We have been talking about the food at the state fair and every county fair.  The fair or fairs are all about the food... usually.  Also the Grandstand shows and the animals - depending on what is important to you. Personally, I love all the deals and gadgets that are available at the fair and around the time of the fair.

Along with all of the new foods that are offered every year, there are also the new specialty drinks that different vendors offer during the time at the fair.  And it's kind of fun to go and try the new flavors.

Browse brand-new brews and specialty beverages premiering or found only at the 2026 Minnesota State Fair. Plus, a variety of new non-alcoholic beverages for all ages to enjoy!  In all, the fair features 300+ brews and beverages. Cheers!

THESE ARE THE ONES I FOUND THE MOST INTERESTING

WATERMELON MULE

https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/
https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/
https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/

This sounds amazing!  If you like mules (with ginger beer) then you will probably like this one.  Although not served in a traditional mule cup - those would probably grow legs and walk off.  Plastic cup it is!

A blend of ripe watermelon notes with zesty lime and a spicy ginger finish. Inspired by the classic zest of a Moscow Mule with a juicy watermelon twist. This Brewtail served on ice with a sugar rim is the ultimate fair companion. 6.5% ABV. Brewed in Vadnais Heights, Minn., by Big Wood Brewery.

HOMER BLACK PEPPER IPA

https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/
https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/
https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/

Do you love IPAs?  This one could be for you too!  This one is from Surly Brewing.

Piney hops and bright grapefruit flavors meet Zanzibar black peppercorn in this one-of-a-kind IPA. Dry, crisp and lightly peppery on the finish. 7% ABV. 

SUN CHASER FLOAT

https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/
https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/
https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/

If it's going to be as hot as it has been recently during the time of the fair, then this one is probably going to be very popular.  You can choose not to have the float option as well.

Sweet strawberry and lemonade-flavored hard seltzer, paired with creamy lemon soft serve made by MN Nice Cream. A refreshing, one-of-a-kind ice cream float. 5% ABV. Brewed in Champlin, Minn., by Elm Creek Brewing Co.

HUGO SPRITZ

https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/
https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/
https://www.mnstatefair.org/new/sips/

This is one that was inspired by the traditional Italian cocktail.  I will be interested in trying it to see if it measures up.  Whether it does or not, it's probably still pretty tasty.

A sweet, sparkling white wine with notes of elderflower and mint. Inspired by the Italian cocktail and perfect for a hot summer day at the State Fair. 6.5% ABV. Wine made in Scandia, Minn., by Rustic Roots Winery.

There are several others that you may want to try.  Check out this link and see what else you can try.  Plus, there are several mocktails to try as well as a boozy ice cream cone.  That was also available last year, but this time it's a new flavor.

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