.
Six days after the Twin Cities metro dug out from more than a foot of heavy wet snow, people are basking in the warmth of near 70-degree temperatures.
Annunciation Catholic School shooting survivor, Victor Greenawalt, will receive a Citizen Honor Award from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society on Wednesday.
Minneapolis police are investigating after four teenagers were shot late Friday night.
Friday saw our warmest day of the year, so far. Saturday will see even warmer temperatures with highs potentially hitting the 70s.
WCCO's Frank Vascellaro had the chance to ask Emmer about the SAVE Act, the war in Iran and gas prices.
Six days after the Twin Cities metro dug out from more than a foot of heavy wet snow, people are basking in the warmth of near 70-degree temperatures.
Friday saw our warmest day of the year, so far. Saturday will see even warmer temperatures with highs potentially hitting the 70s.
Indoor hockey rinks, supermarkets, and even some medicines—those are just a few things that wouldn't be possible without Minnesota's own Frederick McKinley Jones.
Police in Oakdale, Minnesota, are investigating after two officers and two Hampton Inn hotel employees were taken to the hospital after being exposed to a substance believed to be fentanyl.
Authorities are investigating an alleged incident involving the Rogers High School boys' basketball team that occurred during travel to and from an away game.
Wisconsin lawmakers are taking a shot at expanding sports betting in the state.
A Wisconsin legislator has pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor count of disorderly conduct in connection with a bitter feud with her caucus over resolutions honoring Hispanics.
As the war in Iran evolves, National Guardsmen from Wisconsin are being recognized for what they are doing in the Middle East.
It's the season for booking those spring break getaways, and if you're looking to skip the airport this year, take a page out of the Condé Nast Traveler.
A judge has sentenced a Wisconsin man who forged threats against President Donald Trump as part of a deportation scheme to 16½ years in prison.
Deputy Fire Marshal Shawn Johnson, 61, died March 5 after a two-year battle with job-related cancer, the Minnetonka Fire Department announced.
The Minnesota Department of Corrections says 95% of all incarcerated individuals will eventually be released from prison. The DOC says it does all it can to help people transition back into the community as productive citizens.
Minnesota native and World War II veteran Les Schrenk died earlier this week. He was 102 years old.
People from across the nation are traveling to the Twin Cities, but not as tourists. Many want to learn in person from Minnesota protestors to bring that knowledge back to their own cities.
The Edina wife and mother of three said she felt called to go and protest in south Minneapolis after learning that Alex Pretti had been shot and killed by two Border Patrol agents.
Robert Mueller served as FBI director from 2001 to 2013 and led the investigation into allegations of Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election.
WCCO's Frank Vascellaro had the chance to ask Emmer about the SAVE Act, the war in Iran and gas prices.
The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, otherwise known as the SAVE Act, would require proof of U.S. citizenship in order to vote, though studies show that non-citizen voting in Minnesota is extremely rare.
It is unclear under what circumstances President Trump would authorize the use of U.S. troops on the ground in Iran.
More Democrats are openly running on faith, as progressive clergy and other religious candidates push back on the idea that Christianity belongs to the right.
Xcel Energy wants to increase rates for 492,000 natural gas customers in Minnesota. Customers can weigh in on the proposal during public hearings in April and May.
As fraud remains in focus in the Minnesota Legislature, the House on Monday unanimously approved a bill to repeal from state law a problematic program that prosecutors said was the target of a massive fraud scheme.
Delta is canceling flights at Midwest airports, including its Minneapolis-St. Paul hub, ahead of expected significant snow and winds starting Saturday evening through Sunday, the airline said Friday.
Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark were murdered in their home in June 2025. On top of grieving the sudden, tragic loss of his parents, Colin Hortman says the cleanup of his childhood home was a headache.
Data show that catalytic converter thefts are on the rise again in the Twin Cities.
Minneapolis police are investigating after four teenagers were shot late Friday night.
The killings of a mother and her young son were the culmination of about one and a half years of abuse, according to the words of Jennifer Marsaw herself.
A 22-year-old St. Paul man faces charges after a shooting at an apartment building Wednesday afternoon that left a man dead and a woman critically injured.
Five people who were charged in connection to the Feeding Our Future scheme pleaded guilty to wire fraud this week.
St. Paul police arrested an adult man and recovered a vehicle believed to be connected to a hit-and-run that sent a woman to the hospital last month before she died of her injuries.
Deputy Fire Marshal Shawn Johnson, 61, died March 5 after a two-year battle with job-related cancer, the Minnetonka Fire Department announced.
Sacramento-based Sutter Health announced plans to acquire Minneapolis-based Allina Health, promising a $2 billion investment in Minnesota and Wisconsin, but healthcare unions say workers weren't consulted.
Hennepin County lawmakers plan to urge state legislators Wednesday morning to save Hennepin Healthcare, the state's busiest Level 1 trauma center, which officials say could close this year without immediate action.
Hennepin County lawmakers plan to urge state legislators Wednesday morning to save Hennepin Healthcare, the state's busiest Level 1 trauma center, which officials say could close this year without immediate action.
A northern California health nonprofit is planning to acquire Allina Health in a deal that was announced Tuesday.
Afroman spoke to CBS News after he won the case, which tested the limits of parody and the license artists can take in social commentary directed at public figures.
Spring break does not have to mean big travel plans or big spending for families who head to the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, where a new exhibit invites children to climb, crawl and create as part of the art experience.
Comedian Bert Kreischer is without a tour bus after his caught fire in Minnesota.
The film follows CBS News correspondent Steve Hartman and photographer Lou Bopp through their seven-year journey to document the toll of America's school shooting epidemic.
The acclaimed filmmaker, who died in February at age 96, revolutionized the art of documentaries with such films as "Titicut Follies." In an interview recorded last year, the pioneering Wiseman talked about his unusual production methods aimed at capturing life.
Vladimir Tarasenko scored 3:06 into overtime and the Minnesota Wild beat the Dallas Stars 2-1 on Saturday in what could be a first-round playoff preview.
Yes, the leaders of arguably the top two pound-for-pound high school squads in Minnesota also are co-head coaches of a fourth grade basketball team.
Minnesota survived a home-court scare by No. 13 seed Green Bay, getting 21 points from Amaya Battle and using a 30-point fourth quarter for a 75-58 victory in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
Connor Bedard scored a goal and defenseman Alex Vlasic made a game-saving stop as time ran out as the Chicago Blackhawks beat the Minnesota Wild 2-1 to snap the NHL's longest active point streak for one team against another.
The Minnesota Vikings have agreed to terms on a new contract with quarterback Carson Wentz to bring back the 11th-year veteran for more depth after a problematic season at the vital position.
President Donald Trump has called the bill his number one priority and says it would prevent non-citizens from voting in the 2026 midterm elections.
Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon says non-citizen voting is extremely rare. He cited a University of St. Thomas study that found only three instances of non-citizens voting in Minnesota between 2014 and 2024.
The U.S. Senate has begun debate on a controversial elections bill that would require voters to show proof of citizenship with a birth certificate or passport. Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon says non-citizen voting is extremely rare. He cited a University of St. Thomas study that found only three instances of non-citizens voting in Minnesota between 2014 and 2024.
Talking Points is tracking a partisan push to end surveillance pricing this legislative session.
This session, a bipartisan bill to end surveillance pricing is moving forward at the Minnesota Capitol. In Talking Points, Esme Murphy spoke with Minnesota DFL Rep. Erin Koegel about the push and how the ban could protection your personal data.
The Nuss Collection is home to a lot of vintage trucks.
Denis Doyle was born in Kilkenny, Ireland. He emigrated to the U.S. and in 1856, Doyle traveled to Le Sueur County. Other Irish immigrants joined Doyle and the town was born.
One of the oldest operating theaters in the Midwest is in danger of closing its doors for good.
In St. Louis Park, Minnesota, there's a place where you can find radio and television technology that's nearly a century old — and it still works.
One of the best views in Minnesota is at the top of a Bloomington hill. But 15-year-old Jacob Larson isn't here for the scenery. He's here for the jump.
Heavy snow followed by bitter cold hit Minnesotans with a double whammy of winter. The good news is spring-like weather is right around the corner, but its quick arrival could spell trouble for homeowners.
Minnesota lakes remain frozen. The people walking on trails around them remain bundled up. After a warm start to March, the seasonal shift is sputtering as it often tends to do.
Drivers are bracing themselves for higher prices when they pull up to gas stations. But the pump isn't the only place you can expect to pay more in the weeks ahead.
A push for stricter gun laws in Minnesota is not new. However, this session comes on the heels of a devastating mass shooting last summer in which the target was students in prayer at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis.
The military strikes against Iran have sparked intense debate in Congress. U.S. lawmakers are not only split on whether to support the operation but also on whether President Trump should have sought congressional approval in advance. WCCO investigates how the Constitution defines declarations of war.
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Minnesotans got a great view of the northern lights Tuesday night.
A look at the newest addition to the polar bear population at St. Paul, Minnesota's Como Zoo.
From food shelves to school programs, our team is proud to serve where it matters most.
The Minnesota State Fair has unveiled its new food, drinks and vendors for 2025.
Six days after the Twin Cities metro dug out from more than a foot of heavy wet snow, people are basking in the warmth of near 70-degree temperatures.
In Minnesota, weather can be all over the place. Here at WCCO, we want to give you what you need to prepare for what's happening next.
We broke a record in the Twin Cities with the highs hitting 77 degrees. Those temps will drop as we go into the overnight hours. Sunday will stay closer to average with highs in the 40s. Meteorologist Katie Steiner shares when we start to climb back to the 50s.
Friday saw our warmest day of the year, so far. Saturday will see even warmer temperatures with highs potentially hitting the 70s.
Spring has sprung! Saturday we will see temperatures in the upper 60s with a shot at 70s for most of the state. We do dip back down to the 40s on Sunday but don't stay there for long. Meteorologist Adam Del Rosso shares the next few days and when we might see a sprinkle of rain.
We broke a record in the Twin Cities with the highs hitting 77 degrees. Those temps will drop as we go into the overnight hours. Sunday will stay closer to average with highs in the 40s. Meteorologist Katie Steiner shares when we start to climb back to the 50s.
St. Paul's Como Conservatory has their Spring Flower Show going, perfect timing for those hoping to enjoy the weekend's warmer weather.
Four people are dead after a house fire in White Bear Lake. Neighbors are shocked.
Rival basketball coaches come together, remembering Ronnie Henderson and more in this week's High School Sports Rally.
Yes, the leaders of arguably the top two pound-for-pound high school squads in Minnesota also are co-head coaches of a fourth grade basketball team.